All attempts, therefore, at reconciliation must fail, because they are attempts to reconcile the account of one thing with the facts of another. The earth existed before the commencement of the Mosaic account, but of its prior existence the Bible gives no history. It takes up the history of it from the period when it became interesting to us, at the beginning of the system under which we live. Other facts we are to find out as we can. The Bible was not written to reveal them, or to make us wise respecting them. AN OLD SUBSCRIBER. We were not unaware of this third solution, which we believe is contended for by some eminent geologists at our Universities; with no intention of disparaging Holy Writ, but only of rightly interpreting it, so as not to make the Word and the works of God contradict each other. But we cannot give up the belief that the Holy Ghost intended, through the inspired penman, to make known to mankind that all things were created-in the full sense of that word-by God—that is, were not eternal, or self-derived. We do not ground our opinion so much on the statement "in the beginning," as on the word translated "created;" for the phrase "in the beginning," is sometimes used relatively, though we cannot but think it means in this passage at the commencement of all things-the birth, so to speak, of time. Poole cites commentators as variously maintaining, In the beginning of all things; or the beginning of time; or of the production of things; or of the creation, or of the world, &c. Some read, he says, "In the beginning of the heaven and the earth God created them." The Rabbins taught that God created seven things before our world; namely, Paradise, the Law, the Just, Israel, the Throne of Majesty, Jerusalem, and Messiah. But the word "created" seems to us decisive. We know indeed, that this word also has been variously interpreted. Thus Poole says: "It is taken in two senses; to create from nothing, and to produce from pre-existing materials something more excellent; as he created whales and mankind." But the distinction between the two seems clearly kept up in the Mosaic narrative; distinct words being used; as in the summary, c. ii., v. 3, "He had rested from all his work which God created and made." These are not synonymes. DR. JOHNSON'S RECOMMENDATION OF BURNET'S LIFE OF ROCHESTER. To the Editor of the Christian Observer. DR. JOHNSON, writing of Bishop Burnet's Life of Rochester, says, “It is a book which the critic ought to read for its elegance, the philosopher for its arguments, and the saint for its piety." This testimony is true; though, unhappily, the book is not unexceptionable, as it does not soar beyond the Bishop's low-toned sentiments upon the solemn question of man's justification before God. Burnet concurred with Tillotson in the plan of drawing up a new book of Homilies, in which, among other things, "some expressions in the first book of Homilies, that seemed to carry justification by faith only to a height that wanted some mitigation, were to be well examined." The proposed list of subjects was copious and excellent; but the five Homilies which Burnet published as a specimen of the course, afford no reason to regret that in consequence of the opposition raised to the scheme it was abandoned. The opposition, however, was not, for the most part, caused by what was defective or exceptiouable in the doctrinal views of Burnet and his coadjutors; but by their anti-altitudinarian principles, which rendered them obnoxious to that section of the Church which embraced the Laudean notions. But my object in quoting Dr. Johnson's remark, was to say that it describes too accurately the manner in which persons very generally hear sermons, read religious books, and even the Bible itself. They hear or read, not to be taken out of their own track, to have their judgment corrected, their mind enlarged, their defects supplied; but to confirm or follow out their own opinions. The "critic is thinking of the "elegance," whereas it were far more important that he should be taught and animated by the "piety." The philosopher weighs the arguments, but without any glow of soul, or reduction to practice. And perhaps the "saint" also loses much of the benefit, by not duly exercising the powers of spiritual understanding; reading with scriptural discrimination, and studying truth as well as impression. We should beware of being content with partial and stinted views of what God has revealed; we should desire to study more of the height, and length, and breadth, and depth of his love in Christ Jesus, both doctrinally and practically; ever remembering that "all Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." VECTIS. REVIEW OF NEW PUBLICATIONS. MEMOIR OF THE REV. PETER ROE. Memoir of the Life of the Rev. Peter Roe, A.M., Rector of Odogh, and Minister of St. Mary's, Kilkenny; with Copious Extracts from his Correspondence, Diaries, and other Remains. By the Rev. SAMUEL MADDEN, A.M., Prebendary of Blackrath, Diocese of Ossory; author of Letters on the Second Advent. Dublin, 1842. MR. ROE was so extensively known and highly esteemed in England as well as Ireland, that this