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PREFACE.

THIS collection of the Miscellaneous Works of the late ROBERT ROBINSON, has been for some time expected by the public; it is unnecessary, however, to trouble the reader with the reasons that have occasioned a delay, which has been attended with greater inconvenience to the Editor than to any other person.

In making this collection, I have endeavoured to observe the medium between publishing every thing, which, without regard to the reputation of the author, may, since his death, have appeared under his name, and omitting any thing I might judge to be worthy of his memory. Of three Sermons which have appeared in different publications, I have selected one only, the others being too incorrect for publication. When those who attempt to take down discourses, acknowledge that not only " many words, but whole sentences escaped the writer," such incorrect effusions, ought in justice to the preacher, at least to be confined to the private circle.

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Since these works were printed off, I have had two manuscript Sermons of our author put into my hands, which appear to have been correctly

reported; I have also heard that there are other manuscript sermons which were shewn to Mr. Robinson, and which he acknowledged to be correct. Whether any, or all of these will be published at a future period I cannot undertake to say. Should any persons have in their possession manuscripts of sermons, or other writings of Mr. Robinson's, and would favour me with a sight of them, I should deem myself much obliged; and would in no instance publish them without permission.

In the following MEMOIRS the reader will perceive the use I have made of the MEMOIRS written by Mr. DYER, who collected almost every thing worthy of notice in the life of the author, and many things which had connection, however remote, either with him, his church, or his congregation: at the same time it will be observed that I widely differ from the industrious and ingenious biographer, in several of his opinions respecting both the character and the writings of Mr. Robinson. After the freedom with which Mr. Dyer has written, I am sure he will deem the apology for me sufficient:-Amicus Plato; Amicus Socrates; sed magis amica veritas. I have no farther apology to offer for remarks which appeared to me naturally to arise from the subject. Conscious of the purity of my motives, I have no favour to ask for my sentiments. They are intended to aid, however feebly, the cause of truth and virtue. If they are just, they demand

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