The Rules and By-laws in the Manual of The First

Church of Christ, Scientist, Boston, originated not in

solemn conclave as in ancient Sanhedrim. They were [10]

not arbitrary opinions nor dictatorial demands, such as

one person might impose on another. They were im-

pelled by a power not one's own, were written at differ-

ent dates, and as the occasion required. They sprang

from necessity, the logic of events,—from the immedi- [15]

ate demand for them as a help that must be supplied to

maintain the dignity and defense of our Cause; hence

their simple, scientific basis, and detail so requisite to

demonstrate genuine Christian Science, and which will

do for the race what absolute doctrines destined for future [20]

generations might not accomplish.