Resolues, diuine, morall, politicall b Owin Felltham

RESOLVES : DIVINE , MORALL , POLITICALL .

IDLE bookes are nothing else , but corrupted tales in Inke and Paper : or indeed Vice sent abroad with a Licence : which makes him that reades them , conscious of a double iniurie : they being in effect , like that bestiall sinne of brutish Adulterie . For if one reades , two are catched : hee that angles in these waters , is sure to strike the Torpedo , that in stead of beeing his food , confounds him . Besides the time il spent in them , a two-fold reason shall make me refraine : both in regard of my loue to my owne soule , & pitie vnto his that made them . For if I be corrupted by them , the Comprisor of them is mediately a cause of my ill : and at the day of Reckoning ( though now dead ) must giue an account for 't , because I am corrupted by his bad example which hee leaues behinde him ; So I become guilty by receiuing , and hee by thus conuaying this lewdnesse vnto me : Hee is the thiefe , I the recieuer ; and what difference makes our Law betwixt them ? If one be cut off , the other dyes ; both I am sure perish alike . I will write none , lest I hurt them that come after me . I will reade none , lest I augment his mulct that is gone before me : neither write , nor read , lest I proue a foe to my selfe . A lame hand is better then a lewde pen : while I liue , I sinne too much ; let me not continue longer in wickednesse , then life . If I write ought , it shall be both on a good subiect , and from a deliberated pen : for a foolish sentence drop't vpon paper , sets folly on a Hill , and is a monument , to make infamie eternall .

II.

The humble man is the surest Peace-maker : of all morall vertues , Humility is the most beautifull ; shee both shunnes Honor , and is the way to it : she rockes Debate asleepe , and keepes peace waking , nay , doth foster , doth cherrish her : which is well expressed in a pretty story of two goats , that met at once , on a very narrow Bridge , vnder which there glided a deepe , and violent streame : being both met , the straitnesse gaue deniall to their Iourney ; get backe they could not , the planke was too narrow , for their returning turne : stand still they might , but that could neither bee continuall , nor to purpose : and to fight for the way in so perillous a place , was either to put a wilfull period to their liues , or extremely hazard them . That they may therefore both passe in safety , the one lyes down , & th' other goes ouer him : so while their passage is quiet , their liues are secure , from death , from danger . I haue euer thought it idle to continue in strife ; if I get the victory , it satisfies my minde , but then , shal I haue his malice too , which may endamage me more : so my gaine will bee lesse then my hindrance : If I be ouercome vnwillingly , them is the disgrace mine , and the losse : and though I haue not his malice , yet shall I not want his scorne . I will ( in things not weighty ) submit freely : The purest gold is most ductible : t is commonly a good blade that bends well . If I expect disaduantage , or misdoubt the Conquest , I thinke it good wisedome , to giue in soonest ; so shall it be more honor to doe that willingly , which with stiffenesse I cannot but hazard vpon compulsion . I had rather be accounted too much humble , then esteemed a little proud : the Reede is better that bends , and is whole ; then the strong Oake , that not bending , breakes : If I must haue one , giue me an inconuenience , not a mischiefe : the lightest burthen , is the easiest borne .

III.

To make a perfect man , there is requisite both Religion & Nature . Nature alone we know too loose : religion alone will seeme too hard ; some for Religion haue I knowne formall , strict ; yet haue so wanted the pleasing parts of a good nature , as they haue beene feared , but not loued : for being of a fiery spirit , euen slender occasions haue made way to the divulging of their own imperfections : either by too seuere a reprehension , or else by too soone sodaine Contempt : both which make much for the harbouring of hate against themselues , by making them esteemed either rash Censurers , or angry proud ones : and wee all know , that as Iudgement is neuer shot suddenly but from a fooles bow ; so blind Choller broke into expression , is the true marke of an intemperate minde ; others there yet rest , whom it tickles much to chatter of their own merits , and they cannot lay an egge , but they must cackle , or like the boasting PHARISEE , trumpet out the report of their owne praises : if not out of an affected singularity , and an ouerweening opinion of their owne excellence ; yet for lacke of an humble and discret nature , that should cause their obseruation bee busied at home . And this is that makes the world disdaine , contemne them : selfe commendation is an arrow with too many feathers : which , we leuelling at the marke , is taken with the wind , and carryed quite from it . Some againe for nature , I haue found rarely qualified : ennobled with such a mild affability , such a generous spirit , and such sweetnesse of disposition , and demeanour , that their humble & courteous carriage haue preuailed much in the affection of those with whom they haue had commerce : yet because they haue wanted Religion ( that like a good subiect should make an elaborate worke rare ) they haue , onely in a superficiall applause , wonne the approbation of the vnsteady multitude : who loue them more for suffering their rudenesse , then for any noble worth , that 's obuious to their vndiscerning Iudgements . But in all this they haue got no reuerence , no respect at all . Thus Religion without Nature ( in men meerely naturall ) begets a certaine forme of awfull regard : but to them 't is like a tyrannical Prince , whom the people obey more for feare of an austere rebuke , then for any true affection , they beare to his person . Now Nature without Religion oft wins loue : and this is like a Master too familiar with his seruant : that in the beginning gains loue , but shall in the end find contempt : and his toleration will be made an allowance of ill . Both together are rare for qualification . Nature hath in her selfe treasure enough to please a man ; Religion a Christian : the last begets feare , the other loue , together admiration , reuerence . I will like , I will loue them single ; but conioyn'd , I will affect and honour .

IIII.

I finde , to him that the tale is told , beliefe onely makes the difference betwixt a truth , and lyes : for a lye beleeued , is true : and truth vncredited , a lye ; vnlesse he can carry his probation in 's pocket , or more readily at his tongues end : for as he that tels a smooth lye , is iudged to speake truth , till some step forth to contradict his vtterance : so hee that tels an vnlikely truth , is thought to broch a lye , vnlesse he can produce conuincing reason to proue it ; onely the guilt , or iustice of the thing rests in the knowing conscience of the Relator . In the hearer I cannot count it a fault : 't is easie to bee deceiued in miracles , in probabilities : albeit the iudgement that passeth on them , bee both honest , wise , apprehensiue , and cleere . In the teller iustly ; if it bee a lye , there needs no text to confute it ; if it seeme so , and he cannot purge it , discretion were better silent . I will tell no lies , lest I bee false to my selfe : no improbable truths , lest I seeme so to others ; If I heare any man report wonders , what I know , I may haply speake ; what I but think , shal rest with my self ; I may aswell be too suspicious , as ouer credulous .

Three things are there which aggrauate a miserie , and make an euill feeme greater then indeede it is . Inexpectation , Vnacquaintance , want of Preparation . Inexpectation , when a mis-hap comes suddenly , and vnlooked for : it distracteth the minde , and scares both the faculties and affections from their due consultation of remedy : whereas an euill foreseene is halfe cured , because it giueth warning to prouide for danger . Thus the falling of a house is more perillous , than the rising of a floud : for , while of the former , the hurt is more vnauoydable , by reason both of the violence , and precipitation : The latter , through the remissenes of comming , is lesse dangerous , lesse preiudiciall ; there being time , either to auoyd the place , or to countermure . If this suffice not , think but how odious treason would shew in a deare friend , from whom we only expected the sweet embraces of loue : the conceit onely is able to kill , like a madde Dogg's biting , that not onely wounds the body , but insaniates the soule . Secondly , Vnacquaintance . Familiaritie takes away feare , when matters not vsuall , proue inductions to terror . The first time the Fox saw the Lyon , hee feared him as death : the second , hee feared him , but not so much : the third time hee grew more bold , and passed by him without quaking . The Imbellicke peasant , when hee comes first to the field , shakes at the report of a Musket : but after he hath rang'd thorow the furie of two or three Battels , he then can fearelesse stand a breach ; and dares , vndaunted , gaze death in the face . Thirdly , want of preparation . When the enemie besiegeth a Citie , not prepared for Warre , there is small hope of euasion , none at all to conquer , none to ouercome . How much more hard is the winter to the Grashopper , then the Pismire , who before , hauing stor'd her Garner , is now able to withstand a famine ? Lest then , I make my death seem more terrible to me , then indeed it is ; I will first daily expect it : that when it comes , I may not be to seeke to entertaine it : if not with ioy , as beeing but flesh : yet without sorrow , as hauing a soule . Secondly , I will labour to be acquainted with it , often before it come , thinking it may come : so when I know it better , I shal better sustaine it : with lesse feare , without terror . Thirdly , I will prepare for it , by casting vp my accounts with God , that all things euen and streight betwixt vs , whensoeuer he shall please to call for me , I may as willingly lay down my life , as leaue a prison . Thus shall I make my death lesse dreadfull , and finish my life before I dye . He that dyes dayly , seldome dyes dijectedly .

VI.

A good beginning haue I often seen conclude ill . Sin in the bud is faire , sweet , pleasing : but the fruit is death , horror , hell . Something will I respect in my way , most in my Conclusion : in the one , to preuent all wilfull errors ; in the other , to insure a Crowne . For as Iudgement hath relation to the manner of dying ; so hath death dependance on the course of liuing . Yet the good end hath no bad beginning ; it once had . A good consequence makes the premises so esteemed of , and a sweete rellish at the leauing off , makes the draught delightfull , that at the first did taste vnpleasant . That is well that ends well : and better is a bad beginning that concludes well , then a prosperous onset that ends in complaint . What if my beginning hath been ill ? sorrowes ouerblowne , are pleasant ; that which hath beene hard to suffer , is sweet to remember . I will not much care what my beginning be , so my end be happy . If my Sunne set in the new Ierusalem , I haue liu'd well , how-euer afflictions haue sometimes clouded my course .

VII .

Extreme longings in a Christian , I seldome see succeed well : surely God meanes so to temper his , as hee would not haue their affections violent , in the search of a temporall blessing : or else hee knowes our frailety such , as wee would be more taken with the fruition of a benefit , then the Author . Prosperities are strong pleaders for sinne : Troubles be the surest Tutors of goodnesse . How many would haue dyed ill , if they had liu'd merrily ? GOD hath seuerall wayes to reduce his to his own orders , among which , I am perswaded none is more powerfull , then restraint of our wils . It sends the soule to meditation , wherby she sees the worlds follies in such true colours of vanitie , that no sound discretion can thinke them worth the doting on : and though our discontentments so transport vs , as we see not the good we reape by a Depriuation : yet sure wee are happier by this want : for wee are all like women with Child , if wee had the things we long for ; how soone should we eate and surfet ? When nature findes her ardent desires fulfilled , shee is rauenous , and greedy ; yea then shee hath so little moderation , as 't is not safe to satisfie her . If I can , I will neuer extremely couet : so though I meet with a Crosse , it shal neither distemper , nor distract mee : but if my desires out-strip my intention , I will comfort my selfe with this , that the enioyment might haue added to my content , and endangered my soule : but the want shall in the end be a meanes to embetter them both . Gods Saints shall with ioy subscribe to his wil : though heere for a time it may seeme to thwart them .

VIII .

A worthy Act hath hee done , that hath learned to refraine his tongue : and surely much euill hath hee preuented , if hee knowes when to be well silent . Vnkindnesses breed not so many Iarres , as the multiplying of words that follow them . How soone would these coales dye , if the tongue did not enkindle them ? Repentance often followes speaking ; silence either seldome , or neuer : for while our words are many , sinne is in some , in most . Goe to the Crane , thou Babbler , reade her storie , and let her inform thee : who flying out of Sicily , puts little stones in her mouth , lest by her owne garrulitie , she bewray her selfe as a prey to the Eagles of the mountaine Taurus : which with this policy , she flyes ouer in safety : euen silence euery where is a safe safeguard : if by it , I offend , I am sure I offend without a witnesse : while an vnruly tongue may procure my ruine , and prooue as a sword to cut the thrid of my life in two : 't is good alwayes to speake well , & in season : and is it not as safe sometimes to say nothing ? hee that speakes little , may mend it soone : and though hee speakes most faults , yet hee exceedes not , for his words were few . To speake too much , bewrayes folly ; too little , an vnperceiuing stupiditie : I will so speake , as I may be free from babbling Garrulitie : so bee silent , as my Spectators may not account me blockishly dull . Silence and speech are both as they are vsed , either tokens of Indiscretion , or badges of Wisedome .

IX .

