(seq. 20)

Oracles

of the most direct and certain evidence, that we have
of intelligent entity. Furthermore, we have a rati-
onal evidence of the existence of inconceivably nume-
rous orders of finite intelligent beings intersper-
ced through the universe; but the evidence of the existence
of those orders of intelligent beings is deduced from
a more exte(n)sive circle of argumentation, and though
morally certain, and sufficiently apparent to such
minds or are improved in science, and have extended
the amplitude of their Speculations beyond this World,
yet (it) does not urge itself upon the common understand
-ing of mankind, nor even on the most enlightened,
with that ample degree of certainty, that we have
observed of our own intelligent entity, or that of the
Divine nature.

When we contemplate on the orbs of
the Solar System, and others in the expanse of heaven
that are visible merely to the eye, and on others s(t)ill
more remote, which are discovered by the instrumen
tality of tellescopes, and also contemplate on the Eternity
and Infinity of God, we are naturally apt to conclude
that the Author of that stupendious part of Creation
that falls under our observation, has extended his Cre-
ation co-extensive with his the Infinity of his nature
and absolute perfection; and consequently that there
is no limitation to it, and furthermore but that those
Worlds of motion or at rest throughout the universe
are every of them possesed by intelligent agents.

Since