iJlillllllUlilliilUi THE LIBRARY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES / POSTHUMOUS WORKS m OV THE • REV. HENRY B. BASCOM, D.D., LL.D., ffine of tfie i3is5ops of tijc iKttrjotiigt Episcopal (Efuncf), ,Sout5. ET3ITED BY THE 4# REV. THOMAS N. RALSTON, A.M. " By it, he being dead, yet speaketh."— Paul. NASHVILLE, TENN.: ^ PUBLISHED BY E. STEVENSON & P. A. OWEN. . Book Agents of the M. E. Church, South. 1856. Entered according to an Act of Congress, in the year 1855, by MRS. ELIZA BASCOM, In the Clerk's Office of the District Court for the District of Kentucky m 4 • * • • • ,.i . . . ••• • • • CONTENTS. Introdpction, ..-.--•••••5 Lectures on the Relative Claims of Christianity and Infidelity, • 15 Lecture I, • " ■ Lecture II, -..----••- 39 Lecture III, ...... ----54 Lecture IV, 83 Lecture V, 1^2 Inaugural Address, delivered before the Board of Trustees of Madison College, Uniontown, Penn., 125 Glance at the Natural History and Philosophy of Agriculture, as indicating its prohable influence upon the destinies of the human . 177 race, -i" Centenary of Methodism. A brief Address, ... - 227 Clahns of Africa ; or an Address in behalf of the American Colo- nization Society, ..--- 247 Use and Abuse of Lettered Attainment. Address at Commence- ment, Transylvania University, 291 Address on Temperance, 307 Comprehensive Analysis of the Elements and Purposes of Litera- ture.— Address on Commencement Day, 321 / >- or C3C CO 3 INTRODUCTION. In introducing to tte reading public the Posthumous "Works of the late Bishop Bascom, some remarks by way of preface will naturally be expected from the editor. To prepare for any literary work of value or importance, an appropriate preface, at once concise and perspicuous, minute and comprehensive, is justly considered a task of difficult performance. But when called upon to prepare for the press, and introduce to the public, the posthumous works of one so eminent and distinguished as ^ the late Bishop Bascom, we must be allowed to invoke a generous in indulgence ; for we feel deeply impressed with a sense of the ^ delicacy and responsibility of our position. To meet the expec- 3 tations and secure the approbation of all, even of such as feel a deep interest in the subject, we know to be impossible. A con- scious assurance, however, that so far as we have progressed in «$ our labors, we have spared no pains to perform the task assigned us to the best of our ability under the circumstances, while it S allows us, with becoming difTulence, to submit to public scrutiny ^ the performance of our work, at the same time leaves us without ui any disquieting apprehensions as to the result. Our engagement in this labor was not a matter of our own seeking. When first solicited to undertake it by the respected widow of the late Bishop Bascom, we for a time declined, namlni^ several other individuals whom we recommended as more suitable persons; but when the request was still urged upon us, and especially when it had been sanctioned and approved by reso- lution of the late General Conference, at Columbus, Georgia, 461:1 z4 , c>2 VI INTRODUCTION, we addressed oui'self to the task before us without hesitation or delay. It is a remarkable fact, that notwithstanding the great fame of Dr. Bascom as an orator, comparative!}- little had ever been published from his pen up to the time of his death. This resulted in part from his peculiar nervousness of sensibility, combined with the exquisite delicacy and refinement of his taste. Such was the acuteness of his sensibility, that he instinctively shrunk from submitting his productions to the scrutiny of public criticism, so long as he could see anything in them in the slightest degree defective, or falling short of the most complete finish. And such were the keenness of his perception, and the rigid exquisiteness of his taste, that he could scarcely ever persuade himself that any of his productions were wrought up to that state of finish and degree of perfection, which met his own ideal of what was requisite and proper. However severe the process of refinement, his acute sensibility could always detect too much of alloy yet mixed with the pure gold, to allow him to be willing to send it forth for general circulation. Hence, although ever and anon, during the course of his brilliant career, he was called upon both by distinguished individuals and reputable associations, for copies of his sermons and addresses for publication, he almost Invariably declined. Except In shape of conference documents, when he acted as chairman of committees, or was called upon under Imperative circumstances, he seldom or never appeared before the public in print, with his own consent. Perhaps these con- ference papers, one inaugural address, his articles In the Quarterly, his small volume on " Methodism and Slavery," and one volume of sermons published a short time before his death, comprise about the whole of his published writings. His conference documents, however, were numerous and able. It is notorious, that for a long period it seldom occurred, whether in his annual or the general conference, that an elaborate report was demanded on an important and delicate question, when Dr. Bascom was not put forward as chairman of the committee. Witness his famous report on the " Westmoreland Case," at the General Conference in Baltimore, in 1840; his immortal " Protest," in New York, INTRODUCTION. Vll in 184-1; and his report as chairman of the committee on "Organization," at the Louisville Convention, in /1845; liis " Review" of the " Reply " to the " Protest," and other pa))ers that might be named. These documents, however, were suffi- ciently numerous and extensive to evince that their author was not only the accomplished pulpit orator that public fame had enrolled him, but also the profound thinker and the' masterly logician. The great fame of Dr. Bascom as an orator and public lecturer, and the admiration with which entranced thousands hung upon his pulpit eloquence, may readily account for the eager anxiety which had possessed the public mind, years before his death, for the publication of his sermons and addresses. And what contributed no little to the fanning of the flame of this anxiety, was the peculiar character of his oratory. His mode of thought and style of diction were both unique. He neither laid down his propositions and principles, and arrayed his arguments and illustrations, according to the regulai", sys- tematic, and measured order of the schools, nor shaped his sentences, or rounded his periods, molded his metaphors, or chiseled his figures, according to any studied, staid, minute regard for the punctilious rules of the rhetorician. Fired by the heat of his own genius, and soaring aloft on the proud wing of his own glowing imagination, the strait-laced formula of the mere schoolman, and the petit niceties of the mere logomachist, liko the buzzing of an insect amid the rushing of a tornado, were overshadowed and obliterated amid the lightning-glance of his thought, and the earthquake-power of his argument! In his oratory there was a startling vividness, — a magnificent grandeur that enchained and transported his auditory, — that so captivated the mind, and enkindled the imagination, with the scenes of beauty and the visions of sublimity, which, by the magic influence of his pencil, were bursting to view in successive flashes upon the canvass, as to leave the mind almost overwhelmed and paralyzed by the force of the shock ! And when it was over, so overpowering had been the influence of these sublime panoramic exhibitions, that each successive one had almost obliterated the • •• VIU INTRODUCTION. memory of its predecessor, leaving the mind in a state of electrified excitement of anxiety to recall the bright visions that had passed before it, but without the power to perform the task. Hence, the general wish, under such circumstances, that Avould naturally arise for the publication of those masterly productions. Sermons and addresses, possessed of such thrilling interest and matchless power in their delivery, we wish to have before us in print, that we may pause and gaze at leisure upon their beauties, and dwell upon their excellencies, — treasure them up in our minds, and preserve them for future meditation and profit. Such being the character of his oratory, it is not surprising that the publication of a volume of his sermons, a few years ago, should have excited so general an interest ; and that the work should have commanded so rapid and so extensive a circulation. Multi[)licd thousands, who had been charmed and edified by the delivery of these discourses, were now impatient to re-enjoy an intellectual and spiritual repast, the memory of which, in by-Tone years, they cherished with so much pleasure. The general impression had gone abroad, too, that the volume published was soon to be succeeded by others of a similar character. Expec- tation to this effect was rife, and the public anxiety had been excited on the subject, at the time Dr. Bascom was set apart to the Episcopacy, in 1850. But in a few months after this event, amid the strength and vigor of his laborious and brilliant career, he fell in death, and that eloquent voice was silenced on earth forever. In his death the church lost one of her ablest ministers, — the pulpit, tlie cause of virtue and religion, one of its mightiest champions. But he died in peace, expressing his unshaken confidence in " Almighty Goodness," for salvation. No sooner had the general shock occasioned by his death subsided, than the greatest anxiety was manifested for the publi- cation of the manuscripts of the eloquent Bascom, which were supposed to be numerous and valuable. At the first cursory examination of his papers by one or two of his special friends, it was supposed, and tiie impression went abroad, that there was but little to be found in a state of preparation, or that could, in a suitable manner, be prepared for the press. This was matter INTRODUCTION. IX of deep and general regret, for it was known to some of liis friends at least, that be had frequently spoken of bis manuscripts, to the amount of several volumes, as being nearly as well prepared for the press as he expected ever to be able to render them. And especially, was it known, that among other lectures and addresses, on pliilosophical and other subjects, he had frequently referred to his " Lectures on the Relative Claims of Christianity and Infidelity," (which he bad delivered in several of the principal cities of the United States,) as tho master production of his life. It was not long, however, before it was ascertained, on further and more careful examination, that the first impression as to the extent of bis available manuscripts, was, fortunately, erroneous. As well as we can 7ioio judge, there will be about three volumes of his posthumous works, the size of the published volume of bis sermons. These will consist of sermons, and lectures and addresses, on philosophical and other important subjects. — Among these, are his celebrated Lectures on Infidelity, which are embraced in the present issue. It may be due to the public as well as ourself, to give some idea of the condition in which we find these manuscripts, and the amount and difliculty of the labor devolving upon the editor. Suffice it then to say, that the manuscripts, so far as form is concerned, are none of them found in a state of complete preparation for the press. The substance or matter has doubtless received the finishing touch of the author. That is, the maturest thoughts, and the most elaborated conclusions of his mind are here presented. They are, however, in such a state, that every line and word must be rewritten in extenso. They are found in the author's own peculiar, small, (and to one not familiar with it,) exceedingly diflicult band ; and the pages are so crowded with corrections, erasures, interlineations, and reinterlineations, that to decipher and transcribe them correctly, great care and pains- taking are requisite. Besides, as the general rule, the division into paragraphs and the punctuation are to be attributed to the editor. As to the punctuation, however, in some instances, •we have not taken the libertj- to change it, even when we con- X INTRODUCTION. sidered it variant from the best established rules of the art ; for the simple reason, that it accords better with the author's peculiar manner ; and -where wo do not consider it radically erroneous, we choose to let it stand, as more expressive of his own mode of thought, and peculiarly emphatic style of expression. In some instances, we have taken the liberty of dividing a very long sentence into two or more shorter ones. This is sometimes effected merely by a change of punctuation, and in other cases, by a transposition of some of the adjuncts, or a change of connective particles. But in all cases, we have been careful to preserve the identity of the sense and style; and shall retain the original manuscript, as our security against any charge of inattention or unfaithfulness in the work assigned us. It will readily occur to the reader, that in the matter of deciding what ought, and what ought not to be published, a task of delicacy, and one for the performance of which, a maturity and discretion of judgment, beyond what we have any right to claim, are requisite. But on this, as on other points, we have acted in view of our best light, and reserve all further defence till occasion may demand it. A brief notice of the contents of the present volume, may not be out of place. It opens with five Lectures on the " Relative Claims of Christianity and Infidelity." These, we find in the manuscript, in the form of three lectures, but as it could be done without any violence to the connection, for the sake of ease and convenience to the reader, we have divided them into five lectures. When we reflect on the number and variety of the points of controversy mooted between the friends and opponents of Christianity, it cannot be expected that in a single volume, much less in five lectures comprising but a fraction of a volume, every point connected with this subject, considered by some of importance, should be embraced. To spread so brief an argument over so wide a surface, would be so to dilute it, as to render it comparatively nugatory and useless. Our author has pursued a wiser method. He has, with remarkable discrimination and sagacity, selected a few prominent points in the controversy, — points that are radical, and upon which the whole question must INTRODUCTION, XI obviously turn, and tbo settling of which must necessarily settle the whole matter. Here, he has taken his position in first principles. He has planted himself on universally admitted truths, — on incontrovertible facts, and with great care, and masterly clearness and force, has advanced, step by step, diving profoundly into the depths of things, planting himself, at every movement of the foot, on solid rock, and rearing around him on every hand as he advances, a wall of adamant, impregnable to the assaults of every assailant, and erecting upon it his own death-dealing artillery, charged with the thunder and lightning of invincible truth and all-conquering demonstration, utterly scattering the hosts, and demolishing the intrenchments of Infi- delity ! He has commenced his argument by appealing to undeniable facts, admitted alike by the Infidel and the Christian ; and from these, ho reasons upward and onward, in a concatenated chain of argument, elaborating in a manner the most profound and masterly, each successive process of liis reasoning, compelling Infidelity to travel with him, every step he takes, till he reaches his final and triumphant conclusion, or renounce common sense itself! Without aiming, in this introduction, at anything like an analysis of his argument, we give it as our judgment, that Dr. Bascom has seized upon the strongest point in the controversy, and has conducted the argument in a manner more thorough and convincing, than we have anywhere else seen the same argument presented. Indeed, so far at least as the elaboration of the argument is concerned, we consider his course remarkable, as well for its originality of method, as the clearness and solidity of its logic. It were saying too much, to pronounce these lectures against Infidelity faultless, but to pronounce them unanswerahlei, and to hazard the opinion, that none of us shall live to witness an attempt to answer them, is only to award the meed of intrinsic merit. If our illustrious author, by his eloquent sermons and addresses, has arisen to the highest pinnacle of fame as a Christian orator, these lectures alone, must enroll him with the most profound philosophical thinkers, and the ablest logical reasoners of the age. The "Address on Agriculture" in this volume, is remarkable, XH INTRODUCTION. both as it regards the profound manner in wliicli the author conducts liis invcstiiiation of this interestiii"; theme, and the laborious care with which he has culled and collected facts for the establishment and illustration of his principles. Some of his positions will doubtless be controverted, but no one can read the lecture without being instructed and interested witli the fund of information, the grasp of thought, and the beauty of diction it exhibits. Passing over the " Address on Temperance," the " Centennial of Methodism," the "Inaugural Address"at Madison College, and various other Addresses in this volume, all in character with the author's finest productions, we call attention especially to the famous " Address on the Claims of Africa." This Address, substantially the same as we have it now before us, was delivered in 1833, in many of the principal cities and towns of the United States, when Dr. Bascom was traveling as Agent of the " American Colonization Society." The matchless beauty and eloquence of this appeal in behalf of Africa, is yet vivid in the memory of thousands, who heard it as it rolled in peals of burning pathos from the lips of the orator, and who will hail its publication as the revival of scenes of impassioned delight in by-gone years. Its power and sublimity are better felt than described, nor shall we impair it by any attempt of the kind. Some will, perhaps, consider portions of it too highly painted, but the coloring was in the theme itself, and the orator, with his enlarged viev/s and philanthropic soul, could neither be true to himself or the cause he pleaded, by adopting a tamer manner, or painting in colors less deep and glowing. Not many months since, a celebrated politician of our country advanced the idea, in an address In favor of African colonization, that it would not be unconstitutional for Congress to appropriate money to aid the cause of African colonization ; — several of our public journals applauded this politician, and gave him credit, as the Jirst who had dared ])ubllcly to advocate this principle. Read tlie address of Dr. Bascom, and you will find that in 1838, he publicly con- tended for, and elaborately argued out the same principle ! Was he not ahead of the times, by more than a quarter of a century ? INTRODUCTION. XIU One wliosfi life has been mainly devoted to literary, scientific, or professional pursuits, may naturally be expected to infuse into his works his own peculiar spirit and character. Tiiis was emphatically the case in regard to Dr. Bascom. By perusing the detail of his life, and the record of his acts and doings, we see the external man, — we survey the outer court. But by retiring with him to his closet, and perusing his works, Ave gain a more intimate fellowship, — we enter the inner temple of his soul, and read the thoughts, and catch the emotions of his heart. The writings of Dr. Bascom, though not sufficient to impart to the reader who never heard him, an adequate view of his eloquence and power as a pulpit orator, are well calculated to reflect the character of his mind. They lead us to the sanctum of his silent musings, — they admit us to intimate fellowship and communion with his intellectual and spiritual nature, — they vividly impress us with an idea of his mental habits — his modes of thought, and texture of soul. To such as have known him in life, and been fomiliar with him in social intercourse, the perusal of bis writings, now that we can no longer look upon his manly form, or listen to his eloquent voice, is well calculated to present to the imagination a vivid picture of Bascom as he was. Tracing the lines as they dropped from his pen, we almost see him ensconced in his studio — we mark the movement of the intense thought as it stirs the brain wiihin, and sits enthroned upon the spealcing countenance, and seem to be seated in his presence, and holding a personal interview with his lofty spirit. His style may not be deemed faultless. An exuberance of language, and an inattention to the minor niceties of composition essential to the smoothly rounded period, may, in the critic's eye, constitute a defect ; but this blemish is amply atoned for by more important excellencies. His Avrltings exhibit a distinctness of perception, a clearness of discrimination, a depth and grasp of thought, and a connected chain of sound, logical, consequential reasoning, seldom equaled. His taste for the beautiful, the harmonious, the grand, the sublime, was exquisite. His love for the good, the true, the noble, the pure, was intense. Higher aims than mere niceties of composition, engrossed his thoughts — xiv INTRODUCTION. more lofty aspirations inflamed his genius. He reveled in the rejTion of thought — thought intense, profound, vast, important. This was the shining gold he coveted ; and his main object, as it regards style, was, so to clothe his thoughts in language, as to impart to others a clear, forcible, and vivid impression of what lie saw and felt. This was the secret of his power as an orator. He perceived clearly. No man labored more intensely than he, to rid his subject of all obscurity and confusion. His mind instinctively abhorred all ambiguity. He would submit to nothing that lacked definltiveness. And having gained a clear and distinct perception of truth, ardent and intense as were his feelings, he could not but perceive and feel forciUij, and perceiving and feeling thus himself, he labored to impart to others liis own views and emotions. In a word, his aim was to imbue others with his own soul of thought and emotion. Hence, his style, though frequently diffuse and exuberant, was always perspicuous, always animated, always vivid and impressive. But Ave wiH no longer detain the reader. He is impatient to peruse the volume. We therefore retire from view, and allow him to examine and judge for himself. T. N. Ralston. Lexington, Ky., October, 1854. LECTURES ON THE RELATIVE CLAIMS OP CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELITY. gtlati))^ Claims iof C|iistianii]| m\)i lufbtliis. LECTURE I. In the Lectures we are about to submit to your judg- ment, we shall find ourselves in direct conflict with all the various forms and manifestations of unbelief as it regards Christianity. And by how far such a position may involve considerations of interest or delicacy, fitness or responsibility, by so much it behooves us to be able to assign valid reasons for the course we have adopted. These rea- sons will appear at length in the body of the lectures ; but it may be well to assign a general reason here. We remark then, it must be obvious to all, that imless the Infidel can prove Christianity to be false, it may be true, and may afiect, and to the full of its pretensions too, not only man's present condition, as it regards the character and fortunes of his being, but his future and final doom, as a subject of the moral government of God. And this fact alone, clear and undoubted as it is, entitles the subject to examination, and conclusively authorizes, at least, the investigation we are about to institute. The fact of my having appeared in difi'erent places, as an occasional lecturer on the Evidences of Christianity, did not originate with myself, but owes its origin to a series of reso- lutions adopted in due form in a special meeting called for the purpose by an association of gentlemen in the West, — VOL. II — 2. 17 18 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF distinguished alike for literary attainment and high moral and Christian worth. By these resolutions I was respect- fully solicited to deliver a course of lectures in one of our Western cities during the last winter, ('37 and '38) on the "Relative claims of Christianity and Infidelity." The resolutions, without participation of mine, and before I knew of their existence, specified the subject of the lectures, as also the method and terms of their delivery. With this call I complied, and have yielded to similar solicitations in different places since. The course I have pursued has been sanctioned by the corporation of the literary institution in which I hold a Professorship, and also by unanimous reso- lution of the ecclesiastical body of which I am a member ; and to these might be added the approval of some twenty other respectable associations, and numerous other facts of a similar character, beside my own convictions of propriety in the premises. Thus accredited and sustained, the occa- sional carping and caviling, meddling and vituperation of the ill-natured and the interested can be borne with, as doing little more than challenging the contempt of the high-minded and well-disposed, in any community where such demonstrations may be met. At our present interview, we propose the first of four parts of a preliminary argument for the truth of Christian- ity, based exclusively upon the facts and principles of Natural Theology, admitted alike by the Christian and the infidel. This argument will be complete in itself, and will be felt, in all its force, independently of the other classes of evidence usually appealed to in the defense of Christianity. Of documentary proof, — the historical argument for the truth of the Christian religion, we shall not avail ourselves in the present investigation, except collaterally. The position we assume, and intend elabo- rating, is, that the intellectual disclosures and moral laws CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELITY. 19 promulged by Christianity, are traceable to physical grounds, and rational, undeniable data found in nature. Or, more comprehensively, we take the system of nature and providence on the one hand, and that of revelation on the other, and after the most minute and inductive survey, "vve find the truths of the latter sustained and illustrated by the facts of the former. It will be neces- sary, hoAvever, to throw a more definite boundary around the ground we intend to occupy. Among those whose religious opinions and moral habits have attracted the general denomination of infidels, there is great diversity of opinion, as it regards the religion of nature itself. Some, as Herbert and Tindal, assuming natural religion to be, what all mankind necessarily know of God, and their relations to him. Others again, affirm it is not what all do know, but what all may know, by proper effort and application in the study of nature. And there is a third class, who are imbelievers alike in relation to both natural and revealed religion. The argument we propose will apply with equal point and force to the first and second of these classes, without including the third, which constitutes the atheistic school, and with which we Lave nothing to do. In the general use we make of the term infidel, therefore, we request it may be understood with the limitation just suggested. If we prove the truth of Christianity by documentary, historical evidence, however ample and unquestionable the evidence may be, or clear and irresistible the demon- stration, the infidel instantly appeals the argument to the great volume of nature, and pointing to its revelations, assumes at once, that they are at variance with the Chris- tian religion ; and hence, as he alleges, the reasons and grounds of his unbelief. This is the last strong-hold, — the fkvorite retreat, — in fact, the only constantly occupied for- 20 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF tress of infidelity ; and here the whole corps of its friends and partizans will be found entrenched, ready to do battle, and make good its claims against all aggression. Now, it occurs to us, if the friends of infidelity prefer being met upon this ground, they ought to be met here ; and we con- cede, moreover, that if we are vanquished here, it will be useless to renew the attack, as all else we can do, will be but fruitless border warfare. We must be allowed, how- ever, to remind our enemies, at the same time, that should the odds, in this contest, be against them, the fjiilure will be still more decisive, and they will be left to reconstruct their demolished entrenchments, and repair their battered shields, as best they may. And upon this issue we are Willi np- to risk all we have at stake, in the examination of the subject pending. It may be urged, that too little attention has been paid to the subject of the argument proposed, to allow the hope of exciting general or popular interest. This we doubt. The supposition conflicts with a Avell known principle of human action. The lectures engrossing us, although adapted principally to the habits and apprehension of men of reading and reflection on moral and philosophical sub- jects, are, nevertheless, intended for more general effect. They are delivered before popular, miscellaneous audiences, accordingly, because it was believed that the great mass of the Christian community, felt sufficient interest in the refutation of the prevalent infidel philosophy of the day, to encourage and sustain them ; such refutation being the only kind of mission likely to be of any service to philo- sophical unbelievers, and the only method of defense against their attacks. The argument is altogether too weighty and important to trust to extemporaneous eft"ort. We would not risk our own reputation, — we would not risk the honor of Christianity, — and especially, we would not hazard an CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDEUTV. 21 onslaught from infidelity by such a course. The subject, moreover, is not adapted to the pulpit, and requires special treatment and management. And beside, the public mind in this country, if we have studied it correctly, has been so long and intemperately drugged vs^ith the familiar dogmas of the pulpit, and the common-places of religious excite- ment, that it seems to be laboring under a kind of dys- peptic debility, which precludes the proper digestion of thought and reflection, reason and argument, on this sub- ject. Hence, we have believed something else necessar}^ — something different in character, and diverse in etfect. And with all due deference to the opinion of others, we shall risk the experiment fearlessly. If we fail, others can learn wisdom by our folly, and adopt a different course. We select no man as our model — we ask no man to share the responsibility with us. When we need it, we do not decline medicine, because Ave do not comprehend the phi- losophy of the prescription ; — we may know the general characteristics of a country, without a knowledge of its botany and geology ; — we avail ourselves of the use of air and water, without knowing the component elements of either ; — we appreciate the value of education, without being educated ourselves ; — we confide in the watch, the chronometer, and the steam-engine, although unable to construct either ; — the soldier obeys the Napoleon of the field, and fights effectively, although ignorant of military science, and the order of battle; — we may have some knowledge of the laws and principles of mathematics and astronomy, without any claim to proficiency as it regards either ; but because each claimant is not Sir Isaac Newton in the one, or Sir William TTcrschel in the other, does it follow, we can take no interest in these sciences ? And so, in relation to the subject in hand, the general force of the argument from natural theology for the truth of Chris- 22 RELATIVE CLAIMS OP tianity, may be felt and appreciated, even wliere tlie mind may fail to comprehend the logic of all its parts. To proceed, however, the foundations of Christianity, as an intellectual creation, claiming an intelligible basis, are to be sought deep in the philosophy and nature of things, as found in man, and the external universe about him. And in order to anything like a comprehensive understanding of its principles and claims, viewed as a complex system of moral relations, it is indispensable that the inquirer com- mence with preliminary, general views of the subject ; or otherwise, appeal to them as ultimate data, in the examina- tion he conducts. And to this task we mainly address ourselves, in the present and succeeding lectures, which aro intended to be introductory, in character and purpose, to a brief series of lectures, the specific object of which is, a summary examination of the " Relative Claims of Chris- tianity and Infidelity." Lord Bacon has somewhere remarked, with his usual sagacity, and with reference to intellectual accumulation of whatever kind, that "the opinion of plenty ranks among the causes of want y" and his reasoning elsewhere applies the truth and force of the maxim to the subject now under notice. The excepted systems and abstracts — the de- fenses, the summaries and the illustrations of Christianity, are so ample, volumnious, and formidable, that both the opinion and the feeling of plenty seem to obtain in common, among a large proportion of its friends and adherents, who seem to prefer assumption to proof, and would much rather dream than reflect on the subject. The direct tendency of this conviction, or rather assumed result, is to check solicitude, and repress inquiry, and the effect must prove greatly injurious to the cause and interests of Ciiris- tianity ; and this will perhaps explain sufficiently, why we have not deem.ed it out of place to appear before you CHRlSTrXNITY AND INFIDELITY. 83 on the present occasion, and for the purposes specified, believing as we do, that it is much safer for those in the interest of Christianity to err by excess than by defect of efibrt. We assume, however, (so far as feeling and method are concerned,) no warlike attitude, — we intend no bellige- rent movement. It is not our intention to play gladiator or pugilist. We regard deep, earnest thought, and honest, fearless inquiry, leading to action and achievement, as the most effective elements of counteraction, in any conflict between Christianity and unbelief. And to such means, mainly, whether successfully or not, it is our intention to appeal. It will no doubt be objected to the character of the lectures upon which we are entering, that they are not sufficiently popular in structure and adaptation, — that they have too much to do with first principles and abstract truths, — that they betray too much freedom and temerity at the outset, in fixing as they do, upon those principles of natural theology which have generally been regarded as hidden and elementary ; — and this apprehension will operate as a feeling of discouragement in their delivery ; — fearing we may fail to secure the interest and sympathy of the audience as we proceed. Still, the evil or difficulty, if such it be, could not well be avoided. These first truths and principles, ostensibly, are made to constitute the bone and sinew of the infidel argument, and hence, require to be examined with intelligence and discrimination. They are made to ally themselves with the very anatomy of that argument, and to become, in fact, the opera basilica of the whole system, and must, therefore, always challenge a full share of the enlightened attention of those who reject it, as absurd and unphilosophical. Hence, in every controversy between the respective claims of Christianity and Infidelity, an appeal to first principles in natural theology, as verified 24 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF by facts, becomes of necessity, the starting point or else the goal, and this, by common consent of all concerned. Called upon, therefore, as we have been, and committed as we are to a summary examination of this subject, we have been compelled to adopt the usual course, (and by conse- quence, ) addressing ourselves, not so much to the vulgar scoffer, as the skillful antagonist ; and if, in some things, we may happen to fall into the condemnation of originality, or it may be, mere eccentricity from the common orbit of inquiry, we can only, for the present, express the hope that it will be seen, that such divergence has not been arrived at, or fallen into, with any other view than that of conducting to impartial ulterior conclusions. A clear perception of truth is perfectly- compatible with want of ability to explain and explore its relations. Chris- tianity, in its more direct aspects, is a subject of familiar recognition, and perhaps general comprehension ; and with this but too many are satisfied without further inquiry. It has, however, other aspects, and other and far-reaching relations, but little understood, and seldom or never attended to, by the multitude, and yet important to be attended to, in order to its general and more effective diffusion. The ao-o-reo-ate evidence for the truth of Christianity, is, it occurs to us, susceptible of a more primary and original classifica- tion than it has usually received. The usual division is ^into external, internal, and collateral or miscellaneous. The more primary division, we would propose, is into presimip- tive, probable, and demonstrative ; — clear presumptive proof, high probable evidence, and moral demonstration. In our first lecture, we shall ask attention to several pre- sumptive arguments for the truth of Christianity, in which we take notliing fur granted, not adm/itted by the infidel. The other classes of proof will be brought to bear in the subsequent lectures. CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELITY. 25 Our Jirst presumptive argument we derive from tlie intellectual conslilution and moral nature of man. Our second, from his singular confoimation, as a compound being, consisting of soul and body. Onv third, from man's known condition, as a fallen being, — a subject of sin and dealh. Our fourth, from the fact, that aUliough natural theology certiiies us of this evil, it proposes no remedy. And our Jifth argument is deduced from the obvious identity existing between the intellectual and moral mani- festations of natural theology and Christianity. Such is a brief programme of the presumptive argument, which we request you will bear in mind. First, allow us to premise then, that in constructing a general argument, having for its object the truth and illus- tration of Christianity, it is as impossible as it would be improper, to overlook the essential structure and distinctive attributes of our common nature ; and especially, the hio'h capabilities of man, and the destinies resulting, in view of his intellectual and moral confiormation. This, we regard as the starting-point in the argument. Overlooking this first, — this basement principle, in the philosophy of Chris- tianity, the whole subject is without foundation in nature, and becomes an unmeaning mockery. For it is only in virtue of such peculiar constitution, that man becomes a reasonable being, — a self-determining agent: and by con- sequence, a subject of moral government, to be influenced and directed by the intellectual conviction, and reasoned conclusions of his own understanding. As the adaptations of Christianity must have special reference to the peculiar constitution, and corresponding relations of man, ignorant of these, how can we decide upon the claims of the Christian revelation ? As well might you understand the physics and philosophy of the material universe, without a knowledge of the elements composing its parts, as to understand Chris' VOL. II — 3. ♦41 ^6 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF tianity without a knowledge of the peculiar powers and attri- butes of man, as an intellectual and moral being. Of man's intellectual nature and moral relations, no proof is required. Belief to this effect, is the inevitable result of an intuition which is a part of himself; and into this belief, he is further lessoned by a thousand inductive processes, from which mind can never be withheld, under any circumstan- ces. Unresistingly conscious, therefore, of the possession of intellect and moral impulses, man finds himself in the midst, and a member of a vast moral commonwealth, and subject to the restraints and control of a moral constitution, every way kindred and coincident, both in character ai d development. And thus viewed, as the image and repr i- sentative of infinite Intelligence, his intellectual freedom and moral agency can only be appealed to, by reason and motive, as connected with conviction and feeling. Apart from such views of his abstract, intellectual character and moral relations, man loses the peculiar and distinctive grandeur of his nature, and the high destiny, claimed and accredited alike by his hopes and his fears, is reversed forever ! It would be, to deprive human nature, at once, of all moral dignity, and take from it all moral expression, of whatever kind. And thus conceived of, man ceases to be a moral being. Continuous moral personality, connected with action and responsibility, is no longer predicable of him. He loses his rank in the intellectual universe ; and the low and the groveling usurp the regency of his being. The possession of the powers implied in the premises, those of intelligence and moral freedom, especially, furnishes the inference, and in fact, gives the philosophy of human responsibility. It invests man with the fearful prerogative of controlling his own destiny ; for in view of his peculiar conformation and relations, conduct is destiny, and his character depends upon himself. And the possession of CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELITY. 27 these powers, moreover, furnislies the moral grounCh? of his transfer from his state of trial, to a scene and system of final retributive consciousness in the future. Without the powers for example, of comprehension and analysis — of comparison and abstraction ; there can be no belief, except intuitive. Without the moral susceptibilities of approbation and disapprobation, — the felt discriminations of moral difference, as it regards action and feeling, in himself, — in the social scene about him, or in the abstract contemplation of any intellectual system, he would be destitute of con- science, and all moral preference, of whatever kind. And without the corresponding power of choice, extending to action, conduct, and consequences, he would be incapable of every thing like moral character, or moral relations, — would, in fact, be the mere bondman of necessitj'. Without these, therefore, right and wrong, vice and virtue, law, government, trutli, and duty lose their signihcance, — so far as man is concerned, are no longer the proper correlatives of his being, or essential elements of his character ; and he becomes a mere accident, plaything, or thrall, in the common chain of cause and effect. Christianity implies rational intercourse between God and men ; and if man lack capacity for the terms and conditions of such intercourse, the claims of Christianity cannot be admitted. We institute no inquiry into tlie peculiar constitution of the human mind, — its essential and distinctive physiology. We aim at no analysis of its powers and susceptibilities. This would not be pertinent ; — it is not called for. But it is in place, at the same time, and important to the object we have in view, to notice the one and the other, so far as is necessary to exhibit man in those grand and distinguishing aspects, in view of which, Christianity is brought more directly to bear upon his condition and destiny, Man must not only be capable of 28 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF the discriminations of intelligence, and the preferences of moral sentiment, but must possess co-existing and commen- surate power of choice, and liberty of action, or many of the relations, and much of the philosophy of Christianity, will be found inapplicable to his nature, and incapable of giving character to his history. So far as action is fated and compulsory, it is purely derivative, and man, essentially passive, — a mere patient, and not an agent. Such neces- sity may be postulated of man, as an animal — a sensitive being, affecting his appetites and sensations, but not as a moral being. Involuntary action, not the result of purpose and motive, derive the coercion from what source you will, can never become the subject of moral estimation ; — the two results are invincibly opposite in nature, and the human understanding is mocked by the attempt to reconcile them. As well might you summon the pulsations of the heart, or the helplessness of the paralytic to a moral reckoning. It is an attempt to blend elements which, by the ordination of God, can never coalesce. If, in the intellectual and moral departments of our being, thought, emotion, action, and their results, are all found in necessary, avoidless sequence, having no dependence upon the mind's purposes and volitions, as efficient causes and impellents in their production and character, but merely to be viewed as predetermined counterparts of the organic phenomena, and fated results of our physical conformation, then praise or blame, vice or virtue, are words without meaning, and should be stricken from every language tinder heaven, for we have no conceivable use for them. Force, as applicable to physical substances and phenomena, can never become an element of moral government, and in proportion to its entrance into any system of discipline or control, that system ceases to be a moral government, and takes its rank among the mechanized results of physical causation, unconnected CimiSTIANITY AND INFIDELITV. 