s of others can
offer a noble and inspiring example to those who it is hoped would
profit by it; and how far an unnatural condition can have in it the
elements of a true and vital reformation. But these considerations are
really beside the true scope of the text, though they are naturally
suggested by it. And in closing this discussion of a perplexed and
difficult subject I would say in brief:--(1) That isolated acts of
abstinence, which may have their special reason and justification, when
moulded into habits fall in the way of the withering denunciation which
the passage I have quoted from 1 Tim. iv. 1-4 expresses; (2) That the
moulding of our personal habits on the follies, weaknesses, or vices of
others, is a betrayal of trust, for that which we have chiefly in trust
is life--to live a life free, strong, and fearless, shining as a light,
not of rebuke or of caution, but of guidance to mankind; and (3) That
every concession to doubt and weakness to which Divine charity moves us
is futile and vicious, unless in the very act we are putting forth a
hand to lift a weak brother to a standing ground where he will be above
these fogs of fear and infirmity for ever.

Butler & Tanner, The Selwood Printing Works, Frome, and London.

_BY THE SAME AUTHOR._

_In crown 8vo, 5s., cloth._

IDOLATRIES, OLD AND NEW:

THEIR CAUSE AND CURE.

Opinions of the Press.

"The present volume we should think is by far the best which the author
has sent forth. This, indeed, is the most fundamental and comprehensive
argument on the principles involved in the ritualistic controversy which
we have yet seen."--_London Quarterly Review._

"We heartily recommend to our readers this eloquent, vigorous, and
well-reasoned book. It puts things familiar to only a few strong
thinkers in fresh and forcible lights; it is a noble vindication of the
spirituality and freedom of the Christian life; it is written in a manly
chastened style, and is inspired by a high-toned and earnest spiritual
feeling,"--_English Independent._

"His style is as forcible and eloquent as his thinking is clear and
vigorous. Of the genuine power of the book--a power derived from its
high-toned principle, its manly freedom, its intense earnestness--there
can be no question."--_Nonconformist._

"A thoughtful, earnest, and intelligent protest against the idolatry of
the priest, of the sacrament, and of the word, written with manly vigour
and much beauty."--_Freeman