'T is a hard thing among men of inferiour ranke , to speak to an earthly Prince : no King keepes a Court so open , as to giue admittance to all commers : and though they haue , they are not sure to speede ; albeit there bee nothing that should make their petitions not grantable . Oh how happy , how priuiledged is then a Christian ? who though he often liues heere in a slight esteeme , yet can hee freely conferre with the King of Heauen , who not onely heares his intreaties , but delights in his requests , inuites him to come , and promiseth a happy welcome ; which he shewes in fulfilling his desires , or better , fitter for him . In respect of whom , the greatest Monarch is more base , then the basest vassaile in regard of the most mighty and puissant Emperour . Man cannot so much exceede a beast , as God doth him : what if I be not known to the Nimrods of the world , and the Peeres of the earth ? I can speake to their better , to their Master ; and by prayer bee familiar with him : importunity does not anger him ; neither cāanything but our sins make vs goe away empty ; while the game is playing , there is much difference between the King and the Pawne : that once ended , they are both shuffled into the bag together : akd who can say whether was most happy , saue onely the King had many checks , while the little Pawne was free , and secure ? My comfort is , my accesse to heauen is as free as the Princes ; my departure from earth not so grieuous : for while the world smiles on him , I am sure I haue lesse reason to loue it then hee . Gods fauour I will chiefly seeke for ; mans , but as it fals in the way to it : when it proues a hindrance , I hate to be loued .

The vertuous man is a true wonder : for it is not from himselfe , that hee is so . But that I see so many wicked , I meruaile not . 'T is easier running downe the hill , then climing it . They that are this way giuen , haue much the aduantage of them , that follow goodnesse . Besides those inclinations that sway the soule to vice , the way is broader , and more ready : hee that walkes through a large field , hath onely a narrow path , to guide him right in the way : but on either side , what a wide roome he hath to wander in ? Euery vertue hath two vices , that close her vp in curious limits : and if shee swerues , though but a little , she suddenly steps into errour . Fortitude hath Feare , and Rashnesse : Liberalitie , Auarice , and Prodigalitie : Iustice hath Rigor , and Partialitie . Thus euery good mistresse , hath two bad seruants : which hath made some to define vertue , to bee nothing , but a meane betweene two vices , wherof one leads to excesse , the other to defect : making her like the roofe of a Church , on whose top , wee scarce find roome to turne a foote in : but on either side , a broad road to ruine : in which , if we once be falling , our stay is rare , our recouery a miracle . The man that is rare in vice , I will neuer admire : if he goes but as hee is driuen , hee may soone be witty in euill : but the good man , I will worthily magnifie : he it is can saile against the wind , make the thorny way pleasant , and vnintangle the incumcumbrances of the world .

XI .

What sinne is there , that we may account or little , or veniall , vnlesse comparatiuely ? seeing there is none so small , but that ( without repentance ) is able to sinke the soule in eternall Damnation ? Who will thinke that a slight wound , which giues a sodaine Inlet to Death ? But should wee grant this errour , yet these of all other , I obserue the most dangerous , both for their frequency , and secrecie ; the one increasing them to a large heape , the other so couering them , as we see not how they wrong vs : The raine that fals in smallest drops , moistens the earth , makes it mire , slimy , and durte : whereas a hard showre , that descends violently , washeth away , but soakes not in . Euen the smallest letters are more hurtfull to the sight , then those that are written with a text pen . Great sinnes , and publicke , I will auoide for their scandal & wonder : lesser & priuate , for their danger , and multitude : both , because my God hates them . I cannot , if I loue him , but abhorre , what hee loathes .

XII .

Memory and forgetfulnesse , are both in friendship necessary . Let me remember those kindnesses my friend hath done to mee , that I may see his loue , and learne gratitude . Let mee forget those benefits I haue performed to him , lest they shuffle out the effect of my loue , and tell mee hee is requited . Thus may we together increase our friendship , and comforts : otherwise , a man may haue many acquaintances , but no friends ; though vnthankefulnes banisheth loue , Gratitude obtaines a repealement .

XIII .

I obserue , besides the inward Contents of a peaceable conscience , two things , wherein a Christian excels all other men . In true Valour : In Fidelitie . In true Valour ; that is , in a iust quarrell : for if his cause bee naught , there is none more timerous then hee ; and indeed to shew much Courage , in a bad matter , is rather a token of desperate folly , then any badge of a magnanimous minde ; but in a iust cause , he is bold as a Lyon . Nothing can daunt his euer vndaunted minde . Not Infamy , for he knowes in this , his share is not worse then his Masters ; & while it is for his names sake ; he knowes he is in it , blessed . If there bee any Nectar in this life , 't is in sorrowes wee indure for goodnesse . Besides , hee weighes not how he fals to the world , and men ; so he may stand firme , to his heauenly Father . That God we fight for , is able enough to vindicate al our wrongs . Not afflictions ; how many did Iob , and the Apostles wade through with Courage , with Content ? These he knowes are heere but for a time , transient , and momentany ; neither shall the Israelites liue alwayes , vnder the tyranny of Pharaoh , or the trauels of the Wildernes : He knowes also , the more abundant in sorrowes heere , the more abundant in ioyes hereafter ; His teares shall returne in smiles , his weepings in a streame of pleasures . God doth not recompence with a niggardly hand ; hee shall finde his ioyes as an ouer-flowing Sea ; and his glory beyond thought , exuberant . Not Death ; for he knowes , that wil be his happiest day ; and his bridge , from woe , to glory . Though it bee the wicked mans shipwracke , 't is the good mans putting into harbour : where striking sayles , and casting Anchor , he returnes his lading with aduantage , to the owner ; that is , his soule to God ; leauing the bulke still mored in the Hauen ; who is vnrigg'd , but onely to be new built againe , and fitted for an eternall voyage . Had not Christians had this solace ; how should the Martyrs haue dyed so merrily , leaping for ioy , that they were so neere their home , and their heauen ? dying often like Samson among his enemies , more victory attending their end , then proceedings . Ah peerelesse Valiance ! vnconquerable Fortitude ! Secondly , in Fidelitie . There is no friendship like the friendship of Faith . Nature , Education , Benefits , cannot all together , tye so strong as this . Christianitie knits more sure , more indissoluble . This makes a knot , that Alexander cannot cut . For as grace in her selfe , is farre aboue nature ; so likewise is she , in her effects : and therefore vnites , in a far more durable bond . And a Christian , though he would resolue with himselfe , to deale double ; yet if he be sincere , in spight of his resolution , his conscience will rate him , checke him , and deny him to doe it ; nay , though he would , he cannot resolue . He that is borne of God , sinnes not ; and the Spirit of sanctification will not let him resolue vpon ill . This is that Fidelity that wee finde , and admire in many , that haue chosen rather to embrace the flame , & dye in silence , then to reueale their Companions , and Brethren in Christ . Tyrants shal sooner want inuention for torments , then they with tortures be made treacherous . The League that heauen hath made , hell wants power to breake . Who can separate the coniunctions of the Deitie ? Againe , as well in reproofe , as in kindnesse , doth his loue appeare . For howsoeuer hee conceales his friends faults , from the eye of the world ; yet hee affectionately tels him of them , in priuate : not without some sorrow on his owne part , for his brothers fall . He scornes to be so base as to flatter : and he hates to bee so currish as to bite . In his reprehensions , he mingles Oyle and Vineger : hee is in them , plaine , and louing . Inuiolable amitie ! Inualuable loue ! Heere is met Courage and Constancy ; one to withstand an Enemie , an other to entertaine a friend . Giue me any foe , rather than a resolued Christian : no friend , vnlesse a man truely honest . A father is a ready treasurie ; a brother an infallible comfort ; but a friend is both .

XIIII .

I will in all losses , looke both to what I haue lost , and to what I haue left . To what I haue lost : that if it may be , and be good , I may recouer it : if not , that I may know what I haue forgone . To what I haue left : that if it be much , I may be thankefull , that I lost no more , hauing so much , that I might haue been depriued of : if little , that I may not repine ; because I haue yet something : if nothing but my life , that I may then be glad : because that will bee the next thing I shall lose . Which whensoeuer it happens will with double Ioy recompence all the rest . Gods presence is aboundant plenty : hauing that , I know nor want , nor losse , nor admission of ill .

XV.

A man that would establish a troubled gouernment , must first vanquish all his foes . Factious heads , must bee higher by a Pole then their bodies . For how will the Folds bee quiet , while yet among them , there bee some Wolues ? Hee that would rule ouer many , must fight with many , and conquer : and be sure , either to cut off those that raise vp tumults : or by a Maiesticke awe , to keepe them in a strict subiection . Slacknesse , and conniuence , are the ruines of vnsettled Kingdomes . My passions , and affections are the chiefe disturbers of my Ciuill State : What peace can I expect within mee , while these Rebels rest vnouercome ? If they get a head , my Kingdome is diuided , so it cannot stand . Separations are the wounds of a Crowne ; whereby ( neglected ) it will bleed to death . Them will I striue to subdue . If I cut them not off , I will yet restraine them . 'T is no cruelty , to deny a Traytor libertie . I will haue them be my Subiects , not my Prince : they shall serue mee , and I will sway them . If it cannot bee without much striuing ; I am content with a hard combate , that I may haue a happie raigne . 'T is better I endure a short skirmish , then a long siege : hauing once wonne the field , I will hope to keepe it .

XVI .

Death to a righteous man , whether it commeth soone , or late , is the beginning of ioy , and the end of sorrow . I will not much care , whether my life bee long , or short . If short ; the fewer my dayes bee , the lesse shall bee my misery , the sooner shall I be happy . But if my yeeres be many , that my head waxe gray , euen the long expectation of my happinesse , shall make my ioy more welcome .

XVII .

'T was anciently said , that whatsoeuer good worke a man doth with labour , the labour vanisheth , but the good remaines with him that wrought it . And whatsoeuer euill thing hee doth with pleasure , the pleasure flyes , but the euill still resteth with the Actor of it : goodnesse making labour sweet ; euill turning pleasure to a burthen . I wil not care how laborious , but how honest ; not how pleasurable , but how good my actions be . If it could bee , let mee bee good without pleasure ; rather then lewd , with much ioy . For though my good bee at first tedious ; I am sure in time it will yeeld me content : whereas the euill that now is delightfull , cannot but prooue a woe to my soule . The sweetest liquor , is not alwayes the most wholesome . The Limon is more tart , yet excelleth the Orenge , that delighteth the taste : poison may a while seeme pleasant , and a weake stomacke thinke a Cordiall fulsome .

XVIII .

What if I were the worlds chiefe Fauourite ? endowed with the choycest ornaments her Treasury could affoord mee , adorn'd with beauty , imbellisht with a faire proportion , in policie subtill , in alliance great , in reuenue large , in knowledge rich , famed with honor , and honored with attendants ; and to all these , had adioyned the prolonged yeeres of Methusalah , yet if I wanted grace to vse these graces right , they would all turne to my greater disgrace and confusion . Good parts imployed ill , are weapons , that being meant for our owne defence , we madly turne their edges , and wound our selues : they might make mee faire in show , but in substance more polluted : they would bee but as a saddle of gold to the backe of a gall'd horse ; adorne mee , they might , better mee they could not . Grace onely can make a man truely happy : what shee affordeth , can content sufficiently ; and with ease furnish the vast roomes of the mind : without her , all are nothing ; with her , euen the smallest is true sufficiencie : how fully can she bee rich , in the penury of these outward royalties ? something indeed they adde to her ornament , but 't is from her , that they assume their goodnesse . For though heauen hath made them so in their owne nature , yet is it from her that they proue so to me . Doe we not oftner finde them , lights to blind vs , then to direct vs ? I will neuer thinke my selfe neerer heauen , for hauing so much of earth . A weake house with a heauie roofe is most in danger . He that gets heauen , hath plenty enough ; though the earth scornes to allow him any thing : he that failes of that , is truely miserable ; though shee giue him all shee hath . Heauen without earth is perfect . Earth without Heauen , is but a little more cheerly hell . Who haue beene more splendent in these externall florishes , then Heathen ? but in the other , 't is the Christian onely can challenge a felicity . Hauing these , I might winne applause with men ; but the other wanting , I shall neuer gaine approbation with God . And what wil all their allowance auaile , when the Earths Creator shall Iudge and Condemn ? 't is a poore reliefe in misery , to be onely thought well of , by those that cannot helpe me .

XIX .

Is not man born to trouble , as the sparkes flye vpward ? is not his time short , and miserable , his dayes few , and euill ? What madnesse then were it in me , to hope for a freedome from sorrowes , or to thinke my selfe exempt from the common appointment of the most High ? It hath beene censured as phrensie , to vndertake to expell nature ; what shall I thinke it , to hope to frustrate the designement of the Lord of Nature ? Humanitie , and misery , are alwayes paralels : sometimes indiuiduals : and therefore when wee would put sorrow in an Embleme , we paint him a man . If I haue but few Crosses , I will truely then account my selfe fauoured : if I haue many , and be somtimes free , I le thinke I escape well , beeing so vntoward . If I haue nothing but troubles ; yet may I not complaine : because my sinne hath deseru'd more , then heere I can bee able to suffer . Had I but a being , though full of woe , yet were I beholding to God for it . His very least , and meanest gift , exceedeth much , euen all , my best desert . I doe infinitely want , how to merit a permission to liue .