29 with moral causes oi* consequences. Not belonging to the identity, and constituting no part of the uniformity of the external universe, man as a moral being, is not, — cannot be subjected to its laws. Unless vitally and fundamentally free, man cannot act for himself, and acting only for another, can never be regarded as accountable. In a word, mind, as now under review, is a distinct creation — an individual, independent polity — an indestructible constitution of being, among the elements and specific distinctives of which, are the powers of self-agency and freedom of action, undoubted and insubvertible as the existence of mind itself. This grand truth sunders general nature, and we have the world of matter, and the world of mind. It is the dictate of the religion of nature, not less than the testimony of revelation, that man, as it regards his origin and being, is not only a separate and distinct creation, apart from the universality of things about him, called nature, but takes his place, high in distinction and pre-eminence, among the innumerable creations of the God and Father of all. While it cannot be affirmed of any portion of the material universe, that it is an exhibition of the image of God, and cannot be regarded as true, in whole or in part, as it afiects general nature ; yet, that man, apai't and distinguished from these, as an independent order and section of being, was created in the image of God, is as cej-tainly taught by the inductions of natural theology, as it is clearly revealed by Cliristianity ; and the announcement by Christianity is sustained by the data and disclosures of natural religion, as certainly and irrefutably as any proposition can be, the truth of which depends upon the laws and force of probable evidence. It will occur to the philosophic mind at once, that by the creation of man in the "image of God," we have the implication, not merely of intellectual resemblance and moral similitude, (and by consequence, the intelligence and 30 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF self-agency assumed,) but of official regency and supremacy, as it regards terrestrial creation in all its fullness and variety, and he could not, therefore, be subjected to the same laws and destiny as external nature, — could not be judged by the one, or controlled by the other. All known theories of vice and virtue, right and wrong, reward and punishment, heaven and hell, proceed upon the assumption, expressed or implied, that the moral actions of man are self-originated as it regards final determination, and that, therefore, he is accountable for them. The very nature of the human soul forbids the suppo- sition we oppose. Its constitution — its essential philosophy, as known by its powers, and capacities, — its hopes, its fears, and its hazards — its creative might and wondrous achievements — the expansive power of thought — the unconquerable energy of feeling, and all the regal. Godlike furniture of mind, surveying the past, communing with the present, and living in the future, with the irresistible con- sciousness of immortality ; — these, all assert the separate Divine origin of the soul, as an independent existence ; and indicate its perpetual progression in the intelligence, the pursuits, and the sympathies, unknown in the physical, and peculiar to the intellectual world. The abstract power of mind — of thought and emotion, is essentially a dif- ferential quality from any and all the objects and elements which, in concatenation, constitute the physical universe. Man, therefore, stands illustriously distinguished from all surrounding nature. Immortality is an element, and not a mere elaboration of the human mind. It is not an abstract category — a pandect of reason — or a figment of philosophy. It is not the persuasion of a school, or the creed of a party, although that school may divide the light of a continent from its darkness, and that party marshal nations in its ranks. The conviction — the feeUng of immortality, and of consequent dignity in the scale of existence, is essentially CHRISTIANITY AND INFlDELITr, 31 * connatural -with our being ; and its origin — its genesis — must be sought deep in the elements of our nature. In nc exclusive sense does it belong to any division of earth, or portion of her children. It is pre-eminently the creed of collective, universal man, and became the birthright of humanity when the majesty and grandeur, not less than the moral lineaments of Godhead, were creatively impressed upon the human soul ! Man's high capabilities, therefore, of good and evil, and his subjective relations as a moral being, furnish, a -priori, strong complex probability in favor of the truth of the Christian revelation. For why created capable of so illus- trious a destiny, unless it awaited him ? And hence, the strong presumptive force of our first argument. But there is a second class of elements and susceptibilities predicable of human nature, to which we would ask atten- tion, as among the premises of the general argument we are about to submit ; and this leads us to our second argument in the scale of presumptive proofs. In addition to the preceding views of man, it is more or less material to the discussion, that we notice him in another aspect, a mere glance at which, however, will be sufficient for the purposes rendering it necessary to introduce the topic at all. It has been objected by the sceptical philosophy, for the correction of which these lectures are principally intended, that the adaptations of Christianity have con- siilted, almost exclusively, the less tangible, and more impalpable elements of human nature ; such as the intel- lectual and moral powers of man, to the great, if not utter neglect of the more obvious physical principles and devel- opments of his nature ; and contrary to fact, many have " regarded the objection as well-founded. Hence, having noticed his intellectual being and moral nature, man's material formation from eai'thly elements, should not be >*3*' 32 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF entirely overlooked in an inquiry of the kind we are conducting, but should be recognized among important data in the argument, as Christianity has elements and relations, otherwise unintelligible. Let us first look at man's relations to the physical universe, and then see how Christianity has disposed of these relations. All correct knowledge, — the discoveries of philosophy and the discriminations of science, unite in establishing an unerring, universal distinction between the material and immaterial substances givina: birth to the phenomena which constitute their only foundation. This classification of all things and beings, facts and phenomena, as connected with one of the two only grand substantive entities in the formation of the universe, (matter and mind,) throws a fixed boundary around mind and thought, beyond which nothing is known, and nothing can become even an object of conception. Of ivhat can you conceive, having no connection with matter or mind ? It is a classification bounding the fields of discovery, and terminating the paths of science. It is essentially inclusive of all known phe- nomena. All the mind can know, or thought revolve of the illimitable grandeur of Godhead on the one hand, or the infinitude of things, — the immensity of subordinate existence on the other, comes, not only legitimately, but necessarily within the range of this classification. JS^ow, man, and it is certainly a very remarkable fact, unites in himself these great primary distinctions of all substantive being, — matter and mind — the material and the imma- terial, and is thus presented to the gaze of our astonishment, as a divinely conceived and constructed epitome of universal being, — an essential abstract of all existence external to himself; — " connection exquisite, not only of distant, but of unresembling worlds ; and thus partaking of tlieir nature, must be more or less participant in their fortunes and CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELITY, 33 tendencies. These great primal elements of the whole of things — of the imiverse,are the true, grand prototypes of the soul and body, — the spirit and materialism of man, who in this aspect, stands alone, invested with a distinction, so far as our information extends, denied to every other, among all the unnumbered creations of Almighty Goodness. And these elements of being, whenever found, together or apart, invariably furnish diverse, if not antagonistic phe- nomena, — presenting to the consciousness of intelligence two classes of facts, always and readily distinguishable. The one class, such as the extension and divisibiHty of ^ matter furnish, mind involuntarily attributes to the material agents and masses external to itself; and the other, say thought and feeling, is so truly and invariably ascribed to mind alone, as to assume, with regard to many of the phenomena, at least, that they might exist, were mind not sentient of the existence of any cause or agency ad extra, or from without, in relation to its own existence. The whole current of human consciousness resolves itself into these elements, by having to do with their separate and invariable phenomena. You know nothing, in fact you can know nothing — by possibility, you never even thought of anything else. It is in vain the materialist, or the Berkleyan spiritualist attempts to fuse and melt down into one, these immutably different elements, and thus annul the distinction between them. The resistance of both intuition and science, and the remonstrances of common sense, render the attempt, at once, rash and fatuous. And as the worlds of matter and spirit, at which we have glanced, co-exist in relative contact, (all know the co-exis- tence of the facts, and yet, the difference between the sun shining, and the mind perceiving it,) so mind and body, and a consequent mysterious duality of nature, belong properly to man; — the one allying him to the material, 34 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF and the other to the intellectual universe. As human nature is noio constructed, and affected and controlled by the Divine arrangements, the w^ll known decay and disso- lution of the one, is perfectly compatible mth the survivancc and immortality of the other. It is necessary, however, to attend to a distinction here. When we speak of the essentially different, and independent substances of matter and mind, in the instance of general nature, — a solid globe, for example, and the mind of man, it is important to remark, that something more, and quite different is meant, when in the instance of human nature, we speak of body and mind in intimate connection. The affinities between the human body and a block of granite, are few and far apart. Body, indeed, in the case of all animal, sentient existence means something more than mere matter. The diversity, it is true, relates more to modification than substance, still, the difference is real, and especially, in the instance of the human body. Nor is this difference the same in kind with that existing between charcoal and the diamond. Take the physical organization of man, — its functionary play of parts and powers — the principle of vitality, and the equally mysterious principle of nervous excitability, and then turn to the walls enclosing you, — a cedar of Lebanon, or the peak of Teneriffe, and you will comprehend us. Matter and mind, we have seen, are unlike, and unresembling substances, and where they co-exist in union, as in the conformation of man, there must be some organic medium, as the necessary means of reciprocity. And accordingly, in the physiology of man's nature, body is such a medium, connecting him with the external world, and with the qualifications implied; — (that is, essential, without absolute identity,) becomes a more or less distinctive and separate essence from either, — an organic structure, instinct with life, it becomes a kind CHRISTIANITY' AND INFIDBLITT. 36 of third intermediate nature, found in what the mathema- tician would call a tangential relation to the one and the other. The worlds of matter and mind require a connecting link, not merely matter nor purely spirit, as the means of mutual interaction, and body as here understood, furnishes the tie of connection. This medium-substance is con- stituently the same with matter, yet functionally different as a living organism, and bearing no similitude to spirit, except as possessing life, yet existing, the organic medium of many of its powers and operations, otherwise impossible. It may be looked upon as occupying a place in intermediate relation between the original independent substances of matter and mind. The result is a vast augmentation of the powers of action and development, on the part of both. We might instance, for example, all the vocal phenomena of lano-uacre, — all the social relations, activities, and inter- course of life ; none of which could exist, but for the supervention of the intermediate organization of the human body, although the universe might everywhere be crowded with simple matter and mind. To this arrangement too, we owe all the demonstrations of animal power, and human achievement, of whatever kind. There belong, therefore, to himian nature two grand elements, — body and spirit, and the severance of these elements at death, is a fixed law in the economy of man's existence, and whether its super- vention has been in consequence of the cause assigned by Christianity or not, it occurs as a regular stage in the progress of his being. It is further true, that this separation of soul and body, — this fearful breaking up of the physical economy connecting man with earth, ranks high among the deductions of natural theology, as a punitive visitation on account of sin, and has always spoken to the reason and moral sense of man, of aboriginal transgression, and the displeasure of Heaven, 36 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF It has been necessary, in our judgment, to advert briefly to tliis very singular union, — this admirably adjusted amalgam of mind and matter, in order to just views of the hidden and occult, as well as more obvious constitution of human nature, without a knowledge of which, it is impos- sible to understand many of the more distinctive provisions of Christianity. We do not, therefore, venture upon ground, which many may regard as more or less untrodden, — we do not appear in a field, Avhich may be looked upon as one of remote and imfamiliar abstraction, merely because it has fallen in our way, and we find it practicable to do so, but in view of what we consider important deductions and conclusions, and apart from which Christianity would be a chaos of unintelligible assumptions, and unrelated dogmas. Similar views to these, in part, may be found in the admirable works of Drew and Taylor, but they are intro-. duced by both, for purposes having very little connection with our argument. The ultimate truth in which we would land, is not suggested by either. To proceed, however, without the notices of human nature with which we are occupied, (we mean their sub- stance, of coiirse, Avithout reference to form,) the great law of sin and death, which lies at the foundation of all religion, natural and revealed, would not only be unintel- ligible, but in fact, could not be conceived of. The same is true of mortality, and physical suffering of every kind ; also, death, and the resurrection of the human body, together with other important data and disclosures of revelation. As we intend an examination, to some extent, at least, of the philosophy of Christianity, rather than its external credentials, we have deemed these preliminary views important and indispensable, as preparing the way for others more directly explanatory of the positive natui-e, elements, and tendencies of the Christian religion ; many CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELITY. 37 of which, without proper reference, direct or implied, to the views we have taken, would bear no more analogy to nature and fact, than the infidel objection to which we are replying, does to good sense and sound philosophy ! How could Christianity be understood, in many of its relations and bearings, and these most important, without adverting to man's peculiar nature, as blending the diverse elements of the two great systems, — the physical and the intellectual, pervading, so far as science has been able to discover, the entire universe of worlds ; and from which, in the instance of man,. mixed and modified principles and sentiments, affecting both his nature and character, must necessarily result ! And these, as disposed of by Chris- tianity, can only be understood by proper reference to man's extraordinary conformation, as a compound being. It is hence, and thus viewed, that man becomes a visible manifestation, and in some sense, impersonation of Deity ; and the persuasion to this effect, has, with greater or less variation, obtained wide as the earth, and commensurate with its history. As the adaptations of Christianity adjust themselves to this specific structure of man's nature, it furnishes high presumptive proof, that the author of the one must be the author of the other. Without proper reference to man, in the two very distinguishing aspects in which we have just considered him, as an intellectual being, — a free moral agent, also a compound being, con- sisting of soul and body, the Christian doctrine of man's moral accountableness to God, would be a senseless fable, — an insulting fiction ; and that of his resurrection from the dead, would present itself, not merely as a philosophical absurdity, defying all rational belief, but as something quite too monstrous for the gullibility of even the most stupid and visionary ! The view of the subject we have taken, however, refers all the assumed results of Christianity 461-132 38 KELATIVE CLAIMS OF to causes and desiderata, i-ationally accounting, both for their assumption and occurrence. Hence, the strength of the presumption, that Christianity originated in the will and the wisdom of the Creator of man, as it has obviously seized upon the grand ground-laws of our being, as its only subjective basis. And thus, the objection, that Chris- tianity adapts itself to the latent and invisible elements of humanity, overlooking, at the same time, the physical, the external, and the obvious, is without any foundation in truth or fact ; and it would have been much better for infidel philosophy, had it never been urged. We are now prepared for some additional views of human nature, very important to the general argument of these lectures, and severally evincing, that the objections to Christianity urged by infidelity, are much more formidable in aspect than they are found to be when examined in the light of nature and philosophy. The value of ouv first and second arguments will be more fully appreciated hereafter. The third, although equally important is less metaphysical, and to most persons, will be more interesting, but we reserve it for our second lecture. i LECTURE II. It is within the competency of the religion of nature, as ti-uly as that of Christianity, to ascertain and accredit to the mind, beyond all doubt, that our common nature is not -what it ought to be, and by consequence, not what it was when received from God, as the all-wise, and bene- ficient source of existence and its blessings. This view of the subject must, of necessity, give color and character to the whole inquiry. Christianity consults the welfare of man, as a fallen being; and if we ascertain, beyond doubt, that man is a fallen being, and learn this fact, too, incon- testably, independently of Christianity, it furnishes a third grand presumption of its truth. If natural religion teaches anything at all, with clear and convincing emphasis, it is the existence of God, as an infinitely intelligent and benevolent being ; and the crea- tion of man by him, for purposes essentially benevolent in ranee and effect ; and that man, therefore, in conformity with the Divine purpose, should cherish, and extend to his fellows, — co-heirs of the same destiny with himself, kin- dred regards, and similar solicitude to those challenged by the question and interests of his own immediate, personal well-being ; and that, turning to the Author of his existence, and the gifts and hopes with which it is enriched, he should regard Mm with affection and confidence, reverence and gratitude, at once supreme and undivided. All this is admitted. It is disputed by none. It is inscribed on the altars of nature, as legibly as on those of Christianity, and is taught alike by the theist and the Christian. Let ua 40 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF appeal then to facts and developments, of wliich nature is as cognizant, and can judge as competently, as the Chris- tian religion, and see w^hether such facts will bear out the assumption, that man as we now find him, and as he has been found for ages, has been led by the moral intuitions of his nature, and the religious impulses of his being, to contemplate and admire the character and works of God, and making his will, so far as known, the standard of excellence, to imbibe his thoughts and seek his likeness. We submit the question to the arbitrament of fact and experience, — actual history and every-day consciousness of mankind. Speculation and hypothesis are out of the question, — creeds, codes, and authority are laid aside. Let the inquiry be reduced to a question of simple history, — a naked appeal to the actual conduct of mankind. Has man then, been actuated supremely by regard for the Creator ? Has cheerful submission to his will and dispen- sations motived and determined his character and actions ? Has he sought to make the plans and purposes of God, the measure and model of the action and achievement of which he was capable, and to which he was inclined ? Has he practically admitted these first truths of natural religion to be the voice of God ? Has he submitted to the reio-n of conscience within him, as a part of the supreme legislation of Heaven with regard to man ? Has he shown himself under tlie control of the moral order of the universe ? These questions must all be answered in the negative. Man has not done this ; and the negative is accredited by the most convincing testimony of natural theology itself. All perceive and feel it at once as undeniably true. It follows, therefore, that our nature is disordered — a moral disruption has taken place between man and Deity. Alien- ation has interrupted the original harmony between heaven and earth. The intellectual mechanism and moral struc- CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELITY. 41 ture of man's nature have been impaired. Irregularity and ruin have succeeded to the purity and perfection claimed for his original nature and condition. Disorder and mis- rule obtain among all our passions and propensities, extending alike to our animal appetites and intellectual powers. It is a common distinctive of man's moral nature, that he is unmindful of his God, and loves not his brother. It is a root of bitterness mingling with, and tempering the whole fruitage and environment of life. In this, there is no mystery — no revelation, beyond the ordinary disclo- sures of nature and time. Failure to discover it, apart from Christianity, is impossible. It is equally known to the savage, the sophist, and the sage ; and is felt alike by all. It is asserted alternately, and in unison, by conscience and consciousness ; the one being busied Avith moral, and the other with intellectual distinctions. The mind feels its own fearful collapse, and the heart is burdened with the evidence of its own alienation. Let this inquiry be reduced to a science, and let it never be baptized into Christ, and yet, bringing the inductive philosophy to bear upon it, making facts the foundation of theory, an overwhelming multipli- city of this class of proofs, will, by clear and pervading implication, conduct us to the conclusion assumed — the fall of man, and the moral perversion of his nature. Select but one or two specimens of this mode of reasoning, and you can easily judge of the force of others. "We have seen it taught in the creed of nature and reason, contended for by all and denied by none, that man — all men, as the children of one common Father, and subjects of the same moral discipline, — one in nature, one in condi- tion, and one in want, and actuated by the same, or similar hopes, and fears, and aspirings, should cherish the regai-ds of kindness and good-will, the one to the other, in all the aspects and distributions of social relationship. Deny then, .VOL. II — 4. 42 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF as infidelity does, that man is fallen, and his nature in ruin, and how will you account for the hatred and malig- nity, the oppression and wrong, the war, the blood, and the murder, by which earth, not only in the present age, but during its sixty predecessors, has been transformed into a vastaceldama — the burial-place of the life and hopes of millions, every one of whom had access to the altars and temples of nature ! Who does not perceive that this result is utterly unaccounted for upon the infidel hypothesis ? Or again, we have seen it taught by the same creed, and with equal force and universality, that all are under the strongest and equal obligation, to accord to the Creator the claims of reverence and affection in conduct and action. Turn we then to the idolatry and superstition, the poly- theistic creeds and religions of the pagan world, in all ages and divisions of its history, and tell us how these deluded millions could love and trust a. being — a god, they knew little or nothing about ? With no just conception of him, how could they reverence or worship him ? Knowing no divinity but the godhead of stocks and stones, — beasts and men, — and so of the rest, how could their morality and religion be other than the negation of everything deserving the name ? And yet, if the religion of nature be true in its premises, and man's nature noiv what it was — Avhat \i must have been when God created him, we have a result, in the deep, moral perversity of our race, for the production of which, no conceivable cause can be foimd in the history of man, or the councils of Heaven. And how, we beg to know, will infidelity dispose of the difficulty ? In every attempt to do so, it is seen halting on both feet, and at every step. The evidences — the mementoes — the sad remembrances, many and oft, of this fearful change in the condition and moral aspects of humanity, have multiplied upon the notice of the world CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELITY. 43 for nearly six thousand years ! Its face and history are, stained and disfigured by them. Its records groan with the recital. The great primeval apostasy is no discovery of Christianity. It has been felt and acted upon, by all men in all time ; by the pagan and the infidel, as fully and truly as by the Christian. It is attested by the expe- rience of ages and nations as they blend in the world'.s history. That man is estranged from God — estranged in thouo-ht and affection from the character and claims of the Creator, is not a mere abstraction of philosophy or relio-ion, — it is not an occult truth whose demonstration depends upon the laws and indirection of an extended pro- cess of reasoning. It is a truth mapped out upon the face of man's moral history ; and taking the wants and necessities of our nature — its cares and solicitudes — the invention and enterprise of man, as our guide, it will be found that throughout immemorial time, the common course of effort and endeavor, however modified by human interest and earthly vicissitude, has been planned and charted upon the basis of the truth we assume, — the damao-ed, disordered condition of man's moral nature. Christianity is not now our witness — is not noio under examination. Let her stand aside. Let her voice be hushed in the silence of her own archives. We appeal to other sources of information. We appeal to man's univer- sal history ; — to the facts of his being, and the philosophy of his nature ; — to common truth and common sense ; — to his moral feelings and the inductions of experience, and thus conceiving and judging of man and his relations, is God, we ask, in man's appreciation, (according to the dic- tates of natural theology, ) the eternal source and prototype of moral excellence ? Is man, does man, what he was formed to he and to do ? Allow man intuitive intellection, moral emotion, and the 44 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF powei" of conscience, in relation to the immutable princi- ples of right and Avrong, and the conformity or want of it, of his own actions in the premises, yet, is it not equally certain, that the ever-restless domination of his inferior passions and appetites, withholds him from the choice of rectitude, and renders him incapable of the love and pursuit of moral excellence, without extrinsic moral aid, such as Christianity assumes to furnish ? The most essential element of moral goodness, as predicable of man, is proper regard for God who made him, and who in his administration of the world, has never ceased to care for him. Of this essential elementary principle of goodness, man, as shown by the tendencies of his nature, is destitute. The evidence of the fact is the common consent of all in any way attentive to the subject. Indeed, we would offer the impossibility of doubting it, as the strongest proof the human mind is capable of receiving with regard to it. In order to such a result, therefore, must not the order of things have been disturbed and inverted by some great moral cause ? Could moral consequences, evil in kind, have proceeded from other than moral causes, evil in nature too ? If God be either good or just, it could not be. Infi- nite perfection never could have produced man as he noiv is; — a defaced image, a mutilated likeness of himself! In a state of such intellectual derangement and moral perversity, man never left the hand of God. Created obviously for benevolent purposes, as we have seen, — sublime in capacity, and illimitable in desire, is it conceiv- able, unless for some hisfh moral cause oriofinatina: with himself as a self-determining agent, that God who made him in goodness, would abandon him to a destiny which may level him with the brute in time, and exhibit him a spectacle of majestic desolation — of fallen, perverted grandeur in eternity ! In trying to reach such a conclu- CIIRISTIANIxr AND INFIDELIXr. 46 sion common sense and all moral principle will be found to rebel ! On no subject, it occurs to us, of moral belief, is the proof more perfect and indubitable than against such a supposition. It is a conviction, the certainty of which, cannot be increased by any kind of evidence whatever. The evidence has augmented in fullness and force, with every age, until, every way full, it is satisfying and overwhelming ; and even that derived from the senses, and the laws of geometry, can never be more so. When conviction is perfect and entire, it can never be anything more. It is not within the competency of any kind of proof to affect it further, nor is it at all material whether the evidence affording the conviction be moral or mathe- matical. We can no more doubt the moral fitnesses connecting themselves with the virtues of truth, justice and benevolence, and the vices of falsehood, dishonesty, and oppression, than we can doubt the correspondence of mathematical relations, or the existence of physical affini- ties. And the result is, in this adaptation of the provisions of Christianity, to the fallen, disordered condition of our nature, we have an additional argument for the Divine original of the system, the speciality and relevancy of which, must be felt by all. But let us take another view of this subject. It has been noticed, that however clearly and forcibly the theology of nature may point to the existence of God, his works and his ways, furnishing imperfect, but still convincing manifestation of his natural and moral perfec- tions — recognizing man, moreover, as a subject of moral government, and indicating his moral relations and immor- tality, notwithstanding the sin and misery in which, by the same light, he is found to be involved, yet there are aspects of man's moral condition, as ascertained and assiimed by nature, which the theology of reason and conscience has ' ^ 46 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF never been able to dispose of ; and amoBg tbese will bo found man's peculiar relations to Heaven, viev/ed as a lapsed intelligence — a subject of sin and death. That man is such an intelligence — such a subject, is as irresist- ably, although not as satisfactorily taught by the lessons of nature, as by those of revelation. It ranks familiarly amono- its initial lessons — its axiomatic truths. It has been the burden of nearly all the religions of the world, and has given birth to their most significant symbols and ceremo- nies, and especially the mysterious rite and practice of animal sacrifice, so universally appealed to for the purposes of propitiation — the atonement of conscious and dreaded guilt. This question — (how to approach offended heaven) has always been an enigma with natural religion ; and one, of which, her expounders and pupils have never been able to furnish a solution. The very thought has carried with it the force of a gloomy and damping visitation, which has thrown back for ages the hopes and the fears of paganism upon itself, and left more enlightened worshipers in the temple of nature, "without hope and without God!" Even the disclosures of natural religion, in this respect, enhance its difficulties by its felt — admitted inability to accomplish what it proclaims indispensable, and its hopes and aspirings are thus seen to expire in its own birthless ashes 1 The evil of sin, as taught by natural religion, is not a mere obscuration of moral perception — not mere derangement and error as it regards conscience, — not a vac-ue unhinofement of the moral constitution of man, but alienation from the source and principles of virtue — estrangement from God — guilt and condemnation 1 Nor is this regarded as an item of belief only, but as an undoubted verity. It is, in fact, the implicit creed of all mankind ; because none doubt — all feel that they are guilty ! To teach this lesson to man, it was not necessary that the CHRlSTIANlir AND INFIDELITY. 47 heavens should break silence, or the oft'ended Majesty of the universe send us a special embassy ! It is written upon tlie living tablet of every heart, and forms a part of its consciousness. It is voiced in the depths of our moral nature, and its peremptory and pealing echo has thrilled and disquieted the conscience of each successive generation of earth, since death and want were known to man. In a word, it is the eternal language of the heart, " known and read of all men ! " Natural theology, therefore, involves us, beyond all doubt, in the great problems, not merely of Christianity, but of all religions; and among these, the guilt and ruin of our common nature. Thus far, the induction is complete. But it is equally true, equally demonstrable, that natural religion cannot extricate us. Viewed as a system, it has been casting about for a remedy for ages, but in vain ; and the utmost it has been allowed to hope was, that its imper- fect discoveries might harbinger to the hopes of man the higher lessons of some adequate, but still undiscovered system of recovery. And all the oracles of pagan sages, and the dreaming of infidel philosophy, has been to the same effect. The moral — the ethical voice of natural religion, was heard and felt with anxious awe, but the great ends — the grand objective interests it involved, as neces sary to a solution of its difficulties, were seen only in dimness and mystery — glimmered faintly in the distance, or were utterly unknown, even to the ideal shapings of belief and hope ! We see the tree, and seize the promise of its bloom, but the fruit for which we looked and longed, drops prematurely, mildewed in its own shadow ! The liistory of all religions, the Christian excepted, confirms this. It is chronicled in all that God or man has preserved to us of tlie fortunes of our race. Want, disease, and death, — guilt, fear, and despair, have preached it for six thousand years, y 48 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF from one end of heaven to the other ! None can doubt ; even the most laborious endeavor to do so, ends only in more confirmed conviction. Tlie question may be started, as it often is, with studied ambiguity of thought and feeling, but before the induction is half completed, demon- stration throws the sophist on his knees, and the helpless- ness of nature involuntarily offers homage to the hopes of Christianity — "Wherewith shall a man appear before his Maker, or bow himself before the most high God ?" Here, broods a mist nature has never been able to dissipate. Allow that the beautiful science of natural theology does much towards adorning the path, and gilding the hopes of life, the existence and paternal goodness of Deity — the rational, exalted nature, and probable immortality of man, — these, and other kindred lessons, in the shape of thoughts and conceptions, the prismatic mouldings of imagination, and the droppings of impassioned fancy and feeling, together with the stirring alternations of life and society, and their perpetual vicissitude of contribution to our wants and wishes, play like sunbeams about our path and pilgrim- age, often rendering us buoyant Avith hope, and grateful alike for the present and the past ! Viewed only in such aspects, we seem to enjoy a charmed existence, imbibe inspiration from a thousand streams, and revel in the poetry of heaven and earth ! Reflect, however, that in the tender physiology, even of the infant's bosom, there is a mortal taint, — that there, by an inevitable law, the seeds of death are sown, — that birth is the invariable antecedent of quick succeeding death ; — that the bud is opening, but to be nipped, — the flower expanding, only to wither ! Look at disease, decay, and death ; — look at suffering and want, — anguisli witliin, and desolation without ; — life receding in gloom, and the shadows of the future settling upon its close ! See the # CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELITY. 4D light of nature guiding us thus far, and then deserting us ; — its torch extinguished at tlie mouth of the grave, and all that was gay or blissful in life imbittered by the appal- ling desolation of its closing scene ! And gazed at from this point of observation, from which all, sooner or later, must look upon it, earth, instead of a gay panorama of inter- est and excitement — an Eden of passion and enjoyment, presents the spectacle of a vast — a world-entombing sepulchre, where its mouldering generations have no inher- itance but that of forgetfulness ! Now, what we assume here, — that death and its ravages, whether it be the result of primeval transgression or not, is an essential fact of the phenomena of our nature, — is in fact, a part of its physi- ology, and the only mystery attaches to the fact itself, admitted by the objector, and not the account of tho manner of its origination, as furnished by Christianity, We repeat, the great improbability in the case, the only staggering unlikelihood, belongs to the fad, not the manner ■ in which it is accounted for ; which last, however strangely and unaccountably, becomes the only subject of exception with the infidel. And the philosophic unbeliever is thus found chasinii- his own shadow, and battlinsf with the ghosts of his own admissions ! It follows, therefore, that the adaptation of the special provisions of Christianity to the specific failure of nature, upon which we have been enlaro-infj, is another arsfument for the truth of the Chris- tian revelation. One other view of this subject and we close the present lecture. Who can reflect upon the unity subsisting between the intellectual and moral manifestations of natural theology and Christianity, whether as it regards God or man, without beina^ forcibly struck with the manner in which the former seems to have anticipated the truths and facts of the latter, so as to make the one prophetic and VOL. II — 5. #0 HKLATIVB CLAIMS OF prototypical of the other ? Infidelity is thus silenced by the very weapons it has turned against Christianity. Take the existence of moral evil, for example, Christianity details the manner of its introduction into our world ; and this may be true or false, without afiecting the corresponding truth in natural theology. There all is silent, as it regards the manner of its introduction ; but that it exists is a fact of human consciousness, and a fact so interwoven with the history of man, that with all the darkness of his under- standing or condition, he has never been able to overlook it. The fact exists apart from human theory or Divine discovery. Christianity assumes it, as a pre-existmg truth, and although she rationally accounts for it, is no more responsible for it, than is the history of Greece, for the reign of the thirty tyrants ; or that of Rome, for the murder of Julius Caesar, or the destruction of Pompeii and Hercula- neum ! Christianity does not originate the evil ; she merely furnishes a solution of the difficulty. Now, the iise we would make of this is, that the pervading resemblance between the fact, as attested by natural ^theology and accredited by Christianity, furnishes another strong pre- sumption, that the one and the other are manifestations of the same intelligence, and exhibitions of the same moral nature. That is to say, the origin of both must be sought in God. It would require no elaborate eflfort to show, tliat upon the basis of the great truth, that our world is a fallen one, natural theology has constructed its only theory of the administration of its aflfairs, by its offended, yet gracious Sovereign; — referring the blended good and evil, — the enjoyment and suffering of our earthly lot, to the goodness and forbearance of God, on the one hand, and to the original delinquency and subsequent sinfulness of our race, on the other. The ills of life, and the sufi'orings of mankind, have been looked upon immemoriully, and by all, as judicial CHRISTIANIiy AND INFIDELITY. 6l visitations, proclaiming the displeasure of Heaven on account of sin ; and yet, in a way partly penal and partly gracious ; while the goodness and benevolence lavished in a thousand forms upon the family and children of earih, have been received as evidences of the patience and long- suffering of God, in his providential administration with regard to man. And it is a most remarkable fact, that this fundamental principle in natural theology, is in perfect harmony with the discoveries and announcements of Chris- tianity on the same subject. The inference is, that the same mind — the same presiding intelligence gave birth to both these kindred results. It may be received as an axiom from which none will dissent, that if the systems usually denominated those of nature, providence, and revelation, come from God, — if as systems, they are conceptions of his, they cannot be at variance — they must be found coincident and in harmony. The two former must be expected to exhibit principles of character with which the latter must accord ; and precisely in conformity with such a supposition, the lessons of revela- tion assume, explain, and accredit those of nature and providence, and these last, in the order and history of the Divine administration, seem to be the intended precursors of the first ; nor can there in the one, be found any intima- tions of the character of God, or condition of man, incon- sistent with those found in the other two. It is admitted, and the admission is essential, that there is cormected with Christianity, much that is peculiar — much that belongs to no other system, of moral remedy or religious belief. But this very speciality — this grand peculiura of the gospel, which turns mainly upon the origi- nation of a scheme or system of recovery and restoration to the favor and image of God, as the great bui-den of its communication, — is, as we have seen, and clearly shown. 62 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF pointed at by nature and providence, as a desideratum, involving not only the most important of man's moral relations, but even the destinies of immortality. We need not add that here is a gulf, infidelity has never been able to bridge, without appealing to Christianity ; and hence, another coincidence, which tells upon this argument with no common weight, or equivocal bearing. Again, that in Christianity, which has most ofi'ended the pride and independence of infidel philosophy, is the doc- trine of redemption by the cross of Christ. The scene on Calvary, in the history of man's redemption, has been the stumbling stone of the world, and significantly, the rock of offense to its wisdom and pretensions, among all its tongues and tribes ! And yet, the principles involved, apart from the dramatic accompaniments and scenic exhibitions of the tragedy, all have their counterpart in nature and provi- dence. There, as noticed at length before, the moral Governor of the world blends judgment with mercy. He not only attracts by the loveliness of the one, but awes and deters by the fearful grandeur of the other ! God reveals himself, displeased with sin, and intolerant of its commis- sion, but at the same time, disposed to bear with, and reclaim the delinquent 1 Turn now to the cross as the great symbol of man's redemption, and losing sight of Judas and the mob — the disciples and the sanhedrim — Herod and Pilate — the nail and the tree — the darkened heavens and trembling earth — the opening graves and rising dead, fix attention only upon the great principles, of which these are but the incidental exponents and credentials, and what, we ask, are tlie lano-uage and the lessons taught ? What have we here, but justice and mercy? Offended majesty proclaiming that sin must be punished, and yet, relenting kindness providing for the return of the sinner, through the univer- 4 CHRISTIANITT AND INFIDEnTT, 63 sal propitiation of tlie Son of God ! And the result is, we have, published from the cross, " whether we will hear or whether we will forbear," the same laiio-uaue to which we listened a moment since from nature, with the docility of children ; and the only philosophical inference is, that these are but varied developments — diverse revelations of the same mind and purposes, thus proclaiming- the God of nature and providence to be the God of Christianity ! Or finally, for the purposes of simplification, let us merge nature and providence, so as to form one great department ; and let revelation, admitting its claims for the present, be the other; and we ask the question, why are these considered, not only separable, but absolutely and irreconcilably separate ? Is the difterential barrier-line of distinction found in their nature — their principles, or their provisions ? We have seen, and we think, demonstrably, that it is otherwise. As well might you deny, in the physi- ology of man, all affinity between the brain and the nervous system existing in continuity with it ! As well might you say, the auroral light of morning before the sun appears, is constituently different from that which gilds our world at his highest point of culmination ! We reserve, however, the further solution of this diffi- culty for the next lecture. Meet us on that occasion, and although you will still find yourselves toiling up the acclivi- ties of the mountain-height to which we would conduct you, yet, with God's blessing we hope to place you upon an elevation, from which you will clearly discern 7nuch that must noio appear but dim and shadowy. For a summit- view of this grand moral landscape, you must accompany us to the last lecture. LECTURE III. A DUE consideration of the mischievous tendency of language, and restricted modes of conception, connected Avith preconceived theories, will enable us on philosophicaL. principles to account for the difficulty in which intidehty is involved, by considering the departments of nature and providence on the one hand, and revelation on the other, as absolutely separate and unconnected systems. All history shows that the world has always had its jealous modes of thought, however vague and preposterous, and its current vocabularies, however unmeaning and senseless, appropri- ated as mere fixtures to the safe keeping and propagation of religious and philosophical opinions and dogmas, and operating as a drag-chain upon the higher aspirations, and more o-enerous tendencies of our nature. And is it not much more likely that the divorce, at the suit of infidelity, between the great departments of the Divine administration we are now considering, originated in this way, than that it Las resulted from any clearly discerned discrepancy between the principles and provisions they severally disclose? Indeed, if we appeal to the light and the labors of induc- tion, as applicable here, we have already reached the only allowable conclusion at wliich, by such a process, we can arrive. That is, that tlie systems are intimately related, and in no way discrepant. It is a singular fact, that after taking into the estimate of analogies all the modes of thought, and methods of concatenation, with Avhich the subject has been encumbered in all time, and even without discounting the turgid generality or supple vagueness of 54 CHRISTIANITy AID INFIDSLITV. £& terms, so generally employed in its service, it will be found, that it is a first truth in natural theoloy-v, to connect naturo and man, pre-eminently, with God as the Creator and Sovereign of all. So, revelation introduces its higlier and more detailed discoveries, by the inculcation of the same great truth. And accordingly, in the great comprehensive summary — that matchless abridgment of natural religion and law, known as the decalogue, the first announcement — Jirst in order and Jirst in importance, binds man as nature had done before, to the throne of the universe, in a way that cannot fail to produce the conviction, that it is a republication, and by tl;e same author, of the great prime- val code to which we have adverted. Once more, it is the principal business of natural religion to direct the attention and interest of man to the claims of the Creator, through the medium of his works ; and upon this, the whole priesthood of unbelief has most pertina- ciously insisted. The appeal is based upon data and phenomena everywhere accessible ; and in a precisely similar way — a process of ordinary induction, Cliristianily challenges for its Author the faith and homage of the world, and demonstrates its common oritjin with the lelifriou of nature, by the most urgent appeals to tlie works of his hands and the ways of his providence, and especially, the evolution of his plans and purposes as inferred from nature, and authoritatively announced by revelation, centuries before the drama of their final accomplishment ! But to resume the train of argument in the preceding lecture; — there is another great fact, connected with the essential nature of man, of which it would be manifestly improper for us to lose sight in this argument. We allude to the moral judgments and emotions of our nature, viewed as the dictates and decisions of an original, uncompounded element or power in the mechanism of our being ; and by 56 RELATIVE CLAIMS OE" consequence, received from God, usually denominated the moral sense or conscience — the power or susceptibility of moral approbation and disapprobaiion. We have already adverted to the subject in general terms ; but it is enliiled to more specific notice. We are aware, that as usually conceived of, — that when viewed as taking only common rank among our moral emotions, the evidence of conscience, when inductively examined, is not by any means as conclu- sive as many have supposed. More correct views, however, of this power of man's moral constitution, render the ai'gu- ment for the truth of Christianity, from the indications of natural theology, and the power of conscience, particularly, much more conclusive and final in its application. Tlie views to which we allude, are those which accord to conscience, as an element of our moral constitution, an independence and precedence among our moral emotions, hitherto very generally denied to it. Tlie proper view of conscience appears to be, that it is by riglit — by intention of the Creator, the great master-power, the sovereign regulator of the moral system in man, and placed there, by God himself, for this specific purpose. It is not our intention to affirm such mastery and sovereignty always in point oi fact, but in point of right — of lawful precedence, invariably. Conscience is, we conceive, by Divine appoint- ment, a natural right — an ascendant principle of high, and undoubted superiority. It is the supreme faculty, riglit- fully claiming, although not always exercising sovereignty, over the rest ; for in too many instances, it has been des- poiled of this Heaven-invested supremacy, by sin and ignorance. There has been a general concurrence of mankind, however, according such high ultimate jurisdic- tion to conscience, whatever may have been, at the same time, the rebellious and insurgent sway of the other passions and principles of our depraved nature. It is CURTSTIANITT AND INFIDELITY. 57 necessary, liowevcr, to the integrity of the argument, that we notice briefly the office — the appropriate jurisdiction of conscience. — A subject on which mankind have been very prone to err. It is not tlien the business of conscience to say what is right or wrong, abstractly. — The objective nature of virtue, and interests of morality, are not subjected to the legislation of conscience, any more than the proper- ties of a mathematical figure or diagram, depend abstractly, upon the reasoning process of the geometrician. It is the business of conscience to decide on man's oavu right or wrong, subjectively, as it regards his own personal, moral relations. Conscience does not attempt to settle, but assumes as settled, the great principles of moral rectitude; and adjudicates upon the thoughts, feelings, and actions of man accordingly; always premising that our own actions only are involved. In no conceivable case has conscience right of jurisdiction, with regard to the conduct of others. Regarding man in his physical, intellectual, and moral aspects, the moral part is, undoubtedly, the great ultimate principle of our nature. It is that which draws after it finally, and also decides the character of every other part. All other parts are subordinate to specific purposes and given ends, connected with the moral. In every survey of human nature, we are obliged to return to the affections and moral emotions, as the primary and final principles of the whole mysterious mechanism of our nature. These, in their elements, are unalterably permanent, and place man in direct relation with God who made him ; and the whole philosophy of Christianity tends to elaborate the truth, that upon the character of these, in view of such relation, depends our final destiny. We ask you then, to readvert to the fact assumed, — that among all the moral sentiments and emotions of our nature especially, including also the operations of intelligence and volition, conscience, by -xn 68 EELATIVE CLAIMS OF original law of nature, — by special, Divine ordination, reigns, or by right, at least, ought to reign supreme. And wliat, it may be asked, has all this to do with the argument? The answer is, — "much every way." As conscience occu- pies, by a law of our nature, the place of command, and as the right of arbitrament, among all its principles and properties, belongs to it, as pre-eminent and controlling, the inference is not to be resisted, that it exists, — a. law toman, given, asserted, and proclaimed by the Author of his nature ; and from the nature and functions of the law, we infer the character and purposes of the Lawgiver. And every instance of the misdirection, or perversion of con- science, is but another argument in proof of the disorder and sinfulness of our common nature. Let us take the moral and religious history of the world, as in truth we should, as the memories of conscience, under every diversity of moral control and religious influence, and do we not find the most important, if not all the great truths of revelation, so far as regards the grand primary reasons of the Christian dispensation ; — the holiness of God, and the sinfulness of man, especially, vigorously operating upon conscience, or fairly implicated by its decisions ? It demon- strably follows, therefore, that by how far this is the case, to the extent of such influence and this implication, con- science becomes an argument for the truth of Christianity, and renders its revelations as probable as they are felt to be needful. In this way we secure additional basis — more extended groundwork, in the progress of the ai'gument. We have now reached a point at which natural religion clearly suggests, and desiderates the necessity of a revelaiion, such as Christianity assumes to be ; and it follows, thei-e- fore, that unless Christianity be true, nature has erred in her indications. Natural religion has always, and in all CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELITY. 