volume will prove acceptable to a large class of readers. We will endeavour to select some of the most interesting portions of its contents. The history of the Church of Christ in every age; the dealings of God with it; and the religious biography of individuals among its members and ministers whose lives have adorned their holy profession; are instructive records, and will not be undervalued by a Christian reader, because not characterised by the stirring incidents of remarkable secular adventure. The narrative of that branch of Christ's Church with which Mr. Roe was connected, has been of late years peculiarly interesting; and his name is closely intwined with it; for he witnessed, and was privileged to partake of, that striking revival of piety which has been graciously afforded to our sister communion. The condition of the Protestant Church in Ireland, at the period when he commenced his ministry, was mournful. Bishop Mant admits, in his : History of the Church of Ireland," that "The latter part of the eighteenth century was, perhaps on the whole, a season of supineness and inaction, as to religion, in these kingdoms and the Irish clergy in general may be judged to have partaken of this character." Stronger words might have been used, but they are not necessary; for the fact is as notorious as it is melancholy. But how blessed the Reformation which has been vouchsafed from on high, of which the excellent Dean of Ardagh expresses his conviction (in his " History of the Catholic [not the Romanist] Church in Ireland,") that "it is unparalleled in Church history;" and he adds that "It did not take place in consequence of external pressure, but when she was in the fullest enjoyment of her temporal blessings, and long before the warcry was raised either against her property or her clergy: and it is the fullest conviction of those best qualified to judge, that this cry would never have been heard, had she remained basking in the sunshine of earthly prosperity, exhibiting at the same time the marks of spiritual declension." The Rev. Peter Roe was one of that band of faithful men whom God raised up in Ireland at the close of the last century, as instruments in his hand to roll away the reproach which rested on the Church in that land; and to bring it back to something of that zeal and love which should mark its character. He was placed by Divine Providence, at the outset of his career, in the very parish where he ministered till his death; he maintained for above forty years a character eminent for zeal, affection, prudence, and Christian consistency; and he was an instrument in the hands of God for the conversion and edification of many; and for building up the church far beyond the precincts of his own pastoral charge. Peter Roe was born in the town of Gorey, in the county of Wexford, in 1778. His father was a physician of considerable eminence in that neighbourhood, where he resided till the rebellion of 1798 forced him to remove to Dublin. Of Peter Roe's early days, few records have been preserved; but it is ascertained that, when at school, he displayed the same indefatigable industry which distinguished him in after life. He was usually at the head of his class; and obtained numerous premiums good conduct and ability. CHRIST. OBSERV. No. 61. for In 1799, he entered Trinity College, Dublin, where he distinguished himself by attention to his studies, and good answering at examinations; though he was never specially eminent as a scholar. He lamented that he was not so well grounded as was desirable in Greek and Latin when he entered College, but by great diligence he made good proficiency. His biographer mentions the following particulars of his College course. "While dwelling upon the period of Mr. Roe's under-graduate course, some circumstances then in active operation reference must of necessity be made to in the university, and calculated to exercise no small influence in the formation of character-we allude to the Historical Society and the College Corps. "The College Historical Society was formed many years before Mr. Roe's entrance into the university, by Grattan of it in the accents of affectionate reand his cotemporaries. One who speaks membrance says, that it proved one of the most admirable schools for the cultivation of oratory and of polite letters that had ever arisen in any age or counregulations of their own; and their extry. The young men met together under ercises in oratory, history, and composition, were so contrived, as to convert the most useful of pusuits into the most agreeable of relaxations.' "It is scarcely necessary to add that Mr. Roe was a member of this society. A young man of his ardent and vigorous mind, could hardly have come within the circle of its attractions, and not feel and confess their power. He joined the society, of which he became no common-place member; and if his having had a large number of supporters, in an election for the treasurership of the society, and having been subsequently elected librarian, may be taken as evidences, it may be presumed that he was one of no mean standing in the estimation of his associates." "Constant