HENRY W. DUCACHET, M. D.
Rector of St. Stephens, Philadelphia.
Philadelphia, March 17, 1837.
Messrs. Wm. Marshall & Co.
Gentlemen:—I have read several of the volumes of the “Library of Christian Knowledge,” edited by the Rev. H. Hooker, and desire to express my strong sense of the importance of the project, and of the worth of the books, which have been published. It is a very important design which proposes to turn the reading of the religious community, from the lighter works of imagination which have been rather gaining in popularity among such readers, to a grave and instructive class of books. I consider Mr. Hooker’s selection, to have been eminently judicious, as far as regards the real improvement of his readers; though I should not be surprised, if some less useful works, should outstrip these, in the market. The worth of a book is too much determined, by the way it sells. If the actual value is the standard of estimation, the Library of Christian Knowledge, will stand very high. Respectfully yours,
STEPHEN H. TYNG, D. D.
From the Rev. Charles Henry Alden, A. M. Principal of the Philadelphia High School for Young Ladies, No. 6 Portico Square.
As editor of the “Library of Christian Knowledge,” it is difficult to conceive of one better qualified in all respects, than the Rev. Mr. Hooker. Remarkable for his mental discipline; familiar with our literature, and especially with the higher order of Theological Letters; habitually conversant with principles of human nature, and embracing in his wishes to benefit others, all sensible and good men, he has rendered a most acceptable service to your readers, and secured an enviable distinction to himself.
The selected works so far are, in my judgment, most excellent. “M’Laurin’s Essays” can never be depreciated but by such as have no sympathy with intellectual elevation and manly piety. “Goode’s Better Covenant” has already passed to the second edition; and few men of intelligence, but must admire its chaste, simple and manly style; and its clear discrimination and affecting views of Christian doctrines and Christian duties. “Russell’s Letters,” comprising No. 3 and 4, are of far more extensive application than their title imports. No person of reflection, whether he be a religious man or not, can fail of finding both interest and profit in the reading. No. 5, Mr. Hooker’s original work, has been so recently published, and so extensively spoken well of, that I will say only, that if a man desires the best of company, in which he will find what will please and improve and dignify, during his reading hours, let him discourse with “Hooker’s Popular Infidelity.” Yours, very respectfully,
CHARLES HENRY ALDEN.