This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1811 edition. Excerpt: ... SERMON V. ON THANKSGIVING. Preached 19th December 1797, on the day of a National Thanksgiving, appointed by Government on occasion of a Naval Victory. PSAL. 1. 14. "Offer unto God thanksgiving." Gratitude is a natural principle of the human heart. The history of every age confirms the truth of this remark: For, while it exhibits some men so mean and so base as to be capable of ingratitude, it also exhibits them incurring, on that account, the disapprobation and the indignant scorn of the better part of their species. It represents the concurring voice of mankind to be strongly in favour of gratitude. Is not the instructor, for instance, who taught the principles of useful knowledge, and formed the mind to the love of goodness, in our early days, met in future years with glad and grateful eye, and reckoned worthy of our particular regard? Again, has the defender of his country fallen in its cause?--With generous emulation his countrymen endeavour to perpetuate the remembrance of his virtues. The sculptured marble has often transmitted the image of the hero and the patriot to posterity; the monumental inscription borne testimony to his merit; and the historic page recorded his fame. But the principle already mentioned operates with peculiar force, when directed to the supreme Benefactor of the human race. Both in the rude and refined periods of society, it clearly appears. Glowing in his bosom, it has raised the barbarian far above the beasts of the field; and, mingling with the maxims of polished life, it has contributed to improve them. The narrative which describes the religious character of mankind has been often brightened and adorned by expressions of gratitude to the Author of all that is great and good. In every age thanksgiving has been...
