them to a given course. Be it ours, by
Covenanting to testify practically, that we feel bound to pledge
ourselves to the service of God, not by caprice, but according to his
law,--commanding to vow, and finding those who enter into covenant bound
by his authority through their own deed. Let us not be undecided. There
is duty incumbent on us which we cannot devolve on others. Let us be
active, lest even the tide of liberalism, like a refluent wave, bring
society back to a sea of trouble, before the glorious work of
Covenanting which will be performed in future times will be begun, and
we who should have used direct means to lead to it will be dishonoured.
That some are engaged in making reformation, is no reason why we should
not be diligent. We have our duty to perform; and in being most active
ourselves, we would most heartily show that we approve of the faithful
exertions of these others. Our duties are peculiar. If we make no
progress, we encourage not the movements for good, of society around us.
While we rejoice to think of many maintaining truth, we also ought to
advance to duty. We would account it incumbent on us to stand
steadfastly by the side of all the lovers of true godliness in the
nation, in defending the interests of truth and righteousness. By doing
the service incumbent on us at present, we would most completely take
means to lead to union of purpose and exertion, the most effective. We
ought not to anticipate the good that may be done by others in such a
manner as to suppose, that little will be required at our hands.
Whatever step of obedience we take will aid in encouraging others; but,
wherein we may now fail to advance, when victory will be complete, we
will, like a squadron on the field, waiting for the success or aid of a
fellow-battalion, fail of attaining to the true honour that will be
shared in the triumph of truth.

FOOTNOTES:

[793] Of the years 1661, 1662.

[794] See a valuable pamphlet, entitled, "The Revolution Settlement
considered in reference to the independence and present position of the
Church of Scotland." Glasgow: 1840.

[795] For a luminous view of what would seem to be the Church's duty at
present, we refer to an article in the "Scottish Presbyterian" for May,
1843, entitled, "Friendly Hints to the projected Free Presbyterian
Church of Scotland."

[796] On the subject of the duty of those who still abide by the
Establishment, see three powerful and seasonable discourses