Background for _Vineland_?

[David Morris]

What influence, in fact, have ecclesiastical establishments had on
society? In some instances they have been seen to erect a spiritual
tyranny on the ruins of the civil authority; in many instances they
have been seen upholding the thrones of political tyranny; in no
instance have they been the guardians of the liberties of the people.
Rulers who wish to subvert the public liberty may have found an
established clergy convenient allies.

-- James Madison, Memorial And Remonstrance Against Religious
Assessments, June 20, 1785.