And now a sensation of uneasiness seemed to pass through those who composed the great assembly.

It was indeed an extraordinary sermon, with its earnest entreaties to be thoroughly upright and sincere, and with its reckless condemnation of all forms and ceremonies, all of which were but of secondary consideration.

It seemed too bold, too exaggerated.
He seemed anxious to confess his sceptical opinions, in holding which he did not stand alone.

He was only alone in confessing them.

He knew only too well that fine web of soothing compromise, with which people were in the habit of deadening their consciences.