69 lauds, betokened the inquietude of unaccomplished ends and purposes, and has indicated its infirmity to this effect, in a thousand different ways and forms. For example, no proposition has received a larger share of notice and promi- nence, in the system of the philosophical theist, than the one which recognizes man's present allotment, not as final, but a state of trial in which evil and suffering are admitted constituents of the state assumed. But, unable to proceed further, this disclosure becomes the basis of a common, universal want, which some other system must supply ; and if we except Christianity, no other system on earth even assumes to supply it. Again, that moral obligation is, in some sense, and to some extent, deducible from the character and attributes of Deity, as known to the pupil of natural theology, is admitted by all ; but this deduction is so very uncertain and unsettled the moment we address ourselves to details, that the necessity of more perfect manifestations of the will of God has been a felt want, and matter of common concession, among all concerned. In this way, paganism, which has been the predominant livery of natural religion among all nations destitute of revelation, has immemorially invoked spectres it could not quell. These are universal facts, and require no proof; and taking into view the character of God, and the intellectual and moral constitution of human nature, they furnish a strong antecedent proba- bility of the truth of the Christian revelation ; but unless Christianity be true, the strong presumption thus furnished by nature is utterly deceptive. It is a fundamental article, moreover, in the creed of natural religion, that the will of God, through the medium of his works, and by direct communication to the mind itself, is so far revealed to all men, as to afford, at least, imperfect moral-guidance, and become a rule of conduct. It is equally, however, an » 60 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF article of the same religion, that the principle tlius assumed involves important relations and inferences, wliich we are compelled to refer to some other source — some higher calculus for satisfactory solution ; for without such solution, nature has only mocked us in all she has done. It will thus be perceived, that every height won by natural theology in its ascending search after God and immortalitj', seems to have been clung to as the warrant and herald of a still higher — of something beyond, more enlarged, and better defined ; but unless we turn to Christianity, we are utterly disappointed, and all is hopelessly dark and void ! Our data, however, in this specific argument, are not limited to the hopes and aspirings of man after immortality. We, precisely in the same way, and to the same extent, bring in and appeal to the irrepressible inquietude, and appalling apprehensions — the haunting dread and mantling gloom of conscience, connected with the future, in the instance of the vicious and guilty of every age and clime. Both classes appear equally persuaded of an eternal future, and both look forward to it with equal, although very dis- similar interest. And yet it is true of both, that much in which all have the deepest interest, — the most eventful stake, remains undisclosed by the light of nature ; and that, so far as we can see, can only be furnished us by a direct communication, having for its burden and object, the disclosures needed. And here again, nature gravitates to nought, unless Christianity be from God. You need scarcely be reminded, that there belongs to the human mind, a kind of philosophical ii^tinct by which we naturally, and almost invariably, proceed fi'om tlie partial to the general ; and from contact with what is par- ticular to an acquaintance with wliat is universal. And this law gives to tlie mind conversant, or Jiaving to do with natural theology, a receptive aptitude — a respondent incli- CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELITY. 6l nation to lay hold of the superior light and information of revelation, provided it reach us avouched by evidence unexceptionable in kind, and ample in amount. Reject Christianity, however, and we have nothing to lay hold of, and we find ourselves again misled by nature as interpreted by infidelity. It is thus, the defects of natural theology point to a system, at least, analogous to Christianity, as the only remedy for the helplessness under which it labors. And it is equally certain, unless Christianity be that remedy, it does not exist ; and nature is found bequeathing only folly and disappointment to the children of earth. Man's immemorial need and want of some mode of direct, available communication with his Maker, is taught by the whole system of naural religion, and equally by the common experience of all mankind, as in the absence of extrinsic religious stimulus, such as the revelations of Christianity afford, under the most solemn and fearful sanctions, man has always been found to sink into utter forgetfulness of the Creator, and indifference to all, except the interests and engrossments of the present life. You do not require to be told, that this evil, belonging to the whole religious history of man, has never been remedied by, nor has it ever met any effective counteraction from, the principles or sanctions of the moral code of nature. This fact is perfectly notorious. Even our enemies cannot regard it as incumbent on us to assign any reason, a priori, that this should be as it is ; but inasmuch as it is so, we are not only allowed, but com- pelled to adopt it as an elementary truth, and proceed to the necessary inferences, without which it cannot be understood in its relations and bearings. Human nature has confessedly, amid all the revolutions and varying vicissitudes of external condition, aspired after, and sighed for lights and aids of the specific character of those furnished by revelation- and if these, therefore, be subtracted from the sum of its 62 RELATIVK CLAIMS OF hopes and its fears by infidelity, a dark and cheerless void ensues, from which all that is immortal in man recoils with intuitive horror ! The proof of tliis, is interwoven with the history, religion, and language of every nation under heaven ; and to doubt, is to avow utter ignorance of the whole subject. In the case, moreover, of those nations, who feeling the incompetency of natural religion as a moral guide, and despairing of the adventitious helps and direction of any other and further revelation, have aban- doned themselves to the dominion of the inferior principles of their nature, who does not know the utter degeneracy — the hopeless and revolting debasement into which idolatry and irreligion have sunk them ! And here again, nature's doubtful guidance is appealed to in vain, and we are left without remedy, unless Christianity be true ! But we have, perhaps, elaborated this subject sufficiently to satisfy the candid and well-informed, that taking the known moral condition, and the actual facts and Avants of human nature, as the basis of the argument, and allowing ourselves to be jruided bv nature's indications, as far as they reach — that having done this, we find a striking appositeness — an irresistible relevancy in the Christiaii revelation, to the facts and wants of our nature, which renders its Divine orio-in, in common with the religion of nature, conclusive and irresistible. We thus perceive, that natural theology prepares the mind to receive further disclosures, in relation both to the objects it reveals, and the morality it inculcates. The inquirer is conducted to a point at which he descries much, dimly however, and unsatisfactorily, and the effect is, to give sobriety and earnestness of inquiry, in view of further and more conclusive information. It pre-occupies the mind, both with the hope and the conviction of the necessity in future and more decisive manifestations. By an irre- CHRISTIANIxr AND INFIDELITY. 63 sistible law of our common nature, we make what we know, the standard of what we do not know ; and in this way, the partial light and glimmerings of nature, would fix attention upon other kindred developments, rendered probable by these. The human mind would naturally subject the Divine conduct, so far as known, to the classification which all related phenomena receive, and from what had taken place, would be led to infer what might; and in view of antecedent facts and data, probably would. But laying Christianity aside, here again we are bewil- dered by nature. Unity of operation is one of the most distinctive characteristics of the Divine conduct, and having satisfied ourselves of the infinite benevolence of Deity, assured, moreover, that he has once made a direct commu- nication of his mind and will to man, by impressing his love upon the hearts of all, in the event of the obliteration and inefficacy of this fii'st impression, is it not infinitely likely from what has preceded, that he would repeat such direct communication, and with additional clearness and sanctions, furnish man with the information so essential to his eternal interests ? If there be no further — no after disclosures, beyond the reach and range of those of natural theology, then it follows, from fair implication of the general argument already attende'd to, that hopes, unequivo- cally inspired by natural religion, must perish, and perish forever ! And the moral blight becomes not only the ruin of earth, but the dishonor of Heaven ! But further, the human mind is confessedly a creation ; its primary character, therefore, — the law of its being, was received from the intelligence and purposes giving id birth, and so far, all mind is a revelation of Godhead. Take then, the original intellectual habitudes, and moral tendencies of the human mind, and what they indicate, 64 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF must be presumed to be true. It is the remit of Divine arrangement. — It is God's own handwriting, and pointing lo future and furtlier revelations of his character and perfections, and especially his purposes with regard to man, we must receive these pre-ordered phenomena of mind, as prophetic of something, equivalent, at least, to the revelations of Christianity. Reject Christianity, however, and all these phenomena are deceptive and unmeaning ! It is a fact which must always compel the admiration of intelligence, that all the great difficulties, and most per- plexing problems started, and formally, or by implication, hypothecated by natural theology, are defects resolved by Christianity. Thus teaching us the salutary lesson, that while natural theology is only adapted to our nature, in a state of unsinful vigor and moral health, the adaptations of Christianity proceed upon the datum — the humbling truth of its disordered and fallen condition. Among the difficulties under which natural theology labors, we may notice, by way of further specification, not its paucity, but its absolute want of information respecting the character, views, and conduct of the early part of mankind ; for it must occur to every philosophic observer of the operation of moral causes and effects, that the conduct of men for a succession of ages, first after their creation, ought to be considered, as furnishing very impor- tant data, in the construction of any system of natural theology. Such data, however, natural theology cannot appeal to ; nor can any system of ethical inquiry do so, without borrowing from Christianity, whose history of the world, for nineteen hundred years at least, after the reputed date of its creation, is the only one, authentic or otherwise, extant under heaven. And when we gravely turn to such facts as these, which accumulate upon our notice at every step, what, we ask, is the lesson taught ? Is it not, that CIlRISTIANITr AND INFlDELITr. 65 want and supply, on the part of natural and revealed religion, are convincingly correlative and coincident in all their known relations ? And is this, we would further ask, a chance result, or is it traceable to omniscient design? In reply to this reasoning, it may be urged, — if the necessity of such a system as the Cliristian revelation be so conclusively desiderated by natural tlieology, why was the needed, indispensable boon so long withheld ? and the suggestion is certainly entitled to notice. In answering the objection, it may be suggested in return, that what degree of revelation was best suited to the early condition and circumstances of mankind, may be a question of mucK more importance than is ususally supposed. Heaven may have seen that the rude and unsettled state of mankind during the earlier ages of the world's history, was incom- patible with a just appreciation, and faithful transmission of the momentous truths of revelation, subsequently given to man. The importance and immensity of the interest involved may have rendered it necessary, in the Divine judgment, to withhold the communication until a more advanced state of knowledge and civic improvement should prepare the world for its reception. Meanwhile, the inter- mediate manifestations of the character and attributes of God would be gradually applaining the way for the more perfect communication of his will. If the depravity of man, in the early ages of the world, revolted from the ethical purity of natural religion, what must not have been the effect, had that depravity been disturbed by the clear and culminating effulgence of revelation ? Or further. Heaven may have had judicial purposes and punitive issues in view, by the withholdment, until the accomplish- ment of which, it was not proper to furnish mankind with the light of revelation, except partially, and through the media to which we have asked your attention ; that is, VOL. II — 6. 41 66 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF nature and providence. These problems may be too dififi- cult for the solution of mortal wisdom, but they speak, at least, more in our favor than against us. It belongs to the very nature — it enters into the speci- fic essence of moral government, that it must have sanctions. This is a truth of natural theology. We learn it without going beyond the catechism of nature, and the whole lesson taught by God's moral administration of our world, is to the same effect. Heaven and earth, with a thousand oro'ans, and in accents and characters not to be misunder- stood, have proclaimed it to each succeeding generation. By eternal ordination, affecting all created intelligence, virtue and obedience are rewarded, and vice and rebellion punished. In the instance then, of those who have declined the authority, and cast from them the friendship of Heaven, what provision is there, — what warrant for reconciliation ? What indemnity asserts the majesty of offended law, or vindicates the purity of injured Godhead ? Can nature furnish any ? Alas ! so far from it, the first cry of guilt struck her oracles dumb, ages back beyond the memory of history, and no echo has since been heard ! It will be said, that repentance and contrition are available. This position is at variance with all the principal facts in man's religious history. But grant it, for the sake of advancing a step in the argument. Allow that God is gracious to the penitent, but what, we ask, secures the first result ; that is, sorrow for sin ? What warrant have we, that man, in a state of rebellion and alienation from God, will become contrite ? What is it guarantees his penitence ? What cause is assicfned to the effect ? Admit that God will for- give sin on condition of repentance, what is there to enlighten man, and lead him to repentance ? What law in the statute book of nature secures repentance on condi- tion of .'sin ? Say, he that repents shall be forgiven, is CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDEUTV. 67 this to say, he that sins shall repent ? We have an effect here, utterly unaccounted and provided for — vi'iihout any adequate cause. Here nature teaches nothing ; in the long roll of ages, no voice has proceeded from her. It is a department in the great school of nature, in which there has never been a teacher. The very interposition which revelation assumes, is necessary to give, even repentance, to man, as the condition of forgiveness. And here again, the greater and the lesser lights — the hemispheres of light and darkness, nature and revelation, must as heretofore, the one supply what the other lacks. Natural theology, it is true, assumes the goodness, — the beneticence of Deity ; but man's rebellion, as we have seen, is equally assumed, and how does nature dispose of the difficulty ? Intidelity says, it is enough if God be good ; Christianity replies, if God be good, he must be just ; if just, he must punish sin ; and in the person of the sinner too, unless there be a reason for his not doing so, superior to the claims and dignity of the law violated by sin. Is such a reason found in mere rearet ? Is human sorrow such a reason ? Are these superior to the eternal law of moral order in the govern- ment of God ? Does such regret or sorrow disarm sutTer- ino- and want, disease and death, among the weeping families of earth ? Does it kindle the relentings of the God and Judge of all, in the ordinary infliction of his judicial chastisements ? And not effectual here, will it be in the instance of the extraordinary ? Does repentance turn away the stroke of death ? Does it stay the visitations of pesti- lence and famine ? If not, (and all know the negative to be true,) neither can it prevent the higher and more fearful retributions incurred by sin. The dream to this effect, we know is indulged by many — when that of ignorance, it is folly, but the supposition by philosophy is madness ! It may be asked, does Christianity remove these evils ? It 68 KELATIVE CLAIMS OP does ; securing a method of forgiveness, it remedies the great failure of nature, and throws up a pathway of com- munication between heaven and earth ; and the lesser evils JUS the offspring of the greater, say, suffering and death as the result of sin, are modified and controlled by their incor- poration into a system of moral discipline, effectively inservient to all the interests of both life and immortality ! Revelation assumes no change in the great principles of moral rectitude, although it accounts for a modification of their application and influence. It is a republication of the law of nature, but with material additions ; and the great specialities of revelation, not found in natural religion, are to be accounted for on the grounds of the very distinctive fact, that it is given to supply the defects of that system. It is ostensibly a Divinely furnished and accredited mani- festation of the will and purposes of God, a manifestation of his character in relation to those subjects and interests on which the religion of nature is silent, or at least defec- tive. It has been strongly and ably urged against the claims of revelation, that it is not universal — is not found in the hands of all. The same, however, is true of natural religion. Its, disclosures are accessible to all, and yet comparatively few avail themselves of these disclosures, to any practical purpose, and the objection is as valid in the one case as the other. This philosophical exception, however, is entitled to respectful and considerate notice, and so of every other urged with any semblance of reason or fairness. We would challenge rather than repress free- dom of inquiry; and prejudice and prepossession, — the cant and paralysis of creed and party, as such, we abjure. If we tread on the thistle of pliilosophical unbelief, it is not because it does not bear figs, this was never expected, but because it is found upon ground we have a right to CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELITY. 69 occupy for other and more important purposes, and cannot occupy without such aggression. In reply then, it may be remarked, that the original law of God, the internal law of the heart, in the state, and during the dispensation of man's innocence — a state and dispensation assumed alike by natural and revealed religion, — this law was, by the voluntary defection of mankind, soon obliterated, in whole or in part, and hundreds of millions of the human race have lived and died in all periods and parts of the world, without the knowledge or worship of God, required by this law. But is this an argument found deep in the philosophy of things, and invalidating the claims of natural religion ? Certainly not. And if not, no more can the objection just urged hold good against Christianity, If the earlier revelation was rejected and abused by man, why not the latter ? Two other views, however, may be taken of this subject especially. In view of the ruin and debasement of our moral nature, it may have been seen, that the ignorance and perverseness of man, which led to the abuse and rejec- tion of natural religion, Avould lead to a similar result in the instance of the revealed, and that a universal, unre- stricted publication of Christianity, would only enhance the guilt of time, and the horrors of eternity, with the great mass of mankind ; and hence, goodness would withhold it. Or again, and most probably, as the want of universality with regard to the first, taking into the estimate the successive generations of man, was the result of human purpose — of determined impiety, so Christianity, which is addressed to all, but for such purpose and impiety, might long since have been the religion of the world. The fault therefore, — the cause of the limited prevalence of the one and the other, belongs to man and not to God. It results from human wickedness, and not Divine arranoe- #r 70 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF ment. Noi- should it be overlooked, tlial Cliristianity, aware of such cause, repeatedly announced its operation and result to the world in terms the most explicit, and thus, by prophetic anticipation, made the world familiar with a fact — man's rejection of Christianity, a hundred years since, which infidelity without shame now pleads in bar to her reception, although the objection itself, however urged, involves a demonstration of the unearthly origin of the system it impugns ! There is another aspect in which tliis topic in entitled to be considered. — Millions of the human family, (and a tabular view of the comparative spread of the gospel for the last eighteen centuries, will include perhaps more than seven thousand five hundred millions of the human race,) have manifested little or no aversion to the great objective truths of Christianity, — the favor and friendship of Heaven, together with the high recompenses of eternity, and have confined their repugnance and distaste, or hostility and rejection, as the case may be, to the ethics, — the require- ments of the gospel, thereby furnishing proof that what may be termed the light of Christianity, has approved itself to the intelligence, but its holiness has been revolted from by the depravity of the world. We have seen that the steps and stages taken and achieved by natural theology are only, and yet obviously initial, and their importance — indeed, their having any value at all, depends upon the series which is to follow. No series following, however, we have only signs without significance ; and all must per- ceive at once, that by such a process, we are transferred from the pupilage of nature to ihe training and direction of Christianity, or else it follows, that we have been deserted by nature, and left to ourselves. And as if more fully to develop this truth, even the feelings of mankind contain "within themselves the assurances of greater good and more f • CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELITY. 71 formidable evil, and these of longer date than would seem to be fully accredited, although certainly suggested by nature. To understand, therefore, fully the basis and the Dourne of our hopes and fears, it is necessary that the two systems be taken into the account, and studied correla- tively. Natural theology as presentient of something better, and Christianity, as the wider and more perfect dispensa- tion, intended to supply its defects. As an illustration of this, it has been noticed that death, even in the light of natural theology, is regarded as an evil, and part of a penal ' dispensation connected with transgression ; but beyond this, nature has never been able to penetrate. Christianity, how- ever, takes up the subject where nature left it, and following in the path of nature's indications, so far as to show the strictly penal aspects of death, as conjectured by the reli- gion of nature, stops not here, but proceeds to connecc death with ulterior and specifio purposes in the Divine procedure as it regards man. Christianity assumes that death is not a final dissolution of the elements of human nature, but a temporary severance, in view of ultimate re-union and renovated perfection. And how much more satisfactory are these disclosures than the guesses and conjectures of those who reject them! — Who obstinately continue in a state of dream and reverie, however rebuked by facts, or upbraided by expedience 1 Who, having learned the alphabet of theology, doggedly assume there is nothing more to learn ! and who are, ever and anon, vauntingly presenting you with the net quotient of a pro- blem iu morals they boast to have solved, indulging in self-felicitations of extraordinary sagacity, at the same time, iu having done it, without either divisor or dividend! Allow that nature, as contended, is a vast volume of reve- lation, yet its light is found to be too shadowy and indistinct to be relied on finally. It i^i indeed, a God- written apoca- • 72 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF lypse, but one of symbols and mysteries, and given, doubt- less, to be solved and interpreted by another. Beside, its revelations are partial and imperfect, applying bulh to the subjects embraced, and others not included at all, and hence, requires to be both explained and supplemented. We see the rainbow before us in beauty and enchantment, but we can only understand its philosophy and significance by an appeal to the sun shining behind us. — Nature is only understood in the light of Christianity; — the last must explain the first. In nature we have much, in Chris- tianity all, even more than was prophesied in nature. Once more, the general argument we are conducting is farther strengthened by the fact, — a fact of the utmost relative importance in this inquiry, that the amount of Christian evidence has been immeasurably enhanced by the direct and incidental contributions of the various divisions of literature and science, in their gradual progress and development towards their present state of comparative perfection. The accessions to the great mass of Christian evidence from this quarter, especially for the last half century, have been splendid and imposing ; and as these accessions, as such, were, in most instances, unstudied and tinintended, they are the more valuable on this account. In this way, the early origin and after history of the Christian religion have received additional light and splen- dor, to an almost incredible extent, from the recovery, reproduction, or bringing to light of much that is curious, and it may be useless in itself, but, as connected with the ancient grandeur of Eastern civilization, in the center, and at the height of which, Christianity made her appearance, the effect has been to throw around the latter an addiiional halo of interest and honor. This view of the subject is entitled to a moment's amplification. — Reflect then, tiiac the great Ciiristian document — the Bible, is a singular, — CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELITY. 73 a most extraordinary production., viewed only as a question of literary interest. It is from five to seven hundred years older than any other literary offspring of the human mind. For modern research has shown that the boasted antiquity of the Sanscrit literature, and the rival claims of the Chi- nese, require confirmation they are never likely to receive. Between the dates of the composition of its first and its last parts — the Genesis and Apocalypse of revelation, full sixteen centuries intervene. Its historical information covers forty- one hundred years of the world's history ! Look also at the extent of territory, as well as time ; look too at the epochs, the persons, the events, the customs, and the usages included, and certainly we shall be prepared to expect that the comparatively recent resurrection of ancient literature, science, and art, would contribute, if not to strengthen, why of necessity, to re-awaken the Christian argument. One or the other must supervene upon the result. Instead, however, of weakening, or invalidatino- in any way, or to any extent, Christianity has been rela- tively, but eflectively fortified by collateral evidence and incidental illustration which no ingenuity or sophistry will ever be able to impair. And the effect is, that that which, heretofore, was found impregnable upon trial, is now becoming so formidable as to ward off even attack. The same is true, moreover, in relation to the whole ran^-e ot the sciences ; and the more modern, though lust, not least. What science, existing in any state of tolerable perfection, has not contributed to the cause of Christian evidence ? And especially, have such contributions been derived from the increasing perfection of the philosophy of mind and of morals ; also, from nearlv the entire catalofrue of the natu- ral sciences, and pre-eminently, have astronomy and geology been laid under contribution to this effect. And it is a very remarkable fact in the history of these coincidences, that VOL. II — 7. 71 BELAXIVE CLAIMS OF they have more generally been developed, not in the early stages of the progress of the sciences, but when they have reached a degree, — a manhood of perfection, in which they were prepared to descend to the nature of things, and con- nect consequences with the causes controlling their occur- rence. Nearly all the sciences, in the early stages of their progress, owing not to their native tendency, but the character of the men and minds, by which they have been cultivated, have been so far subjected to misdirection, as to manifest a prurient inclination to declare themselves inde- pendent of Christianity. Helvetius and La Place are examples to this effect in the departments, respectively, of moral and natural science, Nor has philosophical inlidelity been without its gleanings in this way. Objections and exceptions, however, originating in this way, have had very little Jinal influence upon the collective mind of mankind. They have been not unlike the "sunbeams falling upon the uureceiving earth ; " while, in the more perfected state of the sciences, this tendency to insubordination and revolt, has, as a general rule, been repressed ; and more extended and profound induction has led to a different, — a directly opposite result. True philosophy, in the investigation of final causes in nature, has always, and often unintentionally, furnished large accessions of evidence confirmatory of the truth of revelation ; and it has been reserved for sciolism, pedantry, and pretension, resting in, and busied among second causes only, to affect a contempt for Christianity rarely, perhaps, never felt, except by the sciolist, the pedant, and the pretender ! In the hands of such men, the theology of nature has been little better than an iynusfatiins, makino- the dark still darker ! In nature's statute book, they read nothing aright, — they consti'ue nothing fairly, and it becomes a huge, shapeless, unmeaning, inane, — instead of the great ground-plan of the government and CHRISTIANIxr AND INFIDELITY. 76 administration of Deity, iu relation to our fallen wovld. And it is not unworthy of remark, ihat this pseudo-semi- inlidel philosophy has usually found itself so far in the rear distance, that not seeing the true ahead, it has actually, and perhaps honestly, supposed itself to be in the very van of discovery ! This class of discoverers, in religion and morals, are the victims of a self-deception, as absurd as it is fatal, and might be resembled to the unfortunate Ixion of classic memory, who, springing forward with bounding rapture to the embrace of Juno, found the object of his inspiration to be a cloud ! The general views of the subject we have presented, have, in almost every variety of form, been brought to the test of facts and experience ; and the common methods of scientific examination are applicable to them, with scarcely any limitation. The necessary inferences are numerous and weighty; and cannot fail, we think, in the estimation of those upon whom the force of evidence is not lost, to give Christianity a broad and natural basis in the moral order of the universe. From the cursory, yet general argument subniitt^d, we derive the irresistible inference, that as Christianity has stood the test of all former time, has f5een under the exam- ination of tiie intellect, the malignity, and the interest of the world, for more than eighteen centuries, without suffering any diminution of her evidence or power, — battling with the passions and interests of ages and nations, — the uncom- promising enmity of a world "without God," and yet steadily holding on her course, she is destined, and is thus preparing to bring, not only every thought, as giving color and character to action, but the whole encyclopedia of learning and science as the offspring of mind, "into cap- tivity to the obedience of Christ !" And we infer this, as rationally from the theology of nature, and the philosophy 76 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF of facts and things, as certainly from the prophetic assur- ances of revelation. Look at the lights, the notices, and aids of natural theology which have passed under review, — its extended apparatus of means and appliances — of train- ino" and trial, and all lookincr forward to somethinf!- further and future, as the realization of its hopes and convictions, and then, as an argument ad absurdum, assume, as infidel- ity does, the whole to be a lie and a cheat ! No binding principle of harmony in the moral system, by which moral data connect themselves with moral results, — no law of unerrino- arrano-ement in the moi'al constitution of things, answering to the principle of gravitation in the physical, but all tending to nought — unfit — out of place, and chance-begotten, — nothing in the ever-living universe, external to man, to meet and satisfy the irrepressible anxi- eties, the unutterable longings, which thrill and agitate his being ! Assume this, and what a waste have we here of thought and feeling, — thought, that added to the light of the universe, and feeling, worthy of glowing in the bosom of God ! And what an insulting superfluity of endowment too, upon the infidel hypothesis ! Capacity, measureless as thought and feeling, — high as heaven, — ^deep as hell, and yet, damned wiihout*liope to the cruelty of immortal disap- pointment! And not only this, (for consequences of less magnitude are not unworthy of note, — they show the unphilosophical, as well as irreligious tendency of unbelief,) — not only this, but into what unmeaning insignificance, — into what miserable sesquipedalia verba, are the very lan- guage and poetry of natural religion, despite their conse- cration by the use of ages, made to degenerate ! And let it not be forgotten, that it has been an attempt to solve the diflicult problems of natural theology, (to which we have asked attention) without appealing to Christianity, which has driven infidelity thus to prejudice and dishonor its own CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELlxr. 77 claims, by putting such a degrading mockery upon the character, both of God and man ! You will perceive, the burden of the present lecture is, an attempt to estimate further than was found practicable in the former, to what extent, and with what exceptions, natural theology and Christianity are related systems. The nature and extent of the relations implied, constitute what may be termed the identity of the systems; while the exception — the qualifications with which we assume such identity, will fix attention upon the systems, viewed in contact, and will lead us, especially to notice the distinctive character of Cliristianity, as a system of moral discovery. We are not yet prepared, however, for this last view of the subject. There is intermediate ground to be occupied, — difficulties to be disposed of, — and advantages of which we have a right to avail ourselves, the neglect of which might betray us into scarcely obvious, if not illogical conclusions. This, we would avoid ; and hence, the reason of the char- acter of the present lecture. To give the subject now engaging our attention, a fair and impartial examination, we should approach it, as if for the first time, and with all possible fi-eedom from every thing like biased feeling or prepossession. But owing to the fact that this is well nigh impossible, the discussion, on the part both of the lecturer and the audience, becomes as difficult as it is important. It need scarcely be suggested, for example, tliat to project the mind beyond the ordinary sphere of its accustomed range, is always attended with danger as well as difficulty. The hazard is incurred of going too far, or of not aroina: far enougli, — of transcending or of falling short of the specific point of view, best calculated to secure the object aimed at. These hazards and difficulties meet us at almost every step, and have to be guarded against. There is also another 78 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF difficulty, connected with the examination of this subject, into which all are but too prone to plunge. It is the vanity — the folly of supposing it possible to explain every thing, and thus relieve the subject of all difficulty and obscurity. We candidly avow the conviction, however, that neither is possible. What work of God, — what production of infinite Intelligence can the human mind grasp and analyze in all its relations and bearings ? The most we can hope to accomplish, will be to produce a conviction of the truth of Christianity, too strong to be overcome by any difficul- ties we may meet with in the investigation ; and this imperfection of knowledge is an inevitable condition of every kind of truth, every class of evidence, and every species of conviction or persuasion, with which the human mind ever has been, or perhaps ever will be conversant on earth. We have, therefore, no cause of surprise, or right of com- plaint in this instance, as it is a limitation applicable to all human knowledge, of whatever kind. And beside, the force even of truth, is always more or less contingent, depend- ing upon the condition of the understanding addressed. If the mind be in an unhealthy state, — if it be engrossed or pre-occupied with other interests and excitements, truth may be presented — may be unveiled in all its beauty and majesty without effect ; and no moral system has noticed this fact in the philosophy of mind, in our common history, with greater emphasis than Christianity ; for it concedes that even the unrivaled teaching of the Son of God, attested as it was by unprecedented manifestations of power and goodness, exerted no commanding influence, except among the thoughtful, the candid, and the well-disposed. But to resume the argument in th§ preceding lecture, we have noticed at length, the very important, yet obvious postulate in the prosecution of this inquiry, that, to a great extent, the truths of natural theology — its principal facts CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELITT. 79 and data, constitute tlie more ultimate and necessary premises of Christianity. The one is to be regarded as a scliool or discipline of primary instruction — a «ystem of initiation, properly, with reference to the greater purity and perfection of the other. And accordingly, we may proceed to remark, all the great and fundamental truths which have been found to dawn upon us in nature, re-appear in Chris- tianity with noonday brightness. It is a fact worthy our special notice, that in a comparative estimate of the two systems, we have, not a iew occasional resembling elements, or points of identity, but a pervading unity of j^firpose and provision. And so entirely true is this remark, that natural theology does not furnish a single indication, turning upon the question of human happiness, undisposed of by Chris- tianity. It is as strictly universal as the religion of nature. It is all-comprehensive in its relations and application. It disowns all limitation to country, age, or class. It knows no distinction of clime or tribe. It connects man's illimita- ble capacities for improvement and progress with all that is unbounded and eternal in the Creator. Pre-eminentlj', above anything in natural theology, does it "honor all men," and thus assert the dignity of our common origin and nature. Found in harmony with the universality of thino-s, and external toman; — perfectly consistent with the intellectual attributes and moral tendencies of his nature, as isolated and peculiar, for such it unquestionably is ; — confirmed and illustrated by all anterior revelations ; — addressed like knowledge of every kind, to the reason of man, and its claims subjected to the test of this reason ; — its evidences augmenting with the progressive advance- ment of our race ; — the light not of a single age or nation, but of the world, not of time, with its interests and vicissi- tudes only, but of eternity, v.-it]i its awards and destinies ; we can only view it, as the perfection of reason, — a mani- 80 RELATIVE CLAmS OF festalion of eternal truth, exhibiting to man a system of moral relations, intended as the bond and condition of inter- course -w^th God. As the general argument we are conducting, is based upon the theology of nature, it may be necessary to remark, that the term nature is generally used witli great latitude and indistinctness of meaning, and by this very indetermi- nate application of the term, many who are disposed to reason and examine with candor, are led astray. In the use we make of the term, we mean no independent unde- rived existence, power, or authoriLy. So used, the term is without meaning. It is a fiction of man's creation ; — a kind of semi-Deity of his own setting up. The very term itself — its Latin primitives, and the cognate Greek terms, whence we have the kindred derivatives — physics and physical, together with the corresponding terms in other languages with which immemorial use has made the term nature to synonymize, all convey the idea of derivative, productive creation. The term is used to denote the aggre- gate, or more properly the whole of things in the sum of existence about us. Nature is not an independent sovereio-n system. It is the creation, the property, and polity of another ; and the only energy, necessity, or action known in nature, is derived from a superior, extrinsic agency, ante- cedent or concurrent, as the case may be. In nature, we find only second causes — and this is as certain as any demonstration in Euclid or Newton. It is not the ultimate cause of anything, not even of an insect or a flower. Nature, as such, and rightly understood, produces nothing, owns nothing, does nothing, except subordinately. Voltaire lias shrewdly remarked, in that matchless compound of Avisdom and folly, learning and ignorance, known as his Philosophi- cal Dictionary, that that which is called nature, has been sadly misnomercd, and is not nature, in ordinary accepta- CHRISTIANITY AND IN-FIDELlTT. 81 tion, but art — the work and contrivance of another. Inex- orably unintelligent, we find nature finely geometrized in all her parts. Not in herself — then where resides the skill ? Where look for the eternal geometrician, who has so admirably adjusted her laws and phenomena ? When we speak, therefore, of the works, the laws, the lessons, and the indications of nature, it is not intended that any of these are predicable of nature, in any ultimate sense. We mean the works, the laws, and the authority of God, together with the intimations and disclosures of his charac- ter and purposes to man. Those philosophers, therefore, who use the term nature so as to exclude the agency of the Author of nature, and thus outlaw him from his own works and dominions, in attempting to mislead others, by weigh- ing truth in the warped balance of a perverted judgment, much more effectually deceive and wrong themselves. And others, who seem to recognize Divine agency, by way of compromise, that they may get rid of the responsibility created by the admission, are equally inconsistent, and the subjects of a s^lf-deception not less fatal. The philosophy of such men is not unlike the religion of a class of devotees satirized by Horace, who calling noisily, and with boister- ous vehemence upon Janus and Apollo at the public sacri- fices, did not fail to remind, apart and in a whisper, the beautiful Laverna, that they should still rely upon her protection, in their more private and interested villanies ! There are those, you know, in every department of life, who are wiser than others only as they know better how to play the fool ! To return, however, mind, in strict propriety of languao-e, does not belong to what we call nature — does not blend with the mechanism of cause and effect — is not massed and geometrized among the elements and results of matter. It is not included among the forms and modifications of 82 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF time and space, and borne along amid the vortices and catenations of physical cause and effect. It is an indepen- dent agency, as it regards all these, and occupies a point in the universe from which it looks down upon all, and feels itself free and superior to the whole ! In itself, it is ^capable of originating thought and action, apart from the common mechanism of nature ; and but for such isolation and independence in relation to general nature, freedom of Avill and responsibility, could not, in any philosophical sense, be predicated of mind. Nearly all the religious and philosophical fatalism in the world has originated in this error ; and on this vital distinction, overlooked as if by conspiracy, by most philosophers and theologians, the con- troversy concerning freedom and necessity, should be made principally to turn. Admit the distinction just made, — a distinction accredited by the well ascertained conclusions of all science, physical as well as moral, and the principal difficulty vanishes at once. LECTURE IV. It is a singular fact, and one that has exerted great influence, in the history of religious opinions, that revelation has been looked upon, both by infidel philosophy and popular ignorance, as something out of the way — as some- thing not in place — something irregular and discordant, as it regards the current and ordinary views of mankind, in relation to nature and providence. Taking the common course of nature, and the admitted dispensations of Provi- dence, revelation is looked upon as anomalous, and more or less discrepant, in view of the data these are supposed to furnish. This error, for we doubt not we shall convince you it is an error, has exerted a most fatal influence upon the views and opinions of a large portion of mankind, aflecting their reception of the Christian religion. It is important, therefore, to show, that there is no fact connected with the consciousness of our being, — no established truth belonging to the experience of mankind, — no ascertained views of God or nature, interfered with in any way, amounting to inconsistency, by a revelation, suck as Chris- tianity assumes to be. Indeed, the only real difficulfy in the ease it occurs to us, is not that revelations have been received from the Creator by his intellectual off'spring — his intelligent creatures, but that these revelations have not been received in greater number and fullness, or rather, that revelations more ample and minute respecting himself, his works and his pui'poses, have not been communicated Lo man, as the only earthly intelligence capable of receiving- such communication. Is not God dishonored bv the L3 ^ 84 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF supposition, that he would create man, boundless in intel- lectual capacity, and yet keep him in ignorance of himself? Man has not existed alwa}'s. The human race is not eternal ; and the madness of the atheistic philosophy excepted, such is the common — the universal conviction of the human mind. Man then, must have been created. And existing only in virtue of a special creation, the first primeval pair, the great protoplasts of the human family, must of necessity, as the terms imply, have been without predecessors or associates, and of course, the relations of paternity and companionship, of whatever kind, must have been excluded. And hoiv was human nature taught, and wnence instruction deiived, under sticli circumstances ? — Circumstances admitted alike by the theist and the Christian? Without earthly parentage or human associates, if instructed at all, (and the fact of instruction is an inevitable inference,) it must have been by superior intelligence ; that is, by God himself, or those commissioned by him ; and this is what all understand by revelation. Revelation, therefore, was the first mode — the very genesis of human knowledge. Tlie history of the human race begins with it. It is the basis, — the ofrand substratum of all knowledge. Revela- tion was the starting point of all improvement — of all advancement, on the part of mankind. The course of God's providence in relation to our planet as the residence of man, and the theater of his action and development, began with it. It is the most original — the most primary of all the methods of instruction known to the history of man ; and is hence, the most natural — the most directly suggested, both by his nature and relations. Would God create man, and leave him without instruction ? As the univeral Fatlier of all, would he deny to his own intelligent ofllspring, all intercourse of thought and feeling with himself? And yet, such instruction and intercourse could only begin in \ CHRISTIANITt AND INFIDELITY. 85 revelation. Revelation must have furnished the first data for the exercise of both reason and conscience; and if revelation was essential to human nature, in its early and utmost perfection, can it be otherwise than necessary, in its degeneracy? Let infidelity answer at its leisure. This view of the subject is confirmed by the subsequent course of nature and providence, and the general, established order of God's moral government, so far as man is con- cerned ; and we ask you to notice it with the emphasis its importance demands. Whence has man, in all ages and conditions, received the initial elements of knowledge ? Has it been from nature, directly, Avithout the process of interpretation, by superior wisdom and information ? Or rather, is he not indebted to the advanced intelligence of others, in the shape of teaching and instruction, for all the most valuable stores and treasures of elementary informa- tion ? But for this could he have advanced a single step ? Would not his ignorance have been invincible and per- petual ? Are not millions in our world, even now, but a single remoN'e from this, with all their advantages ? And what is such teaching — such instruction but revelation? Is it not a direct communication of knowledge from 07ie mind — from the superior intelligence of another, and is not this all that, in sti-ictness, is ever meant by revelation ? In no direct sense, can the external universe about us become our teacher. So far from it, it is itself a volume which has to be unsealed by instruction — a rock that has to be smitten with the rod of intelligence before the waters of knowledge flow. The natural and necessary ignorance of the human mind — of our common nature, requires that the system — the laws and the operations of nature surrounding us, have an interpreter. Mind, in this aspect, can only be enlightened and advanced, by mind possessing superior illumination. 