"The subject of this work suggested itself to the author's mind during a visit to the metropolis. His close communion, at that time, with what is called the 'religious world,' forced upon his mind the painful conviction, that while religious profession was greatly on the increase- and never more so in the higher classes of society than at the present- vital godliness was in proportion on the decline; that while- to speak commercially- the quantity of religion was increasing, its quality was deteriorating. The vast number whose Christian profession was avowed- whose religious character was recognized- whose theological creed was sound- whose conversation was pious- whose sacred observances were rigid- whose benevolence was applauded- whose zeal was admired- who prided themselves upon their eloquent preacher, and their favorite religious author; but who yet were living in the world, and living as the world, and living to the world- deeply and painfully saddened him. The question frequent