BOOK I PART IV
sensible perceptions, that though all sects agree
in the latter sentiment, the former, which is, in
a manner, its necessary consequence, has been
peculiar to a few extravagant sceptics; who af-
ter all maintained that opinion in words only,
and were never able to bring themselves sin-
cerely to believe it.
There is a great difference betwixt such opin-
ions as we form after a calm and profound re-
flection, and such as we embrace by a kind
of instinct or natural impulse, on account of
their suitableness and conformity to the mind.
If these opinions become contrary, it is not
difficult to foresee which of them will have
the advantage. As long as our attention is
bent upon the subject, the philosophical and
studyed principle may prevail; but the moment
we relax our thoughts, nature will display her-