He was a type of mind common then and not uncommon now--the embodiment of a purpose to refute error, and to refute it by condemnation direct, authoritative even if argumentative: the other type of mind would seek for truth amidst the error, establish its existence, applaud it, and endeavor to make it a basis for further truth and a fulcrum for the overthrow of the error connected with it.
"It will be seen, then, what kind of man Dr.Brownson first met as the official exponent of Catholicity, one hardly capable of properly understanding and dealing with a mind like his; for he was one who had come into the possession of the full truth not so much from hatred of error as from love of truth.

Brownson's soul was intensely faithful to its personal convictions, faithful unto heroism--for that is the temper of men who seek the whole truth free from cowardice, or narrowness, or bias.

He has admitted that the effect of his intercourse with the bishop was not fortunate.

He confesses that he forced him to adopt a line of public controversy foreign to his genius, and one which had not brought him into the Church, and perhaps could not have done so." The memoranda contain a more familiar account of this interview: "I presented myself for instruction and reception into the Church at the episcopal residence, and was received by the old bishop, Fenwick.
He questioned me on the essential doctrines and found me as I was; that is, firm as a rock and perfectly clear in my belief.

Then he said, 'You had better see Bishop John.' I did so.