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Thames Star, Volume XI, Issue 3588, 26 June 1880, Page 4

you Sttempt an argument say that you have no right to use your reason in discussing questions of religion—as it is only human. Keason is the most precious gift bestowed on man—tho highest attribute of Deity—and wo become nearer to the omnipotent Creator by the possession of it. Surely then it cannot be \said of it that it is human ? The gift of reason is moßt prized, and bears self evidence of its divine origin. And yet these gentlemen tell us that we are not to use the reason given to us by the Creator in discussing questions concerning things eternal. They are to do all that part of the business, and we are to forego all considerations and follow their dictates. without discussing thpk*imaiaculateriesß of character? This is one of the ways in which many of the clergy strive to close the mouths of holders of heterodox views. Another one, and one still more to be condemned is when, ministers of the Church treat the opinions of sceptics with silent "contempt." This " silent contempt "is more frequently _the result of paucity of sound arguments and knowledge than of what it professes to be. Some there are—but they are the exception,* who endeavour to promulgate a counteracting influence by studiously applying themselves to the work, and they in many cases succeed in keeping scepticism at bay. The pastors by their inaction foster a belief in scepticism, as when the world sees fresh advocates of unbelief, and obserres the action of the clergy in not refuting their statements, it concludes that they have, actually no grounds on which to maintain their belief. Orthodox teachings have a similar effect. In my next letter I will briefly discuss the question Pcepticism v. .Christianity. Plato Juniob.