Page:Sketches of the life and character of Patrick Henry.djvu/269

 be preserved, by abolishing all distindiom of pre-emi- nence amongst the different societies or communities of Christians.'' The provisions of the bill are in the strictest conformity with the principles announced in the close of the preamble; the persons subject to taxes are required^ at the time of giving in a list of their tithe- ables, to declare to what particular religious society they choose to appropriate the sums assessed upon them, respectively; and, in the event of their failing or declin- ing to specify any appropriation, the sums thus circum- stanced, are directed to be paid to the treasurer, and applied by the general assembly, to the encouragement of seminaries of learning, in the counties where such sums shall arise. If there be any evidence of a leaning towards any particular religious sect in this bill, or any indication of a desire for an established church, the author of these sketches has not been able to discover them. Mr. Henry was a sincere believer in the Chris- tian Veligion, and had a strong desire for the successful propagation of the gospel, but there was no tincture of bigotry or intolerance in his sentiments; nor have I been able to learn, that he had a punctihous preference for any particular form of worship. His faith regarded the vital spirit of the gospel; and busied itself not at all, with external ceremonies or controverted tenets.

Both these bills " for incorporating the protestant episcopal church,"*^ and " establishing a provision for teachers of the Christian religion,'^ were reported after Mr. Henry had ceased to be a member of the house; but the resolutions on which they were founded, were adopted while he continued a member, and had his warmest support. The first bill passed into a law; the last was rejected by a small majority, on the third reading.

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