Sir there are many reasons why I should prefix your name to this work ,Besides the general relation you have to the place where, [2] by the blessing of God, I have enjoyed a quiet and successful ministry and service in the word for these seven years, I have good cause to remember your frequent attendance upon these lectures and countenancing of religion, whilst the Lord continued your abode amongst us; your private respect to my person; your often repairing those breaches which at any time were made in my estate by the hand of violence: for all which, if the Lord would make me an instrument, by the present exercises, of promoting your spiritual welfare, or warming your heart into any raisedness of zeal and religious eminency, that by your example others may be provoked to the emulation of the like virtue, I shall have my aim and the fruit of my prayers. By this inscription the book is become not only mine but yours; you own the truths to which I have witnessed, and it will be sad for our account in the day of the Lord, if, after such a solemn profession, you or I should be found in a carnal and unregenerate condition.
