These discourses are not presented as a series. With the exception of the
last, which was prepared merely for publication, they were delivered at
considerable intervals, and to meet certain aspects of the subject as they
presented themselves. As they all develop substantially the same
principles, they will probably contain some repetitions. The interest
awakened by the publication of the essay before the Albany Convention, and
the very general desire expressed to see the second and third of these
discourses in print, have decided the author against remoulding the whole
into one treatise which he at one time contemplated. He therefore sends
them forth in their original shape, with earnest prayer that the great
Head of the church may use them, with all their imperfections, to awaken
Christian thought and friendly discussion on a subject of vital importance
to the welfare of our youth.
Marvin R. Vincent.
Troy, _Jan. 9th, 1867_.