be omitted. Their original object is generally overlooked; and when they are regarded, as is commonly the case, in the light of the usual stops, their direct tendency is to obscure or even pervert the sense of the inspired writers. In many other places also, the punctuation of the Psalms requires a careful revision. In cathedrals or churches, where the Psalms are chanted, these musical points might be inserted by the singers themselves, or an edition of Psalms pointed as they are to be sung, might be printed expressly for their use. It is presumed that if these or similar regulations were adopted, the Psalter would be read both in public and private with far greater benefit. Nothing would be introduced which was not of general application, whilst the short introductory summary prefixed to each Psalm, would materially assist the devotion of the worshipper. PSALMODY. No part of the Church-Service appears to be more defective in its regulations, or to stand in greater need of amendment, than its Psalmody. The antiquated phraseology of the Old Version, and the smooth insipidity of the New; notwithstanding a few redeeming excellencies, render them utterly inadequate for their professed object. Innumerable selections, possessing various degrees of merit, have been introduced into different churches, but their number and discordant materials subject them to the serious charge of promoting disunion and dissension, which the difference of tastes, reasonably to be expected on every change of incumbents, has a direct tendency to inUnder these circumstances it appears highly desirable that a well-digested collection of Psalms and Hymns should be enjoined, or at least sanctioned by the approval of our bishops. It were unreasonable to expect that such a work would meet with unqualified approbation, but surely Christian candour would readily make some sacrifice of personal opinion, for the sacred end of promoting the unity and edification of the whole community. crease. The work that is required should glow with fervour, without being inflamed with fanaticism; should be tempered, but not chilled with sobriety; sufficiently copious to afford a suitable adaptation for every general subject, but not so extensive as to embarrass by its variety, or impede its circulation by its price: praise should be its predominant characteristic, but not to the exclusion of some plaintive strains of supplication and penitence. In short, it should assist the general impression of our prayers, without encroaching upon their province. Every vindictive expression, as utterly repugnant to the mild spirit of the Gospel, and every private feeling, as unsuitable for public worship, should be excluded, whilst the various attributes and offices of the triune God should be fully unfolded. Each Hymn should be complete in all its parts, every line carrying forward the subject, and every verse adding new energy to the one which preceded it. The close, like that of a strain in music, should be apparent to every one, whilst its whole composition should be so arranged, that any abridgement would be regarded as a defect, and any addition as an incumbrance. The pathetic observations of an anonymous writer, will appropriately close the chapter before us: "Would that he whose mind was so deeply interested in this subject, had survived to pass his judgment on the considerations which we have presumed to offer; he, from whose perfect candour, if just, they would have met with immediate approbation, and by whose exquisite taste, if erroneous, their fallacy would immediately have been detected! But it was otherwise decreed; the name of Heber could scarcely be further endeared to the heart of every pious and enlightened Christian; and if the completion of this important national work should be reserved for other hands, few would be able out of the abundance of their claims upon the gratitude and admiration of all Christians, to spare |