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C. O. BOWLES, Esq. LL.D.

MAJOR IN THE NORTH CORPS OF OXFORDSHIRE YEOMANRY, AND ONE OF THE MAGISTRATES

SIR,

FOR THE SAME COUNTY.

To speak in the language of adulation would be as offensive to you, as it would be unbecoming in me. On the other hand, it is to the advantage of society that truth should not be concealed. Under this impression, therefore, you will allow me to state, that your praiseworthy and exemplary conduct in public and private life is manifested by the exertions you make in your different capacities, and stamp an impression of value on your character.

As a soldier, ready to uphold the peace and laws of your country; as a magistrate, elucidating and enforcing

those laws; and as a Christian, attentive to the ordinances and illustrating the precepts of your Saviour; you are placed on an appropriate eminence, and you truly let your light shine before men.

It is this which has induced me to request your sanction of what has been here written for the use of your neighbours; and among whom your appro bation cannot but have great weight in forwarding its views and promoting its purpose.

I am happy in this opportunity of stating, that I am, with the greatest re

spect,

Sir,

Your very obliged

And obedient humble servant,

HENRY WINTLE.

TO THE

INHABITANTS

OF THE

PARISH OF NORTH ASTON,

IN THE

COUNTY OF OXFORD.

MY DEAR BREthren,

THE period of existence allotted to us here, that is, our present life, has often and not improperly been likened to a journey. Pains and pleasures are intermingled in both, and in both the end is the legitimate and main point for consideration. They alone, who keep this object in view, are truly qualified to enter upon with success the travel of a day or the passage through life. It is a want of consideration, and a thoughtless appetency for pleasure by the way,

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which make so many lost and bewildered travellers. Where the pursuit is not fixed, where steadiness exists not, even trifles allure and lead the hapless traveller through a devious track far very far away from the course he ought to have gone in. The road then becomes more and more intricate, difficulties increase both in magnitude and number, and the unhappy pilgrim discovers too late that his time has been misspent, and his exertion misemployed.

Hence arises the necessity for all to ascertain where they are going, and the road they should take. The Christian traveller in particular should the more reflect, inasmuch as the object of his journey is more momentous than that of the temporary wayfarer. One false step also in his case may be irretrievable; obstacles will then multiply upon him; his day may suddenly close, and the