86 RELATIVE CLAIMS OP And every such method or measure of illumination, is properly, and to all intents and purposes, revelation. In revelation, therefore, as taught by Christianity, which in strictness, is direct, Divine teaching", simply and nothing else, we are introduced, so far as method is concerned, to no novel principle or foreign element not recognized in the common course of nature and providence. Indeed, educa- tion familiarly, in all its forms, and of whatever kind, is revelation, and nothing more or less. Nor is this true, merely, as it regards the direct method — the manner and medium of communication between the teacher and the taught, but the great objective interests — the prospective advantages of all education, on the one hand, and revelation on the other, as commonly understood, bear to each other a very striking analogy. Education, for example, does not in any proportion, consult the present or the ]past, as directly and truly as the future. The wants, the hopes, and the interests of the future are its immediate and specific objects, and in like manner, revelation appeals to the present and the past, in relation to man, as the data of more important arrangements and disclosures connected with the future. Preparation for the future is alike the object of the first and the last, and as we are taught by the one, to prepare for the coming duties of life, so it is the burden of the other, to prepare us for the immortality which is to succeed our present mode of existence. It is a well-known fact in the philosophy of our being, that the susceptibilities and aptitudes of mind, call for action and fruition such as can only be furnished by the communica- tion of the knowledge education implies ; and this state of advancement only places the mind in an attitude to ask for something beyond, answerable to the mind's receptive enlargement, (by the processes of instruction) which seems to expand, at every step, in something like geometrical CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELITY. 87 progression. Now, as the mind's natural thirst and appe- tence, iu the first instance, are met by the revelations of intellectual and moral training, under the guidance of minds of superior mental rank, does not analogy fairly promise, that the awakened notice and anxieties of the mind, in the last instance, shall be met and satisfied, in like manner ? Thus viewed, revelation is a want of our nature, and is demanded by the exigencies of our being; and when we reflect that this want and these exigencies are the result of Divine appointment, to assume, as infidelity does, that there are no arrangements in the Divine economy respecting man, answerable to what they call for, is to charge God with want both of wisdom and goodness. Even a slight exami- nation of the subject in this light, must satisfy the inquirer that the whole stream of knowledge is thus traceable to two distinct sources — revelation and self-acquisition, from which it descends with a uniformity, at once invariable and necessary. Nor can either source be deemed sufficient without the other. The power of reason in man, which prepares him for the inductions of experience and observation, is not an inde- pendent — an ultimate, self-sufficing power. It must have data whose existence is extrinsic to itself, or reason can accomplish nothing, and exists in name only. Examined inductively, all reason will be found to terminate in first principles, in the ultimate facts of our own nature and consciousness. And these facts and principles, as derived from God, are as truly a Divine communication, as the disclosures of the Christian revelation, by which they are succeeded and perfected. And revelation thus becomes the alpha and omega, — the principium and principitus of all knowledge in all its possible forms, with which, in any conceivable way, the human mind can become enriched ! So far from being opposed to nature, as absurdly assumed 88 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF by many, viewed abstractly, — so far from being in con- travention of her laws, as alleged by infidelity, it is in fact one of the elementary arrangements of the great moral system — one of her own chosen methods of instruction, and beyond all doubt, characteristic of the whole circle of God's providence in relation to man ; and the stupidity, it occurs to us, which does not perceive it, must be worse than assinine. The whole difficulty then, is reduced within a very limited range. It is strictly confined, not merely to the Christian revelation, as such, but the inquiry is further simplified by an analysis of the premises, so tliat our only concern is with the medium through which this communi- cation has reached us, and tlie proper authentication of its claims, as a revelation from Heaven. In conclusion, had the knowledge derived from. the Chris- tian revelation, reached us through some other medium, natural and ordinary, in all respects, as we have seen it to be in many, and these most material, what would have been the probable effect ? As regards opinion and theory, would there have been an infidel on earth? Is it not most probable the subject would have taken its rank among, and been studied and applied, side by side, with the sciences and researches constituting the common sum of human knowledge ? This, at least, would have been the case, so far as its truth and certainty are concerned, without refer- ence to its influence as a system of ethics. And as the subject is now presented, it remains for us to inquire, with what reason — with what claim to philosophical consis- tency, infidelity rejects information, merely because of a quarrel with the means of its communication, Avhich, had it reached us through a different channel, would have been received as veritable, whether acted upon consistently or not? Subjected, therefore, to the test of philosophy and the findings of experience, revelation, so far from losing CHKISTIANITT AND INFIDELITY. 89 any thing, is daily receiving the light and ilhistration of a constantly increasing confirmation; and is rapidly becoming the great text-book of human study and interest, side by side, with the great volumes of nature and providence ! Deep, enduring, and re-produced in every age, is the conviction tliat man's interest, in the distant and invisible, is of more importance than the relations and engrossments of the present life ; and that the intellectual universe, with its interests and destinies, is, in the scale of relative conse- quence, infinitely superior to the universe of space and matter, with which he is more immediately conversant. Were the universe of mind laid open to our view, assured as we are by consciousness, that of this universe we are individual, integral parts, — could we survey by a glance, the boundless drama of its fortunes and destinies, — could we witness the intellectual achievements, and moral mani- festations, — the stupendous purposes and issues of thought and emotion, from the infinite mind of the Almighty Creator of all, down to the least exalted order of intelligence in the vast family of worlds, (known to science and rendered probable by its conjectures,) what Avould be our estimate of the immensity of matter and the wonders of its combina- tions ? We know by consciousness, and all argumentation is superseded by intuition, that mind is every way superior in the scale of existence, and incomparably more excellent than matter, whatever may be its laws or collocations. And the presumption of science, even when it does not symbolize with Christianity at all, is, that this higher order of existence — the great intellectual system, is essentially co-existent and commensurate with the material, every- where spread out upon its vast platform, and occupying it as the theater of action and display ; and the magnificence of the physical, is overborne by the superior grandeur of the moral ! Science, apart from Christianity, seems to VOL. II — 8. 90 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF have settled the question, with high philosophical certainty, that the whole material frame-work of nature, is hut the unintelligent means — the inert instrumentality intended to subserve other ends and higher purposes. And these ends and purposes must be intrinsically superior to the means employed to accomplish them. The ultimate purpose of the existence of matter, must transcend immeasurably, in grandeur, and consequence, the instrumentality intended merely to aid in the effectuation of that purpose. The material universe, with all its countless globes, solid and luminous, and their varied and gorgeous furniture, is found to dwindle and disappear, when viewed in contrast with the intrinsic dignity — the imperishable grandeur of mind. But further still, take the intellectual and moral consti- tution of man, and you find him indissolubly connected with the great moral system, outspread upon the surface of the material, — a member of the stupendous assemblage of intelligences constituting the empire of mind — the universe of thought and emotion, action and achievement ! Such is the postulatum furnished by science, and the moral, philosophical inference is, that mere existence, even in such a system, and necessary relation to it, to the whole and all its parts, gives to man a consequence which authorizes the presumption, that to enable him to accomplisli the destiny indicated, other light and succor, and higher and more effective evidence than those furnished by nature and provi- dence, are indispensable ; and hence, another argument for the heavenly origin of the Christian revelation. Would Almighty Goodness so distinguish man, and yet leave him in the dark, in relation to all that most interests him? But it has been objected to Christianity, that there is about it, viewed as a revelation of the will of God, too much reserve and limitation ; first, as it regards the subjects CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELITY. 91 ostensibly disposed of in the system ; secondly, others not introduced at all. The infidel assumes, that a revelatiou from God should be more explicit and detailed in its dis- closures, than Christianity is found to be, and that many questions of alleged interest and importance are omitted entirely, which should have been introduced, and deter- mined at length; and it is further assumed, that the style and manner of Christianity, in addressing man, are not sufficiently striking, — are too ordinary — too perfectly human to arrest attention and secure the notice challenged. In reply, it might be stated, and the statement, at least, neutralizes the force of the objection, that what is com- plained of here, as a defect in Christianity, is equally true as it regards natural theology, and to a much greater extent; and will be found, moreover, to affect seriously the pretensions of all science ; for it is undeniably true of both, that the same want of universality, and minuteness of detail, attaches to the one and the other. Whatever there may be of truth in this charge of reserve and limita- tion, in the instance of Christianity, it will not be difficult to prove that it arises out of the inevitable necessity of the case, as found in the constitution of the world, and the nature of man. To these, we have elsewhere asked your attention at length, and shall not dwell upon them here. It is as true of universal nature, in science as in revela- tion, that it is a unit — a whole; and of course, it is made up, and consists of parts, and all these paits essentially related. To the scientific student of nature, we need only name, in proof of this, the law of universal gravitation, binding world to world — the laws and phenomena of light, pervadingly affecting all worlds, and the theory and trajec- tion of comets, traversing illimitable space, as if bearing despatches from one to another ! These, and other facts of kindred bearing, prove incontestably, that globe is allied 92 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF to globe, and system to system, throughout immensity, as known to us. And yet it is well known that however well we may understand the history and philosophy of our ovm planet, we know nothing of its connection with other worlds, beyond the mere fact that such connection is too evident to doubt, although impossible to be understood with man's present means of information. That is to saj'^, we "know in part" only; and in this way, we know a thousand things we are utterly unable to account for. Turn now to the universe of intelligent beings, — the various worlds, and orders of intelligent agents, so fre- quently, although only allusively introduced in the Christian revelation. Is not the argument irresistibly forcible from analogy, that all these various intellectual tribes and orders are related and connected ? And if Heaven, by means of Christianity, should allow us to know this fact — (that they are so related) — and at the same time withhold other than general information, what right have we to complain ? We know no more in the instance of the physical. In what does it really concern us to know more than we do ? Would not such knowledge, in relation to other provinces of the vast dominions of the Creator, have called off atten- tion from the interests of earth, and the destinies awaiting us here ? As it is, are not our dreamers about other worlds, — our ambitious explorers and topographers of other distant provinces of God's creation, very apt to indulge dissatisfaction, and be guilty of trifling with their own ? Is God under any obligation to lift or rend the veil which hides his universal kingdom from the gaze of earth? If so, let the impatient demand of infidelity, which, it would seem, must know all, or receive none, extend in the same way to nature ; and if the infidel would be consistent, it must be so extended. Let the reserve so legibly inscribed upon the face of the heavens be torn away ! Let earth, CHRISTIANITV AND INFIDELITY. 93 whose bosom everywhere imposes the same law of limita- tion, open to our objectors, and silence them, by giving them a highway at once to her center ! And if not, why then, demolish your planetarium, and give the discoveries of Newton and the demonstrations of La Place to the "moles and the bats;" for why, according to the infidel logic, receive anything as true, unless you can know all ! We deem this reasoning valid, inasmuch as all reasonintj must be based upon pre-existing data, which data must be sought in man, or the constitution of nature about him, and any objection to Christianity, the basis or prototype of which, cannot be found in nature, is absurd, because unnatural. It is unphilosophical ; for it is attempted to reach a result which cannot be traced to, or derived from any known fact or principle, and can only be regarded, therefore, as an abortion of ignorance or presumption, or it may be both ! We remai'k further, — the information and evidences of Christianity, are ample and irrefragable, and the sufficiency and demonstrativeness, we assume, relate both to quantum and kind. But to estimate them properly, and feel their force, it is necessary that they be duly attended to ; for although fixed and unambiguous, the doctrines and evi- dences of revelation are not obtruded or forced upon the consideration or acceptance of man. As the principles and ethics of natural theology may be neglected, con- temned, and cast aside, by the careless, the indifferent, and the vicious, as millions are in the habit of doing, the world over, notwithstanding their certainty and reasonableness, as well as great moral force, when carefully and consider- ately appealed to ; so, under the influence of inattention, dissipation, and folly, but especially, the more hopeless forms of vice, profligacy, and determined sin, — piety — the Christian religion may share the fate of the religion of 94 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF nature, — be neglected, overlooked — the homage and atten- tion it requires indefinitely postponed. Or it, may be treated with scorn and mockery, obloquy and contempt. Mean- while, however, it is true, in the creed of the one, that " the heavens declare the glory of God," and in the other, that "life and immortality are brought to light by the Gospel." Had the proofs of revelation been so strangely and stupendously imposing — so marked with force and violence of motive, as to compel attention and submission, on the part of mankind, the arrangement, all must see, would have precluded both trial and virtue. The one woidd have existed but in name, and the other been no more rewardable than is the passive thirst of the desert as it drinks in the descending shower 1 This would have been, to set one part of the Divii>e economy in direct antag- onist relation to another ; and the discrepancy would have been so obvious and tangible, as to render belief in the system extremely difficult, if not impossible. The tendency would have been to defeat all the great objective aims of revelation ; and hence, instead of this, Christianity reaches us with as little of the extraordinary, and as few unearthly and trans-human accompaniments as was consistent with a clear and conclusive authentication of the Divine original of the system. But let us select another point, — a different turret of observation, from which to bring the same scrutiny to bear upon this subject. If Christianity have a native, indispu- table tendency to develop, and bring out into perfection and action the intellectual and moral powers of our nature, beyond that of natural theology, literature, or science, it must afford strong presumptive proof, that the Author of our nature is the Author of Christianity. In this way, we can explain the whole field of facts and relations on the part of revelation, and yet remain on strictly philosophical CHRISTIANITY A\» INFIDELMT. 95 ground — the boasted terra firma of infidelity. It would not be difficult to prove that owin<^ to the essential oneness, — the absolute unity of the human mind, the intellectual and moral powers, in the progress of enlarged development, are mure or less deranged and depressed, unless trained and cultivated in unison. It is true, virtue may consist with great ignorance, and there may be high mental culture in union with great depravity, but the alliance is unnatural, and involves intellectual hazard, not less than moral danger. What real success, in any department of intellectual achieve- ment, can there be, where mind proves faithless to virtue, and betrays the heart? There may be ability and achieve- ment distinguishing such minds, we know, but when it is recollected, how much more decided and comprehensive these might have been, allied with the pure and elevated sentiments inspired by the proper cultivation and direction of the moral powers, we are obliged to feel the disparage- ment, as a humiliation of our common nature ; and by how far they have failed to be just to themselves and true to others, by the neglect and abuse of their moral powers, by so much they have subtracted from the general happiness ; and they rank among the enemies of a virtuous universe, to the precise extent they have thus contravened the pur- poses of their being. Very mistaken notions are alioat and common, even in the philosophical world, as it respects success in intellectual progress and distinction. There is no real success in such progress, without a harmonious development of all the powers of mind. And as the moral powers are the ultimate principles of our nature, the neglect of these is even more hurtful, than the neo-lect or misdi- rection of the mental. All must be balanced, and move and play in ec^uilibrium or the mind can never preserve its proper energy, or perform its just functions ; and this equilibrium can never be maintained, except by the subor- 96 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF dination of the mental, to tlie monil part of our nature. Would you trace the lightning of intellect home to its cloud, you must study well the moral nature of man ! Intellect is always without anything like effective power, unless characterized by order and calmness ; and where the moral system is deranged, and the passions in a state of misrule and vicious propensity, the mental powers become the criminal instrumentality by which the objects of ambi- tion and selfishness, and often profligacy and crime, are sought to be accomplished. We all know that the moral feelings convey a secret, yet controlling influence to the more intellectual powers of mind ; and hence, it is indis- pensable, that they be subjected to proper discipline. Proper action is the end of man, not aimless thought ; and hence the reasoning we have urged. The question arises, however, in what way is this to be eftected ? Shall man rely upon himself absolutely, or appeal to higher, extrinsic aids, confessedly within his reach ? And allowing, as all must, that such appeal is essential, an additional question intrudes ; — to what code of moral legislation — to what salutary regimen, shall man turn, with a view to the self- government and moral training so necessary, even to his intellectual dignity and success ? It occurs to us, the question may be settled fairly by an appeal to fact. Take those countries and ages, where and during which, the influ- ence of the theology of nature alone has been felt, and compare them with those under the influence of Chris- tianity principally, and then decide upon the intellectual character of each class. On which side the line we have drawn will you find the greater grandeur and magnificence of mind ! In which of these moral hemispheres do you meet with the most stupendous aggregate of intellectual production and moral achievement ? What is your answer ? We need not wait for it — a witness of your own has fur- CIIRISTIANITy AND INFIDELITY. 97 nisbed it. Infidelity decided the question in our favor, some fourteen centuries ago. So thoroughly convinced was the learned and acute, yet infidel Julian, of the direct ten- dency of the Christian religion to increase the moral power, and thus elevate the intellectual character of mind, that from the throne of the Csesars he attempted to legislate Christianity into utter ignorance, by denying education to the Christian part of bis empire, and thus accomplish what he believed, could be accomplished in no other way ! And other examples, numerous and pertinent, are to the same effect. The moment chosen for giving Christianity to the world is proof, that it is in close and intimate alliance with the biglier powers of our nature, and seeks and secures its own advancement, by means of such alliance. At the time selected, learning and civilization were at a higher point t)f progressive perfection, than at any former period in the history of the world ; and were also much more widely diffused and generally deferred to ; and does not this demonstrate the design of Heaven, that there should be an essential coalescence of the higher principles of the one and the other ? And this coalescence is even now takina" place, not, it is true, with glaring publicity, by shock and convulsion, but by silent, unnoticed agencies, impercepti- bly, yet certainly ;and bids fair, at no very remote period, to accredit the great moral inference, that Christianity is in strict alliance with all that is profound in science, or exalted in intellect ! A knowledge of natural theology furnishes with an inference, from the principle of analogy, which connects the discipline and trial of the present life, with a state of things in the future essentially corresponding — substantially analogous in its higher elements, concerning Avhich, however, we have no satisfiictory infurnuition from nature, and must, therefore, impugn the wisdom of her VOL. II — 9. 98 KELATIVE CLAIMS OP arrangements, or seek the solution elsewhere. Infidelity adopts the former, Christianity the latter hypothesis. If we admit, as we are compelled to do, the inference from analogy, and have no higher calculus by whicli to deter- mine their bearing, we are sixbjected to an incertitude, at once painful and perplexing. Can it be believed, that the God of wisdom and goodness would appoint for man in this life, a rigorous state, or process rather, of discipline and training, unrelaxed in its exactions, until tlie hour of bis death, and yet no ultimate end to propose, — no after-state of consciousness and action to succeed, as the object of its appointment ? If so, the analogies of nature, and the uni- versal scheme of tilings, as known to man, are insignificant and unworthy of confidence ; and the God of eternity, so far as we can see, is found trifling with the children of time ; for in every age lie has hung the golden clouds of another life, bigh and glowing, about the setting sun of this ! Is it possible to conceive, that there is no instituted correspondence between the means and the ends of this, and another life ? When nothing else is left, must the dia- mond cressets of hope and joy connected witb the future, be torn from the worn and wasted cordage of the heart, by the ruthless hand of infidelity ? If the present be not an education for the future, why at infinite cost, — at the expense of unremitting trial and endeavor, sympathy and succor, are we trained to lessons and habits of patient efibrt and high exertion, — of order and discipline — of constancy and self-denial — of high moral daring and unblenching courage ? Why are the elements and energies of our being taxed by a state — a constitution of things, confessedly of God's own appointment, to the utmost it is possible to bear or to do ? Does not all analogy demand, that these moral qualities and habits be brought into further exercise, and much more fully and intensely, in another state of being? CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELITT. 99 We do not mean to say, that the same objects which exer- cised these high and strenuous virtues here, will exist in the futurity destined to develop them. There will doubt- less be a substitution of different scenes and theaters of consciousness and action ; still, no change is implied of these moral powers ; and it will be seen, that the pupilage of earth and time, was only intended to commence the development and formation of powers and habits whose final manifestation can only be realized in eternity ! We might urge you, moreover, to bring the logic of induction to bear upon this subject, in another particular. Christianity exists. — It is before you. It has existed in the eye, and before the direct notice of the most enlightened parts and portions of the world for near two thousand years, as truly and undoubtedly as the letters of Greece, or the empire of Rome. We know the time of its intro- duction. We know the place of its birth and first appearance. We know who was its founder. We can trace the lines of its first propagation. We can fix upon the localities of its early spread, and primitive wonders. We know the cost of natural feeling — the rending of societies — the hardship, the want and the suffering, — the persecution, the self-sacrifice, and often death, inevitably attendant upon its profession. We know whence it suddenly broke forth, like live waters, bounding from the bosom of the mountain ! It divero-es from Jerusalem in a thousand directions under the adminis- tration of the successor of the imperial Tiberius. North, it is soon heard of in inaccessible Scythia ; South, in central Africa ; East, in Parthia, and distant India ; and West, in barbarian Spain, and the British Isles ! All this is matter of liistory ; — is perfectly notorious throughout the whole commonwealth of well informed minds ; and men of sense have long since ceased to dispute it. The fact then is before you, and we ask you to account for it. 100 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF And in doing so, you are not to lose sight of the nature and philosophy of the result ; its character and tendency ; and rejecting the assumption that Christianity is a revelation from Heaven, what adequate cause can you assign, as the solution of a problem vy^ithout parallel in the history of the human mind ? In the instance of paganism in general, and Mahommedanism in particular, usually relied upon by infidelity, as analogous cases, there is, in fact, the absence of everything like analogy. For the existence and preva- lence of these systems of religion, the history and philosophy of the times furnish us with causes, materials and elements in abundance, naturally and almost necessarily leading to the results appealed to. In the case of Christianity, however, there is nothing of the kind to be urged; — no such predisposing causes ; no materials on hand, or elements at work ; and the infidel and the Christian are alike com- pelled to look upon it as a new creation. It exists noiv, and never did before ; and hence, the inevitable conclusion. See Christianity springing up, and gaining upon the notice of the world, in Jerusalem, Corinth, Athens, Ephesus, and Rome! Its origin at first scarcely known, — the country of that origin proverbially despised, — denouncing the whole calendar and rabble of pagan gods in the very' centers and capitals of the most idolatrous nations, — proscribing pleasure in the midst of wealth, pomp, and luxury, — urging the care and interests of the soul among tlwse who regarded its immortality as a fable, — inculcating the fear and worship of God where his very existence was unknown or denied, — original, austere, and exacting in the reprobation of sin, — explicit and uncompromising in demanding purity of heart and self-denial of life, and this, amid unbounded licentiousness and crime, — what were its chances, upon any hypothesis involving only human agency, to become the religion of the civilized world ! Who could CHRISTIA'NITY AND INFIDELITY. 101 have supposed, that under such circumstances of discour- agement, that notwithstanding the paucity of her means, and the poverty of her friends, — the resistance of civiliza- tion and tlie liostihty of barbarism, — with persecution's ban-dogs loud and lean everywhere howling over the wreck of her lirsL altars and early homes, she would, in less than three centuries, see the land of the pyramids and the realm of the Caesars bow, and subverting the giant might of the imperial Palatine, give her banner to the breeze upon the ruins of the capital of nations ! And this general inference is confirmed further by the fact, that Christianity as a system, was as perfect — as every Avay complete, at first as it is noAv. It was not gradually produced. It is not, in any sense, a growth. It exhibited all its perfections — its absolute entireness at once, without anytliing like pro- gressive elaboration. No formative, perfecting process was appealed to. Original, singular, and apart, it met Avith no countenance or support from the age in which it appeared. It superseded the systems, by reversing the decisions of antiquity ; and stood alone in uncompounded oneness and wholeness, in the isolated, unborrowed grandeur of its own nature and pretensions ! LECTURE V. Resuming the theme of the preceding lecture, we proceed to remark, that if Christianity be true, the reason and good sense of mankind require that there should be exhibited, a perfect agreement between the code and contents of revelation, and the history and experience of mankind, in all time subsequent to its first publication. Tliat is, the latter must be expected to afford verification of what the former assumed, with regard to the real state and con- dition of the hiiman family. To limit the inquiry, — take the five historical books of the New Testament. One of the first lessons taught by their examination is, that Christianity places man, when subjected to the influence of the gospel, in an essentially new relation — an entirely novel position, with regard to other men ; and that, in consequence of the new and separate relations of the disciples of Christianity, — the novelty and originality of their position with reference to the rest of mankind, they should be subjected in all time to come, to the ill nature, distrust, and persecution of the world, as distinguished from them. And this, not because they belonged to a sect, a party, or a school, but irrespective of all, for righteousness' sake. — Because of the high, unworldly bearing, the integrity and purity of their lives and conduct. The position of the first Christians was every way insular and untried ; and the predeclared result is, that it will provoke the hostility of the world. And what is the evidence of history on this subject, from the early notices of Tacitus, Suetonius, and Pliny, down to our own times ? 102 CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELITY. 103 Is the prescience of Christianity, in any way, falsified ; or has tlie announcement been sustained by the experience of a succession of ages ? The time has been ample. The means of information infinite. Eighteen centuries have intervened. Fifty generations of skeptics and philosophical and vuljTfar scoffers have rolled throusrh the orbit of doubt and unbelief, like herculanean rakers gleaning exceptions from every section and segment of the whole circuit of objection and cavil, and what is the result ? What do the findings of infidelity amount to, against the claims of Christianity ? Again, it was assumed, that from inconsiderable — almost imperceptible beginnings, Christianity should spread and prevail, to an extent without any parallel in the anterior history of the world. Thus, inconsiderable and unobtrusive at first, it was silentl}'', but securely, to operate its functions, diflfusing everywhere its renovating views of God and man, until it should mould and color the eras of time, and the character and fortunes of nations, and finally, control for good or evil, the destinies of the world, in view of her reception or rejection. All this was original — was new, and not to be expected. The Jewish religion had existed fifteen centuries without spreading. The religions of Persia, Greece, and Italy, had continued for ages without change or progress. All was calm and quietude. The elements of the religion of paganism appeared to be settled, its diflferent systems adjusted, and the opniions of philosophy, and the dreams of poetry and sentiment and affection, on the part of confiding millions, were rapidly crystalizing about them. Religious inquiry and earnestness were unknown throughout the world ; — all had to bo awakened and excited ; and yet, amid this dead calm — this universal stagnation of moral sentiment and reliirious feeling, Christianity announced her purpose of proselyting 104 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF the world. Tlie very conception, is proof of the Divinity of the mind in which it orii>inated ! It was hke the sceptered blazonry of Heaven, in the vision of the young patriarch, bowing to a reaper's sheaf ! But we ask you to advert once more to the contradic- tion, at least in common deeming, between the precepts enforced, and the conduct foretold, by Christianity. What, short of omniscient discernment, could have predicted the result ? And we would ask you, also, to re-advert to the evidence of history, in relation to the promised diffusion and triumphs of Christianity, and decide for yourselves. We will not trace her progress. We make no attempt to map out her spread — to number her myriad temples, or count the homes of her missions ! We have, however, no fears of the result. Look at her when she commenced only with the fishermen of Galilee, and in a provincial dialect of Palestine, — confined to a depressed and enslaved popu- lation of not more than a million and a half ! And look at her noiv, issuing her mandates to the (900,000,000) nine hundred millions of our world, in two hundred lan- guages of the babbling and lettered earth ! Has infidelity no misgiving? If not, it will be a deadly conflict; for rely upon it, Christianity has none ! But to return — Those conversant with the philosophy of analogy, or capable of examining related subjects analogi- cally, duly comparing and estimating analogous elements and resembling features, may institute an inquiry, a priori, based upon first principles as found in Christianity, assum- ing that if these be true, corresponding principles will bo met with in natural theology, to give them sanction and verification ; and hence, deduce an additional argument for the truth of the Christian revelation. A few examples, miscellaneously selected, will explain our meaning, as well as a more scientific arrangement. Whether we believe or CHRISTIANITV AND INFIDELITY. 106 reject Christianity, we are obliged to look upon it as a regular whole; — the progressive development of a well- defined plan. Its ditterent parts are so truly consecutive — so admirably concatenated, that we are compelled to con- ceive of it as the offspring of an exclusive individual master intelligence. Its perfect individuated unity of character forbids any other supposition. The force of the separate argument we are about to introduce here, will require but little elaboration. A few examples will show what the effect would be, were the examination carried out in exienso. Take any production of antiquity — say a book or history, and the illustration and support of any one part of it, by other incidental evidence, tends, even beyond the abstract weio'ht of the accessory evidence, to the authentication of the whole. But assume that evidences of this kind are multiplied, from time to time, and derived from different, and unexpected sources, for a succession of ages, and these attestations to the truth of the whole, become at once con- vincing and irresistible. And this is precisely the state of the case as it regards Christianity, and the support it is continually receiving from the different provinces of natural theology, and from other sources, of which natural theology is competent to judge and d<'termine. In this way, the absolute strength of the Christian argument is indefinitely augmented, by collateral and concurrent evidence, derived from innumerable, unrelated facts, scattered over the fields of nature and the tracts of observation. It is characteristic of Christianity, that while it furnishes evidence, every way competent and adapted to impress its truths and conclusions upon the human mind, it abstains from anything like coercive control, or overwhelming influ- ence. Its disclosures and deductions, however convincing, leave man a moral agent, as befoj'e, with his power of self- determination, unfettered and entire. And this seems to 106 RELATIVE CLAIMS OP be but tlie archetype of an arrangement in natural theology, to tlie same effect. The evidences and principles of natural religion, are presented in a way to secure a proper under- standing a!id just appreciation of their nature and value; but in order to this, candid attention, and patient investi- gation, are required. The discovery of truth and the encouragement of virtue, reward the candid and consider- ate, while the idle and vicious are abandoned to the folly and presumption of their course. Again, revelation furnishes as much information, in relation to the great definite object of its bestowment, as the question of man's earthly or immortal welfare requires ; but it does not go beyond — it does not aim — it is not intended to dissipate all obscurity, or gratify unreasonable curiosity. And precisely analogous to this, are the reserve and caution of natural religion ; and a thousand inexplica- bilities of the latter are in close affinity with the mysteries of the former. It is equally true, moreover, that every science under heaven is burdened with the same conditions. We know tliat heat and moisture promote vegetation, but how, or by what process these elements adapt themselves to the suscep- tibility of the plant, so as to enlarge and expand the leaf, is a question, in reference to which, our ablest phjj^siologists avow utter ignorance. From effects and phenomena, we know the power of gravitation, but what it is that essen- iiallv constitutes attraction of (rravitation, we know nothino- about. It is as absolutely unknown to us as the locality and natural history of the heaven or hell of the Bible. Further, Christianity is explicit and peremptory in refusing anything like exemption by privilege, from the high jurisdiction she extends over all. Rank, station, civic distinction, and social inequality, are all merged, and man, as a subject of the Divine government, together with CHRISTIANITV ANll INFIDELITV. 107 his moral relations and interests, is alone consulted. In like manner, the reliu'ion of nature extends her counsels and warnings to the palace and the cottage, the prince and tlie subject ; nor are the privileges of dignity on the one hand, or the hardships of poverty on the other, any valid plea for inattention to her claims. Christianity, as all know, inculcates the renunciation of present indulgence, and the exercise of patience, fortitude, and self-denial, in view of distant and final recompense ; and nature abounds with lessons, that to obtain objects of first importance, even of merely earthly interest, such as wealth, wisdom, or fame, it is indispensable to forego and suffer. Each inculcates the duty of self-sacrifice as the price of future or greater good. Revelation recognizes the existence of machinations of evil, invisible spirits, and infernal agency ranks among the principal causes of the prevalence of impiety and irreli- gion, and ranks foremost also, among the evils and enemies vanquished and overcome in the triumph of the faith and virtue of Christianity. Natural theology, it is true, knows nothing of fallen angels — nothing of the malignity and industry, with which revelation represents them as em- barked upon the ruin of our kind ; but natural theology recognizes the same great moral conflict between good and evil, and is as conversant as Christianity, with vicious and abandoned men, utterly depraved, and hopelessly profligate, who devote life, with all its means and appliances to the accomplishment of the very object which revelation ascribes to the devil and his angels; — that is, the destruction of human happiness, hope, and virtue, by beguiling and enticing those within the circle of their influence, into the practice of every species of moral debasement, from the first timid essay of vice to its fiendisli revelry in crime. Natural theology, therefore, afibrds the full force 108 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF of analogy in support of the Christian doctrine upon this subject. Moreovex", according to revelation, the consummation of God's moral government in relation to man, connects itself Avith a day of general — of universal judgment, when the virtuous and good shall be rewarded, and confirmed in rec- titude and happiness forever; and the finally and incurably vicious, punished in view of their deservings. Now, if this be true, it is reasonable to expect, that in the administration of nature, and the laws of providence, by which God governs the world, and regulates the course of human and earthly events, there will be found a state of things suffi- ciently analogous, to furnish man with plain and undoubted pre-intimations to this effect. And what, we ask, are the consequences. Heaven, even in this life, has severally annexed to vice and virtue, — to good and evil conduct ? There is not a precisely proportioned retribution of good and evil, we know, for it would seem tlie purposes of moral discipline, and man's earthly probation would be better subserved by a different arrangement, leaving the existing inequalities of his earthly state to be adjusted by future arbitrament, in the closing account indicated by nature and providence, and fully disclosed by Christianity. And accordingly, God has, in his general dealings with mankind, taught them most conclusively, that virtue tends directly — (being vested with such aptitude) — to promote the happi- ness of man, and that vice is cursed and branded with an equally indelible tendency to render man worthless and miserable. In the Christian revelation, it is distinctly assumed, that the death of Jesus Christ, the reputed Son of God, pro- visionally ransomed man from the punishment due to sin, and that his voluntary sacrifice of himself in behalf of our guilty nature, exists in its relations and bearings, as an CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELITV. 109 eventful expedient connected with the principles and pro- visions of the Divine government, in virtue of which man may be received into favor Avith Heaven, at the same time that the tnitli and justice of God receive the ful]ei?t vindication, and the dignity and stability of the Divine administration, are maintained in all their purity and per- fection. And what is there in nature analofrous to this ? Turn to the infancy, the childhood, and the education of man, and his establishment and fortunes in more advanced life. What has been the medium of the conveyance of the most substantial benefits of life ? Has it not been the agency — the voluntary interposition of another ? What security or success, has ever distinguished the lot of man, for which, in greater or less degree, he was not indebted to the kindness and instrumentality of others ; and generally at the expense of toil and suffering, involving the very principle of substitution found in the atonement of the Son of God ? Who does not see, that in the general adminis- tration of this world's aflfairs by the God and Judge of all, evil is often averted and good secured, by the kind, and it may be, undeserved intervention of one in behalf of another, who, in subjecting himself by such interposition, to a larc-e share of the eft'ects of the evil he would remove, is found essentially in the place of the party aided ; and assumino- the responsibility of the sufferer, so as to meet the claims, and secure the satisfaction of law, cancel obligation, and change relations, and thus effectually remove the whole burden of disability and distress, under which the party labored ? Such an instance, by no means uncommon, or rather of every-day occurrence, in the history of human intercourse, is essentially a vicarious expedient, and analo- gous in principle, to the great sacrifice of the Christian system. The principles most essentially implicated by the reasoning, as found in nature and Christianity, are so 110 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF entirely analogous, that it is only necessary to divest them of the mere environment of circumstances, to establish their identity beyond the possibility of misconception. Once more, Christianity assumes the doctrine, and reveals the fact of Divine aid and influence — the communication of trans-human ability connected with the interests of man's immortality ; and the illumination of mind and change of heart implied, constitute a grand specialty in the Christian scheme. Such illumination and change, are regarded as essential to the final happiness of man. This heavenly influence cannot be claimed on the ground of worth or merit in us. — It is the gift of Almighty Goodness, unde- served by man. And further, it must be sought for, earnestly, humbly, and with perseverance, in the way prescribed in the only system of moral truth, in which the hope and promise of it are found. An arrangement perfectly analogous to this, will be met with, regulating the bestowment upon man of temporal gifts and earthly good. These, as a general rule, have been placed within the reach of all who properly exert their natural powers, in the use of appropriate means, in view of their attainment; and the certainty and facility of acquisition are made to depend upon the effective application of such powers and means ; while success is endangered, and the good thrown away, by the neglect or rejection of the means necessary to secure the boon we are in quest of. In the latter case not less than in the former, there must be a conviction that the good in question is needed, — that it will not be gratuitously bestowed as matter of right and debt, whether we exert ourselves or not ; and finally, must be sought for by an appeal to means and methods directly connected with the end to be obtained. So that the arrangement in nature seems to create, even abstractly, a strong proba- bility in favor of a kindred arrangement, in any system CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELITY. Ill intended to supply the defects, and supplement tlie imper- fection of natural theology. But ■why, it has been asked, if there be so much of truth and self-evidence connected with the Christian system, has it been so generally neglected, rejected, or at best, received with indiflference, by so large a portion of the thinking part of mankind who have been favored with its liuht ? This anomaly, as it is thought by some, and which has been alluded to elsewhere, may be accounted for, it occurs to us, both on philosophical and moral grounds. We all know, because all must have seen, with what unyielding pertina- city, opinion clings to its accustomed course and current of operations ; and how extremely difficult it is always found to be, to give it a different, and especially opposite direction. When the mind has bestowed sentiments of approval and confidence, it is always reluctant, and even after conviction, slow to withdraw, and particularly to re-bestow them upon objects and qualities, by which they have not been familiarly excited. And the moral reason for this result is found in the fact, that the prevalent dispo- sitions and tendencies of our fallen nature, array themselves directly against the moral restraints and ethical exactions of Christianity ; and hence, an additional proof of its truth, in the fulfillment of its own prediction of this very result, — "many are called," but "few are chosen." There is scarcely a discovery in philosophy, or improvement in science, which has not met with similar reception and resistance from the human mind. But we derive a most important argument here from negation. The burden of the affirmative argument upon wh.ich we have mainly dwelt, is, that the admitted principles and existing facts of natural theology, strikingly concur in the suggestion and support of conclusions which constitute the essential foundation of the Christian system. A diflerent 112 RKLATIVE CLAIMS OF train of reasoning, however, based upon entirely diflferent, and even opposite premises, will conduct to the same gen- eral inferences. We mean, the absence of facts and ascer- tained principles in the system of nature and providence, adverse to the inferences upon which we rely. The non- ascertainment of any such principles, and the non-existence of all such facts, will go far in bespeaking for Christianity a candid and considerate hearino-. The onus or burden of proof here, you will perceive, changes sides in the argu. ment, and devolves upon infidelity. In failure, however, to show such principles, or produce such facts, we are allowed to avail ourselves of the strong collateral evidence thus aflforded to the truth of Christianity. Nature has been severely and perseveringly interrogated to this effect, by a most formidable band of censors ; and the examina- tion has been alternately conducted by schools of philosophy and individual assailants. — Witness the insanity of atheistic France and the abjuration of Christianity by her God- rejecting millions at tlie close of the last century; — the Black Sea of German neology and transcendentalism, cast- ing up the mire and dirt of infidel conjectures ; — the matchless sophistry of the penetrating Hume, and his philosophical associates of kindred caliber and guild ! To effect the purpose in view, nature has been questioned by torture, and examined upon the rack ! The sybil-caves of doubt, and the Delphine shrines of unbehef have been appealed to in every age : — the priests of the one and the other, have shouted their impatient demands in the ear of destiny, but the only answer returned has been the echo of the questions asked ! The inquisition, however varied, has failed. — The attempted demonstration by such methods, — in fact, the whole crusade of unbelief in this way, has been despoiled alike of potency and pretension ; and the field, thus left open to more candid and less interested CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELITY. 