The Kthics of Opinion. 253 
It is almost needless for me to add to the statement that 
_ the article is signed “A.H.K.B.,”that it is excellently written ; 
and almost throughout distinguished by a liberality of spirit 
and an acuteness of discrimination, which render the expres- 
sion in it of an opinion, which I conceive exhibits diametri- 
cally opposite characteristics, so much the more astonishing. 
I shall consider myself fortunate if, in animadverting upon it, 
I accomplish three objects which I have in view—to draw 
attention to the admirable lessons interspersed throughout 
the treatise—to show that the illiberal sentiment to which I 
take exception is not involved in, but rather contradicts, the 
general principles advocated by the author ; and what is of 
most importance, to arouse thought and discussion on the 
subject generally. 
It might tend to defeat my first specified intention, were I 
to quote so much from the essay as to satisfy the curiosity of 
those who have not read it, as to more than the general dritt 
of the arguments, for the whole of it is well worth the carefui 
study of all those who may have the opportunity of reading 
it. I shall therefore only mention how clearly it is shown 
that the spirit of intolerance which prompted burning 
(while burning was possible) those who differed in opinion 
from the burners, is not obsolete, but still animates all those 
who misrepresent, or cut, or even avoid, or PRAY PUBLICLY 
for, or do anything but endeavour to convince those holding 
different opinions. 
“Whenever you try to bully a man out of his opinion 
“instead of reasoning him out of it: whenever you attempt 
“any form or degree of physical or moral intimidation, you 
“are showing that you WOULD burn an opponent if you had 
“the chance, or if you durst.”* The illustrations given b 
“ A.K.H.B.” in verification of this conclusion, should, I think, 
carry conviction even to the most prejudiced mind. What 
advanced large-mindedness is shown in the paragraph 
commencing : 7 
“Tt is good for us to see and know people who differ from 
“us im opinion, politically, theologically, ecclesiastically, 
“esthetically. Itisagreat mistake tolivealways among those 
“ whothinkexactly as you do. You will grow very narrow, very 
“self-sufficient ; you will get a quite foolish idea of your 
“own infallibility and importance. I have known good 
* See Frazer’s Magazine, March 1867, pp. 821. ‘‘ Concerning the Treat- 
ment of those who differ from us in Opinion.”— By A.H.K.B.” 
