PREFACE
Rev. C. T. Astley, Rev. J. Deck, Rev. E. Caswall, Rev. J. Denham Smith, Rev. Dr. Mackay of Hull, R. Massie, Esq., W. Chatterton Dix, Esq., Matthew Bridges, Esq., Mrs. Alexander, Miss Winkworth, Miss Hankey, Miss Hull, and some others, who would probably not like their names to appear publicly in print. To all and each, both publishers and authors, I tender my acknowledgments; and I thank them for much courtesy and kindness, which have materially helped and encouraged me in the compilation of" the Additional Hymn- book."
Of course I cannot expect that this collection of Hymns will please every body. The whole subject of hymnology is notoriously one about which there is a wide difference of opinion. There are however two points in the volume about which I think it right to make a few remarks, in anticipation of objections.
It will be objected, I have no doubt, by some, that there are too many hymns in this volume of a highly experimental character, well suited for the private use of individuals, but not for the public service of the congregation. I must plainly say that I see little weight or force in this old and common objection. I believe that the vast increase of Conferences for the promotion of spiritual life,-of Bible classes, prayer meetings, communicants' meetings, and, generally speaking, of gatherings of true- hearted and