very important respects at variance with the
religion of the New Testament. They have long shown a most observable
preference for those meetings, by whomsoever conducted, where there is
most noise and vociferation, most to strike on the senses, and least to
afford instruction. While some among them are, no doubt, true
Christians, many unquestionably are rank fanatics. They are chiefly
under the influence of ignorant spiritual guides. It is most obvious to
the careful observer that they are withdrawing more and more from those
ministrations, where they can learn the true character of Christianity;
and insist with increasing pertinacity, on holding meetings in their own
way, and having preachers of their own colour. The profession of
religion among them is becoming perceptibly less beneficial: so that in
some neighborhoods, this very thing generates suspicion of the
professor, rather than confidence in his integrity. The preachers among
them, although extremely ignorant, (often unable to read a verse in the
Bible or a line in their Hymn book) are frequently shrewd, cunning men.
They see what influence misdirected religious feeling gives them over
their brethren and they take advantage of it. Many of them feel their
importance, and assume the post of men of great consequence. This thing
is growing in the Southern country. And while efforts to afford these
people salutary instruction have been repressed or abandoned, a spirit
of fanaticism has been spreading which threatens the most alarming
consequences. Without pretending to be a prophet, I venture to predict,
that if ever that horrid event should take place, which is anticipated
and greatly dreaded by many among us, some crisp-haired prophet, some
pretender to inspiration, will be the ringleader as well as the
instigator of the plot. By feigning communications from heaven, he will
rouse the fanaticism of his brethren, and they will be prepared for any
work however desolating or murderous. The opinion has already been
started among them, that men may make such progress in religion, that
nothing they can do will be sinful, even should it be the murder of
those whom they are now required to serve and obey! The present state of
the country presents a prospect truly alarming; and when the rapid
growth of our population both black and white is considered, it requires
a man of a stout heart indeed, to view the scene without dismay. It is
appalling, when such a mighty power as tha