Let us, therefore, banish gloom
and enjoy life. Let deluded visionaries bow their heads, disfigure their
countenances, and utter their plaintive moans; but let men stand erect,
with joyful countenances and merry hearts! They tell us that Jerusalem is
in danger; and they dwell with solemn emphasis on what they please to
call 'forgetfulness of God.' They tell us that the Chaldeans are about to
besiege the city, and take it! This old story will answer well to terrify
shallow brains and young children; but, with men of sense, it will
receive that silent contempt which it deserves. Let the citizens of Judah
give themselves no uneasiness on account of the silly harangues of a wild
and deluded fanatic who is a more fit subject to be confined with unruly
lunatics than to be heeded as a teller of future events. However, I would
not advise severity towards the followers of old Jeremiah. They are
rather to be pitied than blamed. As long as they keep their delusion
within their own circles, we shall let them alone; but let them be
careful that they step not too far and disturb the happiness and
enjoyment of others.
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