113 inquiry, lias united with other tracks of discovery and sources of evidence, in furnishing a ricli quota of proof, in the sliape of a strong antecedent probability, that Chris- tianity is in aUiance Vfith nature, and by consequence, has proceeded from the same autlior. It must not be overlooked, however, that a hypothesis has often been brought forward by infidel philosophy, to the effect, that were Christianity what it assumes to be, and its benefits and blessings so essential to human happi- ness, it is incredible to suppose that a being of infinite goodness would not, at once, obtrude it upon the notice, and place it directly within the reach of all. This objection, in part, has been answered at length in another place, but it may be worthy of some further notice, as it is oflen very much relied on. In further replying to this objection, the first step will be, to inquire whether there is anything anal- ogous to tlie arrangement complained of, in the constitution and administration of nature — (the text-book both of infi- delity and Christianity in this inquiry,) or whether it is entirely anomalous. Take then the range of science and art, discovery and invention, as a starting point, and how- ever viewed, we can only regard them as an interpretation of nature. Are these, we ask, essential to human happi- ness ? What has been the contribution, to this effect, of each; — of science — of art — of discovery — of inven- tion ? And now inquire when, how, and to whom, such contribution was made ? Was it in the early ages of the world, and to the multitudinous nations of the East ? Was it by a sudden and general divulgement, or by slow and scarcely perceptible degrees ? Was it a gratuitous bestow- ment, or the fruit of ages of toil, and the most elaborate investigation ? To propound these questions is to answer them. How long is it, for example, since the philosophy of the higher mathematics began to be applied to the useful VOL. II — 10, 1 1 4 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF purposes of life ? What of astronomy, of mechanics, of chemistry, especially, as it regards such purposes ? Why withheld from the countless millions of antiquity? Why are some six hundred millions of the human family, at this very moment, in a state of similar destitution ? Why was not the telescope known to the rude Ptolemaic astronomy, and found in the hands of Chaldean star-gazers ? Why did not the needle and compass guide the mariners of Tarsus on the ancient Mediterranean ? Why was not the printing-press in the days of the Pharaohs, and groaning with indignant rebuke upon the banks of the Nile, and throw- ing oft' the memoirs of the Abrahamic family, as the avowed receivers of a revelation from Heaven, upon the plains of Mesopotamia ? Why was not the inductive philosophy, as the great calculus by which we become acquainted with the infinitude of the universe, connecting earthly littleness with heavenly grandeur, known to the ancients ? What an incalculable amount of degradation and misery it must have prevented 1 Why was the knowledge of even the lunar indications and influences, most necessary to the purposes of human life, withheld from man for five thou- sand years and more, after his creation ; and so of the rest ? All these are, by common consent, immeasurably useful and necessary; and in view of their late bestowment or discovery, how will infidelity upon its own hypothesis here, vindicate nature and providence from the imputation of want, both of wisdom and kindness ? Can it be done at all, except by supposing that the discovery and application, in each instance, has taken place by the pre-appoiutment of the universal God who owns and governs all, at a time and under circumstances, best calculated to secure the utmost possible good to all concerned, and in view of all contingencies? Let Christianity, then, be governed by the same rule. CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELITT. 115 and we ask no indulgence for her. We dread no scrutiny ; for it will be seen at once, that revelation blends the good of mankind with the comprehensive laws and generalities belonging to the universal system over which God presides, and whose administration he conducts, so far as man is interested, with the double intention of bestowing, not only immediate benefit, but of training, educating, and preparing him for the future, — the immortality of being which is his natural inheritance, and by consequence, a part of his essential physiology, and without just reference to which, it is impossible to understand his nature, or appreciate his destiny. And thus, by a preliminary examination of the great systems of nature and revelation, — an outline sum- mary of the coincident, and yet diverse dispensations of natural religion and Chistianity, we are presented with the very striking, — the converging tendency of all the differ- ent integral parts of each to the same determinate point, — the revelation and establishment of the momentous truths, — the fundamental principles of Christianity. And the Bible, given by God to man, thus becomes significantly the book of earth, because the great expounder of the laws and principles of nature. In conclusion, let us briefly review the general argument, and leave it with you. After proposing, we commenced the examination of this subject, by asking attention to the intellectual constitution and moral nature of man, as furnish- ing the great subjective basis of Christianity, and without just views of which, its principles are unintelligible, and its provisions and relations, without application or signifi- cance. His intellectual freedom and moral agency — his undoubted power of self-determination, so as to secure the result of giving character to himself and color to his des- tiny, were viewed as necessary data to understand and explain the relations and application of the Christian system ; 116 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF and. the provisional adaptations of this system, prove tlie author of the one to have been the author of the other. It was found important, moreover, to notice man's singular conformation, as compounded of the two great substantive elements of universal being — matter and spirit, in order to account for some of the doctrines and hopes of Chris- tianity, such especially as the death of the body, — the dissolution of the organic, animalized materialism of man's nature, known to all, and his resurrection from the grave, assumed by revelation. To see what Christianity is, it is necessary to understand human nature in its grander ele- ments, and more fearful liabilities. It was shown too, by a great variety of arguments, and in a diversity of aspects, which, we think, must place it beyond all dispute, that human nature is not now, what it must have been when in primeval purity it left the hand of the Creator ; but is fallen and in a state of ruin and disorder ; and as the whole Christian system turns upon this, it is a strong — an irre- sistible presumption of its truth. It was also shown, that however clearly natural theology may reveal the being and attributes of God, especially those distinguished as the natural perfections of Deily, and how- ever forcibly it may suggest man's moral relations, yet there are aspects in which natural theology is in the habit of viewing man, whose ultimate bearings are not disposed of by the light of nature in any way ; and this, it was seen, is especially true of man as a fallen being, — a lapsed intel- ligence, and as such, a subject of sin and death. And from the fact that this defect is supplied by Christianity, we derived an additional argument for its truth. An argument also for the truth of Christianity, was deduced from tlie power and functions of conscience, regarded as a supreme and ascendant principle in the intel- lectual and moral constitution of man. Not such — notthu3 CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELTXr. 117 sovereign and ascendant, it is true, in fad — in the actual history of man, but such, beyond all doubt, by rirjU — by the intention and appointment of the Creator. And the fact of conscience being despoiled of actual precedence and sovereignty, proves irrefutably, and to all, the disordered condition of human nature ; and this, without depriving us of the evidences of conscience to the truth of Chris- tianity ; inasmuch as its teachings and decisions have, in all ages, implicated the great and leading truths of the Christian religion. They are found in the very contexture of the moral frame of man, engraven by the finger of God, and thus prove that they must have had a common origin. It was seen also, that the striking — the almost patent resemblance between the intellectual and moral manifesta- tions of natural theology and Christianity, render the former, not only suggestive, but literally prophetic of the latter ; particularly as regards the nature and origin of moral evil, the immortality of man, the method of recon- ciliation with Heaven, and the rewards and punishments of a future state ; and the inference was found to be, beyond all doubt, the same. It was shown that the views and lessons of natural theology, on these topics, most clearly and impressively desiderate the necessity of such a system as the Christian revelation is known to be. The millions of earth, in every diversity of condition, felt it as a want of the heart, and such want existed as the text of common regret ! We reached the further conclusion, that the defects of natural religion alone, are sufficient to suggest to the inquirer the importance of some adequate, effective remedy for the removal of the evils under which it has labored imraemorially, and must always continue to labor. And as Christianity answers the purposes indicated, we infer it 1 1 8 RELATIVE CLAIMS OF must be the system to whicli the prophecies of nature pointed, and therefore true. We hkewise attempted to demonstrate that these lessons and revelations of the religion of nature, and especially the felt, universal conviction of its defects, and insufficiency for the purposes of man's recovery to the forfeited favor of the God and Judge of the universe, naturally and necessarily predispose and prepare the mind of the student of nature for further and more explicit disclosures, relating both to the principles and ethics of natural theology; and it follows, Christianity must be true or nature false. It was assumed, and the proof elaborated, that even the more distinguishing peculiarities of the Christian system, involve no principles, the counterpart of which may not be found in nature and providence, if we except, merely, the manner and special conditions of its manifestation; and hence, they are related systems. It was shown, too, at length, tliat no change has taken place in the great princi- ples of moral rectitude found in nature, by their reappear- ance and relative position in the system of revelation. That they have been modified and varied as it regards form and application, is certain, but the only change relates to their clearer manifestation and more enlarged development. And thus, we wei^ led to notice the disclosures of nature, as inceptive, and introductory to the superior and conclu- sive revelations of Christianity. God is the author of both systems in common, because the same universal truths pervade both. And in addition, it was seen, that the A'arious compartments and divisions of science, with all its well-ascertained conclusions, have most unexpectedly and certainly, in most instances imintenLionally, contributed to illustrate and confirm the great mass of Christian evidence, both as it regards the philosophy of Christianity, and its external credentials. Now, as science is a knowledge of CHRISTIANITV AND INFIDELITY. 1 1 9 nature, this fact confirms all our reasoning, as an appeal to nature. It was further shown, that the whole amount of the evidence for the truth of Christianity from natural theology, has been brought to the test of facts and experience, and the ordinary methods of scientific investigation, and there- fore, cannot be rejected as illegitimate evidence. The truth of the whole was inferred and insisted upon, in view of the manifest inconsistency — the self-evident, eternal absurdity of an opposite system of belief, necessarily involved in the negative of the argument, or the infidel side of the question. We saw, in continuation of the same train of reasonino-, that although we cannot furnish a solution for every diflaciilty — cannot dissipate all obscurity, yet, we reach the satisfactory consummation, that the truth "and claims of Christianity, are too strong to be materially aftected by any difficulties or obscurity with which we may have to contend in the investigation; and this is all we can expect as il regards truth of any kind, and it should therefore satisfy us here. We have also seen, that the facts and data of natural theology constitute the great ultimate principles of Chris- tianity, and that the truths dawning upon us in the one, give us their meridian splendor in the other, and thus we are driven to the same conclusion. Revelation, abstractly, and in its most material aspects, has been shown to be natural, and perfectly coincident with the ordinary dispen- sations of providence ; and viewing the agency of mind as essentially distinct and separate from the mechanism of nature, and taking into the account its dignity and rela- tions, it has been seen with what propriety it is appealed to by a revelation from Heaven, as it cannot be governed by the laws, regulating tlie masses and movements of the 120 KELATIVE CLAIMS OF intelligent universe ; and moreover, requires a high moral regimen, such as revelation provides. Had revelation not been given, therefore, the wonder would have been whu it was withheld. It was inferred further, and the proba- bility shown to be so strong as to evince irrefragably, that had such a code of moral legislation reached us through some perfectly ordinary medium — a method of commu- nication every way earthly and merely human, instead of being neglected and rejected, as a system of moral truth, it would have been hailed as a desideratum of unrivalled importance — the summuvi bomim of our race ! Hence, its rejection is chargeable with caprice and absurdity. It was also attempted to strengthen the argument from natural theology for the truth of Christianity, by calling your attention to the material universe as the mere platform or theater for the display of the intellectual and moral manifestations of the universe of mind, and by inquiring what must probably be the relations and consequence of each individual mind in the a^'oreo-ate estimate of the uni- versal system ; and they were found to be such as to justify and require a revelation from Heaven. An appeal to the inevitable condition of all knowledge, has clearly evinced the impossibility of knowing anything in all its relations, and tlie actual disservice that would probably i-esult to human interests, were such knowledge attainable by man ; and hence, the mysteries of Christianity take their place, side by side, with those of nature and science ; and cannot be complained of without an abuse of the human under- standing. It was likewise seen, in the progress of the argument, that clear and unambio-uous as the evidence and claims of Chi-istianity may be, it does not destroy man's moral agency, by compelling his faith and obedience, and in tliis respect, stands related to us precisely as natural theology, does, — CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELITY. 121 addressing the reason of man, and urging motives, but never appealing to violence or compulsion ; and hence, the close analogy between them. We urged a presumption in favor of the truth of Christianity, based upon the fact, that incoutestibly beyond anything found in nature, science, or art, its tendency is to develope and bring into eflectivo action, the intellectual and moral powers of our nature ; and the inference is, that God must be the author of both. It was argued still further, and the same inference reached, from the correspondence between our known state of earthly discipline and trial, and the futurity disclosed by revela- tion — and the one can mean nothing unless the other be true ! It was demonstrated, furthermore, — for the question is one of fact and history, and therefore admits of demonstra- tion, — that the experience of mankind, in all time, since the first publication of Christianity, accredits its disclosures, and confirms its pretensions ; and Christianity is credible to the extent that history and experience are reliable sources of information. We also adverted to the strong collateral evidence, derived from the rapid spread and unprecedented triumph of Christianity, under circumstances of discouragement and repulsion, which, but for the Divinity of its origin, must have crushed and given it to oblivion ! And we must proclaim our want of sense in denying the fact, or admit the hand of God in the result ! We have but just now turned to Christianity, and lookino- at her first principles, turned away, and said if these be true, similar lessons, as their prototypes, will be found in nature ; and on appealing to nature, we met them there, in proof of what we had assumed. The reasoning which fur- nished us with an argument from negation, assures us, that there are no ascertained truths or principles, making up the VOL. 11 11. 122 BELATIVK CLAIMS OP code of nature and providence, or liaving any relevancy to the subject in question, tlie archetypes of which are not found in Christianity, as conclusive evidence of its truth ! And it was shown too, with equal clearness, and force of inference, that the want of absolute universality as it reo-ards the diffusion of revelation amono- all the nations of the world, and during its ages, is in perfect analogy with nature, and the whole course of human improvement, and cannot, therefore, affect injuriously the general argument for the truth of the Christian religion, upon which we have been insisting. And thus, finally, by an inductive elaboration of facts and principles found in nature, we reach the weighty con- clusion, that natural theology is, in strictness, an antecedent dispensation from God to man ; and as such, the great precursor of Christianity ; — that it is, with all its defects and insufficiency, essentially kindred in character and pur- pose, and that the latter, in consequence, receives an indefinite augmentation of evidence and illustration, from the coincidence and sanction of the former. And thus, to the utter confusion and dismay of infidelity, the lessons and indications — the external and internal revelations of tlie theology of nature and conscience, fix the inquisitive gaze — the concentrated attention of interested, anxious millions upon the Christian religion, as the word of a more full and explicit communication from God to man, and the only accredited, living inter-medium between Heaven and earth ! We only add, may we be allowed to hope, the force of the argument will be felt, notwithstanding its imperfec- tions ! Phidias left many a wrinkle upon the brow of Jove, and yet preserved the features of the god ! The dust in the sunbeam playing before you, proves its presence still more clearly, and enhances, by contrast, its beauty and brilliancy ! Who can examine the subject, as proposed. CHRISTIANITY AND INFIDELITY. 123 without being more than ever persuaded of the heavenly origin of Christianity ; and that victorious over every enemy, and all doubt, she is destined to extend and prevail, commensurate with the reign of reason, and the empire of time, and that having thus, by a slowly evolving process, from ao-e to ase, wrought out the solution of her own truth and mystery, earth, with all her unnumbered tongues and tribes, shall be seen, baptized from the past, and rising from a thousand thrones to do her homaoe ! INAUGURAL ADDRESS, DELIVERED BEFORE THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF MADISON COLLEGE, UNIONTOWN, PEKN., SEPTEMBER 15, 1827. # Inaugttral |iiriirus» Gentlemen of the Board of Trustees — AND MY audience : On the subject of education, you will expect but little that is new. — All definitions of the same thing — all illustrations of the same subject, must necessarily resemble. In the remarks we have to offer, on the present occasion, we have attempted to sketch an intelledual chart — imper- fectly presenting what we conceive to be the essential elements of useful knoioledge. The range of thought proposed, will embrace, 1st. The origin, dignity, and destination oi man, together with, his powers and passions — his relations and duties: — 2d. Education — its nature and uses : — 3d. Its influence upon man, as an intellectual, moral, and social being : — 4th. A brief survey of the history and advantages of enlightened education : — 5th. The present j^rospeds of Literature, throughout the world : — 6th. The union of Science and Religion: — And fljially — concludinfj: Remarks. Han is perhaps, the most singularly constituted being, in the hiffh scale of Heaven's mvsterious workmanship ; ,> a " 127 128 INAUGURAL ADDRESS. and if we except the heavenly intelligencies, he stands pre- eminent amono- all the works of God. Unitincj in himself a thousand modifications of matter, and the endless varieties of mind ; by his material part, connected with things terrestrial ; by the immaterial, claiming alliance with a higher and nobler world above ; mortal and immortal, in his complex nature ; tending to the tomb, and yet superior to its ravages ; ever converging to corruption, and the darkness of the grave — and yet, conscious of undying energies within ; he presents us with a problem in the science of being, the solution of which, can only be realized, in a direct communication from the Creator to the creature — of whose mysterious formation and attri- butes, we are now speaking. Man seems in himself, to unite the diversities of created nature, and stand forth, not unaptly, to the contemplation of intelligence, as an epitome of being — an abridgment of the universe ! Of the primitive condition and ultimate destination of man, it cannot be necessary for us to speak at length, here. Nature, tradition, and inspiration, unite in their testimon}^ that he left the hand of the Creator, combining in himself, the elements of an existence, splendid in its structure, and boundless in prospect. Indued with the high and distingixishing attributes of intelligence, volition, and emotion, man is distinguished as occupying the summit of creation's visible pyramid — and prepared to move forward forever, with firm and unfettered tread, in the paths of virtue, of science, and of moral illumination. The phenomena attendant upon the original formation of man, stamped upon him the signature of his value ; and intimated in no obscure way, the part he was to act, in the great drama of existence. The manifestations of nature — his own consciousness — and the affirmation of the Beinir INAUGURAL ADDRESS. 129 who made him — all gave notice, that he was destined to run a high career, amid the eventful and unknown fortunes of creation. Man's intellectual dominion is almost without limit ; his knowledge of the present, compared with the past, and reaching forward to the future, enables him to arrange and classify important and kindred facts, upon the grand principle of induction; and hand them down to future generations, as the well attested record of experience. New and more ample fields of discovery, continually open before him ; and he only ceases to learn, with the termination of his earthly being. And, indeed, it is not at all improbable, that the virtuous and good, beyond the grave, will continue to increase the sum of knowledge, by observation, intuition, and intercourse, until universal nature shall be spread out before the eye of the heavenly inhabitant, as a boundless exhibition of the Infinite God ! It is the distinguishing pre- rogative of man, while all the living creatures, with which he finds himself surrounded, are necessarily confined within the narrow and groveling limits, fixed and defined by instinct — to extend his researches beyond his own imme- diate wants and concerns, and delight and improve himself in the contemplation of the Universe. The wide and impressive prospects of this fair creation, are all before him — the glory of the heavens — the beauty of the earth, and the grandeur of the ocean, the hill, the dale, the mine, the quarry, afford an intensity of delight, a force of appeal, calculated to improve and m.end the heart. They all hold one common language, and that language is directed to man, the only terrestrial being who is capable of intelligent admiration. 2d. Education — Its nature and uses. Education is a term, to the meaning of which, it is diffi- cult to set limits ; it is a phrase comprehending in the 130 INAUGURAL ADDRESS. range of its application, all the efibrts and contingencies, both of design and accident — as they tend either to develop or influence the powers and passions of a sentient being. Education, whether systematic or miscellaneous, is intended to give suitable and salutary direction, to the physical and intellectual energies of man ; fixing his atten- tion, and attaching his ambition to an ever increasing infinite good — imperfectly enjoyed in the present state of being, and destined to be boundlessly unfolded in the world to come. Education is, therefore, good or bad, hopeful or defective — as it tends to promote or injure the interests of our common nature — connected, as it is, in the light of duty and destiny, with the pursuits of this world, and the recompenses of another. Viewed in this light, no one who is capable of reaching any just conclusion, by the laws of correct investigation, can for a moment, doubt the great importance, of a well-directed, enlightened education. Writers on the subject of education, have divided it into physical, intellectual, and moral ; but as we do not deem this classification of the nature and objects of education, of essential importance, we shall not call it up again. Education is designed to diminish the evils, and increase the comforts and quiet of human life ; it is intended to prepare man for usefulness and happiness ; and should be principally conducted so as to qualify the student for any conceivable destination allotted him by Providence. To live well, in whatever station, is the great business and interest of man ; and to this purpose, the efforts of instruction should be mainly directed. As a solitary, or as a social being, man must be partially wretched, if devoid of proper instruction ; but if possessed of the advantages of education, nothiog but an evil, an upbraiding conscience, can make him miserable. In the city, or the desert — a palace, or a cottage — in robes, or in rags — standing on land, or rolling INAUGURAL ADDRESS. 131 on the ocean — buried amid the snows of Iceland, or burning beneath the fervors of the Torrid Zone — he has resources of whicli he can only be deprived, by the Potuer that conferred them. Beggared by misfortune — exiled by friends — abjured by society, and deprived of its solace — the interior of the intellectual structure, continues unaffecled and underanged, amid the accumulating wretchedness without ; and the temple of the soul is still sacred to the cherished recollections of "Nature and Nature's God!" Hence, arises the importance of education : it is intimately connected with the happiness of man, in whatever aspect we view him. He may, indeed, do without it ; for we can compel no one to become either respectable or happy — but we hesitate not to afl&rm, that he cannot answer the end of his being, without some share of the moral culture, for which we plead. If it be alleged, that Christianity supersedes the necessity of education, we reply, it is one of the first and most obvious lessons of revealed religion, that we cultivate our minds, and store them, with useful knowledge. Ignorance has, in all ages, tended to the dishonor of the Creator, and the degradation of the creature ; she has successively plucked "attribute after attribute from the diadem" of the Deity — and one glory after another, from the escutcheon of man — until, in her eye, and with her votaries, the proud distinctions of man are reduced to the moito of a beast — "eat, drink, and die!" It has been the business and glory of science, in all ages, to awaken the fears and disturb the repose of ignorance, without infringing upon the right of men to remain ignorant, if it be their choice and purpose to do so. Science, in all its forms, and during the entire progress of ixs history, has persecuted vice, without opposing the vicious, or contravening the freedom of the human will. In order to effect successfull^s 132 iNArrcuRAL address. the valuable purposes of education, it should commence with the earliest sensations of the infant ; and it should be tiie aim of those concerned, not to oppose nature, in any of her apparent intentions or ope'rations ; but, by all possible means, aid and second her efforts and processes, in the development of the infant powers, whether physical or intellectual. Hopeful impressions should be made — valu- able sensations should be streuo-thened — and ao-reeable associations created ; these to "grow with the growth, and strengthen with the strength " of the child. The natural inquisitiveness and docility of the infant mind, render it necessary, in order to ultimate success, that the important business of ' education, be commenced at an early period, and gradually carried on, in view of the advancing powers, and opening promise of the pupil. Such a process will place those who are subjected to it, in a situation, in which they can avail themselves of all the advantages, both of nature and art, in acquiring a good education. This view of the subject, is based upon the well-known fact — that for the faculties of his mind, man is indebted to nature ; but for the evolution of faculty, and the furniture of his mind, he must depend on education. 3d. We may further trace the influence of education upon man, as an intellectual, social, and moral being. It is a remark of Lord Bacon, that human nature will rise and luxuriate, in the character, either of useful plants or Avorthless weeds ; and man's distinguishing qualities, in this respect, will depend materially upon education. If habit, as the same writer remarks, is the "Magistrate of a man's life," it must at once appear important, that education be not only attended to, but well chosen and well directed. It has been pertinently observed by the celebrated Rollin, that the university of Paris founded by the kings of France, had three principal objects in view — science, morals, and f INAUGURAL ADDRESS. 133 religion. These constitute the legitimate objects of educa- tion. Education is, to the intellectual eye, what light is to the natural ; it enables it with safety and fidelity, to distin- guish between right and wrong — truth and error ; and is, therefore, vitally and philosophically connected with the intellectual, social, and moral character, as well as final destiny of man. That natural inequalities and a diversity of intellect, obtain among mankind, cannot be denied ; but, that education is the great and most common source of dis- tinction between man and man, is equally certain. It is not at all improbable, that there are men in this audience, possessed of as good natural intellect as Euler or Leibnitz, Newton or Boyle ; and why not men of equal greatness ? The answer is, the want of education and application, and proper direction given to both. This, we have no doubt, is the grand differential ground of distinction between the large majority of human minds. It is the design of educa- tion, not only to impart knowledge, but to strengthen the mental powers. It is intended to develop the native treasures and resources of the mind, and give proper tension and force, and suitable direction, to all the intellectual ener- gies of a rational being. As exercise is necessary to the growth and health of the body, so is mental action to the s;rowth and regular expansion of the mind : and a well selected coiwse of education, is as important to the matu- rity and usefulness of the latter, as the labors of husbandry, a gymnasium, or some corresponding exercise, for the strength and activity of the former. Education is necessary to direct and fix attention upon proper objects of pursuit and contemplation — to correct and control the will — to enlighten and direct the judgment — to chastise and guide the imagination, as well as manage and discipline the passions ; this cannot be extensively effected, by the essays of the moralist, the speculations of the philosopher, or the 134 INAUGURAL ADDRESS. appeals of the preacher, witliout great and continued efforts; whereas, the way is directly and effectively applained, by a proper and judicious system of education. Knowledge has immemorially presented a man in a lofty and commanding aspect; its immediate tendency, is to enlarge his capacity and improve his character. Tlie happy and humanizing influence of letters upon the mind and morals of man, is matter of universal notoriety and consent. In confirmation of this, we need only appeal to the age of Pericles, Augustus, and the Medicii. England, Scotland, and the United States, are living and glowing examples of its truth. Indeed, we feel no hesitation in supposing, that the arts and sciences contain within their indefinite ranee, the great germinating principles of human melioration ; by the agen(;y and means of which, civilized life, domestic comfort, useful knowledge, and moral principle, are to be extensively diffused among the nations of the earth. We find ourselves greatly confirmed in this impression, from the well known fact, that almost every subject of classic lore — of natural and moral science, is to bo met with in the Holy Scriptures — languages, history, antiquities, chronology, arts, philosophy, biography, geometry, sketches of nature and character, geograpliical delineations and statistical views — poetry, epic, pastoral, and elegiac — agri- culture, commerce, architecture, phenomena of earth, air, and water — botany, mineralogy, astronomical allusions, voyages, travels, epistles, graphic descriptions, scenery, memoirs, and tactics ; — and the catalogue raisonnee, miglit easily be swelled, were it necessary. — Now if these tilings did not enter into the ^:»Zarts of Providence, for the improve- ment of man, they would doubtless have been excluded fi'om the Scriptures of Truth — containing ihe register of our faith, and record of our redemption. Moral obligation stands intimately connected with the happiness of man : knowledge, / INAUGURAL ADURE6S. 135 however, is necessary, that we may cherish a proper sense of duty : — it is the design and business of education to impart this knowledge, and so promote the present and future well-beino; of our common nature. It will, therefore, follow, that every attainment in education, is strictly, a religious acquisition, and will have a direct bearing iipon the ultimate destiny of man. Equally striking is the influence of education upon the government and policy of nations, states and kingdoms. It has, from the earliest dates of history, been the policy of despotic governments, and illiberal establishments, of whatever kind, to prevent the free difiusion of knowledge among the great mass of the people. Freedom of inquiry, and public discussion, have been suppressed, in some shape or other, even by legislative enactment; and the result has been, ignorance and servility among the lower classes — and insolence and oppression among the higher inlvilcged orders. No country can be happy and prosperous, without an intelligent, enterprising peasantry ; — universal history evinces the truth of this remark ; and its correctness is most happily illustrated, in the present condition of Scotland, the Protestant divisions of Switzerland, and many portions of the United States. But for the blessings — (we had almost said, the miracles) of education, many of the Northern States of this Union, must have been a comparative desolation : — us it is, the difficulties of soil, the want of territory, and a paucity of almost all the natural means of individual com- forts and national prosperity, have yielded to the magic influence of progressive improvement. In proportion, there- fore, to the truth of the maxim — that every community, in order to happiness, should be wise and good — and every nation Or people should be governed by laws of their own making, upon the grand principle of representation — is the importance of intellectual culture, and general education. 136 INAUGURAL ADDRESS. Further, to illustrate our position, we would select an example or two from history. Look at the Goths, the Celts, the Scythians, and the Scandinavians — an innumer- able horde of barbarians, covering all the north of Europe — from the Caspian sea to the Thames. These savages were as rude and uncultivated, as the summit and declivities of the Caucasus, from whence they came. Nursed and reared amid " cliff's, and cataracts, and torrents, and tempests," they were the rudest, the boldest, and the most desperate, of human beings. But after their final settlement in Europe, then civilization, the arts, and the sciences are introduced among them ; the darkness gradually retires ; the ritual of murder and death, is proscribed ; the radiance of hope and improvement dawns ; and, superstition, uncon- sciously dropping her "circlet of snakes," listens to the soothing song of reason, religion, and truth. That these effects of education have been permanent, you will not doubt, when history informs you, that the persons we 7iow address, are the descendants of these very barbarians : — and you owe it to religion and science, that you are not now, what your ancestors were, at the period alluded to — the slaves of savage passions — the victims of selfishness and terror : these having been the reigning deities, or rather, the " rival demons " of the barbarian state. We select Greece as another example. — The Pelasgi were the progenitors of the Greeks. From the most savage, they became the most polished nation of antiquity. This change was eflfected by letters : and Greece was every- where celebrated as the Arcadia of the scientific world. But the same causes that wrested the Em-pire of the world from. Rome, removed its learning from Greece : — we mean luxury, idleness, and effeminacy. And what has been the mournful story of Greece, for ages ! Where, for centuries, until lately, were lier heroes and her glory ? Alas ! no INAUGURAL ADDRESS. 137 longer free and happy ! no longer " wedded to immortal verse " — the descendants of those who disputed for liberty, with the millions of Persia, who " fell at Thermopylae, and triumphed at the Granicus," have, century after century, been laboring under the curse and scourge of Ottoman tyranny. But thank God, a few of the Isles of Greece, for some time past, have been under British and moralinfluence ! these have communicated with the rest ; and the injured Genius of long lost liberty, is rising, like the Phoenix, from the ashes of a mouldering desolation, to re-assert its ancient heritage ! — and without affecting any thing like prophetic foresight, we confidently look forward to the period, as rapidly nearing, when the beams of science shall again visit the Acropolis, and once more shed their lustre, on the land of Homer and Achilles ! 4th. Should the truth of these remarks be controverted, a brief survey of the history and advantages of education, will place the subject in a more eligible point of view. The history of literature has beendivided into four grand epochs. The first — embracing remote antiquity, when the study of letters and philosophy was principally confined to a few scattered groups of Pagan Priests, upon the banks of the Euphrates, the Ganges, and the Nile. During this period, the cultivation of letters was exceedingly limited, and a single professorship in one of our modern Universities, comprehends a wider range of knowledge than was then known to the whole world. The second era, commences with the rising glory of Greece — carries us on through the whole of her classic history, and the most splendid epoch of Roman story ; until we arrive at the overthrow of ancient civilization, and weep over the fall of liberty in Greece, and the death of genius in Rome. — In Greece alone from the days of Orpheus and Cadmus, to the time of Euclid, we have a catalogue of VOL. II — 12. 138 INAUGURAL ADDRESS. nearly nine hundred persons, who had devoted their lives exclusively to the arts and sciences. In Rome, literature flourished most successfully, during the dictatorship of Scylla and the reign of Augustus. The third era, embraces the dark or middle ages — from the fifth to the fifteenth centuries, when the human mind for a thousand years slumbered in death-like inactivity. During this period a star occasionally arose, to twinkle amid the general gloom: but "darkness covered the earth and thick darkness the people;" until, finally, the soul of the noble Saxon, and others, was roused to revolt, and deprecating the debasement of man, the ignorance of the times, and the trammels of an infallible hierarchy ; the world again swoz'e to be free ! The struggle was long and severe, but Heaven seconded the efforts of reformation, and God once more said, at this new creation "let there be light and there was light ! " The fourth era, commences with the revival of classical learning in Europe, and reaches down to the present times. — We say the revival of learning, for dreadful and unpre- cedented as were the ravages of the Moslems and Vandals, during the dark ages, they did not succeed in extinguishing totally the fire of Pindar or the spirit of Leonidas ; both survive, and shall continue to do so, " until there be lost in the flood of age, each bard, and song, and story." It will be perceived, that in these remarks we have only been able to take a cursory view of the progress of letters and science. For want of accredited information it will be impossible for us to do justice to the literature of the ancient Hebrews, the Phenicians, and the Egyptians ; and even our sketches of Greece and Rome must necessarily be imperfect. During the age intervening between Herodotus and Demosthenes, Greece furnished a long list of distin- guished competitors, in the various departments of poetry. INAUGUEAL ADDRESS. 139 philosophy, eloquence, and ethics. In Rome we witness a similar state of things, from Livius Andronicus, down to the " old age of Roman literature ; " while the middle ages furnish us with a few names and nations, by which the love of science was more or less cherished, and its invaluable treasures preserved. — Cassiodorus Charlemagne, Sylvester II., Petrarch, Boccaccio, Poggio, Ambrosio, and the Medi- cean Family, were the principal preservers and restorers of classical manuscripts, — and to the vigilance of these patrons of learning, and the laborious zeal of the monastic scriptormm, in the different periods of Italian history, we are principally indebted, for the classic treasures of antiquity. In order more fully, to illustrate the advantages of educa- tion, it may not be improper, to notice the usual range of study and science, prescribed for the academic student ; and the influence such application will be likely to have upon life and character. This, however, can only be done in a very summary way. Our object is, simply to furnish you with the principle, and exhibit a few of the modes of lis illustration. We begin with Language : — Among all the natural gifts of God to man, language stands pre-eminent. — This remark extends not only to vocal, or articulate language ; but especially, to what is denominated legible or written language. — Without language, we should be ignorant of the world's eventful story. — Without it, we can have no conception of social happiness — knowledge would be confined to sensation, and man could claim no hiaher distinction than that of the brute — the wisdom of the past, would be lost forever; and posterity would derive no advantages from the consciousness and achievements of the present generation — the chain of cause and effect would be broken ; and the succession of events in the light of history, dissolved forever — era would have 140 INAUGURAL ADDRESS. no connection with era, nor pole with pole — creation would be without a record, and man without a guide — unity would be wrested from nature, and analogy from Provi- dence — all communion between mind and mind, would be limited to the laws of instinct — Heaven and Earth would be aliens ; and the one would be silent because the other would be dumb ! But, possessed, as we are, of this peculiar and distinguishing advantage, stability is given to the operations of human intellect — language is the living image, the speaking organ, or written instrument of the mind — our thoughts and purposes, our hopes and fears, our deeds and doings, receive, by means of legible langiiage, an adamantine, a time-enduring existence. Language has been very justly distinguished, as the Barometer oi society. — From its perfection or imperfection, in different ages and parts of the world, we can pretty accurately judge of the improvement or barbarism of the people. The mechanism of language, is a subject which does not properly fall within the province of the present discourse. We may be permitted however, to remark, in reference to what are styled the Dead Languages, that a competent knowledge of them, is highly interesting, and in many instances, indispensably needful. The Hebrew, the primitive language of man, the original source, and therefore the most ancient, and the most sacred of all languages, deserves peculiar attention as the great fountain of oriental literature, and it is somewhat remarkable that the analogy between the English language and the Hebrew, is greater than that of either Greek or Latin. — We speak now of the structure of the languages. The Greek language possesses a vehemence, a terseness, a copiousness, universally admired by all competent judges, — while the Latin, if no other advantages were derived from its study, serves as an admirable praxis, in forming habits of close reflection and analytical investigation, but INAUGURAL ADDRESS. 141 in addition to this, it admits oi a dignity of enunciation and a loftiness of accent, not to be found in any other language. If we may rely upon those who have given their lives to the study of these languages, there is a vividness, a luxuriance of expression in them, not to be found in any of the more modern languages of the polyglotic earth. The French may boast of its prettiness and harmony — the Italian its delicacy and touching mellowness — the English its strength and well known perspicuity ; but the overpowering force and enrapturing swell of Isaiah, of Demosthenes, and of Cicero, are still wanting. Again, these languages constitute the only genuine and certain key to the records of antiquity, and the learning of past ages. It is worthy of remark, also, that it must be a source of peculiar gratification to the enlightened Christian, to be able to trace the pages of inspiration in the same languages in which they were originally given to man. Many a valuable, laborious, and highly improved minister of Jesus Christ, has wept over the Hebrew and Greek Scriptures, as a "sealed Book," and almost murmured against Providence, because he was not able to unlock their sacred treasures ! The melodious flow of the Greek, and the chaste majesty of the Latin, have been the subject of panegyric, in all ages. Where is the merely English reader, who, in poring over Pope's Homer, Murphy's Tacitus, or Baker's Livy, has not sighed to consult them in the immortal original ? Language is the great vehicle of communication for our ideas. — It furnishes a correct representation of our conceptions, as they rise in the mind. It is the source — the parent of conversation and of books ; by the one, the intercourse of society is kept up : by the other, we become acquainted with the records and trans- actions of preceding ages. By the study of other languages than our own, we are introduced to the wisdom and opinions, 142 INAUGURAL ADDRESS. the sons and the natives of distant ages and countries, without any other introduction or interpreter, than a know- ledge of the language in which we meet with the record. And, moreover, it greatly facilitates the study of our own language, by bringing etymology and analogy to the aid of definition and construction — thereby, aiding and strength- ening the laws of investigation — and giving force and compass to the mental conceptions of the learner, in tbe gradual accumulation of useful knowledge. Nevertheless, we must be permitted to state, that we deem classical learning of less importance than scientific, should necessity compel a choice between the two. That a critical knowledge of the learned languages, is absolutely essential to real greatness and extensive usefulness, is a position triumphantly refuted, in the history of Shakspeare, Washington, Franklin, Drew, Arkwright, and others. Classical attainment, however, is a necessary and powerful auxiliary, in order to the formation and perfection of the literary character. Milton has remarked, with his usual acuteness, that we study the dead languages, *• for the sake of the solid things they contain." We must protest however against a practice which we fear is but too prevalent in the institutions of this country. We allude to the negligence or oversight, by which so many young men retire from respectable seats of learning, with some knowledge of the dead languages, but very little of their own, and also the practice of confining the attention of the student, during almost the entire of his collegiate term, to a knowledge of past ages and events, to the shameful neglect of the present history of the world and its passing occurrences. It is true, as Cicero says, that "not to know what has been transacted in former times, is always to remain a child." — But at the same time, we deem it important that a knowledge of science and INAUGURAL ADDRESS. 