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most distant and dissimilar, however they may be disguised by- 
difference of language, however incumbered by the adhesion of 
foreign circumstances, which the diversity of national character 
may have engrafted on them, should still retain such an evident 
similarity as to be clearly traced to the same source? what cause 
can be assigned, that the whole fabric of pagan mythology, whe- 
ther surrounded by the gaudy, but mishapen ornaments of eastern 
magnificence, or rising in the graceful elegance and exact sym- 
metry of Grecian taste, or frowning terrors in the ponderous and 
massive grandeur of northern architecture, should be raised on the 
same foundation, however the superstructure may be modelled or 
varied, by the influence of national manners? If this globe had 
been inhabited by nations of a separate and independent origin, 
could this uniformity in their traditions possibly have existed? If 
mankind had reached that perfection, both in science and refine- 
ment, which is pretended, would there not have occurred some dis- 
tinct and diversified events, which would have clearly characterized 
these periods, and would have found their way to future gene- 
rations?” 
ee From every investigation it clearly appears, that no compu- 
tations have been able to invalidate the only historical narrative, 
which, independently of the stamp of divine authority, presents a 
rational account of the formation of the universe, of the creation 
of man, and of the infant state of the world; which, in accuracy 
of description, not less than in sublimity of language, stands un- 
rivalled. In vain have they been applied to invalidate that ever- 
lasting covenant, which was established before the foundations of 
the world were laid, before 4 the morning stars sang together, and 
s 