mention occurs in his let ters of the affairs of the society and the part which he himself took in them a few extracts may perhaps be thought desirable. April 8, 1797-Since last examinations I have spoken three times in the Historical Society, and am determined to exert myself as much as possible for the future; especially after I answer for my degree; as I will not F then have any heavy reading, and shall pay constant and unremitting attention to divinity and the society. Being accustomed to compose speeches will be of great assistance to me in making sermons; and I am determined to endeavour to shine in whatever profession I may be bred up to.' "At this period the French so-called philosophy, or, to speak more truly, French infidelity, was rather fashionable than otherwise; republicanism and democracy were making strong efforts for ascendancy among us. Their admirers and abettors were found everywhere; in all classes, among all grades: and that the College Historical Society was not free from their malign influence, appears from a letter of Mr. Roe's, written in February, 1798; wherein he says 'The Historical Society is getting on most famously; five (new) members took their seats last night, and seven are to be ballotted for next meeting. I am sorry however to say, that we have got ten some lads of very democratic principles, over whom it is necessary to keep a strict hand. They have crept imperceptibly into the society, and we must be careful not to admit any more.' Under such circumstances, and before such auditors, many whose own principles are sound and scriptural, would nevertheless have been unwilling to speak so boldly on the necessity of extending religion in connection with knowledge; and therefore, in proportion to the trial and difficulty of the situation, we must admire the moral courage and intrepidity of the youthful defender of sound principles. "But we must pass on from the Historical Society, and view Mr. Roe in connection with another college society of a very different nature-one to which he was much attached, and of which he never spoke in after life but in the language of strong and enthusiastic feeling. It can scarcely be necessary to remind the reader that at the period now under consideration, the political horizon of Ireland was shrouded with dark and portentous clouds, and that the loyal and well-principled hardly knew which to fear most-the invasion of foreign enemies, or the sudden rebellion of our own disaffected and disloyal citizens. The government, too, justly alarmed, invited all loyal subjects to embody themselves in yeomanry corps; and the proposal was embraced with alacrity in many parts of the kingdom. This was in the autumn of 1796; and early in October the matter was taken up warmly in the metropolis; and the lord mayor, the sheriffs, and the churchwardens of the different parishes in Dublin, having met together at the Mansion-house, resolved that a regiment of infantry and a troop of horse should be raised in each of the four wards of the city. Nor did the matter rest here. The gentlemen whose time had hitherto been devoted to various avocations-the courts, their counting-houses, and their offices—came forward in their country's cause; and soon the lawyers, and the merchants, and the attorneys' corps were added to the newly-raised forces. The "It was hardly to be expected that the excitement of the day should be excluded from the university. love of military affairs is a very general characteristic of young men of birth. Now it penetrated within the walls of college, and soon evinced its existence in no equivocal or undecided manner. In November, 1796, Mr. Roe writes thus:-'On Thursday there was a private meeting of a few lads in the college, in order to draw up resolutions expressive of our wish to arm at this important crisis in defence of our country; and mentioning that the time usually allotted for recreation we would employ in learning the military discipline that, as there was a probability of an invasion taking place, if at all, in a short time, the time of preparation was now arrived that we would not let it interfere at all with our academic duties, and that we would not wear our uniform except on parade. This is nearly the substance of the resolutions, which were drawn up in an exceedingly mild and proper manner. They were signed by a vast number of lads, among whom were several candidate fellows.' This attempt, however, was doomed to meet with disappointment, for when the provost laid the resolutions before the chancellor, who was visitor of the university, he refused his consent, on the ground that such a proceeding would be incompatible with literary pursuits. The refusal was much lamented, and by none more than by Mr. Roe, who thus expressed himself on the occasion :-'I must own that I am sorry on several accounts the plan has not succeeded; and really no armed force of equal numbers would strike such a terror into the minds of the disaffected in this city. If ever the French effect a landing, and thereby cause an insurrection of the populace, the insurgents of this city would make the first attack on the college, and