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OF THE HINDUS.
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the form of a dialogue. The writers are not to understand by this a mere succession of question and answer, or a keen encounter of wit, or even the more equally maintained discussion of which the works of Cicero and Plato furnish classical models. In the style in which the Puránas, for instance, are written, a disciple, or one seeking for information, puts a leading question which furnishes a text on which his teacher or instructor dilates, or he suggests a difficulty or hints an objection, which is thereupon attempted to be solved or answered at length.
To those who may undertake the task I have one caution to offer. Let whatever they urge be urged in charity.
It is natural to feel impatient of error-it is difficult not to feel indignant with wickedness; but, in instituting a discussion into the truth or falsehood of a religious creed, with the hope of demonstrating the latter to the assent of those by whom it is professed, we have not in view the expression of our own feelings, but a kindly influence over theirs-we are not contending for victory but for conviction--we seek not to humble or incense our adversaries, but to conciliate their confidence and direct their judgment— we seek to work a salutary change in their principles, and in this we shall most assuredly fail if we commence the operation by disregarding their prejudices and provoking their resentment. The Hindu is not resentful-not unconfiding-not disinclined to discussion-not incapable of appreciating kindness - at