XX.

To haue euery man speak well of me , is impossible : because howsoeuer I carry my selfe , some Cynick will barke at my course . Who can scape the lash of Censure ? If I should be vitious , and profuse , I should bee loued of some ; but not the best , not the good . If I should Camelion-like , change my selfe to euery obiect , if I were not extraordinarily warie , I might soon counterfet some mans humour false , and that would bane my drift . For both to Vertue , and to Vice , is Flatterie a false glasse , making the one seeme greater , the other lesse then it is : and if it lights on a noble discretion , it is euer so vnhappy , as to beget the ruine of it selfe . But I imagine I could doe it with such exactnesse , that euen the eye of Lyncaeus could not espy it : yet when one should commend mee for one thing , and another for the contrary ; what would the world thinke of mee , that could thus in one , bee hot , and cold ? should I not be censured as a Tymorist ? Yes surely , and that iustly : neither could it but be iust with God , at last to vnmaske my Flatterie , and vnrip my folly , in the view of the multitude . Priuate sinnes are punisht with a publike shame . A supposed honest man found lewd , is hated as a growne Monster , discouered by the blabbe of Time . Sinne is a concealed fire , that euen in darknesse will so worke , as to bewray it selfe . If I liue vertuously , and with piety , the world will hate me , as a Separatist : and my Reputation will be traduced , by the Ignominious aspersion of maleuolent tongues . To be good , is now thought too neere a way to contempt : That which the Ancients admired , wee laugh at . A good honest man is a foole . What then ? shall I , to please a man , displease a Christian ? I had rather liue hated for goodnesse , then bee loued for Vice . Hee does better that pleaseth one good man , then hee that contents a thousand bad ones . I would , if it could be , please all : yet I would winne their loues with honesty : otherwise , let their hate wound mee , rather then their loue imbrace . What care I for his friendship , that affected not vertue ? hauing his hate , he may hurt mee outwardly : but inioying his loue , I will iustly suspect my soule of some ill . For if his affection be toward me , 't is sure because hee sees somthing in mee , that pleaseth himselfe : but while hee sees euery thing vnlike him ; how is 't possible I should bee beloued of him ? since diuersities breed nothing but disvnion : and sweet Congruitie is the mother of Loue .

XXI .

Who admires not the Wisedome of Demosthenes , in the answere hee returned to Corinthian Lais ? [ Poenitere tanti non emo . ] Certainely , had hee not knowne it from a selfe experience , 't is not possible a Heathen should haue spake so diuinely . All our dishonest actions , are but earnests laid downe for griefe . Vice is an infallible fore-runner of wretchednesse . Let the Worldling tell me , if he findes it not true , that all his warrantable aberrations , wherein he hath dilatedly tumbled himselfe , end at last , either in anguish , or confusion ; Sinne on the best condition , brings repentance : but for sinne without repentance , is prouided hell . 'T is not folly , but madnes , euen the highest , that makes a man buy his vexation . I wil force my selfe to want that willingly , which I cannot enioy without future distaste . Though the Waspe falles into the hony , that after drownes her : yet the Bee chuseth rather , to goe to the Flowre in the field , where shee may lade her ●highes securely , and with leisure ; then to come to the shop of the Apothecarie , where shee gets more , but makes her life hazardable .

XXII .

Workes without faith , are like a Salamander without fire , or a fish without water : In which , though there may seeme to be some quicke actions of life , and symptomes of agilitie : yet they are indeede , but fore-runners of their end , and the very presages of death . Faith againe without Workes , is like a bird without wings : who , though she may hop with her companions here vpon earth ; yet if she liues til the world ends , shee 'l neuer fly to heauen . But when both are ioyn'd together , then doth the soule mount vp to the Hill of eternall Rest : these can brauely raise her to her first height : yea carry her beyond it ; taking away both the will , that did betray her : and the possibility that might . The former without the latter , is selfecoozenage : the last without the former , is meere hypocrisie : together , the excellencie of Religion . Faith is the Rocke , while euery good action is as a stone laid ; one the Foundation ; the other the structure . The Foundation without the walls , is of slender value : the building without a Basis , cannot stand . They are so inseparable , as their coniunction makes them good . Chiefely will I labour for a sure Foundation , Sauing Faith : and equally will I seeke for strong wals , Good Workes . For as man iudgeth the house by the edifice , more than by the Foundation : so , not according to his Faith , but according to his Workes , shall God iudge man .

XXIII .

'T is a rare thing to see a rich man religious ; we are told , that his way is difficult : and not many mighty are chosen . For while the earth allowes them such ioyes , 't is their heauen ; and they looke for no other : Their pleasures are sufficient vnto them , both for honour , solace , and wealth : who wonders to see them carelesse of the better , when they dote vpon the worse ? neither the minde , nor affection , can bee seriously diuided at once . Againe , euen low Commons whom they thinke meanely of , are higher often in vertues of the minde ; are dearer vnto God then they : & shall sit in heauen aboue them . Are there not many seruants , that in life haue born the burthen now crowned with vnending Ioyes , while their masters are either in a lower degree glorious , or excluded that coelestiall societie ? I dare make it a part of my faith ; yet auouch my selfe no Hereticke . Euen in meanest things GOD shewes his mighty power : Impossibilities are the best aduancers of his Glory . For what we least beleeue can be done , wee most admire beeing done . Yet in this obserue the mercy of God , that though the Worldling hath not pietie in his thoughts , yet God giues him all these good things that hee hath no right to : albeit by his owne ill , he , like enuy , extracts euill out of good ; so they proue in the end , nothing but paper pillars and painted fruite . Let all men blesse God for what they enioy : they that haue wealth , for their riches : I will praise him , that he hath kept them from me . I haue now what is good for me : and when my time comes , my ioy shall abound .

XXIIII .

A vertuous man shining in the puritie of a righteous life , is a Lighthouse set by the Sea-side , whereby the Mariners both saile aright , and auoyd danger : But he that liues in noted sinnes , is a false lanthorne , which shipwrackes those that trust him . The vertuous man by his good carriage winnes more to godlines , and is the occasion of much good , yea it may bee , so long as the Moone renewes : For his righteousnes dyes not with him : those good examples which he liued in , and those pyous workes which hee leaues behind him , are imitated and followed of others , both remayning and succeeding . So they are conueyed from one generation to another : and he , next God , is a primary cause of a great deale of the good they atchieue . So wee cannot but grant , that while here his memory weares out , his glory in a better world augments daily : either by his good presidents , his pious institutions , his charitable deeds , or his godly works ; each of which with Gods blessing , are able to kindle some heat in the cold zeale of posteritie . Examples are the best and most lasting lectures ; vertue the best example . Happie man that hath done these things in sincerity ; Time shall not outliue his worth : He liues truely after death , whose pious actions are his pillars of remembrance : though his flesh moulders to drosse in the graue , yet is his happinesse in a perpetuall growth : no day but addes some graines to his heape of glory . Good workes are seedes , that after sowing returne vs a continuall haruest . A man liues more renowned by some glorious deedes , then euer did that Carian , by his Mausolean monument . On the contrary , what a wofull course hath he runne , that hath liued lewdly , and dyes without repentance ? his example infects others , and they spread it abroad to more ; like a man that dyes on the plague , he leaues the infection to a whole Citie : So that euen the sinnes of thousands , hee must giue an account for . What can we thinke of such as haue been the inuentors of vnlawfull games , and callings that are now in vse ? sure they haue much to answere for , that thus haue occasioned so much ill : yea better had it beene , they had not beene at all , then being , to be loaden with the sinnes of so many . Miserable man ! that when thy owne burthen is insupportable , thou yet causest others to adde to thy weight ; as if thou would'st be sure desperately to make thy rising irrecouerable : are the waters of thy own sinnes so low , that thou must haue streames from euery place , to runne into thy Ocean ? Who can without a showre of teares , thinke on thy deplorable state , or without mourning , meditate thy sad condition ? Oh! Let me so liue , as my life may be beneficiall , not hurtfull to other . Let my glory increase , when my life is done : I am sure , satietie in heauen , is not capable of either complaint , or discontent : but as for spoyling others , by my owne confusion , sinne : I should think death a faire preuention . I loue not that life which makes death eternall . I haue sin enough of my owne , to sigh , and sorrow , and mourne for : I need not make others mine by my owne bad actions . A little of this is too too much ; yea , he hath enough , that hath none ; hee hath too much , that hath any at all .

XXV .

Hee deserues not commendation , that for beeing commended growes proud : euery good thing , a good man speakes of mee , shall , like the blast of a trumpet in warre , incite and incourage me , to a closer pursuit of more nobler vertue : not like Bucephalus trappings , blow mee vp in a higher conceit of ouerprizing my owne weaknes : So while some speake well , let my deeds exceed their tougue . I had rather men should see more than they expect , then looke for more then they shall find .

XXVI .

When a man hath the proiect of a course in his mind , 't is good wisedome to resolue of secrecy , till the time his intent bee fulfilled : neither can hee but be foolish , that brags much , either of what he will doe , or of what hee shall haue : For if what hee speakes of , falls not out accordingly , then will the world mocke him with derision and scorne : and oftentimes his liberall tongue , may be occasion of some ones sodain intercepting his aime : divulged intentions seldome proceed well : multitudes make a iarre in businesses ; their opinions , or Councels either distract Iudgement , or diuert resolution : But howsoeuer , if what wee boasted of commeth to passe , yet shall we be reputed vain-glorious , boasters , vnwise . Bragges lift vp expectation so high , that shee ouerthinkes the birth : and many times , the childe which indeed is faire , wee thinke not so , because wee were possest with hopes of finding it rare . Secrecy is a necessary part of policie : things vntold , are yet vndone : then to say nothing , there is not a lesse labour . I obserue , the Fig-tree whose fruit is most pleasant , bloomes not at all : whereas the Sallow that hath glorious palmes , is continually found Barren . I would first be so wise , as to bee my owne Councellor : next , so secret , as to bee my owne Councell-keeper .

XXVII .

Some men read Authors as our Gentlemen vse flowers , onely for delight and smell ; to please their fancy , and refine their tongue . Others like the Bee , extract onely the hony , the wholesome precepts , and this alone they beare away , leauing the rest , as little worth , of small value . In reading I will care for both ; though for the last , most : the one serues to instruct the mind ; the other fits her to tell what she hath learned : pitty it is , they should be deuided : he that hath worth in him , and cannot expresse it , is a chest keeping a rich Iewell , and the key lost . Concealing goodnesse , is vice ; vertue is better by being communicated . A good stile , with wholesome matter , is a faire woman with a vertuous soule , which attracts the eyes of all ; The good man thinkes chastly , and loues her beauty , for her vertue ; which hee still thinks more faire , for dwelling in so faire an outside . The vicious man hath lustfull thoughts ; and he would for her beauty , faine destroy her vertue : but comming to sollicite his purpose , findes such diuine lectures , from her Angels tongue , and those deliuer'd with so sweet a pleasing modesty , that he thinks vertue is dissecting her soule to him , to rauish man with a beauty which he dream'd not of . So hee could now curse himselfe , for desiring that lewdly , which he hath learn'd since , onely to admire , and reuerence : Thus he goes away better , that came with an intent to bee worse . Quaint phrases on a good subiect , are baits to make an ill man vertuous : how many vile men seeking these , haue found themselues Conuertites ? I may refine my speech without harme : but I will endeuour more to reforme my life . 'T is a good grace both of Oratory , or the Pen , to speake , or write proper : but that is the best work , where the Graces , and the Muses meet .

XXVIII .

