He also declared that he did not, by signing the article which anathematizes all who maintain that there is any other salvation than through Christ, mean to condemn those who entertain a hope that sincere and virtuous unbelievers may be admitted to partake in the benefits of Redemption.

Many of the dissenting clergy of London expressed their concurrence in these charitable sentiments.

[85] The history of the Comprehension Bill presents a remarkable contrast to the history of the Toleration Bill.

The two bills had a common origin, and, to a great extent, a common object.

They were framed at the same time, and laid aside at the same time: they sank together into oblivion; and they were, after the lapse of several years, again brought together before the world.