seize, if possible, the whole body, which would be kept as hostages, as being the flower of the nation........By arming, this would be effectually prevented; as if they attacked the college, defended by those versed in military discipline, they would get a very warm reception; and one as grating to their courage as to their wishes. This was one principal reason of our wishing to arm.' "However, though disappointed in their first attempt, the young and ardent loyalists of Trinity College were in the end to succeed. The aspect of affairs became more gloomy. The French fleet appeared off the coasts. All the armed associations received orders to be ready to garrison the city at a moment's warning, and were served with ballcartridge accordingly. The attorneys' and city corps offered to march whereever government thought most advantageous to the public service; and on the 26th of December the collegians again applied for permission to be allowed to arm for the defence of their country. They adopted the same resolutions as before, and transmitted them to the lord lieutenant, signed by two hundred and five persons, among whom were all the lay fellows, and several of the clerical ones.' The impending danger which threatened the nation seems to have procured for the petitioners a more favourable hearing than before; for in two days after the resolutions were presented to the lord lieutenant by the provost, an answer was received, granting to the students that permission to embody for which they sought so ardently. They accordingly met in the Historical Society room, and appointed a committee of five to examine and give a return of all those who were able and fit to bear arms. This was necessary, as several very young lads, who were totally unfit for service, signed the resolutions. The return made was two hundred and ten, none of whom were under five feet six inches." "Mr. Roe entered with much alacrity and great spirit into the business of the college corps. That he was not wanting in intrepidity, or that readiness of mind and self-possession which are so valuable in military life, was evidenced by a circumstance which occurred about this time, and which he thus relates to his father. The account Mr. White gave you is true, but was not attended by any unpleasant circumstances, as the men were unarmed. I shall briefly relate the whole affair. I was going home from the Historical Society about twelve o'clock, and when I had gotten about five yards into the street going up to my uncle's, I was accosted by five men, who told me they were manufacturers, and wanted charity. I told them I had no money, and desired them to begone, as that was no time to be begging. Before I could utter another word, one fellow collared me by the back of the neck, upon which I immediately called 'watch!' They then stopped my mouth, and caught hold of my arm, endeavouring to wrench the bayonet from me, which they were not able to effect. They then began to kick the backs of my legs, upon which I fell upon one knee, in order to protect myself a little, still holding a fast gripe of the bayonet. At length, after a struggle of about three or four minutes, I, by some means, how I know not, slipped from them, drew my bayonet, and, as I was recovering, hit one of them in the face by a back-handed blow, which felled him instantly. Two fellows immediately went to his assistance, and carried him off. In the meantime I got my back against the wall, and kept parrying with the other two. I did not choose to leave the wall, as I feared I might be again surrounded. After hitting them a few smart blows they ran-one into town, the other towards the canal; the former of whom I pursued, and on his turning the corner, I found myself within reach, and made a thrust at him, and drove the bayonet into his back, which rather increased than retarded his progress. After pursuing him for some little time, I was obliged to give over, as he escaped me through the darkness of the night, and by running through by-lanes. Thus ended the affair, and without any unpleasant circumstances more than that my legs and ribs were very sore for two or three days.' The man who could thus defend himself against the united attack of five villains, whose designs were favoured too by the darkness of the night, was not likely to hang back when his fellow-students were arming for the defence of their country; and accordingly we find him frequently expressing to his father the desire, which we may be sure animated the entire corps-the desire to prove their military ardour by some more decisive evidence than a soldierly appearance at review." "In this state matters went on till the outbreak of 1798. On that fearful occasion we may be sure that the college corps was found prepared; but we have no record of its proceedings among Mr. Roe's papers. All that remains from his pen in reference to that event is the following remark in a letter to his father, dated 23rd May, 1799-' I cannot look back to this day twelvemonth without the most serious reflections, and without a deep sense and fervent acknowledgment of the greatness and goodness of that Being who preserved |