143 of life should be mutual and correlative ; each should support and improve the other. Many heroes and giants in literature, become contemptible, because they show themselves inexcusably ignorant of what every man ought to know in relation to the multifarious concerns of human life. They may despise the common herd of mankind, for want of learning, but they are themselves despised in return, for want of sagacity and address, in getting through the world without an affectation of privilege and consequence, Avhich truth and common sense should always despise ! We would submit another remark here ; — superficial training is usually the bane of real merit ; and especially it contributes to the damage of literature in the estimation of unlettered common-sense people. — We allude to the multitude of literary sparks and gallants, with which our world is filled; men, whose parrot-powers have enabled them to store their memories, with a few scraps of borrowed Latin, and some of the technical verbiage of the schools; and who, therefore, endeavor, by their garrulous prating, to make all with whom they have to do, think them extremely wise. There are others, who have made it their business to attend to the smaller things — the pegs, and knobs, and tiles — omitting things of more importance, in the architecture of language — they devote themselves to the shadowy niceties, and attenuated ^J^'^^^i'^esses of style, as well as to puerile distinctions, about the laws of mind, the logomachies of science, and the canons of criticism ; and seem forever, to overlook the intellectual reach, the imaginative grasp, the bold discursion, and impulsive energy : without which, there is, and can be, no real greatness. It might be useful to suggest here, that it is possible to make a good use of language, without, in every instance, making a grammatical use of it ; and a man may be extensively acquainted with the whole encyclopedia of science, without having minutely 144 INAUGURAL ADDRESS. attended to all the latent laws and principles of systematic association. Few men ever made a better use of language, than Dr. Johnson, Mr. Addison, Dr. Blair, and Sir Walter Scott ; although it is known, that they have all, in their best productions, occasionally fallen into violations of syntax ; and yet, no one who is not paid for finding fault, would ever tliink of detracting from the merits of these distino-uished benefactors of the Engflish laniifuaofe. Before we dismiss this subject, it is worthy of notice, that, however estimable a knowledfje of the dead lanscuao-es may be, it is only subsidiary to the attainment of a good education. — We are not to think and converse in Greek and Latin ; and no man deserves the title of a scholar, without being accurately instructed in the knowledge of his own native language ; for language is not only the medium of communication, but the great instrument of thought. It must be self-evident to every one, that we think through the medium of lanouage, as it exists in the mind. In the same proportion, therefore, that we cultivate justness of expression in language, we facilitate the important work and labor of thought and reflection. We may, also, add here, that in the acquisition of science and general learning, Greece and Rome should not be the exclusive models of literary ambition. We would leave enough of the leaven of antiquity, to prevent a distempered precocity in modern erudition ; but would not admit so much devotion to what has been, as to prevent a proper and extensive acquaintance with what now exists. We would, likewise, discourage a too miscellaneous course of application, as tending (as all superfluity must) to mental debility, and often terminating in intellectual poverty. He who thinks he can make himself acquainted with all the bulki/ tomes, written and accessible, on the subjects of history, antiquities, government, religion, law, taste, criticism, and general philology — has imder- INAUGURAL ADDRESS. 146 taken a task, which a life of ten centuries could not accomplish, — Much, therefore, will depend upon a jvidi- cious selection of standard elementary works on these various topics, both at school and subsequently. From language, we proceed to the notice of history. History is necessary to a proper knowledge of man, and acquaintance with the world. Without its aid, it is impos- sible to arrive at the truth respecting the former periods of the world — and the character and operations of contem- porary nations and individuals. History implies a " Inie relation of facts and events;" and such a narrative is always calculated to improve man — whether we contem- plate him in a moral, political, or religious point of view. The details of history inspire the ingenuous mind with the love of virtue, and a hatred of vice. The student of history has examples of every kind before him ; and from the connection invariably found to exist between virtue and happiness, vice and misery, he is led to the choice of the one, and tl'.e rejection of the other. Of the utility or folly of political associations and civil compacts, we can best judge from history : here everything has been tested by experience — and we are disposed to profit by example. Scipio Africanus owed much of his greatness, to the pages of Xenophon ; and the illustrious Eugene was led to the creation of his splendid fortunes, by the study of Caesar's commentaries. In fact, all scientific governments must be founded upon history : it is the great school of the legislator, the politician, and the prince. The Republic of Plato, the Eutopia of More, and the Oceana of Har- rington, are shaded in disrepute, when compared with a history of accredited fjicts. Example is more efficacious than precept. — We lose siglit of the lessons of Plato and Socrates, in admiration of the stern virtues of Aristides and Phocion. That history, on these accounts, is friendly VOL. n — 13. 146 INAUGURAL ADDRESS. to morality and devotion, as well as to the general happiness of man, requires no illustration — having for its subjects, tlie dispensations of God and the actions of men — both, legitimately, come within the range of religious feeling and contemplation. History is the record of past events, and renders us familiar with the story of tlie world — and without it, our knowledge of nature, of Providence, and of man, would be exceedingly deficient : it is, therefore, connected with the great interests of religion and piety. History bears the same relation to ethics, in the department of morality, that experiment does to physics, in the Baconian philosophy : indeed, all knowledge is useless, only as it becomes subservient to morals and virtue. Chronology is essential to a proper knowledge of history : it teaches the regulation and comjmtution of time, as ascertained and defined by the revolutions of the earth and moon. It relates, principally, to time past — and is concerned in fixing and arranging the various events, which become the subject of history. Geograplnj, as connected with, and in some sense a part of history, should have an early place in the progress of learning. Like history, it will enlarge the comprehension and weaken the prejudices of the learner — it will gradually lead him beyond the control of sensation, and will prevent undue confidence in abstract speculation. It will always be the medium of important topics of information, con- nected with general history, both civil and natural. Were this the place, we Avould respectfully suggest, that the study of geography, at first should be entirely confined to the topography of the pupil's immediate vicinity, and that of his own country ; gradually enlarging the sphere of geographical knowledge, until the surface of the globe be embraced in a practical and popular course of instruction. The pupil will then be prepared to enter upon a Scientific INAUGURAL ADDRESS. 147 course of geography, especially iu connection with latitude and lonuiUide. Biography is also important to a proper knowledge of history. If we would know mankind, we must study Tnan. The best way to know the human heart, is, to study the lives of imrticular men, in the various relations of life. Tlie works of Suetonius and Plutarch will evince the correctness of this remark. The bare mention of Moral Science, presents a range of remark, to which it is impossible to do justice, within the limits of the present address. Philosophy has been defined to be, a knowledge of nature, (in its largest sense,) variously applied to practical and useful purposes. This knowledge, when it respects physical objects, and has reference to matter, is styled natural philosophy. When it relates to the nature, laws, or operations of mind, it is called moral philosophy, and is divided into two parts, — pneumatology, comprehending the whole range of natural theology and psychology, properly denominated the philosophy of the human mind. It is the leoitimate and discriminatino- province of moral science, to analyze the springs of intellect and action. It teaches the syntax of mind and morals. Logic, as a branch of moral science, will come in for its share of the student's time and attention. It is the impor- tant common-sense art, reduced to proper system, of forming just ideas and premises, and deducing from them, natural and right conclusions. It treats of the human understanding, and is principally confined to perception, judgment, reasoning, and method. Our remarks, on this subject, might be extended, but we are compelled to omit many of the subdivisions of moral science. The natural sciences, are worthy of particular considera- tion. Natural History embraces all the infinitely varied forms of matter — the surface and internal structure of the 148 INAUGUKAL ADDRESS. ^ earth — tlie laws and phencmena of the ocean — the atmosphere, and the heavens. Universal nature is the workmanship of God, and natural history is the record of his operations ; and hence we perceive at once, what may be the moral influence of this delightful study. In its almost illimitable range, natural history explores the animal, the vegetable, and mineral kingdoms ; and these again present themselves in various subdivisions, and each department is a science. The business and limits of the life of one man, forbid an acquaintance with all these subjects, but much may be attained by diligence and application, and be successfully applied to the common interests of humanity. It is the province of natural pJiilosophy, to exhibit the causes of the phenomena of the universe, and the laivs of motion, in relation to all known bodies throughout nature. It belongs to natural history to present us with the facts — and natural philosophy accowz^^ for them. The former treats of the appearances of all natural bodies, separately considered — while the latter discusses their properties and mutual action upon each other. In this department of science, if we would conquer, we must divide. Experiment and analysis are indispensable. Chemistry has for its object, to ascertain and determine, the first principles — the elementary ingredients of which all inatler is composed. The empire of Chemistry, is co- extensive with the kingdom of nature, embracing all solids, fluids, gases, and ethereal substances ; and in an infinite variety of forms, is applied to practical purposes. It ascer- tains the specific properties of bodies, by analysis and combination ; analyzing them into their constituent parts, and bringing to light the mysterious laws of their combina- tion. Chemistiy extends to all the forms and combinations of physical nature — rain, hail, snow, dews, winds, and INAUGURAL ADDRESS. 149 waves, are all subjected to her experiments. Chemistry is especially essential to the existence and success of manu- factures and agriculture — the smith, the glass-blower, the potter, the tanner, the dyer, the bleacher, the farmer, are all practical chemists. The mechanic arts, and all the modes of husbandry, have this grand science as their basis. Its importance, therefore, must be obvious to the most superficial observer. Botany will spread before the disciple of Linneus, the whole kingdom of vegetation — the enchanting dominions of Flora ; from the hyssop on the wall, to the cedar of Lebanon ; from the attenuated fibre of the moss, to the majestic oak and stately palm. It will display the beauty and variety of nature, as well as the various uses for food, for raiment, for comfort, for medicine, and for many of the arts, to which vegetable productions are applied. It enables us to select the esculents of the table — to furnish the wardrobe — warm our apartments, and adorn the parterre. It also supplies, to a great extent, the materials of the chemical laboratory, and the materia medica. Mineralogy will lead you below the earth's surface, into mines, (from which the word is derived,) and subterranean places, in search of the rich materials, embosomed beneath the crust of the earth, embracing earth and stones, salts, inflammables, and metals; all intended for use and ornament; such as iron, clay, marble, gold, and diamonds. The Fossil kingdom will also afford improving amusement, introducing the student to the spoils of the ocean, and the various phenomena of petrifactions. Geology investigates and describes the internal structure of the earth — the arrangement of its component materials — the circumstances attendant upon its original organiza- tion — the successive states under which it has existed, and the many changes to which it has been subjected, since the 1 50 INAUGURAL ADDRESS. creation of its primitive substance. It unfolds the solid structure of the globe — it discovers, by what causes, its several parts have been arranged, or disorganized, and from what operations have originated the general stratification of its materials ; the irregularities of its surface, and the vast variety of bodies entering into its conformation. Astronomy holds a high rank among the natural sciences. It treats of the magnitude, motions, distance, arrangement, phenomena, laws, and revolutions of the heavenly bodies. On this subject, however, we deem it unimportant to enlarge. The Mathematical sciences are worthy of peculiar regard in a course of scientific instruction. From the days of Thales to the present time, the study of mathematics has been deemed of vast importance to the proper culture and discipline of the human mind. The denomination of this science originally as derived from the Greeks, properly denoted discipline — a system of learning, or study — any organized method of mental application ; but in its more modern, and now universally received acceptation, it is used to distinguish that science, which contemplates what- ever is capable of being numbered or measured. The popular division of the science is into arithmetic and geometry: the first having mimhers for its object — the second treating of magnitude. A more philosophical divi- sion, however, is into pure or speculative mathematics, which treat of abstract quantity — and mixed mathematics, which contemplate magnitude, as existing in all physical bodies. The dignity and value of mathematical knowledge, have long been out of dispute. It was the first of the sciences regularly reduced to order — the first human study converted into a science. This was efl'ected by Euclid, Archimedes, and Apollonius — the princes of ancient geom- etry. This noble and masculine study, teaches us to measure with indubitable certainty, time, space, and dis- INAUGURAL ADDRESS. 151 taiice; it determines the relations, comparison, and ratio of quantities ; the earth's surface is measured, and apportioned to its inliabitants ; seas and oceans are navigated with safety and dispatch ; and the pupil of mathematical science, is seen wanderino: amonff the stars, numberinfjc the multitude, and reporting the dimensions of the heavenly bodies. The direct tendency of mathematical study, is to produce in the mind a habit of just conception, accurate research, and correct deduction. It induces, to a great extent, a rational mode of thought — and is eminently useful, in divesting the mind of ambiguity and prejudice, in all the processes of thought and inquiry. But this is not the invariable effect of mathematical study, which principally directs our atten- tion to the relations of figure and quantity. That it ig extensively useful in promoting attentive investigation and correct reasoning, is readily admitted and contended for ; but should not, at the same time, be too much relied on, as niecessarily creating correct habits of investigation, in the department of philosophical inquiry. Some of the best mathematicians on earth, have been bungling reasoners on mind and morals ; while, on the other hand, some of the ablest metaphysicians, the world has ever produced, have been almost entirely ignorant of mathematical science. While this engaging study strengthens and exercises the reasoning faculty, it gives comparatively little employment to the other intellectual powers, in the examination of moral and probable truth, but unhappily, too often, leads the mind to the admission of data, whose direct tendency is to lead it astray, because the distinctive difference between mathematical science and moral truth, is not duly preserved and properly applied. Mathematical science, therefore, can only be looked upon as an efficient auxiliary in the attainment of moral and philosophical trutli. In point of certainty, mathematical science stands pre-eminent. It not 152 INAUGURAL ADDRESS. only demonstrates a proposition to be true, but proves its contrary to be false — this, in any instance, is tlie height of demonstration. In one word, the certainty of self- evidence attends this science in every stage of its progress. Polite literature and the arts, comprehending tlie inter- esting topics of taste, criticism, music, painting, poetry, sculpture, agriculture, commerce, and architecture — are well worthy a niche in the temple of science. It properly belongs to the department o^ belles-lettres to combine taste, beauty and elegance, as the contingent and accidental attributes of language. Rhetoric teaches us to use lanrruage, so as to combine splendor and efi'ect — and should be studied in reference to both — especially the latter. It is, to a great extent, according to Longinus and Quintillian, the Language of the heart — the eloquence of feeling — the appeal of passion, regularly reduced to rules of art. It is the language of imagination, guided by judgment and taste — warm, abrupt, interjective, exclamatory — full of image, energy, and per- sonification : and these, as the natural symbols of feeling and passion, make a strong and lasting impression. We must, however, as peculiarly appropriate on the present occasion, confine our attention in this place, prin- cipally, to the subject of agriculture. By Agriculture, we understand the art of causing the earth to bring forth, in the greatest perfection and plenty, the various kinds of vegetable production, essential to the support and comfort of man. As it is intended to teach agri(;ulture in this institution as a science, and practically exemplify its principles in the gardens and grounds attached to the institution, for this purpose — it will not be improper to offer you a few remarks on this subject. It is a subject of acknowledged importance, in every division of the civilized world. The culture of the earth, is coeval with rNAUGURAL ADDRESS. 153 the existence of our race. When man came fresh and immortal from the liands of his Creator, he was placed in an enchanting well-furnished garden, and the command of the Creator was, to "dress and keep it ;" and after the fearful defection of man, the obligation to " till the ground " was renewed. — The appointment of Heaven ordained, that by the " sweat of his brow," he should cultivate the soil, and procure his bread by a perpetual contention with the " thorn and the thistle." The knowledge and the necessity of primitive agriculture survived the flood, and its operations were revived in the rural employments of Noah and his sons. The interests of husbandry were extensively pursued by Abraham and his descendants in Palestine. The Chaldeans, in whose country agriculture had its birth — and the first man was the first " tiller of the ground " — seem to have carried the art to great pei-fection. The Phoenicians were proverbially skillful and efficient, as agriculturalists. The Athenians first introduced ao-riculture into Greece ; and soon the herds of savages, then infesting the since illustrious country of Greece, abandoned the acorn and the root of the wood and the wild, for the peacefid and productive occupations of domestic husbandry : even their kings finally encouraged agriculture, not only as ? laudable pursuit, but as an honorable employment. A .nong the ancient Romans, the higliest honor they attempted to confer on a citizen, was to award to him the distinction of having a well cultivated farm. Even the most renowned heroes, warriors, and senators, were practical and laborious arrriculturalists. During the dark ages, the arts and uses of husbandry were greatly neglected. Even in England, but little attention was paid to agriculture, until the fourteenth century. Agriculture was first reduced to something like a science in England, by Fitzherbert, in the sixteenth 154 INAUGURAL ADDRESS. century; and has since been gradually improving — until the establishment, some thirty years ago, of the celebrated " Board of Agriculture and Internal Improvement." To this institution, the world is indebted, for more than one hundred volumes of the most valuable ao-ricultural research. Great interest is excited, at present, on this subject, in our own country ; and agriculture bids fair, to become the most accessible, and best understood science, in the whole rana'e of human attainment. Love of country is a natural and universal passion, and no pursuit is so well calculated to inspire it, as that of agriculture ; and in this respect particularly, it is preferable to commerce ; the tendencies of which, especially foreign commerce, are directly the reverse. In any country and in every situation, agriculture is essential to the increase, subsistence, and happiness of man. — In all the stages of society it is alike needful to its well being, and accordingly, it has been held in the highest repute from the most remote ages. Gideon, the illustrious judge and warrior of Israel, was called from the plow to preside over the Providential fortunes of that nation. Cincinnatus, immor- talized by the conquest of the Volsci, forsook his plow to lead the Roman armies to battle and to victory. The Emperor of China is seen at the plow every sprmg, anu at the close of each harvest the best farmer is by him created a Mandarin. Our own Washington, whose name shall be hallowed by the homage of ages, was devoted to agriculture even to passion, and one of his proudest dis- tinctions was that of a good farmer. Hesiod has sung in no mean verse the "praises of the plow." Xenophon in his Economics has enlarged upon the importance of agri- culture, and Cicero in his Dialogue on "old age," has done the same. Hartlib, the friend and correspondent of Milton, Marshall, Anderson, and Young, have all contributed INAUGURAL ADDRESS. 153 to the revival of agriculture, not only iu England, but throuo-hout the world. Agriculture is peculiarly favorable to freedom and independence. When Greece and Rome were free, they Avere proverbially an agricultural people, and only ceased to be such when tyranny overspread those countries. The glory of Italy, and especially the fruitfulness of the Camjmgna di Roma departed with the reio-n of despotism, and the golden fields of the Campania, suno- by Virgil, have long since, under the blasting inlluence of oppression, been converted into swamps and morasses. The Israelites after their settlement in Canaan, were an agricultural people, and they doubled their population every twenty-seven years. In the United States, the most perfectly ao-ricultural nation on earth, this is done every twenty-five years — while in modern Europe, if Adam Smith be correct, it requires five hundred years to double the number of inhabitants. Emigration will have a very partial bearing upon this question, and the great disparity is no doubt chiefly owing to agriculture. Universal history sustains the position that whenever a nation becomes slack, in its attention to the concerns of agriculture, it must be owing in a great measure, to the want of a proper regard foi freedom and independence, the tone of genuine patriotic feelino- is lowered and enfeebled. In the Netherlands where agriculture exists in great perfection, each square mile averages two hundred and seventy-five inhabitants, while in Russia where agriculture is but little attended to, the ratio is only seventeen. One fact in the history of man on which we cannot forbear to insist, is, that no nation of the eartii has ever enjoyed the advantages of civilization in the total neglect of agriculture. — They are inseparably connected in the progress of society. The importance of proper eftbrc to promote agriculture, is demonstrable from the prevailing disinclination of mankind to attend to its peaceful but labi> 156 INAUGURAL ADDRESS. rious pursuits. The savage himself is unwilling to abandon the hunter state for that of the herdsman, and finally that of the agriculturalist — while on the other hand civilized man has shown himself but too prone to relapse into the ease and idleness attendant upon the care of his migratory flocks, and finally the pleasures and excitements of the chase. As the command of Heaven therefore was originally necessary to induce man to cultivate the earth, so are the efforts of the enlightened and philosophic, now necessary to keep up proper attention to this most important of all human arts. The affinity between chemistry and agricul- ture is striking, and the principles of the one should be faithfully applied to the other. The chemist and agricul- turalist, as Mr. Madison justly remarks, are " fellow students." Accordingly agriculture is biught as a science in the Swedish, Danish, and some of the German Univer- sities. There is also an agricultural professorship in the University of Edinburgh. The propriety of an academic course of instruction on this subject is recommended by Locke, Milton, and Watson of LlandafF. The celebrated Fcllenberg school, near Berne in Switzerland, is mainly devoted to the interests of agriculture, by its able and judicious patron of the same name. A drill-farm where all the operations of the field are carried on, and practically illustrated in the garden, has been found by Mr. Fellenbei-g the most advantageous method of instruction in the appli- cation of the principles of husbandry. Commerce, is neces- sarily precarious and fluctuating, it is always at the mercy of the winds and waves wafting it from shore to shore, it necessarily creates dependence and leads to slavery ; one commercial nation is always subjected to the caprice, extortion, and exorbitant claims of anotlier. Cast your eyes along the streets of Antwerp and Glient — the grass now waves, where three centuries ago the earth groaned INAUGURAL ADDRESS. 157 with wares, and was thronged with merchants. The whole coast of Mauritania, once laden with the treasures, and lighted Willi the splendors of commerce, agriculture and the arts, is now the haunt of tigers and the retreat of pirates. Bagdad once the mart of commerce, agriculture and the arts, is now a desolation. The fertile fields and harvest plains of Fez and Morocco, where agriculture smiled in plenty for five centuries, are now deserts and Avastes of sand and sterility ; and many other instances might be adduced. Agriculture therefore, is the great basis of human subsistence. It is strictly an art of necessity — it is the only durable source and foundation of power and plenty ; and with every intelligent and patriotic people, should have precedence of the arts of convenience and elegance. Commerce has been aptly termed the younger sister, always, in every emergency, looking to agriculture for defense and supply. Agriculture doubly repays the hus- bandman. She yields him harvest, "tliirty, sixty, and an hundred fold " — and in the mean time, promotes health, vigor, and activity. Dion the historian, has recorded of Romulus, that the only employments he left for freemen, were agriculture and warfare : and throughout Rome, at this period, the agriculturalist and the soldier, met in the same individual. Such was the high repute in which agriculture was held in Greece, that Varro enumerates j^/y authors, who, in his time, had written on the subject. In Rome, it often happened, that the same hand guided the plow and the helm of state, and erected the standard of her victorious legions ! Regulus, in the midst of his conquests in Africa, asked leave of the Roman Senate, to return and cultivate his farm, which had been neglected, during his absence, and attention to battle and arms. Cato, whom Pliny styles the best farmer of his age, says '* those 158 INAUGURAL ADDRESS. who exercise the art of agriculture, are, of all others, the least addicted to evil thoughts," — that is, less exposed to temptation. For, to conclude our remarks on this subject, we consider agriculture, as the first and most respectable, of all the arts and sciences. — It is the principal profession of mankind — the most honest, the most useful, and the most respectable secular profession, in the world. Such is abrief outhne — averyimperfectsurvey,of aliberal course of study — and such the advantages resulting from it. Liberty has always been dependent on intelligence. Igno- rant rulers seldom fail to be tyrants. The iisual resort of those who fail to produce co?ivtc^40W, is to oj^press and punish. Freedom duly balanced and properly regulated, has no bulwark, except in the intelligence of the people : and all history informs us, that political and religious melioration, must result from the same source. " Knowledge is power." — It gave liberty to Greece, and glory to Rome : and their return to barbarism, was owing, in a ffreat measure, to the manner in which their love of wealth and pleasure, superseded that of Letters. England, Germany, and France, owe their comparatively late improve- ments, and partial regeneration, to the same and kindred causes. — The principle, however, is most happily illustrated, in the history of the United States. But without entering into detail in relation to this or other countries, we would remark, that it is of the very nature, and properly belongs to the o-enius of Protestantism, as well as the civil institu- tions of our country, to impart knowledge to every class of society — to diffuse it through the great mass of the people. All our established maxims of legislation and jurisprudence, concede the right of private judgment and liberty of conscience ; and hence the importance of inform- inc^ the mind of the multitude, and promoting intellectual in view of moral culture. rNAUG URAL ADDRESS. 159 Visit tlie classic, but profaned ruins of Athens and Rome — and ask the genius of the place, or the page of history, where is the freedom immortalized by the Philip- pics of Demosthenes, and the orations of Cicero ? And the one and the other will answer — knowledge departed, and liberty was exiled ! Polished Greece, therefore, and impe- rial Rome, owed their distinction to Letters. And what is it knowledge cannot achieve ? — It has transformed the ocean into the highway of nations. — Steam, fire, wind, and wave, all minister to the comforts and elegancies of life. The cold and insensible marble speaks and breathes. — The pencil of Raphael gives body and soul to color, light, and shade. — The magnet, the mysterious polarity of the loadstone, conducts man over the bosom of the deep, to the islands of the sea — while the glass introduces him to the heavens, and kindles his devotion, amid the grandeur of a thousand worlds ! Splendid indeed are the effects, that the names and productions of a few individuals, have realized to their cotemporaries and posterity. Instance Moses, Homer, Euclid, Columbus, Luther, Bacon, and Newton. The first of these alone, has furnished incalculable millions with the only authentic history of the world for twenty-three hundred years. The second, astonishingly exemplifies the eflect of learning ; the power of letters — possessed of unbounded invention, the Epic splendor of his works has never been equaled : to surpass their beauty and sublimity would be impossible. Although he details the fall of thousands in battle, no two of his heroes are wounded in the same manner. His arrow is ever impatient to be on the wing — and his weapon always thirsts for blood. Every sentence is composed of living words, and teems with life and action ! Poets, philosophers, legislators, historians, actors, and heroes, have literally been created by the sovereignty of genius, and 160 INAUGURAL ADDRESS. the power of invention, in the history of a solitary individual. From him, Sparta and Macedon derived the love of glory, and of war ; and from him, Athens and Egypt selected the models of learning and poetry. In him the historian sought his guide — the philosopher his defense, the poet his fire, the critic his rules — and the hero his tactics: and had Homer never sung, therefore, the republic of letters would have been deprived of much that is valuable in literature. What should we have known of the siege of Troy, and the wanderings of Ulysses. The third produced a work, on the essential elements of Geometry, tAvo thousand years ago, which was never bent to the innovations or improve- ments of any succeeding age : but to the present day, stands unrivaled, as a work of superior merit and unpre- cedented perfection. The discoveries resulting from the nautical skill and daring adventure of Columbus, have issued in the happi- ness of past, present, and unborn millions. The labors of Luther and his coadjutors under God, led to the emancipa- tion of religion and science, from the accursed toils of Ignorance and superstition througliout the world. The Verulamian, or Baconian Philosophy dissipated the imper- vious mist of intellectual darkness, which had hovered over the nations for ages. While the Newtonian System, laying bare the phenomena of the universe, in the discovery of the principle of universal gravitation, and the composition of light, reclaimed our isolated planet from its unnatural expatriation, and gave it its proper rank and station in the great family of surrounding worlds ! It will be perceived that what we mainly insist upon in this address, is the value of learning, of various learning, in the formation of character, and its importance in order to the individual happiness of man, as well as the beneficial bearing it has upon the character and prosperity of com- INAUGURAL ADDRESS. 161 munities and nations. Its obvious and almost tinfailincf tendency ia to enrich the mind, refine the taste, and improve the heart. It renders communities happy and nations invincible. Had Carthage loved letters in proportion to her ambition for wealth, Rome had never been her historian; and she might have vied with her conquerors on the page of immortality, if indeed she had ever been conquered. Look at Spain, once as learned, and until Charles V., as free as any of the nations of Europe ; what were the causes that contributed to her degradation ? They were evidently moral causes — ■ implicit submission and passive obedience to the Roman See, and civil despotism, led to a relapse into all her ancient ignorance and servility. Science and peace and plenty no longer adorn the plains of Castile and Arra- gon, and the classic glory of Sierra Morena,of the Pyrrenees and the Asturias has long since departed ! What has become of the renowned universities of Cufa and Bassoro ? Oppression banished knowledge, and they are buried in the grave of years ! Bagdad and Cordova were once the brightest spots in Saracenic story, the flourishing seats of Arabian literature, but their sun has set for af^es, in the cheerless gloom of Mohammedan barbarity and savage debasement. Where now are the fundamental resources of individual comfort and social grandeur — the plenitude and the polish of means and morals, enclosed within the walls of ancient Byzantium, as they rose to heaven, and bid defi- ance to the world upon the Thracian coast of the Propontis — the first city on earth dedicated and appropriated to the service and furtherance of the Christian religion ? Alas ! they have all found a grave in the living sepulchre of modern Constantinople ! Let memory for a moment sketch the desolate map of Greece. Where now are the walks of Genius and the retreats of the Muses, upon the banks of the Illisus, and VOL. II — 14. 162 INAUGURAL ADDRESS. the Argora of Athens ? Where is the Grove of Plato, the Lyceum of Aristotle, and the Porch of Zeno ? We have to repeat, alas ! Greece is no longer the theater of learning, and Athens is only endeared to us as the Alma mater of the literary world ! The influence of Education upon political society has been forcibly exemplified in all ages — inform the mind of the multitude, and they will have discernment to discover their real and best interests ; and their own welfare and patriotic feelings will prompt them to seek the good of their country. But when they are ignorant and liable to be misled by every political ignis fatuus, they, always, inva- riably, become the dupes of misguided zeal, and the property of unprincipled demagogues. We proceed to notice, the i^resent liros'pects of Literature throughout the world. These fully justify the estimate we have placed upon its value. The prevalence, to an unpre- cedented extent, of the useful arts throughout the civilized world, and their recent introduction among scores of savage nations, strongly evince the cultivation and growth of science. For the sciences are properly the basis of the arts, although in some instances the arts precede them in the order of time, and lead to their discovery. If we go back to the origin, the genesis of scientific knowledge, and trace its varied progress amid all its fluctuating fortunes, we shall be aston- ished at its present extent and perfection. The spirit of enterprise and the ardor of research are abroad in the earth; former discoveries are improved upon, and new paths and fields are explorijig — each generation is more active and inquisitive than its predecessor, and the splendid march of mind bids fair greatly to lessen the sum of human evil, and meliorate the condition of the human race. The wide diffusion of knowledge is the characteristic of the ao-e. The aspects of the moral world indicate with encourao-ino- INAUGURAL ADDRKSS, ♦ 163 distinctness, that a new and nobler era in the progress of knowledge, is opening- upon mankind. We apply this remark with peculiar pride, to our own country. The literary character of the United States is rapidly improving, its eastern and northern sections are vieing with Europe in the erection and endowment of colleges and universities ; and science even in the valley of the West can boast her schools and scholars, where but a half century ago, unvis- ited by the foot of civilized man, the silence of the unbroken wilderness, was only disturbed by the scream of the panther and the yell of the savage. And we feel a daring consciousness — an almost pro- phetic persuasion, that should we add to an indulgence in the lofty aims of an imperishable ambition, corresponding vigor and skill of effort, this country is destined, at no distant period, to rise and take its stand among the lettered nations of the old world. Religion and science are, already, taught in one hundred and forty difierent dialects : — hand in hand, united in immortal wedlock, they are everywhere extending their empire, and multiplying their votaries. The collective mind of universal man, seems to have cauo-ht o the "classic contagion" — and it is difl'using itself, with epidemic energy, over sea and land. We are aware, how- ever, that the progress of knowledge will be opposed. Ignorance, tyranny, and tyrants, have always been opposed to light and knowledge : and as Caligula wished to destroy the works of Homer, Livy, and Virgil, so have tliese, whether in church or in state, aimed at the defeat of every essay, calculated to inspire a love of liberty, equality, and virtue. It is, indeed, to be regretted, that even in this ao-e of moral illumination and virtuous chivalry, there are the incurious and the careless, who take no interest in the im- provement and march of mind — and whose only pleasure pppears to be derived from an ignorance of duty. Swayed 164 INAUGURAL ADDRESS. in the lower ranks of society, by a love of things present, and in the higher, by the mania of property, if they can only "eat, drink, and be merry" — if they can hoard wealtli, count the miser's gains, and revel in luxury, it is all they care for. These haters of knowledge — these contemners of wisdom — these drudges of avarice and cupidity, at once the curse and the nuisance of society, coiud have seen at Alexandria and at Rome, without emo- tion or a tear, the long regretted monuments of genius and glory, perish in the flames ! " Away with your learning!" is an argument with which we are met on every side. And this language of Mecca — this motto of the Vatican, comes from an American, a Christian, the father of a group of children, flanking his door and yard, some of whom will probably go from the gallows to the bar of God, or rot in the penitentiary cells of their country, for the want of that education, which the meanness of an unnatural father, has murderously withheld from the " children of his own bowels !" In proportion, therefore, to the love you bear your chil- dren — in proportion to the ardor with which you long for their happiness — by how much you desire them to live respectably and usefully, and hand their names down to posterity, as worthy the brotherhood of man — by so much will you endeavor by day and by night, and by all the means in your power, to furnish their youthful and elastic minds, with the fundamental principles of a good education — of virtue, morality, and religion. In this event, natural talent will evolve — the intellectual faculties and moral powers, rooted in nature and cherished by art, will be brought into successful and beneficial action. If it be asked, then, why we contend for education, and how we account for its present rapid and increasing diffusion — we answer — because it is essential to human happiness — it INAUGURAt. ADDRESS. 166 is the declared will of God — and is destined, in many important points of view, to harbinger the promised era, the concluding epoch of the world — when the splendid objects of education and religion, shall, everywhere, be realized to man. A thousand physical and moral causes, are now in suc- cessful operation, to produce these grand results : and the intellectual topographer, in casting his eye over the face of the earth, can already see, that the first and fondest feelings of the human heart, in every civilized nation, are co-opera- tinc: with the desi"'ns and arrans^ements of Providence, in the accomplishment of Heaven's beneficient and unfolding purposes to man. The history, even of our own times, has demonstrated, that the telescope is a more powerful weapon than the cannon — and that knowledge is more triumphant than arms, in the conquest of human pride and passion. The observations of the philosopher, as well as the notices of Scripture, unite in giving assurance to man, that the ultimate regeneration of his race, will depend upon the operation of principles, too sublime and heavenly in their nature and origin, to derive any lustre from the "Altar of Hannibal, or the victor standard of Scipio Afri- canus!" It would seem, however, that in the moral government of the world, owing to the wickedness of man- kind, chastisement is, occasionally, in providential demand ; and sometimes the God of heaven employs the evils of war, as a rod of correction to the human family. War, there- fore, with all its horrors, may be good, as an instrument and scourr/e, in the hand of God — viewed in any other light, it is to be deprecated as a universal curse, and when the purposes of this world's chastisement, shall have been effected by it, it shall subside forever. Let freedom and science,^ virtue and religion, continue their march ; let the deep-rooted and fondly-cherished prin- 166 INAUGtJRAL ADDRESS. ciples of civil and religious liberty, continue to flourish in this country, in the South American Republics, in England, in the German Empire, and in Greece — and the time is not very far remote, when these and the opposmg elements of ignorance and despotism, will meet in some decisive struggle, or a succession of them, and the conflict will be like the meeting of adverse comets — the shock will convulse the world ; but it will prepare the way for its regeneration, at the same time ■ — and the fearful elemental strife, will termi- nate in the consummation of the wishes of philanthropy and the hopes of religion ! Of the tinion of science and religion, we have, perhaps, already, said enough. It is the design of the one and the other, to improve the condition of man, and further his happiness. Science will impart more enlarged views, of the nature, character, and operations of the Deity. The vast, the stupendous whole of his creation, will be presented to the eye of the observer — and tlie varieties of the universe, will, impressively, adumbrate the grandeur and the resources of the great Father of all. The laws and phenomena of nature, unfold to the eye of science, the constant agency of the Creator — and present us with a thousand proofs, of our entire dependence upon his superior power. Science, by spreading out before us, the unbounded range of being, afibrds us a corresponding survey of the Empire of Jehovah ; and without a knowledge of the extent of His dominions, it is impossible, rightly, to conceive of His character and claims. Science successfully enlarges our views of the plans and operations of Providence — past, present, and to come — in relation to the physical and moral concerns of the world. It produces an expansion of mind, a liberality of sentiment, a generousness of feeling, seldom to be met with in any other connection — in reference to the works and ways of God, and the opinions and actions of men. It INAUGURAL ADDRESS. 167 induces modesty of understanding, humility of heart — furnishes powerful motives to piety, and leads to the love and contemplation of the Creator, a knowledge of whom and whose works, constitutes the soul and sum of science. The well-instructed pupil of religion and science, walks abroad upon the earth ; he surveys the works and the wonders of created and uncreated nature : God is in all, and all in God ; and he listens to the lessons of virtue and piety, published by the all-subduing spectacle — the blended voice of confederated worlds ! Such, therefore, is the tranquil grandeur of a well-educated mind : the whole store-house of knowledge lies at the feet of the Christian philosopher — and the fundamental resources of the human understanding, are ever ready to relieve and supply him, in every emergence. He must, and will, in common with others, be subject to the ordinary and allotted evils of life — the ills and depressions incident to humanity ; from these, virtue, itself, pleads no exemption ; for even, " The Eoliaii harp, that Heaven's pure breezes fill, must breathe, at times, a melancholy strain." But in every vicissitude of weal or of woe, he stands like ocean's rock, breasting the rage of the billow, and the wrath of the sky — secure in the possession of a good, worthy indeed of the Giver — which earth, elements, and fortune, are as unable to destroy as they were originally to bestow ! A few concluding remarks, and we have done. Of our infant seminary, it becomes us to speak with modesty, although authorized to indulge in the language of hope. As it respects the character of Madison college, called, by permission after the venerable Ex-President Madison, of Virginia ; and the i>rinciples upon which it is established, we have to remark, that it is purely and exclusively, a literary institution ; we do not, we will not, compound with anything sectarian or selfish. It is true, the institution has 168 INAUGURAL ADDRESS. been established under the patrq^ge of the Pittsburgh Annual Conference, of the Methodist Episcopal Church ; and to that enterprising body, as well as to other sources, we look for fiscal and other aid ; but as the authorized agent and representative of that body, I am instructed to pledge their public faith, that the only object we have in view, is to promote the interests of religion and science, upon broad and liberal principles, and upon a plan, excluding all local, sectional, or party interests. With regard to the course of study, and method of instruction, adopted in this institu- tion, the necessity of detail, is, in a gi'eat measure, superseded, by the publication of the laws of the college, in which is contained an outline of the system of education intended to be pursued. Our observations, therefore, will be general, and of a miscellaneous character. In conducting this seminary, we shall adopt no hackneyed original — we shall endeavor to disabuse education of some of its errors and defects — we shall scrupulously avail our- selves of the best ancient models of instruction, as well as the most judicious modern improvements. Some of our maxims, not usual in the literary institutions of this country, have been taken from the Fallenberg, and some from the Pestallozian schools of Switzerland. Ours is properly the inductive — the analytic system ; for we deem it a desideratum in the history of education, that some plan be adopted by the teacher, for the purpose of rendering the processes of education throughout, an i7itel' lectual labor, and not a bare effort of memory and imitation, without reflection and analysis. The use of words without proper inquiry into their meaning, is worse than absolute ignorance, for it burdens the mind and memory with ware's Avhich cannot possibly be of any service to the learner. In the art of instruction, simplicity of plan and perspicuity of style, are of great importance. Nothing can be more INAUGURAL ADDRESS. 169 detrimental to correct habits of thinking, than the "gothic jargon" of indefinite technicalities, too often employed by the scientific teacher, wlttiout sense or meaning ; and it often happens that the pupil is longer ascertaining the significa- tion of a single harharotis term, than he would have been in mastering the whole connection in which it is found, had it been presented in the language and livery of common sense. We have no hesitation in supposing, that, were the sciences disburdened of their present unnatural and super- fluous nomenclature, they would be learned much more readily and in nearly half the time. This remark applies with peculiar force, to almost all the natural sciences. The evils of which we complain, lead moreover, in but too many instances, to pedantry and affectation in the teacher, and to superficial smartness and quackery in his pupils. Sensible teachers charged with the instruction of youth in the present state of literature, will avoid this evil in the best way they can. The maxim oi Lavoisier is a good one : — " Let the word produce the idea, and the idea be a picture of the/ad." " lAQiXii first and then words," says Rousseau, or rather, in the intellectual creations of education, the Avord and the idea should co-exist in the mind. — We mean, without any sensible interval in the order of time. If some method of study and instruction could be adopted in our schools, by which a thorough knowledge of valuable learning could be compassed, and at the same time abridge the ordinary drudgery of protracted voluminous reading and application, a great part of which, in many departments of learning, is to little or no purpose, it would certainly be desirable. This, however, appears to be impracticable in the present stage of systematic education ; and it remains, therefore, for those who are entrusted with the instruction of youth, to conduct them by as direct methods as possible, to the attainment of the great objects contemplated in a VOL. II — 16. 