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profession of the faith, would be deprived of the common benefits of nature and society. Every calumny that could wound the reputation of the Apostate, was credulously embraced by the fears and hatred of his adversaries; and their indiscreet clamors provoked the temper of a sovereign, whom it was their duty to respect, and their interest to flatter. They still protested, that prayers and tears were their only weapons against the impious tyrant, whose head they devoted to the justice of offended Heaven. But they insinuated, with sullen resolution, that their submission was no longer the effect of weakness; and that, in the imperfect state of human virtue, the patience, which is founded on principle, may be exhausted by persecution. It is impossible to determine how far the zeal of Julian would have prevailed over his good sense and humanity; but if we seriously reflect on the strength and spirit of the church, we shall be convinced, that before the emperor could have extinguished the religion of Christ, he must have involved his country in the horrors of a civil war.
Chapter XXIV:
The Retreat And Death Of Julian.
Part I. Residence Of Julian At Antioch. -- His Successful Expedition Against The Persians. -- Passage Of The Tigris -- The Retreat And Death Of Julian. -- Election Of Jovian. -- He Saves The Roman Army By A Disgraceful Treaty. The philosophical fable which Julian composed under the name of the Cęsars, is one of the most agreeable and instructive productions of ancient wit. During the freedom and equality of the days