XXii PREFACE. The author is aware, however, of the delicacy of many things here presented to the public, and of the difficulty of writing freely without. giving offence. But;as honest truthneeds no apology, so the pernicious infl3ence of bigotry, superstition, andpersecution, he thinks, can never be too fairly and openly exposed. He also believes that all professing Christians, except those who are blind devotees to superstition, or persecutors of the church of God, will rejoice to unite with him in holding up these evils as a warning to posterity. The work is not to be considered as a medium, or a test of religious controversy, but an historical narrative of facts. It is not designed to fan the' flame of contention among brethren, but to pro- mote, upon genuine protestant principles, that christian moderation, that. mutual forbearance, and that generous affection, among all denomina, tions, which is the_greatOrnament and excellency of all 'who call themselves Protestants. A correct view of the failings and the excellencies of others, should prompt us to avoid that which is evil, and to imitate that which is good.' When we behold the great piety and constancy with which our forefathers endured the most bar- barous persecution, will not the sight produce in our minds the most desirable christian feelings ? Though we shall feel the spirit of indignity against the inhumanity and cruelty of their persecutors, will not the sight of their sufferings, their holiness, and their magnanimity, awaken in our breasts the
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