The Bible is grievously neglected both by rich and poor. The rich too seldom spare any of their abundant leisure, in storing their minds with the riches of heavenly wisdom; other books, of worldly interest or amusement, absorb almost their whole attention; an unimproving, nay injurious publication, the foolish dream of fiction, will be seized and read with avidity, whilst the oracles of eternal truth are treated with an indifference, that borders on disdain. The poor, it is true, have but little leisure; sufficient however, if that little were diligently used, to enable them to acquire a considerable knowledge of their Bible; but the great multitude of them seek their refreshment from other sources; from the pollutions of earthly pleasure. We might have expected better things: having fewer worldly possessions and comforts, it might be thought, that the poor would gladly supply such deficiency by the attainment of spiritual blessings; by raising their hopes and affections to the imperishable treasures of a brighter world to come: but it is too often found otherwise: the enjoyments of earth, however unsatisfactory and even debasing, are preferred to the abundant consolations and happiness of the gospel. Thank God, there are many bright exceptions to these remarks, both amongst the rich and the poor; the number is great, and we hope increasing, of those to whom “the word of the Lord has been precious;” who have “received it with gladness;” who have “believed with the heart unto righteousness;” who “have seen the salvation of their God.” But still, when we cast our eyes upon the vast and reckless multitude, we are ready to weep over it and to say, O that ye would know, even ye in this your day, the things that belong unto your peace; before they be hid for ever from your eyes.