3O8 HENDERSON, which abounded so much in the preceding century, with the greatest avidity. Astrology and alchemy first engaged his attention. To the study of the former, he brought an extensive knowledge of astronomy and ancient and mo dern physics; he was, however, at length dissatisfied with i t . “Though,” said he, “I cannot take upon me t o deny i t s general principle i n the face o f evidence, yet I cannot approve i t s particular application.” We may, indeed, b e surprised that s o vigorous and penetrating a mind a s Henderson's, should have devoted itself t o such studies; but our surprise will b e lessened, when w e remem ber that the great Boyle was a believer i n alchemy, and the abstruse doctrine o f sympathies; and that Flamstead, and even Newton, have constructed astrological schemes. His studies i n the occult sciences did not rest here; he proceeded still farther, and penetrated into the mysterious arcana o f magic. That communication with the inha bitants o f the aerial sphere i s impossible, may b e asserted with sufficient confidence b y the cold metaphysician; but i t i s mere peremptoriness without proof. All ages and a l l nations have witnessed the most respectable decla rations o f such a communication; and what has been asserted o n credible testimony, i s not t o b e shaken by mere positive denial. History has recorded numerous instances o f these appearances, and the greatest and best o f men have witnessed t o the truth o f them; s o that, how ever fashionable scepticism o n the subject may be, those who believe i n them ought not t o b e branded either a s credulous o r superstitious. The belief o f unembodied and disembodied spirits assuming the human form, o r becoming audible and con versable, has a wonderful effect i n raising the mind t o a contemplation o f that world for which the present i s but a probation. I t creates a n awe i n the mind, i t gives the imagination a lofty scope for exercise, i t raises i n the soul a n elevation o f sentiment b y anticipating i t s future union with beings unconfined i n earth; the cause o f morality i s strengthened b y i t , and faith and hope have a more