170 INAUGURAt. ADDRESS. classical liberal education. Even in the incipient stages of educalion., the young student should be taught to weigh and estimate as he proceeds, and attend, at least, to some extent, to the structure and anatomy of language, however plain and simple in its forms. No student, in our judgment, should be put to learning the dead languages, without some acquaintance with his own ; nor should the grammar of any language be systematically attempted, until the pupil can read it fluently, and has some knowledge of its meaning and general structure. At a subsequent period, the pupil will much more readily acquire a critical knowledge of gram- matical construction, and will be infinitely more apt to retain this knowledge, than if acquired at an earlier period. We lav it doAvn therefore, as a maxim in education, i\va.taffeneral knowledge of language, ought always io irrecede grammatical analysis. Meanwhile it should not be forgotten, either by the teacher or the student, that even what is called a liberal education, is not intended to perfect the learner in the acqui- sition either of the languages or the sciences, but only to prepare him to instruct himself, and finish his education subsequently. On the subject of discipline and incentives to industry a.\\6. good order in this Institution, we submit one general remark. In those Institutions where proper attention is not paid to discipline, and where instruction is not imparted with delight and vigor, instead of an effective seminary of learninff, we are usually presented with an infirmary of sickly and debilitated minds, without any encouraging marks of intellectual culture and unfolding genius. The mind, like the body, requires vigor of discipline, in order to proper expansion — both are slow at arriving at maturity, and rapid in their decays, unless properly managed. In this Instiiulion, Ave intend to govern hy fixed laws, knov/n to, and subscribed by the students, at the lime of raatiicu INAUGURAL ADDRESS. 171 lating. In the administration of these laws, we shall be uniform and impanial; and we feel confident that authority, influence and courtesy combined, will secure the aft'ection and iidelitv of the students. We intend to avoid extremes. It is not our design to introduce the "pungent girdle" of Paschal, but we shall early and duly apprize our students that they do not enter here, nor shall they remain here, to play and sin ! Believing that education is important ; that its claims arc paramount; that it tends greatly to increase the sum of useful enjoyment ; persuaded that the masters of education should lead instead oi following the minds of those entrusted to their care, it shall be our aim and business to create, as far as possible, an insatiable thirst for mental accumulation, in all the progressive stages of liberal study. As it respects economy, it will only be necessary to say, that thoughtless expenditure is the ruin of literary institu- tions. We have, therefore, resolved upon reducing it to its minimum — and we shall make our means extend as far, and accomplish as much, as possible. We recommend that this maxim be most scrupulously adhered to, in the fiscal manao'ement of the colle^'e. Gentlemen of the Board of Trustees — To you, as the corporation of Madison College, we naturally look with confidence and peculiar solicitude. Upon your wisdom, prudence, and management, the success of the institution mainly depends. Having every assurance of your disposi- tion and ability, to govern this infant seat of learning judiciously, and render it respectable in the judgment of your cotemporaries, and in the estimation of posterity — we can only tender you our thanks — ask your assistance, and bid you " God speed." To the gentlemen of the Faculty — Upon whom will de\olve more immediately, the details of collegiate instruc* tion — we need not name our expectations. Of you, 172 INAUGURAL ADDRESS. gentlemen, it will be expected, that you watch over the morals, and budding genius, of those committed to your charge — as Aurelia did, over the infant years of Julius Csesar, or as the mother of the Gracchii, watched over the juvenile hours of her illustrious sons. To those who have presented themselves, on this occasion, as the Students of Madison college, we cannot refrain from ofl'ering a few remarks. Young Gentlemen — We shall expect from you, sobriety and decorum, on all occasions. We shall also expect in you all, a love of learning. In order to this, diligence will be essential ; and a well chosen application of your time, will be imperiously necessary. The circle of fashionable levity and dissipation, must be avoided ; or you will occupy the back -ground, among your fellows, in academic attainments ; and the finger of public scorn, will be pointed at you, as college loungers, as literary sluggards, as students of idle habits and dwarfish intellect. Let not these things be said of you — of any who are, hereafter, to be known as the alumni of Madison College. Let the jjresent be with you the rival of the future. Time hastens on rapid wing, and soon your hours are numbered forever. Occupy your moments, therefore, as they fly — and prepare yourselves for usefulness and for immortality ! Education, you will find, to be a self-rewarding toil. You will be introduced to the great and the good, of every age and every clime. Some portions of your study, will fill you with the love of virtue — and other portions, will teach you to abhor vice, as the ruin of your best interests, and the overthrow of your fairest prospects. Among the classics you will be called upon to study, in this institution, are Ovid, Virgil, Livy, Cicero, Horace, Lucian, Sallust, Homer, Terrence, Tacitus, Quintillian, Longinus, Demosthenes, Herodotus, Xenophon, and Thu- INATTGUBAL ADDRESS. 173 cydides — the most approved classics of Grecian and Roman antiquity — ordinarily used in modern seminaries. The exceptionable parts of the works of these celebrated models of taste and composition, will be carefully excluded ; but you will find much to admire, and much that is worthy of imitation. Even here, you may wander with Homer, upon the banks of the Simois and the Scamander — you may gaze on the beautiful Helen, and enraged Achilles — the chiefs of Greece and Troy, will engage in mortal com- bat, before you — and you will dissolve in tears, at the meeting of Hector and Andromache. Herodotus will introduce you to the millions of barbarians, following the standard of Xerxes. The brave Leonidas, and his Spartan band, will dispute the passage of Thermopylee, before your eyes. — Victory will disgrace Persia, and defeat bring glory to Greece ! Horace and Virgil will introduce you to the Palatine and Capitolium of Rome ; they will conduct you along the banks of the Po, adorned on either side, by the meadows of Mantua — and you shall regale and delight yourselves, amid the enchanting groves of Umbria ! Go on, then, young gentlemen, and seek a deserved and well merited celebrity ; and if you cannot reach the summit of Parnassus, linger at its foot, and imbibe the streams of knowledge and science as they gurgle by ! On the subject of local facilities connected with this College, much might be said, but the information is acces- sible elsewhere. We are aware, that distant only about fifty miles, there are three other respectable Institutions, in many respects of kindred character with oiir own. — And long may they be sustained, and crowded with the aspiring- youth of our country ! There is one advantage, however, attending a reasonable multiplication of colleges. The localities of habit, of association, of prejudice, and of neighborhood, will always bring students to one institution, 174 INAUGURAL ADDRESS. who would never go or be sent to another. By multiplying our schools, a larger number of the youth of the country will be educated ; and if they be educated, and toell edu- cated, we care not where, or by Avhom. The members of the corporation of this institution, have been selected from four difterent states. — There are some of them resident in this state, and some reside in the states of Virginia, Mary- land, and Ohio. The agricultural department is exciting considerable interest, and students have already entered at the distance of several hundred miles. No section of the United States is more healthy, and the country all around is proverbially fine and picturesque. Even the site selected, affords facilities of no ordinary kind ; and should the principle of association lead any of you at this moment, to reflect upon the Tuscidan villas of classic memory — the Academy, the Lyceum, the Alban mount, the gardens of Sallust, or even the babbling rill that used to soothe the ear of Cicero, after the toils of the forum — that same principle will direct your attention here, to the mountain, the vale, the plain, the heavens, " and the wild cascade with echo undefined." — In a word, with scenery, all of whose diversities are classic. And here, amid the cheerfulness of country, solitude, and village comfort, the student Avill find himself shut in with his book and his study — surrounded by a plain, sensible, and unpretending population, devoted principally to the interests of agriculture and manufactures. He will have but little to tempt him from the duties and studies assigned him. And like the young Agricola at Massilia, he can happily blendin the language of Tacitus, "the refinements of Greece with the sober manners of provincial economy." Hei-e, then, may science come and fix her throne — and long may it be thronged with ardent and aspiring votaries ! And as the muses once communed with the Aschraen shep- INAUGURAL ADDRESS. 176 herd, upon mount Helicon, so may they come and commune with the youth destined to be instructed here ! Friends and patrons of Madison College — Let religion, virtue, freedom, and literature, be our motto. Religion shall always have our fond and first regards. — To virtue, let us consecrate the hours of our being. Let the princi- ples and institutions of religious, civil, and social freedom, duly balanced and rightly proportioned, be cherished by vigorous effort, and the plenitude of our resources ; Tvhile literature shall extend its mild and improving influence, over all the hours and movements of our existence ! Thus we shall descend to our graves in peace, conscious that we have contributed to the best means and methods of human happiness, and that long before posterity shall realize the final evolution of the plans of Providence, in relation to our fallen world, the beacon fires we have attempted to kindle, in our humble spheres of action, will everywhere be lighted up upon the continents of the earth, and the islands of the ocean, and shall diffuse their rich and mingled radiance over the vast map of the nations 1 GLANCE AT TH£ Natural Jmkq m\h '§\llmi^\iu ^f ^^xMim. AS INDICATING ITS PROBABLE INFLUENCE UPON THE DESTINIES OF THB HUMAN RACE. Address before the State Agricultural Sociyty of Kentucky, JANUARY 9, 1843, glgritultttral ^iritrr^s. Wb cannot repress the feeling that the difficulty and danger of the attempt, well nigh poise the honor of address- ing you on this occasion. Without the accuracy of science appropriate to the subject on the one hand, or the aid of practical skill on the other, how, in a formal discourse, can theory and practice be so blended and attempered, as to instruct and interest the kind of audience we have before us ? The subject on which we address you, must be regarded as in a state of transition. Heretofore, a practical art only, it is beginning to assume the shape and defini- tiveness of a science. The process of formation, however, is not completed. The scientific men agree in their data, and practical men divide upon the application of data. The most we can do, therefore, under the circumstances, will be to offer you, what we consider as most important in science, and available in practice, trusting that the various elements, facts, and relations of the general subject, will soon be found in a state of arrangement and collocation, giving to the subject the exactitude and certainty of scientific and practical demonstration. The present is distinguished by great effort and activity : the future promises still more ; and we have strong confi- dence, that the result suggested will be fully realized at no distant day. It is an interesting and hopeful characteristic 17a 180 AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS, of modern times, and modern improvement, that in efforts to diffuse science and advance art, and thus multiply the elements and extend tlie range of human v/elfare, individuals unite in large numbers and influential masses, upon a plan sufficiently extensive and significant to represent the intel- ligence and views of entire communities. The existence of such associations furnishes the most conclusive proof of their importance, and may also be received as pi-oof of the extent to which they contribute to the objects of their formation. In this way, new and increased interest is given to effort and enterprise ; and an influence often exerted, the effects of which, may be prolonged for ages. — An influence affecting not merely the common interests and current pursuits of humanity, but giving character to its higher social and moral destinies. One who knew well the value of what he said, has remarked, that "it cannot be an unbecoming trial, at any i'lme, and in any way, to improve the useful arts." Agri- culture had existed for ages as an art, before it was subjected to any thing like scientific arrangement. Viewed as a science, it is but a collection of general truths and principles, deduced from an accurate and extended exami- nation of numerous collated f:icts, selected from all countries, and during many centuries. — Tlie result, in fact, of the enlarged and careful experience of ages and nations. It is not so much a science, as the application of many sciences; — a group of arts applied in subsidizing the powers of nature to the service of man. As in the instance of the application of all science and art, so in agriculture especially, the hoxo must be deduced from the why : and this renders an appeal to the natural history and philosophy of agriculture, indispensable to a proper understanding of the subject. Allow us to hope, therefore, that it will not be unacceptable to you, to look AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS, 181 at the subject in some of its more enlarged extrinsic relations, before we approach it, in view of those tangible forms and practical relations, giving it the character of a business pecuniary interest. We delight to uplift the eye and gaze on the splendid scenery of the heavens. Intense is the intellectual gratification, as the mind essays to grasp and adjust the admirable mechanism! — the elaborate architecture, so impressively displayed in the grand structure of the planetary system, and grander extensions of the stellar universe ! How infinitely does such a survey enhance our conceptions of the grandeur of nature — the majesty of creation ! Adequate knowledge of the subject leads us to regard our firmament, with all its imposing vastness, as but one of unnumbered clusters, of kindred magnitude and interest, constituting the appropriate field, and furnishing the only limitude of astronomical discovery! Whenever we thus, by a glance or more extended obser- vation, chart the heavens, engirting our planet, and of which it is a part, although not included in the survey, the interest felt is as vivid as it is varied. When, however, in addition to this, we proceed to contemplate the laws and relations, — the structural organic purposes, and especially the complicate and expansive arrangements, by which the destinies of the worlds of astronomy are planned ajul circumscribed, the very sublimity of the conception, exhausts the vigor projecting it, and leaves the mind weary and bewildered, amid the reigning order and adjusted relationships, — the discoveries enriching the science, and unrolling the wonders of the mighty, the stupendous organization ! Looking upon this grand cortege of unresting worlds, wheeling through space, in obedience to the law of their respective centers, — reflecting upon their exactitude of structure and vastness of extent, — the majestic march of 182 AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. the visible firmament, from change to change and phase to phase ; — in a word, the grandeur and statistics of the heavens — these, so viewed, not only strike and astonish, but give birth alike to curious conjecture and lofty concep- tion ! And, returning, what is the perspective below and about ? What, of the one of many planets, which God has made our home and habitation ? Are we oblitred to make it a mere observatory, — the gate only of the august temple of the universe, and look away beyond for scenes and dis- plays of beauty and magnificence ! Is it true, that our earth is a section of the heavens, — that it belongs to the grand unity we have been considering ? As one of them, has it existed in companionship with the stars of God, — the hosts of heaven, since the great genesis of creation ! If so, can it want attraction? While speculation and dis- covery are intent upon the detection and proof of established analogies between other planets and the earth, extending this analogy to structure, constituent parts, motion, surface, atmosphere, general physical phenomena, and even sentient tribes, is there either truth or poetry, in the seeming supposition of many, that our planet is 2^oor in objects of interest and attraction ? Is all on earth little and evanescent ? With the small and the fleeting, have we not, side by side, and mingling in endless interlacement, the grand and the enduring ? Is there any want of the massive and mighty, in magnitude and extension ? En- grossed as you may occasionally be, amid the revelations of the telescope, and the infinitudes of space, returning to earth, is there really any want of the sublime in aspect, or the beautiful in form ? Is nature about you at fault in furnishing the complicate in structure — the admirable in mechanism ? Crowded and teeming as it is, with organi-' zation, life, and intelligence, — its localities instinct with vegetable, animal, and rational life, who can walk this AUBICULTUKAL ADDRESS. 183 beauteous earth, and mark its varied, constituent, visible, and sensible phenomena, without feelings very different from those with which we gaze upon the far-off orbs of sky and space ? It will, perhaps, be in place to extend the view of the subject we propose, so as to present the general topic in some additional aspects. Reflect then, for a moment further, upon the astronomical relations of our globe. Take the material constitution of the earth — all its various products, the characteristics of its living tribes, as also, its more dis- tinctive influences, with regard to all organized entities, and it will be found that they all result, in greater or less degree, from the presence and supply of solar light. How such supply is connected with the annual succession of the seasons, and the regular vicissitudes of day and night, in view of the planetary arrangements to which we have ad- verted, preventing oppressive excess on the one hand, and deficient supply on the other, you need not be told. Such allusion to the cosmical arrangements of our planetary system is not uncalled for, as these arrangements confess- edly influence nearly all terrestrial phenomena, especially, the growth and functions of plants and animals. The phe- nomena OT the whole vegetable world, (for instance) are conformed to, and regulated by the revolution of the earth around the sun. The well-known periodicity of habit, on the part of trees, shrubs, plants and flowers, depends essen- tially upon the seasons, as controlled by the celestial arrangements in question. All the cycles of vegetable life are regulated in this way. The vegetable year is con- formed to the solar year. Our day, too, measured by the earth's revolution upon its own axis, is an astronomical arrangement, vitally affecting the life and growth, both of plants and animals ; and they have diurnal cycles, functions, and changes, exactly corresponding. There is 184 AGRICULTTJRAL ADDRESS. a perfect coincidence between the adjustments of inert matter, and organic structures. Even the dimensions of the solar system are adapted to the laws and wants of vegetable life. The physiology of the daisy and snow-drop is inti- mately connected with astronomical laws and relations. Lifeless, is everjTvhere adapted to living nature : — the inorganic, to the organic world. The planetary structure itself, to the powers and wants of the vegetable and animal tribes of earth. Look at the vital forces of the organic world, the entire vegetable and animal kingdoms, they bear direct, exact proportion to the force of gravity, which is again regulated, in the whole range of its influence, by the mass of the earth. The power of propulsion, or mechanical force, which propels the sap of the vegetable and tree, b}'' a pumping hydraulic process, sometimes to the height of two hundred feet, is indeed surprising, as it evinces a singular adjustment between this organic force, and the law of gravitation, as opposed to the result. You may cut off a luxuriant grape vine at the proper season of the year, and attach to the truncated part, a small tube, (it may be glass, and twenty, or even forty feet in length, if we will,) and such is the vital, vegetative power of the vine, it will force the sap to the top of the tube ; thus showing incontestably, that the forces of vegetable life have been mathematically adjusted to the power of gravitation, as determined by the mass of the whole earth. Who would suppose that the jasmin, or honeysuckle, imbibes moisture and nutritive power at the roots, and then propels the sap to the topmost branches and leaves, in a way not only assuming, but by a singnilar dynomic adaptation, actually measuring the exact force of gravitation ? In like manner, the organic structures, and muscular adaptations of animals, are adjusted with unerring exactitude, to the force of gravity, as in the instance of AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. 185 vegetable organisms. The same adjustment obtains between the crops of your fields, the vegetables and flowers of your gardens, and the size of the ocean. Vegetjition, you know, depends in great measure, upon climate, atmospheric con- ditions, the variations of weather, as wet and dry, and kindred vicissitudes of season ; and of these, to a very great extent at least, the ocean is the grand regulator. Upon the ocean, by means of evaporation, depend rains, and dews, and moisture. Were the ocean greatly less or larger, the increase of dryness and heat, or dampness and cold, would destroy vegetable growth and supply, almost entirely. The same is also true of the bulk, or amount of the atmosphere. Assume its size or amount to be doubled, the pressure, winds, and tempests of the atmosphere, would utterly destroy vegetation, as now organized and supported. These organized adaptations of the vegetable kingdom, cor- responding with the organic adjustments to which we have asked attention, are indeed surprising, and well worth a preliminary thought, in any essay to understand the phi- losophy of the earth's culture, in view of the support of its numerous animal tribes, dependent upon such culture. Without, at least, adverting to the laws and mechanism of the planetary system, any idea or impression we might have, with regard to the nature and phenomena of terrestrial physics, would be partial and defective. The subjective, as it regards the structure and relations of our planet, is in exact correspondence with the objective, — the laws and arrangements of the more general system, of which it is a part. If it can be rationally demonstrated, that in all the widely extended generalities of universal nature, the stability, order, and harmony of our world, have been consulted, and that the sustentation and welfare ofits livins: ortcanizations, and more especially, the well-being and pre-eminence of man, in action and enjoyment, have been duly provided for, VOL. II — 16. /' 186 AGUICULTURAL ADDRESS. it will give to man a tranquillity of hope, an invigoration of confidence, in connection with his earthly destiny, not likely to result from any other view of the subject he can take. It has long been the wont, both of philosophy and religion, to undervalue man's place in the universe, as either unworthy of him, or a punitive arrangement on account of his sins. Utterly dissenting from all such views, and believing man should more frequently place in review before him, his orio'inal destiny and primeval relations, as a sovereign of the earth, by Divine appointment, and which appointment placed him there, for the purpose, among others, of asserting his dio-nity and dominion, in ministering to his own wants and gratification, by the cultivation and adornment of earth, we have deemed it proper to make these suggestions. And cannot such views be taken without presuming to place the contents and garniture of earth in rivalry with the spheres and amplitudes of celestial scenery ? Let the majesty of creation appear in these mightier masses, let them stand as the synonyme of unapproachable infinitude ! Still, can you even olance at the planetary relations of our globe, and especially, the constitution of the earth's surface, the ocean and atmosphere, with their tribes and tenants, their adjust- ments and adaptations, without being struck with the beauty of design and beneficence of purpose, so manifest through- out the grand frame-work and architecture of the whole ? Who does not perceive the effective harmony of adjustment between the greater and the less, the higher and the lower; and perceive also, at the same time, that while the former challenges the admiration of thought, the latter secures the devotion of feeling ? We admire, with rapt wonder, the structure, masses, and phenomena of the heavens. The vision is indeed impressive, but it is a vision in which distance and immensity awe and repel. Not so, when we return to earth, (but too truly) the home of our hearts and AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. 187 our hopes, — the theater of interest and endearment. Her forms of beauty and grandeur, thronging on the eye, are loved with a child's affection. Ever, and everyv/here, her voice is busy in the heart. With the earth, man feels a community of nature, not only as in proximity and relation with it, — springing from it, and returning to it, but because it is only by means of the earth, he is introduced to an acquaintance with the other divisions of the universe. It is his birth-scene and homestead, and has about it a natal charm and guardian sanctity. It is felt to be the common inheritance of his kind. He is sustained by the feeling of right and possession. Nature about him smiles in beauty, and burdened with bounty, is ever prolific of supply. He feels that his agency alone is wanting, in order to provision and enjoyment. All his feelings and faculties find counter- part objects in the scenes of nature surrounding him. And the same is true of all the wants and necessities, the rela- tions and duties of his being. In a word, regarded only as the urn of existence, earth becomes endeared to us, beyond all the brilliant masses of the sky. But it will be asked, what has all this to do with the occasion, — the subject ostensibly engrossing us ? How are such dreams and fancies to blend with the plow and harrow, — muck and manure ? This question, rather formidable, (certainly) will perhaps be hest answered by suggesting, that we have several other preliminary matters to attend to, before we shall have any use for the plow and harrow, or shall know what to do with muck and manure. Nature is, in strictness, the text and archetype of science ; and must we not know what nature has done, before we can determine what she has left for us to do ? About some of nature's arrangements and pre-adjust- ments, we have perhaps said enough, — possibly too much. But there are others, less complicated with the general struc- 188 AGKICULT0RAL ADDRESS. ture of things, and more directly applicable to the subject in hand, •whose introduction may aid us in accomplishing the object we have in view. If it be our aim to ascertain the best means of culture and fertilization as it regards soils, it may save an expenditure of all the means involved, to pay some attention to the composite nature of soils, — the elements and contingencies, the conditions and agencies, necessary to vegetable growth, and especially, enlarged effective agricultural production. The object oi science is to ascertain the mode, — the hoio of nature's operations. The means of such ascertainment, must, in every instance, be observation and experiment. In this way, science becomes a classification of general laws, from an induction of particular facts. These facts, in the present inquiry, must be sought in the elementary principles of soil, the atmosphere, the living plant, comprehending all the agencies knovv^n to affect the phenomena of vegetation. Still further then, in order to place our subject in a proper light, it will be necessary to glance at the geological structure, relations, and phenomena of the earth's surface. The matter of our globe must be judged of by the super- ficial contents of that portion of its crust, accessible to observation. The substances constituent of the solid crust of the globe, are familiarly classified as rocks, earths, minerals, water, air. Geology affects agriculture, only in so far as it shows the true elements, — the proximate prin- ciples of earth, and how far these component parts influence the growth of vegetation ; and even this service requires the aid of chemistry. So far as rocks are concerned, the affinities found among them, as it regards constituent parts, are so nearly uniform, that the idea of constitutional identity is suggested at once. And the supposition that different rocks, or kinds of rock, give character, in any sensible degree, to the soils reposing on them, must be utterly AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. 189 rejected. In this view of llie subject, ail soil is very nearly the same ; and no material dill'erence, from geological causes, is allowable iu our ueneral estimates of soils. Numerous facts tend to establish this conclusion with the utmost clearness. No greater diversity of production, no greater difference, in kind or quc^ntity, is found connected with soils supported by different classes of rock, than in the instance of soils reposing upon the same specific bed : and^ it is a curious fact, tested by the most rigid analysis, that soils reposing upon immense beds of limestone, has less of the constituent lime in their composition, than soils beneath which the limestone is entirely absent. How far soil may be atfected by the disintegration of rock, reducing it to a state of pulrerulence in a long course of ages, and so blending it Avith soil, is a separate question entirely. Our position, contrary perhaps to the generally received opinion, is, that imbedded rocks exert no known appreciable influence upon the soils by which they are covered ; and should not be relied upon, to any extent, by either the philosopher or the cultivator. The supposition we here oppose has, no donbt, been greatly strengthened by the equally fallacious assump- tion, that all soil is the product of rocks, subjected to the processes of disintegration ; — a supposition as improbable aprlori, as it is unallowable on the ground of examined facts. The doctrine that soils are geologically determined by the rocks beneath them, is certainly not susceptible of proof, except in relation to given localities, — limited tracts, which instead of establishing, can only be regarded as exceptions to the general rule. Soils do not take their character from the rocks underlaying them: and in all soils will be found all the inorganic elements, such as phospliate and sulphate of lime, the alkalies, and other constituents necessary to the common purposes of production. The only difficulty is, to find them in due proportion, in a slate 190 AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. of proper equivalence in relation to each other, and also to the organic elements composing the gein, or vegetable mold of soils. . Tlie soils covering all the principal rock forma- tions of geology, say thirteen, subjected to the most rigid chemical tests, furnish within a very tritiing per cent, the same amount of gein, soluble and insoluble, and selected from a disti'ict of country nearly equal in territory to the whole State of Kentucky ; and as the earthy and metallic ingredients are seldom or never wanting, and it requires proof that the salts are to any considerable extent, derived from the rock foundations of soil, and gein being essentially organic in origin, it furnishes strong presumption that the rock-soil theoiy does not affect the character of soil, to the extent usually assumed by its supporters. The prin(;ipal fact, seemingly opposed to the assumption that rocks do not affect the soils resting on them, is, that the fossilliferous and trappean classes have a small per cent, more of lime and magnesia in them, than the granitic and non fossil! iferous ; and as these are known to influence soils, it iuay be thought by some, that what we assume is not correct. When, however, it is taken into the account, that the excess of lime and magnesia in the former class, is inconsiderable, and especially, that we have no reason to believe, that in rocks underlaying soils, it is detached and eliminated in sufficient quantities to be of any service to the soil, our reasoning remains unaffected by the fact alleged. Other circumstances being equal, all the food- growing plants flourish equally over every class and kind of rock formation known to belong to the crust of the earth. Take the extended belt of the earth's surface found between twenty and seventy degrees north latitude, exhibit- ing every variety of rock formation, and yet within tlic entire range, no where are the cultivated crops affected by AORIOULTCRAL ADDRESS. 191 the chemical constiuitiou of difitirent rocks benoath the soil, It is to be feared, that many are inclined to regard geology as throwing more light on the subject of agriculture than facts will warrant. If, for example, it be a fact that soil is not essentially effected by the rock formations subtended beneath, and that it is derived, in very small proportion, from tlie gradual abrasion, and pulverulent matter of rocks, — if it should turn out, as we have no doubt it will, in the progress of science, that the mineral ingredients found in soil, are only nutritive in combination with other elements and agents, organic and inorganic, and especially the former in the shape of gein, the gi'eat supplier of carbon and the gases, it must be seen and felt at once, that we may rely upon the contributions of mineralogy and geol- ogy, in connection with practical agriculture, beyond their actual ascertained value. While the value of each is, in .some respects, real and important, it is. relative and con- tingent, and must conditionate and determine production much more limitedly than has generally been supposed. The best soils we have exhibit the followinor elomeiits, in very nearly the proportions named. In one hundred parts, 60 silica — 15 or 16 alumina — lime 3 — oxide of iron 2 — manganese 7 — soluble gein 4 — insoluble gein 5 — potash 3 — soda 1 — magnesia 1. The salts and gein, you perceive, must be from four to ten per cent., in order to decide fertility ; and the question arises, to what extent can the different kinds of subjacent rock, such as o-ranite, gneiss, and limestone, laying at a depth, generally, of from fifteen to one hundred feet beneath the soil, exert any very decided influence upon these ingredients ? And especially to what extent are the salts and the gein, (the principal elements of fertility,) afl'ected by the rocks beneath ? That salts, in some instances, and to a limited extent, are sup- plied by rocks, is admitted; but does it follow, or is it 192 AGRICUI-TURAL ADDRESS. possible to suppose, that they are furnished usually, and in tlie requisite quantity, by the deeply imbedded strata supporting soils ? Must there not be, and is it not known, that there are other and less doubtful sources of supply ? In the chemical and mechanical action and reaction going on in successive ages, between the earthy materials of the world's crust and surface, may we not have greatly tho laro-er part of the dust and debris ascribed to the disinte- gration of rocks ? A few specific kinds of earth constitute tlie inorganic portion of soil. The principal are silex, (sand) alumina, (clay) and limestone. Tlie word lime, is used vaguely to denote all forms of calcareous earthy matter, but its more common and restricted meaning is con- fined to the artificial product, obtained from the carbonate of lime by burning, such as marble or limestone proper. In nearly all its known states and relations, however, it is supposed to perform important functions. A more general analysis of soils will give the following elements ; and in decreased proportion, corresponding with the order in •which they are named. Earths, (as above,) water, vegeta- ble mold, decayed animal matter or substances, salts, ores, alkalies, and gases. Ask yourselves now, in what proportion the sands, the clay, the Avater, the salts, the ores, the alkalies, the gases are derived from rocks ? Must not the proportion be inconsiderable ? That there is a contribution to some extent, is admitted ; but that it is sufficient to determine quality, and give character to soil, is a position unsupported by any evidence we have met with on the subject. We do not object to a geological classification of soils. It is convenient, and for general purposes proper ; and our only motive for introducing the topic, has been to check what we regard, as a prevalent propensity to over estimate the manner in which soils are affected by geological forma- tions in the earth's crust supporting them. AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. 193 Chemistry admits of a much more extensive application to agriculture, than geology. The rationale of vegetable life must be sought in the elementary principles of vegetable structures. The composite ingredients constituting the fabric of a plant, must be ascertained, and chemical anal3'sis enables the inquirer to reach the desired result. By the aid of chemistry, most important conclusions havo been arrived at, affecting the laws of vegetable life. The principal earths found in vegetables are lime, silica, mag- nesia, and alumina. The principal alkalies are potass, soda, and ammonia, metallic oxides — iron, and maganese. Carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, and nitrogen, viewed as con- stituent uncompounded elements in physical nature, may be said to form the substantial essence of the vegetable "world. In this way, chemical analysis lays bare the constituent properties, and unfolds the essential physiology of vegetable organization, and furnishes innumerable data for the guidance of the cullivator of the soil. It explains the nature, elements, a«d changes of soil, as the source of vegetable production. It teaches us the organic structure of plants, and unfolds the processes of vegetation. It makes us acquainted with the conditions and agencies most essential to the vital functions of vegetable growth, indefi- nitely enlarging the sphere, and improving the various kinds of production. Among the conditions and agencies essential to the living structure and growth of plants, the most important are soil, air, water, food, gravitation, affinity, light, heat, electricity, and in the instance of agriculture, human agency comes in, as indispensable to the intended result. A slight acquaintance wdtli the vital functions of plants renders it certain, that both chemical and mechanical laws and tendencies, are resisted by the vital principle, and subordinated to it. — Such as affinity, repulsion, cohesion, VOL. II — 17. J 94 AGRICULTORAL ADDRESS. gravitation, &c. All the agents and elements of veg-etable production are subjected to the control of the vital principle. Chemical affinity, as met with in vegetable compounds, by which matter of one kind has attraction for matter of an opposite kiad, performing offices entirely variant from those of cohesion and orravitation, attractino* and holdino- toiretlier, in the same compound, different kinds of matter, until some third kind, by the same or some other law, leads to decomposition ; and in this way, operating results in the vegetable economy, as important as they are, in many instances, inexplicable, are controlled by the vital action of the plant. The laws of chemical affinity extend alike to organic and inorganic elements and compounds, and are susceptible of indefinite application in the practical pursuits and relations of agriculture. As these affinities all operate hy fixed, and generally unalterable laws, as it regards estab- lished proportion, exact relative equivalence, each with the rest in every compound, by means of chemical analysis, the constitution of soils and plants is readily determinable. The most important lesson thus learned aflfecting the interests of agriculture, is, that the several kinds of soil, and the almost infinite variety of vegetable productions, are inva- riably compounded of a few simple substances, in nearly given, and always ascertainable proportions. The chemical forces too, of light, heat, and electricity, come in here for a moment's notice ; not only operating numerous modifica- tions of the action of affinity itself, but acting directly upon all the vital functions of vegetation. It has been seen that these chemical forces, are held in subjection by what is called the vital force of the plant — its living power, especially in connection with the organic and inorganic elements of soil. Wliat this catalysis, or catalytic power of the plant is, we do not attempt to explain ; but as its presence in the soil gives birth to otherwise unknown AGRICULTURAL. ADDRESS. 195 phenomena, we are obliged to recognize life — the vitality in qiieslion, as invested with special agency in relation to all the proximate principles of vegetable growtli. Organi- zation results only from this living principle ; and the vital force of which we speak, is phenomenally different from every other known force in nature. The process of the absorption of food by the leaves, and its imbibition by the roots, as the organs of nutrition, proves not only the exist- ence of the vital energy of plants, but its power to resist chemical affinities, gravitation, and the alternations of heat and cold. The great peculiarity of the living energy of plants, is most strikingly exemplified in the productions of vegetable life. These have never been, never can be produced by any possible combination of merely chemical or mechanical agents. These formatious exist nowhere, never can exist anywhere in nature, however assisted by art, except under the direction of the living -principle now claiming attention. The great ftict to which we now advert, giving birth to a thousand other facts, is most essentially connected with all the proceses, and the entire system of tillage. The soil and atmosphere are depositions of food for plants, and also the media of communication to the roots and leaves ; but the food from both soil and atmosphere has to be modified and prepared, in order to reception and assimilation by the plant; and here, the catalytic force alluded to, is indispen- sable. The soil and the living plant form a galvanic battery by which the decomposition of soil is effected for the purposes of nutrition, and the vital functions of the plant stimulated and developed. And is it not equally certain, that a similar battery for similar purposes, is in action between the leaves of the plant and the atmosphere ? The principal substances thus eliminated and prepared for food, are carbonic acid, water, (oxygen and hydrogen) ammonia, 196 AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. the alkalies, alkaline earths, metallic oxides, different kinds of salts, and the several orijanic substances enterinf as constituents into the formation of vegetable mold or the gein of soils. Let an example explain what we mean. Look at the electricity of soils. In pure silica or sand, it is wholly negative. In the case of alumina, lime, magne- sia, iron, and the alkalies, it is wholly positive ; and in either case, absolute barrenness is the result. Nature and art, however, furnish the corrective. Vegetable and ani- mal substances in the soil, are constantly generating acids and alkalies : the former negative, and the latter positive in their electricity. These produce electric action and cur- rents in the soil, directlj^ affecting the constituents of soil and the functions of plants, as assumed above. If then, a soil be predominantly acid and negative in its electricity, or alkaline and positive, and of course, in both cases bar- ren, let the farmer, as he can by well-known processes, neutralize the acid and alkaline qualities, so as to balance the electro powers of the soil, and fertility will be the result. Such views, however, cannot be extended. In an address, more or less miscellaneous in its charac- ter, it cannot be expected that we enter very minutely, or at any considerable length, into strictly scientific distinc- tions. While it may be proper briefly to state, it cannot be expected that we attempt to elaborate the chemical conditions known to be essential to the existence and devel- opment of vegetable life. It cannot be looked for that we attempt to explain, in any detailed manner, how the pro- cesses of organic nature are subject, primarily, to the operation of chemical laws, and yet afterward superior to them, in the instance of each specific organization. In the instance of each specific vegetable, we have a well-known complexity, an undoubted diversity of parts, variously dependent upon each other, and jointly tending to secure AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. 197 the same result ; and it is the business of organic chemis- try, as applied to vegetation, to detect and illustrate the agencies and conditions essential to the existence and repro- duction of these living organisms. In each, the parts met with are reciprocally means and ends. Each depends upon the other, and they mutually subserve the complex pur- poses of the whole. To understand the constituent elements, therefore, the conditions of growth and develop- ment, and the kindred facts of their philosophy, it is necessary to take into the account whatever may serve them as nutriment, the productive supply of substances affording nourishment, together with the so2irces whence these substances are derived, not less than the processes of assimilation, implied in the changes they undero-o in becoming the food of organized bodies. Whenever the organic and inorganic divisions of nature, are subjected to examinations in this way, we learn that, primarily, the animal kingdom is dependent upon the vegetable for growth and supply ; and the vegetable, in return, upon the great mass of inorganic substances. Hence, no adequate comprehension of the subject, in its more minute and phi- losophical relations, is possible, without an extended appeal, not merely to chemistry, but to the kindred sciences of mineralogy, geology, botany and zoology, whose fixed laws are directly connected with the vegetable kingdom ; and either directly or indirectly with the animal, also. The physical should always be distinguished from the chemical properties of soil ; and yet, both studied in connection, as it will often be necessary to consult each class of charac- teristics, in order to secure the required combination. Thus, soils distinguished as wet and dry, light and heavy, warm and cold, may be more influenced by local physical causes than by their actual chemical constitution, and their cultivation and treatment should vary accordingly. J 98 AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. On the subject of chemical conditions and agencies, it may be proper to add, that in tlie vegetable economy, car- bon performs a most important part. It constitutes from forty to fifty per cent, by weight, of every part of all the plants cultivated for the food of men or animals. Oxygen, tangibly known only in its gaseous form, is the great sus- tainer of animal life. It constitutes twenty-one per cent, of the bulk of the atmosphere. It forms eight of every nine pounds of water. It constitutes nearly one-half of all the solid rocks, and of the entire crust of our globe, and of all solid substances about us ; and in the instance of animal and vegetable substances, more than one-half. Its presence and action are essential to vegetable life. Hydrogen, like oxygen, is only known to the senses in the shape of gas. Of the bulk and weight of animal sub- stances, it forms but a small per centage. Of the weight of water, it constitutes one-ninth. Into the mineral masses of the globe's crust, it does not enter, coal only excepted. It does not exist in nature in a free state ; and in such state is not necessary to the life and growth of animals or vegetables. Its adaptation, therefore, to the purposes of vegetable and animal life, is only in combina- tion with other elements and properties. Nitrogen, too, is known only as a gas. It forms seventy-nine per cent, of the bulk of the atmosphere. It is found in some vegetable, and in a large number of animal substances. It is not found in any of the great mineral masses, except occasion- ally it is detected, in very small quantity, in the vegetable formations of coal, usually ranking among minerals. As an organic element, it is not abundant in nature, and yet is important to the vitality and development of plants and animals ; and tli rough the medium of spring-water and rain-water, imbibed from atmospheric air, it reaches and nourishes vegetation. AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. 