PREFACE. WO or three years ago the writer of this little book published a volume of sermons for children, entitled "Rills from the Fountain of Life." That volume has been very kindly received by the Christian pul lic. It has had a much wider circulation than was anticipated. Messages, both verbal and written, have been sent to the writer testifying of its usefulness, and urging him to publish something more of the same character. The following letter is one from a great number of similar communications received : "REV. DR. NEWTON. "DEAR SIR,-We are four little children, the oldest 13 and the youngest 8 years, of age. We once lived at the North, where there were ministers to preach to us; but now we live in the wild pine woods of Florida, at a small settlement, where only once in a long while a minister comes to preach to us. "Our kind uncle sent us your Rills from the Fountain of Life.' Mother has read them to us over and over again, till we almost know them by heart; and we thought, if you only knew how much we loved them, and how much they have helped us to keep the Sabbath-day holy, you would, if you could spare the time, publish another volume for many little children who have no good, kind pastor to tell them of these good and holy things. "We have often inquired of friends who visit us if made a new book of sermons for children. "Please remember your little unknown friends, WILLIAM, CLARA, you have HENRIETTA, and MARY." Encouraged by these considerations, this little offering is laid upon the altar of that Saviour whose prerogative it is "out of weakness to perfect strength." May He graciously accept and bless the offering, and make it the means of directing the feet of some youthful pilgrim through the vale of tears into the way of peace and salvation. Philadelphia. R. N. |