The heathens, destitute of a Divine revelation properly so called, have only the volumes of creation, providence, and conscience, in which to seek their Maker's will. Accustomed to behold only the works of God, and to hear the indistinct whispers of conscience, their conclusions concerning right and wrong must needs be weak and unsteady. What direct knowledge they have is faint and confused; and as to the traditional information which any of them retain, it is so mixed with superstitions and absurdities, that it resembles rather a meteor which bewilders, than a lamp to enlighten their path. But imperfect as this natural light is, it is not to be slighted with impunity. It is the messenger of God; its rays, however weak, are sacred; and, therefore, to resist them must be criminal.

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