In a written address, to the Conferential Session holden at Hartwick, at this time, to which two other names besides his own are affixed, some traces of his mind are visible. In that address is the following truly catholic sentiment:--
"Remember that this is a free country in which we live, and we ought to be as willing to let others think as to think ourselves. Others' rights are as dear to them as ours are to us, and if a Christian friend does not think as we do it is evident that we do not think as he does. While we trace the pages of ecclesiastical history, and view the uncharitable conduct of priests and rulers in this respect, we mourn the lack of charity, and feel in duty bound to warn our brethren against such pernicious practices. 'Let us stand fast in the liberty wherewith Christ has made us free.'"
The month of October, which was passed at home and in neighboring towns, brought some additions to his cause; and November, which was chiefly employed in the same way, was distinguished by a theological debate, held with Rev. Mr. T., chiefly on the Trinity and on the Supreme Deity of Jesus Christ. The debate lasted two days; some other clergymen became in a degree involved in it; and from a minister then present I offer the following lines:--
"Under all circumstances Mr. Badger possessed a peculiar command of himself. He never permitted ruffled feelings to throw him into confusion or derange his clear equilibrium of mind. His ideas were always clear, and his command of language full and free. Thus he was always prepared on every sudden emergency. Some of his best polemical efforts were called out on the spur of the occasion, and seemingly without any forethought. This intuitive gift always rendered him ready, be the occasion what it might that called him to speak, and especially if to repel the attack of a religious opponent. Nor did he lack occasions of the kind. In the first spread of the Christian sentiments in western New York, public attacks on doctrinal subjects were common, and clergymen of various orders would frequently, after the close of an afternoon or evening discourse, rise and ask questions about the doctrine entertained. On occasions like these Mr. B. was about sure to leave his opponent in the condition of defeat. In every such instance he gained decided advantage and won the sympathy and influence of the masses.