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The example and reputation of Constantine seemed to countenance the…

Quote byEdward Gibbon · 1737–1794

Commonly attributed — not confirmed in an authoritative edition. Cited on Wikiquote to: The History of the Decline And Fall Of The Roman Empire (1776–1788), Chapter 20..

English (original)

The example and reputation of Constantine seemed to countenance the delay of baptism. Future tyrants were encouraged to believe that the innocent blood which they might shed in a long reign would instantly be washed away in the waters of regeneration; and the abuse of religion dangerously undermined the foundations of moral virtue.

— Edward Gibbon

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