Wee see in the Moone a threefold condition , her Wane , her Increase , her Full : all which , I liuely see resembled in a Christian , three causes working them : Sinne , Repentance , Faith . Sinne ; which after the act , when he once considers , it makes him like the Moone in her Wane , or state of Decrement , obscuring , and diminishing that glorious light of the spirit , which whilome shined so brightly in him : nay , sometimes as the Moone in her latest state of Diminution , hee seemes quite gone , resting for a time like a man in a trance , like a tree in Winter , or as fire buried in concealing Embers , without either sence , or shew , of either light , or heat . But then comes Repentance , and casts water in his face , bedewes him with teares , rubbes vp his benummed soule ; that there is to bee seene some tokens , both of life , and Recouery : This makes him spring , causes him to begin to bud againe , vnburies his lost light , and by little and little , recollects his decayed strength of the apprehension of Gods Spirit : so sets him in the way to ioy , and renued courses . But lastly , Faith appeares , and perfects what Repentance beganne , and could not finish : she cheeres vp his drooping hopes , brings him againe to his wonted solace , spreads out his leaues , blowes vp his fainting fire to a bright flame : makes him like the Moone in her full glory , indues him with a plenteous fruition of the presence of the Almighty , and neuer leaues him , till he be resettled in his full ioy , contentment , happinesse . Thus while he sinnes , he is a Decressant ; when he repents , a Cressant ; when his faith shines cleere , at full . Yet in all these , while hee liues heere , hee is subiect to change : sometime like a Beacon on a Hill , he is seen a farre off , and to all : sometime like a Candle in a house , neerer hand , and only to his familiars : sometimes like a Lampe vnder a bushel , he is obscur'd to all ; yet in all he burnes : though in some , insensibly : and is neuer without one sound consolation , in the worst of all these : for as the Moone when shee is least visible , is a Moone as well , as when wee see her in her full proportion ; onely the Sunne lookes not on her with so full an aspect , and shee reflects no more , then she receiues from him : So a Christian in his lowest ebb of sorrow , is the Childe of God , as well , as when hee is in his greatest flow of comfort , onely the Sunne of Righteousnesse darts not the beames of his loue so plentifully , and hee shewes no more , then God giues him . When God hides his face , man must languish : his with-drawings , are our miseries : his presence , our vnfailing Ioy . Sinne may cast mee in a trance , it cannot slay mee : it may bury my heat , for a time , it cannot extinguish it : it may make me in the wane , it cannot change my beeing : it may accuse , it shal not condemn : Though GOD depriue mee of his presence for a time , hee will one day re-inlighten mee , pollish mee , and crowne mee for euer : where the Moone of my inconstant ioy shall change to a Sunne , and that Sunne shall neuer set , beclouded , or eclypsed .

XXIX .

In expences I would bee neither pinching , nor prodigall : yet if my meanes allow it not , rather thought too sparing , then a little profuse : 't is no disgrace to make my ability my Compasse of saile , and line to walke by . I see what I may doe ; others but what I doe : they looke to what I spend , as they thinke mee able ; I must looke to what my estate will beare : nor can it be safe , to straine it at all : 't is fit I should respect my owne abilitie , before their forward expectation . Hee that when hee should not , spends too much , shal when he would not , haue too little to spend . 'T was a witty reason of Diogenes , why he asked a halfe-penny of the thrifty man , and a pound of the prodigall ; the first , hee said , might giue him often , but the other e're long , would haue none to giue . Yet say I had to dispend freely ; as to bee too neere hauing enough , I esteeme sordid : so to spend superfluously , though I haue abundance , I account one of follies deepest ouer-sights . There is better vse to bee made of our talents , then to cast them away in waste : God gaue vs them , not to spend vainely , but to imploy , for profit , for gaine .

XXX .

As the Needle in a Dyall remoued from his point , neuer leaues his quiuering motion , till it settles it selfe in the iust place it alway stands in : So fares it with a Christian in this world ; nothing can so charme him , but hee will still minde his Sauiour : all that put him out of the quest of Heauen , are but disturbances . Though the pleasures , profits , and honours of this life , may sometime shuffle him out of his vsuall course ; yet he wauers vp and downe in trouble , runnes to and fro like Quick-siluer , and is neuer quiet within , till hee returnes to his wonted life , and inward happinesse : there he sets down his rest , in a sweet , vnperceiued , inward content : which though vnseene to others , hee esteemes more , then all that the world cals by the name of felicity : they are to him , as May-games to a Prince ; fitter for children , then the Royaltie of a Crowne . It shall not more grieue me , to liue in a continued sorrow , then it shall ioy mee , to finde a secret perturbation in the worlds choycest solaces . If I finde my ioy in them , without vnquietnesse , that will proue a burdensome mirth : For finding my affections settle to them without resistance , I cannot but distrust my selfe , of trusting them too much . A full delight in earthly things , argues a neglect of heauenly . I can hardly think him honest , that loues a Harlot for her brauery , more then his Wife , for her vertues . But while an inward distaste shewes mee these Cates vnsauourie , if my ioy bee vncompleat in these terrene felicities , my inward vnsettlednesse in them , shall make my content both sufficient , and full .

XXXI .

Strange is the inchantment that the world works on vs , when she smiles , and lookes merrily : 't is iustly matter of amazement , for a man to grow rich , and retaine a minde vn-altered : yet are not all men changed alike , though all in something admit variation . The Spider kills the man , that cures the Ape . Fortunes effects are variable , as the natures she works vpon : some , while their baskets grow more full , their mindes are higher , and rise : they now know not those friends , that were lately their companions : but as a Tyrant among his Subiects , growes haughty , and proud : so they , among their familiars scorne , and contemne : spurning those with arrogant disdaine , which but of late , they thought as worthy as themselues , or better : high fortunes are the way to high mindes : pride is vsually the child of riches . Contempt . too often sits in the seat with Honour . Who haue we knowne so imperious in Offices , as the man that was borne to beggery ? As these rise , so some fall : and that which should satiate their desire , increaseth it : which is euer accompanied with this vnhappines , that it will neuer bee satisfied : this makes them baser , by beeing wealthier : profit ( though with drudgerie ) they hugge with close armes . All vices debase man , but this makes a Master a slaue to his seruant , a drudge to his slaue ; and him that GOD set ouer all , this puts vnder all . Pittifull ! that man when good things are present , should search for ill : that he should so care for riches , as if they were his owne : yet so vse them , as if they were anothers : that when hee might bee happy , in spending them , will bee miserable in keeping them : and had rather dying , leaue wealth to his enemies , then beeing aliue , relieue his friends . Thus as one aspires , the other descends : both extremes , and iustly blameable . If my estate rise not , I hope my minde will bee what it is , not Ambitious , nor Auaricious . But if euer the Diuine prouidence shall , beyond either my desert , or expectation , blesse mee , I will thinke , to grow proud , is but to rise , to fall : and to proue couetous , onely to possesse wealth , that the nobler mindes may hate , and scorne mee . For what is there they esteeme more sordid , then for a mans minde to bee his moneyes Mercenary ?

XXXII .

A weake Christians life , is almost nothing but a Vicissitude of sinne , and sorrow . First , hee sinnes , and then he laments his folly : like a negligent schoole-boy , he displeaseth his master ; and then beseecheth his remission with teares . Our owne coruptions are diseases incurable : while we liue , they will break out vpon vs ; wee may correct them , wee cannot destroy them : they are like the feathers in a fowle , cut them they will come againe : break them , they will come againe : plucke them out , yet they will come again : only kill the bird , and they grow no more . While bloud is in our veines , sinne is in our nature ; since I cannot auoide it , I will learne to lament it : And if through my offences , my ioy bee made obscure , and vanish : that sorrow shall new beget my ioy ; not because I haue beene sinfull , but because , for sinne , I finde my selfe sorrowfull . All other sorrowes are either foolish , fruitlesse , or beget more : onely this darke entry , leades the way to the faire Court of happines . God is more mercifull in giuing repentance to the Delinquent , then in granting remission to the Repentant : He hath promised pardon to the Penitent , no Repentance to the Peccant .

XXXIII .

In chusing friends there be two sorts of men , that I would for euer auoyde : For besides the learning of their vices , I dare not trust them with a secret . There is the Angry man , and the Drunkard : The first in his fit is meerely mad , hee speakes not a word by reason , but by brutish passion : not vpon premeditated termes , but whatsoeuer his memory on the sudden catches , his violent passion driueth out , bee it knowne , or hidden : so oft in a braule he blabbes out that , which being cooled , hee much repents to haue named : committing that in his sparkling fury , which his appeased soule will tremble to think of . Anger is the feuer of the soule , which makes the tongue talke idle : it puts a man into a tumult , that he cannot heare what Counsell speakes : t is a raging Sea , a troubled water , that cannot be wholesome for the vse of any : and if it be true which Hippocrates tels , that those diseases are the most dangerous , that alter the habit of the patients countenance : this must needs bee most perillous , that voyce , colour , countenance , pace , so changeth , as if fury dispossessing reason , had set a new Garrison in the Citadell of man . This he knew that gaue vs that precept , Make not friendship with an angry man . The other hath no memory at all : For the aboundance of wine , hath drown'd vp that noble Recorder : and while Bacchus is his chiefe god , Apollo neuer keepes him company : Friends and foes , familiars , and strangers are then all of equall esteeme : so he forgetfully speakes of that in his cups , which if he were sober , should bee buried in silence . First he speakes he knowes not what , nor after , can he remember what that was he spake . Hee speakes that he should forget , and forgets that , which hee did speake . Drunkennesse is the funerall of all intelligible man , whom onely time and abstinence can resuscitate . A Drunkards minde and stomach are alike ; neither can retaine , what they receiue . I would bee loth to admit of a familiar so infectious as either ; more vnwilling to reueale my selfe to any so open . What friend soeuer I make choise of , I will bee sure hee shall haue these two properties , Mildnesse , Temperance : otherwise t is better to want companions , then to be annoyed with either a mad-man , or foole . Clitus was slaine by a Drunken Master : The Thessalonians massacred by an angry Emperour : and the deaths of of either , lamented by the Agents .

XXXIIII .

I see , liberty makes licentious , and where the reines are giuen too loosely , the affections run wildely on , without a guide , to ruine : For mans will without discretion , that should adde limits , is like a blind horse , without a bridle , that should guide him aright : he may goe fast , but runnes to his own ouerthrow , and while hee mends his pace , he hastens to his owne mischiefe . Nothing makes vs more wretched , then our owne vncontrolled wils . A loose will fulfilled , is the way to worke out a woe . For besides this folly in beginning wrong , the greatest danger is in continuance : when like a Bowle running down a hill , he is euer most violent , when hee growes neerest his Center & period of his aime . These follies are prettily shaddowed in the sports of Acteon , that while he suffer'd his eye to roue at pleasure , and beyond the pale of expedience , his Houndes , euen his own affections , ceaze him , teare him , proue his decay . Let it be my vigilance to curbe my beginning desires , that they may not wander beyond moderation ; if my owne will be a blind conductor , good precepts to an ingenious nature , are bitts that restraine , but hurt not . I know , to follow a soothing fancy , cannot be but ridiculously ill : and this inconuenience besides haue I seene ; That hee which may doe more then is fit , will in time doe more then is lawfull . He that now exceedes the measure , will ere long exceed the manner . Vice is a Peripatetick , alwayes in Progression .

XXXV .

Euen between two faithfull friends , I thinke it not conuenient that all secrets should be imparted : neither is it the part of a friend , to fish out that , which were better concealed . yet I obserue some , of such insinuating dispositions , that there is nothing in their friends heart , that they would not themselues know with him ; and this , if I may speake freely , I count as a fault . For many times by too farre vrging , they wring bloud , from whence onely milke should flowe : knowing that by their importunitie , which not only breedes a dislike in them to heare , but also when their conference is ended , begetes a repenting sorrow in him that told it : and makes him wish , hee had lock't vp his lips in silence , rather then haue powred out his heart with such indiscretion . How many haue bewailed the vntimely disclosures of their tongue ? how many haue screw'd out secrets , that would haue giuen thousands to haue return'd them vnknowne ? If I haue a friend that I care not to lose , I will neuer ingage my selfe so much , as to be beholding to him to know all . If I haue one that is faithfull , I wil not wrong him so much , as to wrest that from him , should cause him be sorrowfull . If hee reueales ought vn-vrged , my aduice is faithfull , and free : otherwise , to presse out a secret that may proue preiudiciall , I esteeme as the beginning of the breach of Amity , and the primary breeder of a secret dislike .

XXXVI .

We know 't is sometimes better to sound a retrait , & so retire , then 't is to stay in the field , and conquer : because it may so fall out , that the prize we win , cannot counteruaile the losse , that by this Warre we shall sustaine : so like the foolish Mariner , that seeing a Fish in the Sea , leapes into water to catch that , which together with his life hee loseth . Wee often lose an eternall Kingdome , for the gaine of toyes , and vanities . Who is there that hazzards not his soule , for the pleasures , or the profits of sin ? which when they haue , what haue they got , but shaddowes , or vexations ? The wealthy man is like a powder-master , who hath prouision against an enemie , but is euer in danger of being blowne vp . As for pleasure , 't is at best but a hilded vessel ; which though it please the palate for a cup or two ; yet the Lees are at hand , and they marre it : a little disturbance turnes it into distaste . What a foole were I to cast away my soule on such transitorie trifles ? which when I haue , I am neither sure to enioy , nor to find commodious : what I cannot keep without danger , I will neuer earnestly seeke : to lose a Crowne of gold , for a counterfet , is more then a childish fondnesse . I had better sit still , and be quiet in peace , then rise to conquer a petty Village , when my losse is a large Citie .

XXXVII .

