Читать книгу Spring Wild Flowers - Daniel Wilson - Страница 9

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Considereth the proofs of a First Cause, rejecting the arguments of natural theology, if without the higher evidences from the human mind, with its destinies unaccomplished in this state of probation. The argument passeth to the general majesty of Providential Rule, in whose earnest consideration the student of the past findeth in every age a voice that telleth of its character and fruits. What then the voice of this age? a period when the unplastic formulas of earlier times, grown antiquated and soulless, are giving place to higher truths, wherein the observer discerneth, beyond the struggle of the moment, the privileges with which it is fraught; while yet are to be found high intellects unconscious of the promise of their age, deeming the once good ever the best. A change hath passed o'er the scene, liberty of conscience is withdrawn, and, 'mid many inconsistencies, the Reformation struggleth onward. But, while the old Monk and his Orphan disciple exhibit the power of Truth, the Chronicler beholdeth in the young lord of Lowden an earnest soul missing its rest, and wandering after every semblance of virtue, destitute of self-reliance, with vague credulity doubting all; till, despairing, he returned for refuge to the old unsatisfying creed; and, scheming to lead back his cousin with him to the forsaken fold, he determined on the banishment of the Monk. Soothed by new hopes, the lovers are reconciled; and, on the eve of final parting, eternal vows are exchanged.