But, if, with them, we admit that the serpent is symbolical of Satan, does not that cast an air of allegory over the whole narrative?
It is to be regretted that the Christian Church has burdened itself with the defense of these books, and voluntarily made itself answerable for their manifest contradictions and errors.

Their vindication, if it were possible, should have been resigned to the Jews, among whom they originated, and by whom they have been transmitted to us.

Still more, it is to be deeply regretted that the Pentateuch, a production so imperfect as to be unable to stand the touch of modern criticism, should be put forth as the arbiter of science.

Let it be remembered that the exposure of the true character of these books has been made, not by captious enemies, but by pious and learned churchmen, some of them of the highest dignity.
While thus the Protestant churches have insisted on the acknowledgment of the Scriptures as the criterion of truth, the Catholic has, in our own times, declared the infallibility of the pope.

It may be said that this infallibility applies only to moral or religious things; but where shall the line of separation be drawn?
Onmiscience cannot be limited to a restricted group of questions; in its very nature it implies the knowledge of all, and infallibility means omniscience.
Doubtless, if the fundamental principles of Italian Christianity be admitted, their logical issue is an infallible pope.