Bx 9853 .528

1900 PREFACE TO FIRST EDITION.

I BEGAN the preparation of this manual simply as a Burial Service, and for my own convenience.

I had found no one

that just suited me. It was a trouble to select and arrange specially for each separate occasion. I wanted more variety. I did not like to carry two or three books with me, each of them being, perhaps, too large for the pocket. The habit of reading some appropriate verses, as a part of the service, increased this inconvenience. The desire to use the fitting thoughts of extra-Biblical writers increased it still more.

Learning my plan, other ministers have expressed a desire for copies. This explains why it is published.

When publication was determined on, it was thought best to include the services for Christening and Marriage. A service-book for the pocket will be found convenient where children are to be baptized or wedding ceremonies are to be performed at the house.

By selection and combination, it is hoped that both variety and adaptation to all ordinary occasions may be attained.

BOSTON, March, 1880.

PREFACE TO SECOND EDITION.

THAT this little Hand-book came into a place that was waiting for it (or a better one) is proved by the fact that the first edition is exhausted, and that unfilled orders are waiting for its reissue.

The editor and compiler has taken advantage of the present occasion to revise and, as he believes, considerably improve it. He has availed himself, as far as was practicable, of the suggestions of his brother ministers; and he takes this opportunity to thank them for their kindness.

Let him who is inclined to think it incomplete look carefully over the field, and he will be surprised to find how little material there is that is just what is wanted. There is a large amount, both of prose and verse, that is almost, but not quite, suitable. There is an abundance that is good for quiet reading at home, but that is not adapted to be made a part of a public service.

Blank leaves are furnished for those who wish to fill in with any favorite readings of their own that may have been omitted.

BOSTON, April, 1882.