In the Dutch Republic and Germany, as was the result in
England, the Huguenots exercised a most powerful influence on politics,
literature, war, and religion, and industry and commerce. Holland,
contrary to the general expectation, outlived the invasion of 1672, the
Prince of Orange fortunately checking the designs of Louis XIV. Refugee
soldiers had powerfully contributed to the triumph of his cause in
England, Scotland, and Ireland, and then they followed him, with valor,
in the war against Louis XIV., which compelled that monarch to sue for
peace.
Literary men and preachers obtained repose and liberty in that land,
with consideration and honor. Amsterdam alone received sixteen banished
refugee ministers; and more than two hundred spread themselves through
all the towns of the United Provinces. Very eloquent French pastors
filled the pulpits of the Hague, Rotterdam, Leyden, and Harlaem. Their
most brilliant orator was James Saurin. Abbaddie, hearing him for the
first time, exclaimed, 'Is this a man or an angel, who is speaking to
us?' Let us dwell a moment upon the character of this wonderful man. By
the elevation of his thoughts and brilliancy of imagination, his
luminous expositions, purity of style, with vigor of expression, he
produced the most profound impression on the refugees and others who
crowded to hear his varied eloquence.
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