7259. RELIGION, Schismatics.—
It was
the misfortune of mankind that during the
darker centuries the Christian priests, following
their ambition and avarice, combining
with the magistrate to divide the spoils of the
people, could establish the notion that schismatics
might be ousted of their possessions and
destroyed. This notion we have not yet
cleared ourselves from. In this case no wonder
the oppressed should rebel, and they will
continue to rebel, and raise disturbance, until
their civil rights are fully restored to them,
and all partial distinctions, exclusions and incapacitations
are removed.—
Notes on Religion.
Ford ed., ii, 103.
(1776?)
