THE JOURNAL OF SACRED LITERATURE AND BIBLICAL RECORD. EDITED BY THE REV. HENRY BURGESS, LL.D., PH.D., MEMBER OF THE ROYAL SOCIETY OF LITERATURE. VOL. I. LONDON: ALEXANDER HEYLIN, PATERNOSTER ROW. 1855. PREFACE. After THE JOURNAL OF SACRED LITERATURE had extended to fourteen volumes, in two series of seven volumes each, circumstances rendered it desirable to begin the present volume on an entirely new basis. The property came into the hands of the present Editor, and, greatly to his gratification and encouragement, he at once received a very large addition to the number of the subscribers. Most of the gentlemen who thus took an interest in the work, did so for the first time, and consequently had not the back volumes. Had these been accessible, no difficulty would have occurred; but, as not one complete set is obtainable, it became necessary, in justice to so many supporters, to commence another series; so that, without inflicting injury or inconvenience on old friends, the new ones might have the work they patronize in some completeness. It is hoped that this arrangement will satisfy all parties, as we do not conceive any valid objection can exist against it. The title has been a little altered on the following grounds. Ever since the JOURNAL commenced, while principally devoted to Biblical learning, it has never been entirely so, but has admitted as many subjects as the term Sacred Literature would legitimately include, without touching on disputed ecclesiastical matters. Yet this plan has not been recognized by all before whom the work has come; and they have thought that papers on Church History, and kindred subjects, have been out of place. |