Christ healed diseases three manner of wayes ; with meanes , as the Leper in the eighth of Mathew : without meanes , as the ten Lepers in the seuenteenth of Luke : against meanes , as the man borne blind , in the ninth of Iohn . I will looke to meanes as beeing more ordinarie , more reuealed : but if my blind eye sees not that present succour , my feare is not more , nor my griefe . 'T is as easie to God to worke without meanes , as with them : and against them , as by either : 'T is all one to him , Bee cleane , or Go wash . Yea , though euery argument concludes danger , let not my hopes faile mee yet , his omnipotency is beyond that feeble stay of the soule : nor yet will I so depend on his will hidden , as I neglect to practice his will reuealed . For as to dis-regard his appointed meanes , is a supreme contempt : so to depend too much on things vnsearchable , is rather a badge of rash presuming , then any notable courage of faith . I must looke to my way , and let him alone in his .

XXXVIII .

'T is a Capitall misery for a man to bee at once both old , and Ignorant . If hee were onely old , and had some knowledge , he might abate the tediousnesse of decrepit age , by the diuine raptures of Contemplation . If he were yong , though he knew nothing , yet his yeeres would serue him , to labour , and learne : whereby in the Winter of his time , hee might beguile the wearinesse of his pillow and chayre . But now his body beeing withered by the stealing length of his dayes , and his limbes wholly disabled , for either motion , or exercise : these together with a minde vnfurnished of those contenting speculations of admired Science , cannot but delineate the pourtraicture of a man wretched . A gray head with a wise minde , is a treasurie of graue Precepts , experience , & iudgement . But foolish old age , is a barren Vine in Autumne : or an Vniuersitie to study folly in : euery action is a patterne of infirmitie : while his body sits still , hee knowes not how to finde his minde action : and tell mee if there bee any life , more irkesome then idlenesse . I haue numbred yet but a few dayes ; and those I know , I haue neglected . I am not sure they shall bee more , nor can I promise my head , it shall haue a snowy haire . What then ? Knowledge is not hurtfull , but helpes a good minde : any thing that is laudable , I desire to learne . If I dye tomorrow , my life to day shal bee somewhat the sweeter for knowledge : and if my day proue a Summer one , it shall not be amisse , to haue prouided something , that in the euening of my Age , may make my minde my Companion . Notable was the answere that Antisthenes gaue , when hee was asked what fruit he had reaped of all his studies ? By them , saith hee , I haue learned , both to liue , and to talke with my selfe .

XXXIX .

There is a two-fold way to honour : Direct , when God cals : Indirect , when man seekes it , without the Lords warrant . Dauid went the first , and his Crowne departed not from his head , till nature had payed her debt , and his life dissolued : And when hee is gone , his Issue succeedes him . Absolon went the other , but his sinnes pulled him down with vengeance ; and onely a dumbe pillar speakes his memory . God cannot indure the aspiring spirit , that would clime the hill of preferment , without his leaue . Theeues of honour , seldom finde ioy in their purchases , stability , neuer . Besides , I obserue the man that is fit for a place of note , neuer seekes it so much , as hee is sought for , for it : whereas euer the Bramble , that is low , and worthlesse , cryes out aloud , Make me a King : 't is incident to a weake minde , to ouer-value it selfe . How many would be Magistrates , that know not how to bee men ? Moses obiects much , when God himself imposeth a charge : For a man of vnderstanding knowes , that 't is better to liue in the Valley , where the times tempests blow ouer him : then to haue his seat on the Mountains top , where euery blast threatens both his ruine , and fall : howsoeuer others measure him , hee knowes his owne height ; and will not exceed it . Yet beeing placed by an Almighty hand , hee that set him there , can keep him secure . But hee must then beware , that he makes not that his King , that should he his Subiect : that he giues not the reines , where he should vselthe checke : and that he playes not the Ape too much , either by too idle imitation , or by doting too fondly , on his darling Honour . Thus cautelous , may he liue safe : When he that reacheth promotion without Gods calling him , may flourish awhile , but not thriue . In ascents , those are the safest , that are broadest , and least sudden , and where the light is open : how soon is a fall caught in those staires that are darke , narrow , & quickly rising ? I wil as well look to the way , as the thing : There is no path to happy preferment , but that which vertue treades : which was well noted by the Heathen , when they built the Temple of honour so , that none could enter it , but they must first passe through that of vertue . I had rather liue honestly , though meanely : then by vnlawful practices vsurp a Crow ne .

XL.

Nothing more disworthes a man , then Cowardice , and a base feare of danger : the smooth way it makes difficult , the difficult inaccessible . The Coward is an vnfinisht man ; or else one which nature made lesse then others : If euer he did any thing well , fortune was his guide , not wisedome . His feare in him begets delay , and delay breedes that he feares , danger : the souldier that dares not fight , affoords the Enemie too much aduantage for his preparement ; both for directing his souldiers , plotting his Stratagems , strengthening his files , ordering his Campe , or doing any thing may turne disaduantage vpon his foe : when as the valorous warriour giues most discomfiture , in his sodainest onset , where hee takes away the time for fortification . If it bee by speech a man is to act his part , feare puts an ague in his tongue , and often leaues him , either in an amazed distraction , or quite elingued . For the too serious apprehension of a possible shame , makes him forget that , should helpe him a gainst it : I meane a plaine boldnesse , bequeathing a dilated freedome to all his faculties , and senses : which now with a cold feare , are frozen and congealed . If not this , out of an vnmeasured care to doe well , it driues a man into affectation : and that like misshapen apparell , spoiles the beauty of a well limb'd body : For nature will not endure the racke ; when you set her too high , she proues vntuneable , and in stead of a sweet cloze , yeeldes a cracke : she euer goes best in her owne free pace : I will neither stay her solong , as to meet delay : nor runne her so far , as to doe ought affectedly . I had rather be confidently bold , then foolishly timorous ; he that in euery thing feares to doe well , will at length doe ill in all .

XLI .

Many haue much lamented the losse of trifles , when they might haue gained by such damages , had they not with them , lost themselues : I meane , their quiet minds , and patience . Vnwise so to debarre themselues of rest , when their vexation cannot yeeld them profit ; if teares could either recouer a losse , or recall time , then to weepe , were but to purpose ; but things past , though with prudence they may be corrected , yet with greatest griefe , they cannot bee recalled : make them better wee may , but for to make them not to be at all , requires more then a humane strength , or a finite power . Actions once done , admit a correction , not a nullity . Although I will endeuour to amend what is gone by amisse , yet will I labour , neuer to grieue for any thing past , but sinne : and for that alwayes . A small losse shall neuer trouble mee : neither shall the greatest hindrance , make my heart not mine owne . He spake well that said , He which hath himselfe , hath lost nothing .

XLII .

Some men are of so noble , and free a disposition , that you cannot beeing a friend , aske ought , to receiue a deniall : it being one part of their happines , to pleasure the man they loue . Yet these in the end , and these times , are the only vnhappy men . For being exhausted by the necessities of others , and their base working on a free nature ; an vnwelcom want , at once vndoes them , and the goodnesse of their disposition . pitty such willing courtesies should be cast away in such vngratefull ground ; that like an vnbottomed Gulfe , swallowes , but returnes not : or that a mans firme loue should make him doe that , should kill himselfe in future . Contrarie to these , you haue another sort are fast , and holding : and though sometimes they might pleasure a friend , without a selfe preiudice : yet their inbred crabbednesse reserues all , with a close hand . And while the other ruins with a faire affection ; hee thriues with a vulgar hate , and curses ; such as the first , are best to others : such as the last , to themselues . I will so serue others , as I iniure not my selfe : so my selfe , as I may helpe other .

XLIII .

As there is no feate of Actiuity so difficult , but being once done , a man ventures on it more freely the second time : so there is no sinne at first so hatefull , but being once committed willingly , a man is made more prone for a reiteration . For there is more desire of a knowne pleasure , then of that which onely our eares haue heard report of . The horse that hath fed on prouender , will looke and long for it : but the iade that hath only had hey , expects no more then his racke . So farre is ignorance good , that in a calme , it keepes the minde from distraction ; and knowledge , as it breedes desire in all things , so in sinne . Bootlesse therefore shall euer be that cunning fetch of Satan , when hee would induce me once to make a triall of sinne , that I might thereby know more , and be able to fill vp my mouth with discourse , my minde with fruition ; bearing mee in hand , I may at my pleasure giue it the hand of parting , and a finall farewell . Too often ( alas ) haue I bin deceiued with this beguiling perswasion , of a power to leaue , and a will to returne at my will . Henceforth shall my care bee to refraine from once . If I grant that , stronger perswasions will plead for a second action : 't is easier to deny a guest at first , then to turne him out , hauing stayed a while . Thou knowest not , sencelesse man , what ioyes thou losest , when thou fondly lashest into new offences . The world cannot repurchase thee , thy pristine integrity : thou hast hereby lost such hold of grace , as thou wilt neuer againe be able to recouer . A mind not conscious of any foule enormities , is a fair temple in a durty street : at whose dore , Sinne , like a throng of rude plebeians , knockes incessantly : while the doore is shut , 't is easi to keep it so , and them out ▪ open that , but to let in one , thousands will rush in after him , and their tramplings will for euer soyle that vnstained floore , while thy conscience is vnspotted , thou hast that can make the smile vpon the racke , and flames ; 't is like Homers Nepenthe , that can banish the sadnesse of the minde . But when thou woundest that , thou buriest thy ioyes at once : and throwest a Iewell from thee is richer then the wealth of worlds . Foole that thou art , that wandring in a darke wildernesse , dost wilfully put out thy candle ; and thinkest cold water can slake thy thirst , in the burning fit of an Ague ; when it onely breeds in thee a desire to powre in more . Hee that neuer tasted the pleasures of sinne , longs lesse , after those banefull discontenting contents . What sweets of sinne I know not , I desire still to bee vnexperienc't in . I had rather not know , then by knowledge be miserable . This Ignorance will teach me Knowledge , of an vnknowne peace . Let mee rather be outwardly maimed , and want discourse : then bee furnisht of that , and possesse a wound , that bleedeth within .

XLIV .

'T is foolish , and sauors not of common policie , to purchase friends by large gifts : because hauing once vsed them to rewards , they will still expect more : and custome that pleaseth , is seldome omitted , without either discontent , or danger . If then our loues tokens shall seem to diminish , friendship likewise will decrease : and if not quite consume , yet easily be drawne to allow harbour to base dis-respect : which what a thorne it is to an affectionate minde , I desire rather to know by iudicious obseruation , then by reall experience : but sure I am , it no way can bee small : yet most true must it needs be , that friendship wonne by large gifts , resembles but the straw fire ; that hauing matter to feed vpon , burnes brightly : but let new fuell be neglected ; it dyes , consumes , and quite goes out . Nor further can this amity be euer approued , or sure , or sincere . For hee that loues me for my gifts sake , loues my gifts , aboue my selfe : and if I should happen to light on aduersitie ; I should not finde him then to appeare : there being no hope of a gainefull requitall . If I giue any thing , it shall be because hee is my friend : not because I would haue him so : not so much that I may haue his loue ; but that already , hee hath mine . I will vse them sometimes to continue friendship , neuer to begin it . I doe not hold him worthy thankes , that professeth me a kindnesse for his own ends .

XLV .

Nothing more saddens the soule of a good man , then the serious apprehension of a iust shame . If it were false , his own cleerenesse would bee a shield strong enough , to repell the darts of slander . For man is neuer miserable , till Conscience turnes his enemy . If it were but the losse of riches , there were a possibilitie of a recouerie : if of friends , hee might finde more , or content himselfe with the knowledge of their happinesse , in that glorious Mansion of the Saints : if of corporall anguish , a quiet minde might mitigate his paines , or industry with time , take a truce with sorrowes : but this misery is immedicable . Credit once lost , is like water so diffusiuely spilt , that 't is not in humanitie to recollect it . If it bee , it hath lost the purity , and will for euer after , be full of soile : and by how much his honesty was more noted ; by so much will his shame bee more , and his griefe . For see what a horrour he hath before him ; all will bee now ready to brand him with the odious , and stigmaticall name of an Hypocrite . His Reputation ( which though it bee not dearer then his soule , yet he prizeth aboue his life ) will be blacked with an eternall staine : which nor absence , time , endeuour , nor Death can wash away . If he liues , and could in himselfe forget it : yet the enuious world will keepe it vpon record : and when hee mindes it not , rub it on his galled soule . If he could fly from his Countrey , that would like a Bloud-hound follow him : if he dyes , that will suruiue him , and make his very graue contemptible : nay , so farre will it spread , as somewhat to infect his friends : and though haply in himselfe hee may bee bettered , by so rash a fall : yet the cruell , and vncharitable world will euer thinke him worse . In this I dare not follow it : in doing that may cause this , I hope I shall not . I will first striue to be void of the act might bring shame , next , not to cast it in the dish of the penitent . If my sufferings bee vniust , I am sure in the end I shall find them comfortable . If God hath pleas'd to remit offences , why should I commemorate them ? A good life is a fortresse against shame : and a good man's shame , is his benefit : the one keepes it away ; the other when it comes , makes it proue profitable .

