But I may be told, perhaps, that men by their sufferings, though they do not prove their doctrines to be true, yet prove at least their own sincerity:  as if it were a thing impossible for men to dissemble at the point of death.  Alas! how many instances are there of men’s denying facts plainly proved, asserting facts plainly disproved, even with the rope around their necks?  Must all such pass for innocent sufferers, sincere men?  If not, it must be allowed, that a man’s word at the point of death is not always to be relied on.

Another observation I would make, is with respect to the evidence of the Spirit, on which so much stress is laid.  It has been hitherto insisted on, that the resurrection was a matter of fact, and such a fact as was capable and proper to be supported by the evidence of sense.  How comes it about, that this evidence, this which is the proper evidence, is given up as insufficient, and a new improper evidence introduced?  Is it not surprising, that one great miracle should want an hundred more to prove it?  Every miracle is itself an appeal to sense, and therefore admits no evidence but that of sense.  And there is no connexion between a miracle done this year and last year.  It does not follow, therefore, because Peter cured a lame man, (allowing the fact), that therefore Christ rose from the dead.

But allowing the Gentleman all he demands, what is to us?  They who had the witness within them, did perhaps very well to consult, and to take his word; but how am I, or others, who have not this witness is us, the better for it?  If the first ages of the church saw all the wonders related by the Gentleman, and believed, it shews at least, in his opinion, that this strong evidence was necessary to create the belief he requires; why then does he require this belief of us, who have not this strong evidence?

Judge.  Very well.  Gentlemen of the jury, You have heard the proofs and arguments on both sides, and it is now your part to give a verdict.

        Here the Gentlemen whispered together, and the Foreman stood up.

Foreman.  My Lord, The case has been long, and consists of several articles; therefore the jury hope you will give them your directions.

        Judge.  No, no; you are very able to judge without my help.

Mr. A. My Lord, Pray consider, you appointed this meeting and chose your office.  Mr. B. and I have gone through our parts, and have some right on your doing your part.

        Mr. B. I must join, Sir, in that request.

Judge.  I have often heard, that all honour has a burden attending it; but I did not suspect it in this office, which I conferred upon myself.  But, since it must be so, I will recollect, and lay before you, as well as I can, the substance of the debate.

Gentlemen of the jury, The question before you, is Whether the witnesses of the resurrection of Christ are guilty of giving false evidence, or no?