Ossian Collection > Thoughts on the origin and descent of the Gael

and sentiments, shape and size of body, colour,
complexion, or tinge of skin, the organization
of the human frame, in all the regions of the
earth, proves an uniformity of species, which
excludes not the possibility of the whole human
race being descended from one original pair.
To trace the descent of nations is a subject of
curiosity. To point out facts tending to prove
an original relation and affinity between nations
far removed by local situation from each other,
may be deemed an object not unworthy of the
attention of the lovers of science.
The great principles of the system of the uni-
verse have occupied the minds of scientific and
learned men in all ages of civilization : The ame-
lioration of the condition of human life has ever
been made the object of the contemplation and
study of philanthropists : The exercise of acts of
benevolence ever distinguishes the friends of
humanity. These principles have been happily
developed with a considerable degree of success.
The horrible superstitions and destructive preju-
dices of mankind, which, in all quarters of the
globe, bear similar features in times of rudeness
and ignorance, confounded and abashed, have,
among a certain portion of the human race, yield-
ed their tyrannical supremacy to the legitimate
offspring of philosophy, and of that religion,
which, divested of all delusion, pomp, and deceit-
ful magnificence, professes mental purity, meek-
ness, mutual forbearance, and universal charity.