354 



which is proof to one person is not to another — and that seems to me to be 

 an important question in reference to our reception of the testimony of Scrip- 

 ture, and to Christianity. The testimony requires a particular preparation of 

 the mind to receive it. I do not know whether I have made myself under- 

 stood, but I would be the last person to endeavour to maintain such senti- 

 ments as our Chairman has imputed to me about criticism, especially as I 

 have published plenty of criticism about such points. 



The Chairman. — I did not suppose you held that view, but you seemed 

 to hold it. 



Mr. Howard. — Criticism before the reception of the testimony is very im- 

 portant, and indeed we are invited by the Scriptures themselves to prove all" 

 things, and hold fast that which is good. I do not know that I need say any 

 more. As to the moral sense and intuitive perception of the truth, these 

 questions could not of course be entered upon in such a paper as this. 



The Meeting was then adjourned. 



