contest.1 All reformations are gradual. The evils of ancient abuses do not develop themselves at once. The light breaks in upon the mind slowly and feebly at first, like the first beams of morning, and, like them, also waxes stronger and stronger until all darkness is dissipated and the hidden things of dishonesty are openly revealed. Great principles are clearly apprehended and acknowledged before their application in all their bearings and to their full extent is distinctly perceived. Some prominent