The Life of Col. James Gardiner - Who Was Slain at the Battle of Prestonpans, September 21, 1745 by Philip Doddridge
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page 20 of 150 (13%)
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attempt to pay him some acknowledgments. Accordingly, for a few mornings
he did it, repeating in retirement some passages out of the Psalms, and perhaps other scriptures which he still retained in his memory; and owning, in a few strong words, the many mercies and deliverances he had received, and the ill returns he had made for them. I find, among the other papers transmitted to me, the following verses, which I have heard him repeat, as what had impressed him a good deal in his unconverted state; and as I suppose they did something towards setting him on this effort towards devotion, and might probably furnish a part of these orisons, I hope I need make no apology to my reader for inserting them, especially as I do not recollect that I have seen them any where else. Attend, my soul! the early birds inspire My grovelling thoughts with pure celestial fire; They from their temperate sleep awake, and pay Their thankful anthems for the new-born day. See how the tuneful lark is mounted high, And, poet-like, salutes the eastern sky! He warbles through the fragrant air his lays, And seems the beauties of the morn to praise. But man, more void of gratitude awakes, And gives no thanks for the sweet rest he takes; Looks on the glorious sun's new kindled flame, Without one thought of Him from whom it came. The wretch unhallowed does the day begin, Shakes off his sleep, but shakes not off his sin. But these strains were too devout to continue long in a heart as |
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