That he did not _compose it himself_, is certain: but _neither did he compose the sayings which he has recorded of great men_.--True also is it that the edification to be derived from the pedigree is not so great,--certainly, not so obvious,--as from certain of the events which he describes. But it is nevertheless henceforth an integral part of his history. He sought for it,--and he found it: he weighed it,--and he approved of it: he transcribed it,--and he interwove it into his narrative. In a word, he adopted; and by adopting, he _made it his own_. Henceforth, it will be quoted as authentic, because it is found to have satisfied _him_. The utmost praise which can be accorded to any creature is, that it thoroughly fulfils the office whereunto God sends it. A genealogy is not intended to make men wise unto Salvation: the threats and promises of GOD'S Law are not intended to acquaint men with the descent of David's Son. But because _their offices_ are different, it does not follow that _their origin_ shall not he the same! Is a shoe-latchet in any sense less an article manufactured by Man, than a watch? Is the Archangel Michael, burning with glory, and intent on some celestial enterprise, with twelve legions of glittering seraphs in his train;--is such a host as _that_, one atom more a creation of the ALMIGHTY than the handful of yellow leaves which flutter unheeded on the blast? None of these figures present a strict parallel; and yet, successively, they seem to set forth different aspects of the same case, with sufficient vividness and truth.... So bent am I on conveying to your minds the strong sense of certainty, the clear definite view, which I cherish for myself on this subject, that I take leave to add yet another illustration.