XLVI .

The will for the deed , is oft with God accepted : and he that is a thankefull Debtor , restores a benefit . Many benefits , nay , all I possesse , O Lord , from thee I know I haue receiued : requite them I cannot , returne them I may not , and to rest ingratefull , were a sin inexcusable . Since then I cannot retaliate thy loue , or retribute thy fauours : yet Lord will I owe them , with a desire to pay .

XLVII .

There is not any thing eates out friendship , sooner then concealed grudges . Though reason at first produceth opinion , yet opinion after , seduceth Reason . Conceits of vnkindnesse harboured and beleeued , will worke euen a steady loue , to hatred . And therefore , reserued dispositions , as they are the best keepers of secrets : so they are the worst increasers of loue . Betweene friends it cannot be , but discourtesies wil appeare : though not intended , by a willing act , yet so taken by a wrong suspect : which smothered in silence , increase dayly , to a greater distaste : but reuealed once , in a friendly manner , oft meet with that satisfaction , which doth in the disclosure banish them . Sometimes ill tongues , by false tales , sow Discord betweene two louers . Sometimes mistakes , set the mind in a false beliefe . Sometimes iealousies , that flow from loue , imprint suspition in the thoughts . All which may find ease in the vttering : so their discouerie be in mildnesse ; otherwise , choller casts a mist before the eyes of the minde , and when it might see cleerely , will not let it . If betweene my friend , and my selfe , a priuate thought of vnkindnesse arise ; I will presently tell it , and bee reconciled : if he be cleere , I shall like him the better when I see his integritie : if faulty , confession gaines my pardon , and binds mee to loue him : and though we should in the discussion iarre a little , yet will I bee sure to part friendly . Fire almost quench't , and laid abroad , dyes presently : put together , it will burne the better . Euery such breach as this , will vnite affection faster : a little shaking prefers the growth of the tree .

XLVIII .

I haue sometimes wish't my selfe in some high seate of honor : with what folly , I haue after seene , and been displeased , with my selfe , with my desires : so vnbefitting wisedome , so dissonant from Christianity . For what can a high place conferre vnto mee , that can make my life more truely happy ? if it addes to my ioyes , it increaseth my fear ; if it augments my pleasure , my care is more , and my trouble . But perhaps I shal haue reuerence , weare rich apparell , and fare deliciously : alas ! cold flames , wet rayment . Haue I not known some inioying all , and neuer found other fruit , but enuie , beggery , and disease ? so haue in the end , wished to change , for lower Honors , for meaner dignities , accounting themselues as the flag , on the top of a ship-mast , as more high , and more visible ; so more , and euer open , to the wind , and stormes : being as a worthy Iudge once answered one , that gaue him his title of Honor : True , Honorable seruants : to post through the toyles of a circuit , and thinke on any mans busines but their owne . Ah Tissue couer , to a straw Cushion ! But I shal haue more means , so shal I do the more good : I grant ; but may I not doe as much good , with lesse meanes ? 'T is a question who shall haue more reward , of him that does most in quantity , or most according to the proportion of his meanes ; If Christ may be admitted as arbitrator , the poore Widdow gaue more , then al the rich ones . I feare , if I had more , I should spend more in waste : sure I am , I should haue more to answere for . Besides , who knowes what a change wealth might work in me ? what a snare hath it proued to many , that like the Sunne , haue in the morning of their time , mounted themselues to the highest pitch of perspicuity , and brightnesse ? which when they haue once attained , they decline , fall , vanish , & are gone ; leauing nothing behind them , but darke night , blacke reputation . If not this , what can I tell , but that I might gather like a spunge , to bee squeezed out againe , by some grinding oppressor ? So bee more vexed with an vnexpected losse , then pleased with my short inioyment . The thiefe that meets with a full purse , takes away it , and returnes a stabbe ; while the empty pocket makes the life secure : then perhaps we could wish to be poore , but cannot : that so wee might lessen our griefe , by the sorrow for our losse . Tell me then , O my soule ! what should make thee wish to change ? I liue in a ranke , though not of the highest , yet affoording as much happinesse , more freedome : as beeing exempt from those suspitious cares , that pricke the bosome of the wealthy man : 't is such as might content my better , and such as heauen smiles on , with a gracious promise of blessing , if my carriage be fair and honest ; and without these who is well ? I haue necessaries , and what is decent ; and when I desire it , something for pleasure . Who hath more that is needfull ? If I be not so rich , as to sowe almes by sackfulls , euen my Mite , is beyond the superfluity of wealth : and my pen , my tongue , and my life , shal ( I hope ) helpe some to better treasure , then the earth affoords them . I haue food conuenient for mee : and I sometimes find exercise to keepe my body healthfull : when I doe , I make it my recreation , not my toyle . My rayment is not worst , but good ; and then that , let mee neuer haue better . I can bee as warme in a good Kersey , as a Prince in a Skarlet robe . I liue where is much means of true saluation : my libertie is mine owne , I can both frequent them , and desire to profit by them . I haue a mind can bee pleased with the present ; and if time turnes the wheele , can indure a change , without desiring it . I want nothing but abundance ; and this I neede not , because want herein , I account much better then reall possession : if it had beene fit for mee , I know , my God would haue bestowed it on me . He neuer was so careles of a child of his , as to let him misse that , he knew might make for his good . Seeing then , hee sees it inconuenient , it shall bee my ioy to liue without it ; and henceforth , will I not long any more to change . He is not a compleat Christian , that cannot be contented with that he inioyes . I will rather settle my minde to a quiet rest , in that I finde : then let her wander , in a wearied sollicitude , after vngotten plenty . That estate that God guies mee , euer will I esteeme best : though I could not thinke it so , I am sure it is so : and to think against knowledge , is a foolish suspition .

XLIX .

'T is a precept from a perfidious mind , that bids vs thinke all knaues we deale with : so by distrusting , to hinder deceit . I dare not giue my mind that liberty , lest I iniure charity , and run into error . I will thinke all honest , if strangers : for so I 'me sure they should bee ; only let me remember , they are but men : so may vpon temptation , fall with the time ; otherwise , though they want religion , Nature hath implanted a morall iustice , which vnperuerted , will deale square . Christs precept was found in the mouthes of Heathen . Doe not to another , what thou wouldst not haue done to thy selfe .

Though the bodies excretions grow but insensibly , yet vnlesse they bee dayly taken away , wee see , they make men monstrous : as Nabuchadnezzars haires were like Eagles feathers , and his nayles like birds clawes , in his seuen yeeres bestialitie . So that those things which nature with due ordering , hath made for vse and ornament : with a carelesse neglect , grow to mischiefe , and deformitie . In the soule I finde it yet worse : and no Vice so soon steales on vs , as the abuse of things in themselues lawfull : For Nature euer since her first deprauation , without a corrigible hand to restraine her , runs into wide extremities . I know , 't is good the Vine should flourish , but let it alone , and it ruines it selfe , in superfluous branches . Our pleasures wee see , are sometimes the enliuenings of a drooping soule : yet how easily doe they steale away our minds , and make vs with a mad affection , dote vpon them ? none suspecting in so faire a semblance , a Sinon , that should gull vs , with such dilusiue postures : but because we know them lawfull , we boldly , and heedlessely vse them : and as Prouidence is the mother of happinesse : so negligence is the Parent of misery . I will euer bee most circumspect , in things veiled with either goodnesse , or sweetnesse . Nothing steales more soules from God , then lewd courses that are outwardly glorious . Reason hath not so dull an eye , but shee may see those things , that are apparantly ill : but those that are so , onely by their accident , haue power to blind her sight : so require more care , more vigilancy . I 'le only vse them , to make me better : when they leaue that , I 'le leaue them : and deale with'vm in a wise discretion , as the Emperour Commodus did with his seruants , in a wicked iest , banish them : not for the ill they haue done mee ; but for the harme they may doe . Since all my goodnes cannot make one sin good : why should an accidentall sinne spoile that , which is good in it selfe ?

L I.

There is no man that liues well , but shall be suspected for selfe-conceited , vnlesse hee can liue like a Hermite , in a Cell : or like some Satyre , in an vnfrequented Desart . He cannot for his life so carry himselfe , but he shall sometimes light on lewd company : such as hee neither loues , nor cares for . If hee continues society with them , he endangers his soule : either by participating of their bad actions , or else by conniuing at those offences , he sees they delight in : either of which , not onely cast a present guilt on the soule , but euen worke it to such a temper , as makes it apt to receiue the impression of any ill ; So secretly insinuating , till it come from toleration , to alowance , Action , Custome , Delight . Bad Companions are like Traitors , with whom if we act , or conceale , wee are guilty : this Pitch will defile a man . If he shall out of an honest care of his soules welfare , and his loue to Religion , labour to auoid such bad associates : or beeing vnhappily fallen among them , seeke for a present escape : Then pride , and a high conceit of himselfe , is guessed the onely motiue of his bodies departure : when indeed 't is onely goodnesse , that importunes his absence . But tell mee now , is 't not better I leaue them , & be thought proud wrongfully : then stay with them , and be knowne bad certainly ? He 's a foole that will sell his soule , for a few good words , from a bad mans tongue . What is 't to me , how others thinke me , when I know , my intent is good , and my wayes warrantable ? A good conscience cares for no witnesse : that is alone , as a thousand . Neither can the worlds Calumnies , worke a change in a minde resolued . Howsoeuer heere my Reputation should be soiled vnworthily , yet the time is not farre off , when a freedome from sinne will bee more worth , then a perpetuated fame from Adam , till Doomes day . While heauen and my Conscience see mee Innocent , the worlds suppositions cannot make mee culpable . Hee that is good , and ill spoken of , shall reioyce , for the wrong is done him by others . Hee that is bad , and well reported , shall grieue for the iniury hee does himselfe . In the one , they would make mee what I am not : in the other , I make my selfe what I should not . Let mee rather heare ill , and doe well : then doe ill , and bee flattered .

LII .

For iniuries , my opinion is with Socrates : 'T is better to suffer , then to offer them . He may be good that beares them : he must be ill that proffers them . Saul would slay Dauid , when himselfe only is vitious , and ill . Vice , is accompanied with iniustice ; Patience , is an attendant on Vertue .

LIII .

In all nations , two things are causes of a common prosperity : Good Gouernment : and good Obedience : A good Magistrate , ouer a peruerse people , is a sound head , on a surfetted body . A good Communaltie , and a bad Ruler , is a healthfull body , with a head aching : either are occasions of ruine : both sound , preseruatiues . A good Gouernour is a skilfull Ship-master , that takes the shortest , and the safest course : and continually so steeres , as the Rockes , and Shelues which might shipwracke the state , be auoided : and the voyage euer made , with the soonest speed , best profit , most ease . But a wicked Magistrate is a Wolfe made leader of the fold : that both satiates his crueltie , and betrayes them to danger . To whom if you adde but ignorance , you may vpon certain grounds , prophesie destruction . The Iudges insufficiencie , is the Innocents calamitie . But if the Common-wealth be obedient , & the Ruler worthy : how durable is their felicitie , and ioy ? Solon might well say , That Citie was safe , whose Citizens were obedient to the Magistrates , and Magistrates to the Lawes . What made the Maior Scipio so victorious , but his wisedome in directing , and his Souldiers willingnesse , in obeying , when he could show his troopes , and say , You see not a man among al these , but will , if I command him , from a Turret throw himselfe into the Sea ? The inconuenience of stubbornnesse , that Consull knew , who meeting with an obstinate Youth , sold both him , and his goods , saying , Hee had no need of that Cittizen , that would not obey . As it is in the larger , and more spacious world ; so is it in the little world of Man . None if they serue their true Prince , but haue a Gouernour completely perfect . Criticisme it selfe , cannot find in God to cauill at . He is both iust , and mercifull , in the Concrete , and the Abstract , he is both of them . Who can taxe him with either crueltie , or partialitie ? though my obedience cannot answere his perfection ; yet will I endeuour it . If Christ bee not my King to gouerne , he wil neither be my Prophet to forewarne , nor my Priest to expiate . If I cannot come neere it , in effect , as being impossible : I will in desire , as being conuenient : so though lesse , yet if sincere , I know , he wil accept it : not as meritorious , but respecting his promise .

LIIII .

