OS THE HISTORICAL TRrSTWORTHINESS OF THE. NE W TESTAM ENT. 217 



nature of a scroll, writing down the tale of the heads of slain 

 enemies, or lists of the spoil. 



But, as I have said, I cannot speak upon the subject now before 

 us. I take this opportunity, however, to express my appreciation 

 of the very interesting lecture which Professor Eamsay has delivered 

 upon a subject of much importance. 



Colonel G. Mackixlay. — I had not intended to make any remarks, 

 but as a previous speaker referred to Sir AVilliam Ramsay's excellent 

 book, TFas Christ horn in Bethlehem / and to the date of Quirinus' 

 first tenure of rule in Syria, I should like to ask Sir "William, if 

 any known historical fact gives a distinct negation to the date 

 8 B.C. for the Nativity, a date which is distinctly indicated b\' a 

 certain line of inference ? 



I beg to join my thanks with those of others for the very useful 

 and instructive paper which we have just heard. 



Professor Pamsay. — Xo known fact al)Solutely prevents this 

 conclusion ; but I await with pleasure Colonel Mackinlay's book 

 upon the subject. 



The vote of thanks of the meeting having been put from the chair, 

 was carried unanimously ; and the meeting separated. 



V 2 



