traditional belief in many great Christian verities; which, though undermined and menaced, are still held and revered piously by multitudes. Such persons are becoming daily sensible that so far, at least, a common belief unites them to us; and that we oppose to the infidelity which threatens them, a firm and unyielding front. All such minds cannot fail to see in a General Council a powerful witness in support of Christianity. They will know that we are strengthening and confirming the truths which they retain. They will feel to have a share in what is passing, and a sympathy in our acts. It is certain, also, that upon a multitude of minds who are wavering and doubtful, seeking for a foundation on which to rest, and an authority to which to listen, the voice of a General Council will have great power. The condition of Germany, England, and Scotland is in marked contrast to their state three hundred years ago. Protestantism has varied, changed, put off its original type, and unfolded itself into a multitude of irreconcilable forms. It has been always in flux, and is now evidently in rapid dissolution. In such a moment the immutability of the faith manifests itself; and the intellectual and moral action of the Church in Council cannot fail to penetrate both the intellects and the wills of men. The Council of Trent fixed the epoch after which Protestantism never spread. The next General Council will probably date the period of its dissolution. It is certain that the influence of the Church so assembled to deliberate and to legislate for
