lating through society, regarding the dogmas of the Catholic Church. And it is to be hoped, that one fact `will be made certain, viz: that our religion is adapted not merely to the dark ages, but to all times: and that the most enlightened scholar, as well as the poor domestic, may feel proud in belonging to her communion. INTRODUCTION. LETTER I. THE beautiful season of flowers has returned, when all around is fragrance and balm; when Zephyr trims his vernal wings, and the bee goes forth upon his errand of sweetness and honey: and, as the ancient forest tree again begins to put out its earliest verdure inviting to the fresh leaves the birds where they may build their nests, I recline under its shade, and give up my mind to solemn contemplations. I think how many young and blooming beings there are, destined to flourish awhile among the bright and lovely things of earth, and then to be translated into a region of bliss and glory ineffable. Yes, there is in the land of the living, a stream of immortality, on whose banks, such flowers as they are, may bloom and smile in everlasting verdure. But then, mistake not; it is only religion, heaven-born spirit, that can conduct them to that place of rest, that Eden of immortal bliss. |