'T is an Aphorisme in Physicke , that they which in the beginning of sicknes eate much , and mend not , fall at last to a generall loathing of food . The Morall is true in Diuinity . He that hath a sick conscience , and liues a hearer vnder a fruitfull Ministery , if hee growes not sound , he will learne to despise the word . Contemned blessings leaue roome for curses . Hee that neglects the good hee may haue , shall find the euill he would not haue . Iustly hee sits in darknesse , that would not light his Candle when the fire burned cleerely . He that needs counsell , and will not heare it , destines himselfe to miserie , and is the willing Author of his own woe . Continue at a stay he cannot long : if he could , not to proceede , is backward . And this is as dangerous to the soule , as the other to the body . Pittifull is his estate , that hates the thing should helpe him : if euer you see a drowning man refuse helpe , conclude him a wilfull murtherer . When God affoords mee plentifull meanes , woe bee to mee if they proue not profitable : I had better haue a deafe eare , then hear to neglect , or hate : to the burying of such treasures there belongs a curse , to their misspending , Iudgements .

LV.

God giues three kinds of gifts , Temporall , Spirituall , and Eternall ; Temporall , as Wealth , Pleasure , Honour , and such like . Spirituall , as Sauing Faith , Peace of Conscience , and assurance of Saluation . Eternall , as Glory and happines in heauen for euer . The first is common to the wicked , as well as the godly , and they mostly florish in these terrene beauties . For who so great in fauour with the world as they ? They liue , become old , and are mighty in power , as Iob speakes in his 21. yet all these sweetes passe away like a vapour , and though they reuell out their dayes in mirth , yet in a moment they goe downe to the graue . The two other God bestowes onely vpon his Elect : all that heere hee often giues them , is onely one of these : some spirituall fauours hee bestowes vpon them , the other he reserues for them , when Earth cannot cal them her Children . One he giues them not , till they be gone from hence ; the other when they haue it , the world sees it not . What difference can a blind man perceiue , betweene a sparkling Diamond , and a worthlesse peble ? Or what can a naturall man spie , in an humble Christian , that euer hee thinkes may make him be happie ? Afflictions heere are the Lot of the righteous , and they dimme those splendid beauties , that speak them faire in the eye of the Almighty : they are sports of the priuie Chamber , that these Kings ioy in : the vnciuill vulgar see not the pleasures of their Crown : Whereas the wicked , and God-forsaken man spreads out his plumes , and seemes euen to checke the Sunne in his glory . Vice loues to seeme glorious , yea more to seeme , then to bee . What a Lustre these Glow-wormes cast in darknesse , which yet but touched , are extinct ? a poore reckoning alas in the end ! when all these counterfet Iewels shal be snatched from him , and he answere for all strictly , at the vnauoidable barre of the last Iudgement . They had neede haue some pleasure here , that can haue nothing but woe heereafter . Flesh , rebellious flesh , would sometime set me to murmur at their prosperity ; but when my minde in her Closet reuolues their fickle estate , and findes all their good in present , & outward , I see nothing may be a midwife to the least repining enuie . When my soule solaceth her selfe in those rauishing delights that exhilarate a Christians mind , how poorely can I thinke of those lamentable ioyes ? the spirituall man lookes on the flourishes of this life with pitty , not desire . If God giues the wicked one , and me two , why should I complaine ? but when the least of mine , is infinitely better then his all , let mee neuer grudge him , so poore , and so short a heauen . If God affoords mee his childrens fauours , ( though oppressed with pouerty ) I am richer , then all their gawdy Adulations can make me : because I haue already the earnest of a World of Ioy , which the wicked shall neuer obtaine .

LVI .

I wonder what spirit they are indued withall , that can basely libell at a man that is falne ! If they were heauenly , then would they with him condole his disasters , and drop some teares in pitty of his folly , and wretchednesse : If but humane , yet nature neuer gaue them a mind so cruell , as to adde weight to an ouercharged beame . When I heare of any that fall into publike disgrace , I haue a mind to commiserate his mis-hap , not to make him more disconsolate . To inuenome a name by libells , that already is openly tainted , is to adde stripes with an Iron rod , to one that is flayed with whipping : and is sure in a mind well-temper'd , thought inhumane , diabolicall .

LVII .

Our yeeres at full are fourescore and ten : much time compared to a day ; but not a minute in respect of eternity : yet how few liue to tell so large a succession of time ? One dyes in the bud , another in the bloome , some in the fruite , few like the sheafe , that come to the barne in a full age ; and though a man liues to inioy all , see but how little he may call as his owne . He is first Puer , then Iuuenis , next Vir , and after Senex ; the first hee rattles away in toyes and fooleries , ere hee knowes where he is , spends a great part of his precious time : hee playes as if there were no sorrow , and sleeps as if there would neuer bee ioy . The next , pleasures and luxurie shorten and hasten away : vnchecked heat makes his nimble spirits boile ; hee dares then doe that , which after he dares not thinke of : he does not then liue , but reuell ; & cares not so much for life , as for that which steales it away , Pleasure . Hee hath then a soule that thinkes not of it selfe , but studies onely to content the body : which with her best indulgence , is but a piece of actiue earth : when she leaues it , a lumpe of nastinesse . The third , Cares of the world , and posterity , debarre of a sollid content : and now when he mounted to the height of his way , he finds more misery , then the beginning told him of . What iarres , what toyles , what cares , what discontentments , and what vnexpected distractions , shall he light vpon ? if poore , hee 's miserable , and ridiculous : if rich , fearefull & solicitous : this being all the difference betweene them , the first labours how to liue , the other studies how to continue liuing . In the last , nature growes weake and irksome to her selfe , venting her distaste with Salomon , and mournes that now shee finds her dayes , that be vnpleasing . He that liues long hath onely the happinesse , to take a larger taste of misery : what before hee thought hurled about with more then a sphericall swiftnesse , hee now thinks more tedious , then a tyred Hackney in foule wayes : Time , that before hee hath wooed to stay for him , now he could on his knee sue to , to haste him away . But if ( that honey of all humanity ) Learning , hath taught him a way to coozen his sorrowes , he could then with old Themistocles , find in his heart to weep , that he must then leaue life , when he begins to learne wit . Thus all mans ages are so ful of troubles , that they filch away his time of liuing . The first is full of folly : the second of sinne : the third of labour : the last of griefe . In all , he is in the Court of this world , as a ball bandyed between 2. rackets , Ioy , & sorrow : If either of them strike him ouer , he may then rest : otherwise , his time is nothing , but a constant motion in calamitie . I haue onely yet runne through the first , and passed my Puerilia ; whether my life , or my youth shall be ended first , I neither know , nor care . I shall neuer bee sorrowfull , for leauing too soone , the tempests of this tumbling Sea . But if I see my Summer past , I hope in Autumn God will ripen me for himselfe , and gather me ; if my Maker , and master saw it fit , I could bee content neither to see it , nor winter , I mean the winter of age : but if he shall appoint mee so large a time , I shall willingly pray as my Sauiour hath taught mee , His will bee done : though I wish not the full fruition of all , yet doe I desire to borrow a letter from each : So in stead of Puer , Iuuenis , Vir , & Senex ; giue mee the foure first letters , which will make mee PIVS .

LVIII .

Two things in my apparell , I will onely aime at ; Commodiousnes , Decencie : beyond these I know not , how ought may bee commendable ; yet I hate an effeminate sprucenesse , as much as a phantasticke disorder . A neglectiue comlinesse is a man's best becomming ornament . Sardanapalus was as base in his Feminine vestures , as Heliogabalus was mad , when hee wore Shooes of Gold , and Rings of Leather : the one shew'd much pride , the other more wantonnesse : let mee haue both these excluded , and I am pleas'd in my Garments .

LIX .

Though an enemy bee not a thing necessarie ; yet is there much good vse to be made of him : yea , sometimes he doth a man a greater pleasure , then a dearer friend . For wheras a friend , out of a feare to displease , and a kinde of conniuing partialitie , speaks only Placentia , & such as he thinkes , may not giue a distaste , an enemy vtters his opinion boldly , and if any act , misbeseeming vertue , spring from a man , he will be sure to finde it , and blowe it abroad . So that if a man cannot know by his friends , wherein he offends ; his enemie will bee so much his friend , as to shew him his folly , and how hee fayles . 'T was a good speech of Diogenes , Wee haue need of faithfull friends , or sharpe enemies . Euery man hath vse of a monitor : yet I see in all , such a naturall and wilfull blindnesse through selfe-loue , that euery man is angry when his enemy reuiles him , though iustly : and all pleased , when a friend commends , though his Encomion be false , and desertlesse . I will entertaine both with an equall welcome : neither , without some meditation , and good vse . If one praise me for the thing I haue not , my first following endeuour shall bee to get what hee commends mee for ; lest when the time comes that I should shew it , hee reape disgrace , by reporting vntruths , and I lose my credit , by wanting that , I am suppos'd to possesse . If for that I haue : I will striue to attaine it , in a measure more large : so shall his words be truth , and my deeds prooue them . If my enemy vpbraids me , let mee see if it bee iustly . It was an argument of much worth , in that renowned Macedonian , which made him ( when he was told Nicanor rayled on him ) say , I beleeue he is honest , and feare I haue deseru'd it . If it bee so , I will labour to shake off that corruption , and be glad I haue so discouer'd it . But if iniuriously hee reports foule , it shall bee my ioy to beare contentedly , the vniust aspersions of malicious Censure : who euer was , that was not slandered ? Though hee should be beleeu'd awhile : yet at last , my actions would out-weigh his words , and the disgrace rest , with the intender of the ill . So that webbe of scandall , they would iniect vpon me , my life shal make a garment , for themselues to weare . That stone that iniury casts , euer in the end , lights on her selfe .

LX.

Two things a man ought to respect while hee liues heere ; his inward integritie , and his outward vprightnesse : his piety toward God , and his reputation among men . The one is by performance of religious duties ; the other by obedience to the lawes publike ; the one makes his life famous ; the other , his death happy : so both together , bring credit to the name , and felicitie to the soule . I wil so be alone , as I may be with God : so with company , as I may please the godly ; that , report from good men , may speake me vertuous . Thus whensoeuer my breath shall bee made but aire , they shall beleeue , and I know , my selfe to bee blessed . The death of a good man , is like the putting out of a wax perfumed Candle ; hee recompences the losse of light , with the sweet odour hee leaues behinde him .

LXI .

As it fareth between two friends , that haue been ancient familiars , yet dwelling asunder , the one out of a carelesse neglect , forgets and omits his vsuall duty of visitation ; and that so long , that at last he forbeares to goe at all : so their loues decay , and diminish : not proceeding from any Iarre , but onely out of a stealing neglect , of renuing their loues : Euen so it fals out between God , & the carelesse Christian : who when hee hath long omitted the duty of Prayer , and perhaps hath some small motiues of a happy returne ; the Diuell askes him with what face hee can now repaire vnto him , hauing been so long a stranger , both to him , and that holy duty . Dis-respect is the way to lose a friend : Hee that would not continue a friend , may neglect him , and haue his aime . Experience hath taught mee how dangerous neglience hath beene , how preiudiciall : how soone it breeds custome ; how easily , and insensibly , custome creepes into Nature ; which much labour , and long endeuour cannot alter , or extirpate . In this cause there is no remedy but violence , and the seasonable acceptance of opportunitie : The vigilant Mariner sailes with the first winde , and though the gale blow somewhat aduersely , yet once lanched forth , hee may either finde the blast , to wombe out his sailes more fully , or else helpe himselfe , by the aduantage of Sea-roome : whereas he , that rides still anchor'd in the Riuer , and will sayle with none , but a wind faire , may either lye till hee lose his voyage , or else rot his Barke in the Harbour . If a supine neglect run me on these sands , a violent blast must set me afloat againe . In things that must bee , 't is good to be resolute . I know not whether I shall haue a second call , or whether my first motion shall die Issuelesse . I am sure I must returne , or perish : and therefore necessitie shall adde a foot to my weake desires ; yet I will striue more to preuent this , by frequent familiaritie ; then beeing an estranged friend , to renue old loues : not that after errour , I would not returne ; but that I would not stray at all .

LXII .

The good man hath many sorrowes , that the wicked man neuer knowes of : his Offences , the sinnes of the Time , the dishonour of God , the dayly increasing of Satans kingdome , and the present misery of his fathers children : So that many times , when the prophane man is belching out his blasphemies , hee inwardly drops a teare in his soule , and is then petitioning heauen for his pardon . But to strengthen him vnder the burthen of all these , he hath one ioy ( that were all his sorrowes doubled ) could make him lightly beare them : and this is the truth of Gods promises . If I haue more troubles then another , I care not ; so I haue more ioyes . God is no tyrant , to giue mee more then my load . I am well in the midd'st of all , while I haue that , which can vphold me in all . Who deserues most honour of the sluggard that hath kept his bed warme , or the man that hath combated a monster , and master'd him ? Iob was not so miserable in his afflictions , as hee was happy in his patience .

