PREFACE. 171 national religion," andadjust and limit the common rights of mankind, both sacred and civil, under this establishment in any country whatsoever, wherein religion may be professed in varions forms; and atthe same time to maintain a perfect consistence withall due liberty of conscience, and support the just authority of supreme rulers. What he had written on this subject he was desired to publish as a matter of further enquiry to those who have thought much on this argument: and perhaps it may serve to lead those who have never much thought of it into a more natural and easy track of thinkingand reasoningabout it. If any thing in this essay shall proveso happy as to shed one peaceful and serene beam of light upon this dark and noisy controversy, he hopes to find forgiveness and acceptance among his best readers : Andhe would take pleasure in seeing such light further improved by minds better furnished, till itspread itself into a fair and glorious day. Such a clear and harmonious viewof these subjects would do much toward the security and easeof civil government in any particular occurrences, as well as toward the general advantageof true religion and the support of just liberty, which are three of the most valuable privileges of mankind, and the choicest blessings on this side heaven. March20th, 1738.9.
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