better from our reflections upon

them.

Till this is done, it avails lit tle, though we pray fervently to God not to lay their fins to our charge, whilst we have fo many remaining of our own.-Unless we are touched for ourfelves, how can we expect he should hear our cry? It is the wicked corruption of a people which they are to thank for whatever natural calamities they feel;-this is the very state we are in,-which by difengaging providence from taking our part, will always leave a people exposed to the whole force of accidents, both from within and without-and however ftatefmen may

difpute about the causes of the growth or decay of kingdoms,-it is for this caufe, a matter of eternal truth,that as virtue and religion are our only recommendation to God,—that they are, confequently, the only true bafis of our happinefs and profperity on earth. And however we may fhelter ourselves under diftinctions of party, that a wicked man is the worst enemy the ftate has ;-and for the contrary, it will always be found, that a virtuous man is the best patriot, and the best fubject the king has. And though an individual may fay, what will my righteousness profit a nation of men?-I answer,-if it fail of a bleffing here (which is

not likely), it will have one advantage, it will fave thy own foul,

and give thee that peace at the last, which this world cannot take away.

Which God, of his infinite mercy, grant us all. Amen.

SERMON XVIII.

ROMANS ii. 4.

Defpifeft thou the riches of his goodness, and forbearance, and long Juffering,knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?

So fays St. Paul. And

ECCLESIASTES viii. II.

Because fentence against an evil work is not executed speedily; therefore the beart of the fons of men is fully fet in them to do evil

TAK

gain.

AKE either as you like it, you will get nothing by the bar

'Tis a terrible character of the world, avhich Solomon is here accounting