PREFACE.

 X

done something, if not towards directly effecting
that object, at least towards opening the way
for subsequent endeavours. If he has not sue-
ceeded in putting all his propositions in a clear
light, and finally settling the various contro-
verted questions which he brings under review,
yet he may hope that he has introduced them
in such a manner as will excite in others the
interest and attention requisite for their ultj-
mate determination. Free, on his own part,
from particular attachment to any of the po-
sitions which he has maintained, although im-
pressed with that clear conviction of their
soundness, without which it would be absurd
to intrude them on public notice; and sensible
of the thousand ways in which error imposes
itself on the understanding in the character of
truth, he will be glad of an opportunity of re-
considering his opinions, under the guidance of
2 mind which has reached a higher point of