The historian has a choice in the field in which he is to labour. The history of Protestantism might interest none but Protestants the history of the Reformation is for all Christians, or rather all men. In the latter are too often seen a remarkable degeneracy from primitive principles, party intrigue, a sectarian spirit, and the impress of petty private feelings. In the former, every thing bears testimony to a revival of human nature, to a transformation, social and religious, emanating from God. The history of the Reformation is different from the history of Protestantism. My purpose is not to write the history of a party, but that of one of the greatest revolutions which has taken place among men-the history of a mighty impulse which was given to the world three centuries ago, and the influence of which is still, in our day, every where perceived.
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