199 These elementary bodies form the principal part of all organic substances, and may be regarded as the raw mate- rial upon which the chemistry of vegetable life and the animal organism operates, and from which, in the one case and the other, ils innumerable constructions are molded. With very few exceptions, all organized bodies consist of the four substances just described. In vegetable sub- stances, however, they are very unequally distributed. la a thousand parts of wheat, for example, we have four hun- dred and fifty-five of carbon, four hundred and thirty-one of oxygen, sixty-one of hydrogen, forty-two of nitrogen, and the balance in organic matter, say ash. The uses and modifications of these great constituent elements of physi- cal nature, are endlessly varied, throughout all her produc- tions, organic and inorganic. The principal ingredient of water, is also the principal ingredient of rock or stone. The sole constituent of the diamond, sparkling upon the brow of beauty, enters, in the proportion of some fifty per cent, into the composition of a potatoe or cabbage-head. The elementary matter which, last season, pointed the thorn and the briar, and prepared the sting of the nettle and thistle, may this season, regale your senses in the rose, the grape and the peach. The marble slab, the block of lime- stone, tlie loaf of bread, the black lead pencil, the blushing rose, beautiful hand, eloquent and lovely face — all the same — one in substance in nature's laboratory ! Part of the finest eye before me, brilliant with the coruscations of thought and feeling, may have been the snuff of a candle, and may yet be cinder ! Such facts and data in the general constitution of nature, give birth to important practical results. Let a single e ample explain. A vigorous and abundant vegetation is ■' iportant to health. Excess of carbonic acid gas, is deci- edly injurious to animal life ; and it is known that its 200 AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. formation is constantly going on in every instance of com- bustion, putrefaciion, fermentation, and animal respiration, beside man)' other operations upon the surface of the earth, unceasingly charging the atmosphere with this gas, while the only general operation in nature, by which ii is abstracted in necessary quantity from the atmosphere, and neutralized in combination with the soil, is vegetation. Hence, abundance of vegetation is favorable to life and health ; and rural scenes and localities decidedly more healthful and invigorating than any other. It was a part of the religion of the ancient Persians to plant trees about their homesteads, and it ought to be a part of your religion, too ! It has been seen that oiir world offers us five p-rand divisions. The aerial, the aqueous, the mineral, ihe vege- table, and the animal. Man is essentially dependant upon each. Directly, he derives subsistence from the animal and vegetable -kingdoms, as animal life can only subsist on what has had life before. Indirectly, however, he subsists alike upon the other three ; and in the most direct sense, he is dependant upon them for life and habitation. How important, then, that eaeli should be understood, in its proper scientific relations ! How intimate is the connec- tion between these several divisions of earth, and the vegetable burdens and animal tribes, which it is the busi- ness of tillage and husbandry to provide for the use of man ! Fiirther, the theory of the action of manures can only be understood by an appeal to chemistry. We must first understand the action of the elements of soil upon each other, and how vegetation is affected by them, at the same time. No acquaintance, however exiensive, witli mineral- ogy, geology, or descriptive botany, can possibly be of any service without a resort to chemistry. Select a fact, impor- tant to bo known. Carbonic acid, and the carbonates in AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. 201 soil, let loose — set free the polasli, lime, soda, magnesia, and alumina ; and with these, the organic parts unite, as gein, and by the union, we have the formation of gein ; and these geotes are again transformed by the carbonic acid, from the carbonate of lime, into super geotes, readily dis- solvable, and essential to fertility ; and we thus learn that gein is a principal agent of nature in dissolving the earthy constituents of soil, and preparing food for plants. The alkalies, let loose as above, act upon the insolubility of gein, and in this mutual reaction and introspection, we have one of the grand secrets of fertilization, as it regards soil. Introduce, now, the living plant into the soil, with its well-known powerful catalytic action in changing the relations of the constituents of soil, (organic and inorganic) and you will have a most vivid perception of the galvanic battery we named a short time since. The presence of the plant in soil, separates the elements of the salts, the earthy, or metalHc base remains the same, and the acid of the salt, which thus let loose, acts upon the silicates of soil, pro- ducing new salts which are constantly repeating the results of the original salt. Thus, a salt containing in itself no -nutriment, is found of the utmost importance in soils, because of its chemical results in relation to the otherwise useless ingredients of soils. Hence, a most interesting oonclusion — without salts and gein we have no vegetable production. The gein in sokdion is essential to fruit, and yet, without the salts, the insolubility of gein would leave the soil barren. It has been seen, to what extent soil is influenced by its electric tendencies. Dry, sandy soil, is a non-conductor of electricity. A heavy, clayey, aluminous soil, is but a weak, imperfect conductor ; while gein, which is positive in its electric affinities, in relation to the other properties of soil, necessarily become-s the principal medium in th«> 202 AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. electric circulation, indispensable to the results of effective cuhivation. It has also been ascertained that the small per cent, of nitrogen found in plants, and not only favorable, but essential to veoetation, but which is never received and assimilated in its gaseous state, enters through the medium of the vegetable extract of mold or gein, (not from rocks) and tends further to illustrate the importance of this substance, as the prime element of fertility in soils. We may not have elaborated this topic to the satisfaction of cither the philosopher or the man of practice ; enough, how^ever, has been submitted, should you regard what has been said as of consequence at all, to challenge careful examinaiion, and the result, we doubt not, will satisfy you, that the great secret of fertility in soils, connects itself with the fact that there must be the presence of matter, which has formed the part of living structures, vegetable oi animal, and now blends by chemical action, with the silicates of soil, in the creation of food for vegetation. Take into the account the entire vegetable kingdom, with its hundred thousand tribes, annually coating the earth's surface for six thousand years : include too, if you will, thiC pre-existing vegetations of geology incorporated with the earth's crust, and the subsoils of (perhaps) every country, and add to these the unnumbered millions of the animal kingdom, in the shape of man, beast, fowl, reptile, and insect, augmenting incalculably the organic accumu- lations of soil, and you will be able to form some idea of the great constituent of soil, and source of fertility upon which we have been enlarging. The view we have taken of this subject is practically as old as agriculture itself. It has been taught by experience and practice, for at least, three thousand years. The tiller of the ground, however unskilled in art and science, has looked about liim, and disengaged the truth from nature. AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS, 203 He could not fail to perceive the necessity and importance of manuring, as suggested by nature itself, according to whose laws, the annual decays of the vegetable kingdom, and the constant decomposition of animal substances, enrich the soil, in a way obvious to every one. Centuries of experience attest, that all soils require occasional correction and stimulation, by some of the many fertilizing manures, which the experiments of art and science have accredited as efficient agents in the amelioration of poor, and the renovation of reduced soils. It is one of nature's wise appointments, that death in the vegetable world, becomes a source of life, and one of the necessary conditions of renewal. The moral taught us is, that where soil is not found, it can be created. Plants must have for food, the substances of which they are known to be composed ; and where can 3'ou look for the requisite supply of carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, and nitrogen, except in the organic accumula- tions, in the shape of natural decomposition, composts, manures, &c.; — that is the gein, upon which we have been insisting ? That these elements are never supplied by rocks, at least to the extent they are needed, is proved, irrefutably, by the fact that without the organic matter in question, as in the instance of deep subsoils, reposing upon rock foundations, the power of fertility is essentially absent. Upon the real and relative importance of agriculture, we shall not be expected to dilate, except in general terms. Its true status in the range of art and science, — in the cycle of productive operations of every age and country, — in the general economies of mankind, and especially, as it regards American husbandry, will appear with sufficient force and clearness by keeping in view the relations between the different parts of the general subject. If science be 204 AaRICULTURAL ADDRESS. brought to the aid of our natural advantages, no limit can be set to tlie productiveness of our extended territory. Some four thousand different kinds of plants are indigenous to temperate America; to say nothing of exotics, and leaving out of view the thirteen thousand of Equinoctial America. Many of these, hitherto not thouo-ht of as possessing value, are being annually appropriated to important domestic and productive uses, such as food, clothing, medicine, and other purposes. We notice the topic here, merely to keep in view the indefinite power of agriculture to improve soil, and increase and multiply its productions. Merely physical causes, such as climate, temperature, &c., must always exert a decided influence on agriculture. Many of tlie difficulties, however, lono- regarded as insuperable, are constantly yielding to the arts and appliances of improved culture. Many ao-ricultural products are now nearly universal, such as the annual hay grasses, and the cereal products, — wheat, rye, and barley; corn too, the oat, the potatoe, the pea, the bean, the turnip, millet, and many other valuable agricultural growths, are now produced in great abundance, where formerly it was thought invincible physical causes forbid their cultivation. All tending to show the correctness of the precedino- position. The great object of science, applied to agriculture, is the improvement of soils, and the consequent augmentation of their productive power. Tliere is seldom any material defect as it regards the mineral ingredients of soil. The principal difficulty relates to organic matter and salts, say gein and salts. By reducing all the elements of soil to three classes, the subject assumes a shape less complex and ombarrassinp; to those not in the habit of makino- scien- tific distinctions. Let the classes ha, first, silicates, that is, silicic acid, in union with the several bases, as in the AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. 205 instance of simple minerals. Secondly, salts, as the sul- phates and carbonates generally. Thirdly, gein, as includ- ing all organic matter. Without the two last, the first class of elements would remain inactive, and their mutual reaction upon each other, is essential to the fertility sought in soils. Even the second could not secure fertility, without the third in due proportion. The gein of soils is undoubt- edly, the direct basis of agriculture ; and the proportion in which it exists, and ought to exist, is the gi-eat problem with the farmer. Tliis view of the subject, you will perceive, throws us back iipon a former postulate, — that organic decay, particularly vegetable decomposition, is the great generator of fertility in soils ; and will in every country and era, creatively determine tlie amount of pro- duction. The vital power of vegetation must have its appropriate conditions, and the practical tests of experience evince, that what we assume, is essential to its finding them. If the hitherto unexplored laws and causes of fertility, can be satisfactorily delineated, it will be like the resolving power of gravitation in astronomy ; — it will decide every- thing else. And should it be found, tliat these laws and causes operate mainly by the inorganic elements, the gein of soils, (whose constituents are carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, and nitrogen,) as this substance is inexhaustable in quantity and readily under the control of husbandry, the discovery, vitally affecting the life and comfort of unnumbered millions, is too important to be overlooked, in investigations having for their object the improvement of agriculture. It is almost incredible, to what extent the productive power of soil may be enlarged by the means thus suggested, com- bined with a proper system of compact and vigorous tillage. The ordinary capacity of the field is compressed within the limits of the garden. Too many think an acre of ground not worth inclosing, and yet it contains forty-three thousand 206 AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. five hundred and sixty square feet, and may yield an annual product worth several hundred dollars. In our neglect of the means of fertilization, and proverbial inattention to compressed tillage, we meet with the principia malorum, — the essential evils of our agricultural system. The improvement suggested is variously desiderated as most important. It decides the question oi food or no food. — Whether manufactures shall be supplied with the raw material, or perish. It is always matter of instant and urgent importance ; and alike so, with producer and con- sumer. It is absolutely essential to the common weal of all concerned. Agriculture keeping pace with population and want, is the life-blood of the state. It pi-esents the more cohesive elements of the civic organizations of every country. It is the hving source and symbol of comfort, quiet, and sufficiency. It must always furnish the substan- tial elements of gratification. Whatever other evils may exist, it throws up a mound against the possible invasion of want and suffei'ing. On this subject we have the evi- dence of the world's history. In view of these facts, how grateful must it be to know, that invariably, the useful in. agriculture and horticulture, follows improved cultivation over the face of the world. The vine followed the Greeks into Europe. Wheat, the Romans : cotton, the Arabs. The maize or corn, and potatoe, the first emigrations to Southern America. And similar demonstrations are going on every day, over the face of the world. In this way, the extension of agriculture over the entire surface of the cultivable earth, would, no doubt, greatly, almost infinitely, reduce the number and intensity of the physical, and con- sequent social and moral evils, now assailing humanity, connected with climate, temperature, causes of disease, want and suffering; and the reasoning applies as truly to a single country (say our own) as to the earth at large. AOKlCULTUIiAL ADDRESS. 207 Indigence is the greatest evil of every social system ; vice, alone, excepted. And where can the adequate remedy be found, except in increased cultivation, as the only basis of increase in the other departments of industry ? It is here we have manifest the maximum of human interest, in every sound aspect. — The art of arts by which we live, time has settled and sanctioned the supreme importance of agriculture, and shown how all others are nourished at her table! No limit can be set, no prediction oflfered as it regard^ the possible amount of production, while the great basis of production is kept properly in view. But blot out from the map of industrial enterprise the pursuits, and gradually enlarging power of agriculture, and then look at the sequent extinction of other productive operations 1 Said a homely poet, — " If 6un-light from the dial be, But for a moment banished, Tiiru to the silenced plate, and see! The hom-s themselves are vanished." All productive industry may be reduced to a very simple classification. — The necessaries, the conveniences, the ornaments, and the luxuries of life. This classification seems to exhaust the aims and purposes of production ; and yet how essentially are all these traceable to agriculture ! Assume the population of the earth to be ten hundred millions. Say each inhabitant, upon an average estimate, required only ten pounds sterling worth of food, for annual subsistence ; then, the annual production of the globe, all having a vegetable basis, would amount to ten billions pounds sterling each year, in the article of food only ! You can readily deduce the necessary inference as to the future. The landed surface of the globe presents an area of forty- nine millions of square miles. Were this entire area peopled everywhere, as densely as in England, and the 208 AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. average cultivation equal, it would support a population some fourteen times greater than that of the wliole world at present. That is, the average agiiculture of the earth's surface, being equal to that of England, it would sustain a population of about fourteen thousand millions ! Such esti- mates may help us to form some idea of what the power of agriculture might become, by means of the application of science and art. As it regards our own section of the globe, — our country proper, with a territory extendino- through some thirty degrees of latitude, and double the number of longitude ; — with an area of about two millions two hundred thousand square miles, — with every variety of soil and climate, — unrivalled in geographical and phy- sical advantages, (infinite in number and variety) as a productive nation, we have the advantage of every other on the world's surface, and are capable of becomino- whatever we choose to be ; and how Kentucky, as a section, will compare witli the balance of the territory, it is not necessary to tell you. Although agriculture be an essential element of civiliza- tion, yet it is equally true, that it will always be greatly influenced by the state of society, and especially of science, in any country. Diffused scientific infoi'mation is essential to perfection and finish. Multiply common schools, hio-h schools, and colleges in a country, let natural philosophy, chemistry, and physiology be tauglit extensively and thoroughh"-, in connection with studies usually receivino- a laro-er share of attention, and it will not be lono- until agriculture will feel the impulse. This reciprocity of influence, and intro-susception of elements, will be obvious to all. Viewed in different aspects and relations, agriculture is both cause and eff'ect, as it reijards civilization. It always precedes, and yet is always improved and perfected by it. Agriculture, meaning eartli's cidture, including AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. 209 field, forest, garden and landscape, combines the xitile dulci. It involves the elements of order, taste, and beauty ; forcibly reminding us of the classic traditions, — that the leaves of the acanthus growing round a basket accidentally left among them, suggested, from the finenesss of the efi'ect, tlie first idea of the Corinthian entablature ; and that the interlacing, higher branches of a majestic grove, originated the columns and arches of the grand Gothic catliedral ! JNor is it at all unlikely that our taste for proportion, order, elegance, and beauty, has been almost entirely excited and formed, from the unconscious observation of tiie appear- ences, figures, and constructions, found in the vegetable world about us. Let those who choose to look upon ao-riculture as one of the homlier arts, do so ; meanwliile, those wlio are better informed, will not fail to perceive the belle alliance between it and the arts of design and orna- ment generally. Even the inspired similitudes, by which, in the revelations of Christianity, the glory of her triumph upon earth, and the consummation of her hopes in heaven, are ima<>'ed to human conception, are selected from the scenes and interests of vegetable life, and the laws and relations of rural economy. What truth, by its self-evidence, is more obviously above reasoning, than that the study of nature tends to enlarge, soothe, and purify the mind ? What passage in the volume of nature can be read Avitliout interest ? Amid rural scenes and occupations, what significaniic of purpose, and grandeur of proportion, arrest and entrance ! Man is in more direct communion with nature, and his mental habitudes, the aft'ections, and the tendencies of his nature, develop more equally, and with less of impulse and passion, when engaged in agricultural pursuits, than amid other scenes of secular and social activity. The mind, in constant contact wath the quiet, yet varied and picturesque drapery VOL. II — 18. 210 AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. of vegetation, must be insensibly influenced by it, in everything relating to taste, and the gentler sensitivities of our nature. The fair and the beautiful, the uniform and abiding in nature above, must be prolitic of the gentler Influences, and favorable to all the kindlier virtues, and more endearing sympathies. Nature unperceived, exerts a chief, — a foremost influence. Man finds himself breathing an atmosphere of vigorous thought. Unobtrusive it may be, but always ennobling is this fellowship with nature. The starry vigil, the stilly dew, the stirless, brooding rest of atmosphere, forest, and all, as if hushed by the angel Df repose, — the tender and chastened alternations of light and gloom, must give an elastic evenness of pulse, a springy quietude of emotion, favorable to health and virtue. The whole living panorama of nature gives its impulse and inspiration. Amid expansions of vernal luxu- riance, unfolding their vigor and beauty to the eye, soothed by the music of the breeze, the whisper of the zephyr, the chirp in the grass, the hum in the flowers, the sonorous sounds, and sunny aspects of nature, blending with the colors of the landscape and the azure of heaven, — he who does not imbibe pleasure and instruction, must be a miserable effigy of the image, whether of God or man ! Who does not realize a rejuvenescence of his whole nature at the approach of Spring, and under the reviving influence of rural vernation ? Who does not feel the freshness of the mountain, and the gladness of the rill 1 The life and revelry of wood and bower ! The grand and picturesque of nature's drapery ! Such a scene must leave itself upon the mind. What kind of a heart is that, upon which the music of nature, the toned gladness of hill and dale, tlie seolian murmur of grove and forest, are thrown away ! Have the beauty and bounteousness of nature been lavished without meaning or moral ! Wliy this waste of loveliness ; AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. 211 such grandeur unenjoyed ! Existing in natural fellowship with earth, air, and ocean, and in constant intercourse with the multitudinous forms of magnificence, beauty and life, activity, passion and enjoyment, man has revealed to him, Avhether he imbibe it or not, the true poetry of nature. Here, he meets too with the primal 'sources of intelligence, and all about him becomes the alphabet of useful know- ledge. Who can be ignorant of the fact, that the physio- loo-ical structure, and pathological habitudes and affections of our physical nature, affect the character and destinies of mind ; and yet how vastly, although it may be imper- ceptibly, are these influenced by the inorganic, animal, and veffetable worlds about us ? And whv should it be regarded, by many, as strange ? A sylvan, intended as God himself declared, to be an agricultural scene, with all the attraction of vegetable supply and vernal beauty, was the theater of man's creation, and the index of his earthly destiny ; and would not a beneficent Creator pre-adapt his nature to the aspects and phenomena of the physical world about him ? With the history of agriculture, as a simple registry of facts, you are too familiar to allow its introduction. Its natural history and philosophy are more important here. It is the first, the oldest, and the broadest of all the fields of human activity. It has always given direction to the course of human destiny. It is the great foundation interest of human society. It has always existed, a fundamental arrangement in the economy of human life. It appears in the first, and every subsequent era of human history, as the great sustaining basis of supply and sufficiency as it regards both want and gratification. It is a grand primeval inter- est, vitally affecting the very existence of the living millions of each successive generation. It alone meets the first great want of man. It is a singular fact, that in the only history 212 AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. we have of man's creation, one of the final causes, — a grand primal reason for his creation, is connected with the culture of the earth. When God saw there was not a man to till the ground, he proceeded to create man, and placed him in the garden, " to dress and keep it." Before sin had entered our world, before death had become a part of the physiology of man, Divine appointment had connected his physical and social destiny with the cultivation of the soil. Agriculture, thus coeval with man's existence, and connatu- ral Avith his being, has furnished not merely the antecedents of important events in history, but of great historical eras. It claims an originality, combination, and permanence of relation, to which no other art or pursuit of man, can lay claim. It may be depressed in a thousand ways, but can only be destroyed by the extinction of our race ! As the central point of unity in the whole field of production, vitally aflFecting the internal economy of society, it must be received as the genus, with regard to every species of pro- ductive labor. To every man, it is nature's first mandate, and obedience always practicable. It marked the dawn, has distinguislied the progress, and is destined to crown the last stage of human improvement. It has ever been the grand school of invention, the birthplace of all the useful, and nearly all the other arts. It is the great regulating prin- ciple of vitality in the growth of nations, and the expansion of civic improvement. All history shows it to be the true, and only universal nursery of civilization ; and in every respect, the most fundamental arrangement in the economy of human life. In aofriculture, we find the elements of duration and increase as it regards all production. Even change gives stability, and strength is derived from decline, in the ever varying vicissitudes of fortune and trial, marking its history. In the whole drama of national story, the truth obtrudes AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. 213 itself upon our notice, in all countries and every era, that the basis of ph3'sical improvement is to be sought in agri- culture ; and as intellectual improvement can only keep pace with physical, it must be seen at once, that the intellectual and moral character of a people, must be largely determined by the relative state of this great economic interest. You point us to commerce and manufactures, trade and exchange, the productiveness of the arts, professional skill, and all the thousand etceteras, to which the hopeful industry, or desifi-ning cupidity of man has given birth ; but did you ever reflect how exactly all these, especially the principal, — manufactures and commerce, co-ordinate witli the amonnt of agricultural production ? What did Babylon, Tyre, and Carthage know of commerce, for example, until the plains of Messopotamia, and the valley of the Euplirates, the fertile districts of Phenicia at the eastern head of the Mediterranean, the rich fields of Fez and Morocco, and the Avhole northern coast of Africa, were burdened with the varied products of agriculture ? In all tlieir conventional aspects, there exists the most intimate affinity, (shall we call it appetency ?) between manufjictures and commerce, on the one hand, and au'riculture, on the other. And bv extending the examination, you find agriculture in close and almost vital conjugation with all the arts and sciences of life. All the arts of human subsistence and comfort, are esseniially incidental to agriculture. The primary interests of production must always be connected with the soil, and all other forms must be lateral and subordinate, or want of harmony, and unhealthy action, will be the result. Com- merce, manufactures, and the arts, flourish best when they turn to agriculture, as the common replenisher of the whole field of life. We wish the subject of agriculture not only to be looked at, but carefully examined in aitu, in the relation it sustains 214 AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. to all the departments, subdivisions, and more minute means and methods of production. We can only glance, however, at a few, and often \mrelated particulars. When Greece and Rome, in their better days, were found in the field, amid the scenes, and devoted to the pursuits of hus- bandry, wedded to the farm, the vineyard, the garden, the rural liomestead, they were free, virtuous, and invincible. But when Greece and Rome were afterward found in crowded cities, and luxurious capitals, they began to degene- rate ; and in the instance of both, a single capital became the grave of Empire ! Take the mythology only of Phe- nicia, Egypt, India, Greece, and Rome, and regarding it as the exponent of the intellectual character of a people, it may be seen at once, to what extent agriculture gave character to their fortunes and destinies. The finest forms of civiliza- tion known to history, found among the Celtic and Teutonic races, have always been essentially rural. The pioneers and missionaries, alike of civilization and Christianity, have never, in any age or part of the world, been able to affect the civic improvement or Christianization of savage and nomadic tribes, until they first succeeded in attaching them to the soil, as fixed rural cultivators. Where is patriotism likely to be so strong and vigorous, as in the country where the homes of the population are surrounded by the comforts and elegancies of rural cultivation, creating the most enduring local attachments ? Were agriculture allowed its proper place, and permitted to fulfill its purposes, it would, in every country, affect the entire civic organization in some of its most importaul features. Take the case of the learned professions so called, as law, medicine, and the pulpit, not only burdened by supernumeraiy thousands, embracing them for a liveli- hood, but suffering disreputation and inevitable disgrace, by a thronging multitude of mediocre aspirants, who, under AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. 21. '> a different state of things, would have added dignity ant sufficiency to place and station, in a sphere of applicatiori Avhere they might have excelled, and surrounding them selves Avith the attractions of taste and utility, might hav( maintained an enviable position in the social scene. It not proudly high, at least, not meanly low. The facts we adduce, although not, in many instances related among themselves, bear, nevertheless, upon the staple discussion — how far science and art may increase the capacity of agriculture to produce ? And it is time, perhaps, we were making the application of general data and reasoning, to American, and particularly Kentucky agriculture. Assume the wheat crop of the United States to average twenty bushels to the acre ; the corn, the rye, and the oat crops, thirty ; — the potato crop, two hundred. Take now, the present aggregate of production, at current average prices ; then assume further, that improved soil, and methods of production, shall increase the average grain crop, only six bushels to the acre, and the potato crop, but twenty-five bushels, and these items alone, would add to the annual aggregate income, about a hundred millions of dollars 1 Apply similar data and reasoning to the entire hay and root culture of the United States ; the tobacco, hemp, rice, cotton, sugar, and other valuable products, and you have at least fifty millions more. Let it be borne in mind now, that this one hundred and fifty millions, is simply the interest upon the additional capital created by the increased productiveness of land and labor, by the method we have been recommending. The capital, you can calculate at your leisure. This is not poetry, nor yet a South Sea dream. It is a plain question of facts and figures. Can the average grain crop throughout the United States, be increased six bushels per acre ? The potato crop, twenty- 216 AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. five ? And other items of agricultual production, in pro- portion ? If so, oii the ordinary principles of political economy, the result is mathematically demonstrable. Still further, take the several States of the nation, the character and productive power of the soil in each, the kinds of production, &c., and in striking the dividend, say what portion of the one hundred and fifty millions would fall to the share of Kentucky ? Reduce our estimate, even one half, and yet, how incalculably would the State be enriched ! Kentucky is essentially an agricultural State ; and as a State, can never be anything else. And as a State, she must adopt a plan, (and there is no time to be lost) — a plan, comprehensive, stable, and effective; the results of which, will be, to clierish and develop her agri- cultural I'esources ; or she must tamely submit to become but a third rate member of the great family of South West- ern States. As things now are, a large proportion of our cultivators, for want of proper stimulus, ambition, and encouragement about them, instead of enriching, and so cultivatino- one acre as to render its production equal to two or three, are annually leaving the State by emigra- ^;ion ; seeking elsewhere, what they despair of finding here. In relation to agricultural improvement among us, the majorily, perhaps, are ready to approve and applaud ; but this does not meet the emergency. Mere otiose assent will not do. Action, prompt and decisive, is called for. We have been amateur theorists, and holiday patrons long enouoh ! That Kentucky should do something for agri- culture, and do it soon, seems to be admitted by all. Conviction and feeling to this efiect, are strong and preva- lent throughout the State. The obvious, urgent necessity, of a rigidly scientific — geological survey of the State, developing its natural resources, for productive purposes, AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. 217 has been so often and so ably presented to the notice of the legislature of Kentucky, I despair investing the topic with any additional interest or urgency, by anything I could add on the subject. The light that would thus be thrown upon our natural resources, in relation particularly to the iron and coal, imbedded as we know, in inexhausti- ble quantities, beneath a large portion of our territorial surface, and also in reference to kindred mineral treasures, the varieties of soil in different sectional locahties, tOi>-ether .with the means and methods by which both — all, mio-ht be turned to most effective account, would soon, not only indemnify the State on the score of expense, but augment her productive power, almost incalculably. Let a thoroui»-h and skillful survey of this kind be instituted by the legisla- ture, and prosecuted by a competent corps of engineers and scientific persons, for minute, accurate investigation and repoit. Let the survey proceed under the supervision of an enlightened board of commissioners, constituting a regular, scientitic bureau, at the seat of government, receiving quarterly reports from the corps of survey, and reporting (themselves) annually to tlie legislature. Let such a policy be adopted, and vigorously acted upon, and before the survey is completed, the entire system of produc- tion in the State, will assume a new aspect. New sources of wealth will be brought to light. New chamiels of pro- ductive industry will be opened. Extensive demand will be immediately created for skillful voluntary labor, without which, no improvement can take place, and the state must always labor under a dead palsy. The feudal policy, as found in Kentucky, in the satrapies and principalities of landed lordship, by which production and consumption, are now so fatally obstructed and impoverished, would yield to a more natural state of things. The unmeani no- madness by which half the best lands of the state, are VOL. II — 19. 218 AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. rendered, not only utterly unproductive, but a constant source of pauperism within, and banishnaent of the best class of laborers, beyond the limits of the state, would be too well understood to produce further mischief. The sagacity of self-interest would soon teach the lesson, — that land is onlj' valuable in the ratio of its actual contribution to the sum and purposes of production. Who can estimate the effect of a survey, such as we propose, upon the eastern division of the state ? This whole division, from the Ohio river south to the Tennessee line, would soon become a rich agricultural and manufacturing region. The coal, the iron, the salt, the copperas, the nitre, and other mineral treasures of this entire region, together with fine soil, fine timber, abundance of water, and all their kindred etceteras, are destined to render it one of the most productive divisions' of the state. In the articles of iron and coal, no limit can be fixed to the natural wealth of the state. With the finest geographical advantages — a soil not surpassed by that of Tuscany or Andalusia two thousand years ago, — with a territory of forty thousand five hundred square miles — forty thousand of which may be cultivated to advantage — with a population of eight hundred thousand — with credit and character at home and abroad, as managing your affairs with economy, and maintaining honor and good faith in all your relations — with such advantages properly improved, what may you not become, as a state ? The two great topics, with regard to which we are most deficient, are education and agriculture : (for hitherto, you have not recognized the former as including the latter.) Much has recently been done for both. — For education, by the State. For Agriculture, by the Association I have the honor of representing on this occasion ; and by fractional portions of the people ; but much remains to be done. Our system of popular education is greatly deficient, and as yet, AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. 219 has not the suffrage of popular feeling in the state. Agri- culture has derived no practical encouragement from the state at all. That something should be done fur the latter, and something further for the former, is felt, it is believed, by all, and questioned by none. In view of the common welfare, these topics present themselves as desiderata, requiring the most mature — the gravest consideration. I ask attention to this whole subject, suggestively. I have nothing formal to propose. As the organ of the State Agricultural Society of Kentucky, I have been left perfectly free, to offer opinion, or avow conviction, as I might think proper. It is almost a matter of course, that a variety of plans should have been offered for the action of the state, should the legislature be inclined to entertain the question in any form. Among these, it has been proposed to establish an independent school or college, as an institute of Agriculture, endowed by the state, and under its control, and the project, I believe, has numerous able advo'-^^tes, in different sections of the State. Another plan has been, for the state to endow professorships of agriculture, in the colleges of the state generally, with a view to scientific instruction in this department of knowledge. Others have suggested, the endowment by the state of a single profes- soi'ship in some one of our colleges. If the state is prepared for it, the first plan — the establishment of au agricultural college, where the whole range of instruction — the several departments of natural science especially, shall be brought to bear upon the subject of agriculture, is no doubt the best. The second plan, might undoubtedly be rendered extensively available, should the bounty of the state, be so extended to the several colleges of the state. Or finally, much might be effected for the interests of agriculture by the endowment of a single professorship, in some one of our colleges. The utility of either project. 220 AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. would depend almost entirely upon its constitution and management. Unless well constructed and managed, fail- ure would, no doubt, mark the result. On the other hand, rightly constructed, and well conducted, an independent college, or a single department in one or more of the colleges of the state, would, there is every reason to believe, secure the object aimed at. Should the establish- ment of a professorship, in some one, or several of our colleges, be preferred to a separate institute, it will be well worth while to inquire, whether a single professorship of agriculture, as commonly understood, would meet the wants of the people of Kentucky ? Are we sufficiently advanced for this ? Is sufficient interest felt in the state to justify an attempt to reach the first object, without interme- diate preliminary steps? Would not a professorship of geology, chemistry, and agriculture, be preferable, as an initiatory step ? Whether the professorship be in all, or one of your colleges, should not its organization aim first, at the study of geology and chemistry, as applicable to ao-riculture, and when the advanced state of information on the general subject, the resort of pupils in sufficient num- bers, and the popular interest felt, shall require it, then, let agriculture be erected into a separate, substantive department. Long before the agitation of this subject in Kentucky, or perhaps, in any other section of our country, to any considerable extent, my attention was practically directed % to the subject, in all its more important details, at least. During my connection with a college in Western Pennsyl- vania, some years since, I succeeded in the establishment of an agricultural professorship in the institution — the first attempt of the kind, I believe, ever made in this country. The legislature of Pennsylvania was so favorably impressed, as to grant a donation of five thousand dollars ; and I AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. 221 receivjd numerous letters from some of the most distin- guished men in the United States, warmly expressing interest and approval, with regard to this, then novel experiment. In a letter addressed me by Ex-President Madison, he says, — "It gives me pleasure to find that the trustees are about to attach to the institution, an ao-ricultural department, — an improvement well meriting a place among the practical ones, which the lights of the age, and the genius of our country, are adding to the ordinary course of public instruction. I wish I could give value to my commendation, by pointing out the best mode of adapt- ing the experiment to its useful object." The venerable Charles Carroll of Carrolton, wrote me on the occasion, as follows, alluding to the fact, that the professorship had received his name, as the "Carroll Institute of Agricul- ture," he remarks, — "I consider it a distinguished honor conferred upon me, and it is indeed surprising, that 7/our college should be the first to establish a professorship, for teaching and diffusing the science of agriculture, so essen- tial to the welfare of every country, particularly the United States. Great advantages will undoubtedly be derived from the institution. That such may be reaped, and the example you have set, be followed by other colleges, are my ardent wishes." In a letter addressed me by Chief Justice Marshall, he says, " That agriculture is a science, in which society is deeply interested, no man will deny, and that it may be greatly improved by scientific I'esearches, will, I presume, be generally admitted. A student may certainly derive advantages from such a department. It seems to me to be connected with the department of chem- istry. Such a professorship may, I should think, furnish valuable information to the public." In'a letter from John Quincy Adams, he remarks, " The institution of a profes- sorship of agriculture in your college, I believe, will be 222 AGRICULTUKAL ADDRESS. attended with salutary effects, and a similar professorsliip, at other colleges in our country, would constitute an improvement of the system of education pursued in their halls." In a letter addressed me by De Witt Clinton, and only a short time before his death, he expresses the opinion, " That a complete course of agricultural education should be taught, developing the principles of the science, illus- trating the practice of the art, and restoring the first and best pursuit of man, to that intellectual rank which it ought to occupy in the scale of human estimation. As agriculture is a science as well as an art, the benefit of such an institu- tion must be great and extensive." Mr. Clay, of our own state, in a letter I received from him on the subject, observes, (writing from Washington city,) "I think such a professorship, properly filled, and its duties performed with zeal and industry, would be productive of much benefit, and it would be no where better situated, than in the fertile reo-ions beyond the mountains. It should be the leading object to teach the practical application of chemistry to aijriculture." I have quoted from the letters of these distinguished scholars, statesmen, and public economists, only those portions which relate directly to the abstract propriety, and probable utility, of agricultural professorships in col- leges. Abstractly, you perceive, all are in favor of the policy. The when, the where, and the hoiv, would, of course, have been made a separate question by each of the writers ; and will be separately considered by you. Sup- posing the state of Kentucky inclined to do anything in the premises, I have no personal preferences as to localit)', or mode of operation ; and the only conviction I feel any interest in avowing is, that in the present state of the science and art among us, any attempt at scientific instruc- tion, should aim, principally, at the application of chemistry AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. 223 to agriculture, as the best means of diffusing available information on the subject. The relation and application of geology and mineralogy, would, of course, be included. With these remarks I have no more to say on the subject, here or elsewhere, and shall cheerfully submit to the decision of public opinion. One other chief item, and we are done. It is to be feared that many of us are in the habit of deferring to opinions and prejudices adverse to labor, and but too prevalent in most of our circles, — looking upon labor as unworthy the dignity and hopes of social cultivation, except in particular classes of general society ; and who, on this very account, are regarded as existing in a state of relative serfhood, in relation to the other classes. Deference, wo say, to such prejudices, existing only in the vulgar inferi- ority of paraded wealth, and the vagrancy of sentimental idlers, it is to be feared, exerts no small influence, in withholding many from proper action and effort, in relation to the great economic interest we have been advocating. Let us not, however, be discouraged. God and nature, truth and history, all point to labor, as that without which, the requirements of human destiny can never be fulfilled. Labor is the great law of human improvement. It alone gives man his proper place in the world. God intended our world as the school of industry. Life, with man, is a dispensation of labor. Whether physically or intellectually considered, labor is the great functional vocation of man. It has always been the scepter of power and influence upon the face of our planet. It connects itself with tlie secular resources, and moral feelings of every country. It is not only man's terrestial destiny, but is, as we have seen, in direct harmony with his heavenly relations — the final pur- poses of his being. What is all history, but the record of labor ? What historic antiquity, but its ruins ? What is 224 AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. there in it, ennobling our world, not the fruit of labor? What, but labor, has stamped upon the face of the earth, the impress of man's intelligence ? It is by the ministry of labor, men are made. It is only by labor, the laws of character are determined. Its tendency is, to invigorate, enlarge, and elevate the whole man. Who so likely to feel an interest in the order and welfare of society, as those who create and sustain, the one and the other, by labor ? An honest laborer is indefeasibly noble, and we trust him involuntarily. The man who toils for daily bread, and the man who toils for the light and guidance of mind, we revere. While on the other hand, the man who earns nothing, having it in his power to do so, cannot in the eye of sound philosophy, be considered, as either virtuous or respectable. — He is neither. The man who habitually violates the law of industry, is unw^orthy of being trusted. Life, by God's own appointment, is a ministration of toil and endeavor, and he who declines the probation, and resorts to other expedients, as the means of subsistence, outlaws himself from the pale of worth and virtue, and society is called upon by his own challenge, to treat him accordingly! The true dignity of labor is admitted — is felt by every well-ordered mind, in every social scene. Where do you look for manly energy, lofty talent, and unbending virtue, the nobler endeavors, and higher efforts of human achievement ? Who, but fulfill the conditions of human welfare ? Where do you expect high-minded resolve, and moral elevation, force of character, and rugged manhood of purpose and intellect ? Upon whom would you rely, to further the progress, and advance the well- being of society ? Would you look among those who have spent life without care or occupation ? Would you look to the schools of ease and self-indulgence ? Would you appeal to the leisured opulence, or unchallenged indolence,. AGRICULTURAL ADDRESS. 226 with which our world abounds ? Ratlier, would you not look to those, and those only, who by labor, have made the earth ours? — The theater and means of enjoyment and usefulness. Would not your appeal be to those, who by the ministry of labor, supply alike the highest and the lowest wants of humanity — constantly achieving individual and social good, — the good both of body and mind ; — diffusing the elements of happiness everywhere, and by all means ; and thus gathering about themselves the only veritable distinctions and signatures of manly worth and moral virtue ? In conclusion, how forcibly does such a view of the subject, remind us of a maxim of Revelation, the relevancy of which, no one will question! — It is, *