THE circulation of two editions of the "Christian's Manual" having obtained for it a character, which places it among the standard books of devotion, and a new edition being called for, the publishers, in order to afford it at the lowest price, have caused it to be stereotyped, and now present to the public an impression which they trust will be found both acceptable in form and correct in typography.
It seems proper, now that the great and good man who performed the office of compiler has been removed to a better state, that something should be said in relation to the origin of the "Christian's Manual." On the first appearance in this country of the "Village Manual," the publishers were so much gratified in the perusal of it, that they determined to give a reprint. This determination was made known to their greatly lamented friend Bishop Hobart. Though delighted with the work, his active mind perceived at once its susceptibility of improvement and enlargement. He tendered his services, and the advertisement to the first edition shows what was effected.
In the second edition some alterations and improvements were made, and a number of Prayers added, which were taken from a British work then just published, entitled, "A Century of Christian Prayers on Faith, Hope, and Charity; with a Morning and Evening Devotion."
To the present edition the publishers have thought it expe dient to add the Litany and Commendatory Prayers for a sick person, from the "Clergyman's Companion;" a favourite office with Bishop Hobart, and used by himself in his last sickness. Other emendation or addition than this, which no doubt would have been approved by the Bishop, the publishers think it would be presumption to attempt: indeed, were it susceptible of improvement, still, with the exception just noted, it would seem desirable that the work should remain as left by him whose memory will long be held dear by the pious of every communion. May, 1831.