Thoreau writes in his journal:
In all ages and nations we observe a leaning towards a right state of things. This may especially be seen in the history of the priest, whose life approaches most nearly to that of the ideal man. The Druids paid no taxes, and “were allowed exemption from warfare and all other things.” The clergy are even now a privileged class. In the last stage of civilization Poetry, Religion, and Philosophy will lie one; and this truth is glimpsed in the first.
