The Rev. Jonas Harzell and others spoke in defence of the Bible.
On the last evening the hall in which the convention was held was
densely crowded, and the audience was greatly excited. A Mr. Ambler
spoke at great length, and seemed desirous to excite the people to
violence against the assailants of the Bible. When he closed, a large
portion of the audience seemed bent on mischief. I rose to reply to Mr.
Ambler, and soon got the attention of the audience. Their rage quickly
subsided, and at the close of my address, the people separated in peace.
In June 1853, I attended another Bible convention at Hartford,
Connecticut. I was appointed President. A. J. Davis, the celebrated
spiritualist, gave the first address. It was on the propriety of free
discussion on religious subjects. Henry C. Wright spoke next, making
strong remarks on portions of the Old Testament. I followed, going over
much the same ground as at Salem, but speaking with more severity of
feeling. My heart was getting harder.
The Rev. George Storrs replied. He set himself especially to answer H.
C. Wright, and he spoke with much effect.
In the afternoon of the second day, W. L. Garrison proposed six
resolutions, bearing partly on the Bible, and partly on the church and
clergy.
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