Page:Conciones ad populum. Or, Addresses to the people (IA concionesadpopul00cole).pdf/49

 predisposed by its situations: and when the prejudices of a man are strong, the most over-powering Evidence becomes weak. He "meets with darkness in the day-time, and gropes in the noon-day as in night." Some unmeaning Term generally becomes the Watch-word, and acquires almost a mechanical power over his frame. The indistinctness of the Ideas associated with it increases its effect, as "objects look gigantic thro' a mist." The favorite phrases of the present Day are—"It may be very well in Theory"—and the "effects of Jacobine Principles." Aided by the one and alarmed by the other, the shuddering Bigot flings the door of Argument in your face, and excludes all Parley by gloomy anticipation of the consequences. There are however of this Class, who boldly provoke Discussion, but finding themselves unable to keep the field, are enraged where they should have been convinced, and probably inform against their Opponent. High-spirited Disputants! they first challenge you to box with them, and then call in the Constable. In all public meetings these Men signalize themselves. Argument they answer by inarticulate Noises, and their zeal for the Constitution they manifest by breaking the Peace. Certain to make a riot in their great ardor