But the Platform expressly states the rejection of _Auricular_ Confession by the Reformers, and their retention of what they called private confession in its stead, the latter differing from the former as above stated.

The Plea next introduces a formula of absolution, used in Wittenberg, in 1559, to show the harmlessness of the rite.

But here, unfortunately, if we are not entirely mistaken, our friend has overlooked the fact, that it is a formula for _public_, and _not private_ confession which he cites.

This is certain from the language throughout, being addressed "_to all such as are here present_," &c.

It is well known that _private_ confession was rejected in the Lutheran Church in Denmark and Sweden in the beginning, as well as by different portions of Germany at an early day, and a public or general confession adopted in its stead.