THE mysteries of the ancients, and the associations in which their doctrines were taught, have hardly been considered in modern times, but with a view to decry and ridicule them. The systems of ancient mythology have been treated as monstrous absurdities, debasing the human reason, conducting to idolatry, and favouring depravity of manners. However, they deserve attention, if the motives of their inventors, rather than the profligacy and ignorance of their corruptors be contemplated. When men were deprived of the light of revelation, those who formed systems of morality to guide their fellow...