LXIII .

The enuious man is a squint-ey'd foole ; and must needs want , both wit and honesty : for as the wise man hath alwayes his mind fixed most on his owne affaires : so on the contrary , hee obserues other mens ; while those that are propper and pertaining to himselfe , inioy the least of his counsell and care . He sees others , & is blind at home ; he lookes vpon others as if they were his , and neglects his own as if they were anothers . Againe , that which he intends for mischiefe , & a secret disgrace ; euer addes some splendour to the brightnesse of his worth , he doth so vniustly maligne : as if wishing him infamous , he would labour to make him famous : or desiring to kill him , would prescribe him a Cordiall . Enuie , like the worme , neuer runs but to the fairest and the ripest fruit : as a cunning Bloud-hound , it singles out the fattest Deere of the Herd : 't is a pitchy smoake , which wheresoeuer we finde , wee may be sure there is a fire of vertue . Abrahams riches were the Philistims enuie . Iacobs blessing bred Esaus hate . He 's a man of a strange constitution , whose sicknes is bred by anothers health ; as if nature had made him an Antipathite to vertue ; If hee were good , or meritorious , hee would neuer grieue to haue a companion : but being bad , and shallow himselfe , hee would damme vp the streame , that is sweete and silent : so by enuying another , for his radiant lustre , he giues the world notice , how dark and obscure hee is in himselfe . Yet to all these blurres , if it were a vice , that could adde but a dramme of content , there might something bee spoken in way of Apology ; But whereas all other vices are retained , either for pleasure or profit ; this only like a barren field , brings forth nothing , but bryars , and thornes : nothing but a meager leanenesse to the pined corps , accompanied with griefe , vexation , madnesse . If another excell me in goodnesse , I 'le make him my example to imitate : not my blocke to stumble on . If in wealth , I shall with him blesse God for his plenty , neuer grudge at those faire fauors of heauen , God hath enough , both for mee , and him : but if he deserues better , let mee applaud the diuine Iustice , not taxe it . If the vice it selfe shall not cause me to shunne it ; yet the folly of it shall awe mee so much , as not to shake hands with a Serpent so foule : 't is only the weake-sighted , that cannot endure the light . A strong eye can vnhurt gaze the Sunne .

LXIIII.

The Councell the Philosopher gaue the young men of Athens , may with much profit , be appli'd by a Christian : viz. That they should often view themselues in a glasse , that if they were faire , and well featured , they should doe such things , as should bee beseeming their amiable shape : but if foule , and ill fauored , that then they should labour to salue the bodies blemishes , by the beauties of a mind , accoutred with the ornaments of vertue , & good literature . The Law is the Christians looking glasse ; which will shew all , without either flattery , or partiality . 'T is a globe hung in the midd'st of the roome , which will shew thee euery durty corner of thy soule . If thou hast wandered in a darke way , this will tell thee thy aberrations : and put thee againe into true path . In it will I often behold my selfe : that if I bee free from the outward , actuall violation of it , any thing faire , or haue some beauties , I may study dayly , how to maintaine them , how to increase them . But if I find my selfe like a Leopard in his spots , or an Ethiopian in his hiew naturall , blacke and deformed ( as I cannot be otherwise in my selfe ) it shall yet make mee see my defects , and striue to mend them . Knowne deformities incite vs to search for remedy : The knowledge of the disease , is halfe the cure .

LXV .

There is no man so badly inclin'd , but would gladly bee thought good : no man so good already , but would be accounted somewhat better : Which hath oft made me sit down with wonder , at the choise excellency of religious vertue ; that euen those which in heart contemne this Princesse ; yet cannot but think it an honour , to be counted as attendants to her . Such a diuine , and amazing Maiestie there is in Goodnes , that all desire to weare her Liuery , though few care to performe her seruice : Like proud Courtiers , they would faine bee Fauorites , but scorne to attend . If then they cannot but affect her , that are her enemies ; how should they loue her that ioy to be friends ? If I bee bad , let my care bee to bee good indeed , not thought so . If any good parts already shine in me ; I had rather in silence know my selfe better , then haue the vnconstant world deeme me , either rare or excellent .

LXVI .

It was well said of Dauid , The wicked man shall not liue out halfe his dayes : for by his intemperancy , hee puls on himselfe either diseases , or iudgements ; which cut him downe , before hee bee fully growne . And though his dayes bee multiplyed , he makes them seeme much shorter , then indeed they are . For besides the beeing taken away by vntimely accidents , there bee two things that seeme to contract time , in a more compendious scope . Either excessiue and secure ioy : or else a sure expectation of ill . One of these in euery wicked man hath residence : The former is too ordinarie : the latter not so common , nor fully so dangerous . The first hath his conscience so cast in a sleepe , that it feeles not those priuy and perillous wounds , that sinne impaires it withal . All is frolicke , iocund , merry : and he swimmes in the fullest delights inuention can procure him : his eye 's inchanted with lasciuious obiects ; his eare charmed with scurrilous talke ; his taste glutted with luxurious ryots ; his smell filled with artificiall perfumes ; and his armes heated with the wanton imbraces of lust : euery sence hath his seuerall subiect of solace : and while in all these , his affections are wholly taken vp in the present apprehension of pleasure ; how can hee count of the precipitate pace of time , that like an Arrow , from a strong bent Bow , sings with the speed of his course ? If his delights would giue him leisure , to meditate a little on this , he might be so much himself , as to know how his time posteth : But letting it passe , as a thing vnthought of , his end steales on him , vnlook't for , vnwelcome , vnawares : and all those voluptuous merriments , wherein in his life-time , he imbathed himselfe : now seeme as a day that is past , whose Sunne declin'd at noone . But if otherwise , this sensualitie blinds him not , or that his conscience be awake alreadie : then alas ! how timerous and terrifi'd he is , with the expectation of his doome , and finall confusion ? wishing that hee were either some senslesse stone , that the bitter throes and pangs of despaire might not feelingly pierce him ; or else that he had such wings , as could procure his escape from death , and marrowsearching Iudgement . So like a condemned man , that knowes the date of his dayes , hee lyes telling the clocke , and counting the houre ; which he spends , in wishing euery day a yeere , euery houre a day , euery minute an houre , that still he might awhile inioy the sweet possession of his deare and beloued life . Thus either while his soule cleaues to the midd'st of his mirth , his way beguiles him : or else while he quiuers with the consideration of the shame that attends him , he sailes with such feare , that he mindes not his voyage ; so is suck't into Gulfe , e're euer hee be aware . A full swinge in pleasure , is the way to make man senselesse : A confident perswasion of vnauoidable misery is a ready path to despaire . These potions that are good but tasted , are mortal ingurgitated . Pleasure taken as Physick , is like a cordiall to a weakened body : and an expedient thought of our dissolution , may bee as a corrosiue plaister to eate away the deadnesse of the flesh . Both are commendably vsefull . I will neither be so Iouiall , as to forget the end ; nor so sad , as not to remember the beginning of life , God .

XLVII .

Though Prayer should bee the key of the day , and the locke of the night : yet I hold it more needfull in the morning , then when our bodies do take their repose . For howsoeuer sleepe be the Image , or shadow of death , & when the shadow is so neere , the substance cannot be farre : yet a man at rest in his chamber , is like a sheepe impenn'd in the fold ; subiect onely to the vnauoidable , and more immediate hand of GOD : whereas in the day , when hee roues abroad in the open and wide pastures , he is then exposed to many more vnthought of accidents , that contingently and casually occurre in the way : Retirednesse is more safe then businesse : who beleeues not a ship securer in the Bay , then in the middest of the boyling Ocean ? Besides , the morning to the day , is as youth to the life of a man : if that be begun well , commonly his age is vertuous : otherwise , God accepts not the latter seruice , when his enemy ioyes in the first dish . Hee that loues chastity , will neuer marry her , that hath liued a Harlot in youth . Why should God take thy dry bones , when the diuell hath suck't the marrow out ?

LXVIII .

GOD hath left three books to the world , in each of which hee may easily be found : The Booke of the Creatures , the book of Conscience , & his written Word . The first shewes his omnipotency . The second his Iustice : the third his mercy , and goodnesse . So though there bee none of them so barren of the rudiments of knowledge , but is sufficient to leaue all without excuse , apologies : yet in them all , I find all the good , that euer either the Heathen , or the Christian hath publisht abroad . In the first , is all Naturall Philosophy : in the second , all Morall Philosophy : in the third , all true Diuinitie . To those admirable Pillars of all humane learning , ( the Philosophers ) God shew'd himselfe in his omnipotency and iustice , but seemed as it wete to conceale his mercy : to vs Christians he shines in that which out-shines all his workes , his Mercy : Oh! how should we regratulate his fauours for so immense a benefit , wherin secluding himselfe from others , hee hath wholly imparted himselfe to vs ? In the first of these I will admire his workes , by a serious meditation of the wonders in the Creatures . In the second , I will reuerence his iustice , by the secret and inmost checks of the conscience . In the third imbrace his loue , by laying hold on those promises , wherein he hath not onely left mee meanes to know him , but to loue him , rest in him , & inioy him for euer .

LXIX .

If the fault be not in the misapplication , then is it true that Diogenes spake of Learning ; That , It makes yong men sober , old men happie , poore men rich , and rich men honorable . Yet in any , without grace , it proues a double mischiefe ; there is nothing more pestilent , than a ripe wit applyed to lewdnesse . Because hee that knowes himselfe to bee quicke and acute , relyes on his own braine , for euasion from all his villanies ; and is drawne to the practice of much vice , by the too much presuming on his own dexteritie . Ability & a wicked will , is fuell to burne the world with ; wit and wantonnesse are able to intice a chaste one . Resolution and policy can cast broyles in Christendome , and put ciuill men into ciuill warres ; if you beleeue not this , examine the Iesuite . On the contrary , where grace guides knowledge , and Religion hath the reines of Art : there , though on earth , the man is made heauenly ; and his life is truely Angelicall , He does good by the instinct of Grace , and that good hee doth well , by the skilfull direction of Learning . Religion is as Grammar , that shewes him the word , and the ground : while knowledge , like Rhetoricke , doth pollish it with beseeming ornaments . He that giues almes , do's good , but he that giues willingly to the needy , and in season does better . I will set my selfe to attaine both : for as he can neuer be a good Orator , that wants either Grammar , or Rhetoricke : So there is no man can bee a compleat Christian , without Grace , and some knowledge . Vzzah intended well , but did not know so ; & want of goodnes spoil'd Achitophels Councell . How can wee either desire or loue him that wee doe nor know ? since affectus motus est Cordis , à notitia & cognitione obiecti , ex●…citatus .

LXX .

The couetous man cannot bee a true or faithfull friend to any : for while he loues his money better than his friend , what expectation can there bee of the extent of his liberality ? In aduersity , and the time of tempest , when he should be a hauen to rest in , and an Alter Idem ; he will either like the Crocodile ceaze on him in the fall , and take the aduantage of his necessities : or else out of a lothnesse to lose any thing by his disbursement , rather see him macerated by a consuming want , then any way send him a salue for distresse . Words from a dead man , and deeds of charity from a man couetous , are both alike rare , and hard to come by . 'T is a miracle if he speakes at all ; but if hee doth breake silence , 't is not without terrour & amazement to the hearers . A couetous mans kindnesse , is like the fowlers shrap wherin he casts meat , not out of charity , to relieue them ; but trecherie to insnare them . He reaches thee bread in one hand and shewes it ; but keepes a stone in the other and hides it . If yet his courtesies were without danger , I would rather indure some extremitie , then bee beholding to the almes of Auarice . He that ouer-values his benefit , neuer thinkes hee hath thanks sufficient . I had better shift hardly , then owe to an insatiable Creditor .

LXXI .

I haue seene some high minded roysters , scornfully contemne the lowly poore of Christ ; as if they were out of the reach of the shattering wind of Iudgement , or thought it an impossibility , euer to stand in need of the helpe of such humble shrubbes . Fooles so to contemne those , whose ayde they may after want : 't is no badge of Nobility to despise an inferiour . Magnanimity and humility are Cohabitants : Courtesie is one of the fairest Iems in a Crowne ; 't was Caesars glory , to saue his Countreymen , which liues stil in that speech , which sayes , he pardoned more , then hee ouercame : True Honour is like the Sunne , that shines as well to the Peasant in the field , as the Monarch in his throne : he that withholds his clemency , because the subiect is base , denies a remedy to his wounded foot ; because 't is an inferior part so he may iustly after complaine and want it : when the Lyon was catched in a snare , 't was not the spatious Elephant , but the little Mouse , that restor'd him his wonted liberty : though the head guides the hand , the hand defends the head .

LXXII .

As sudden passions are most violent ; so sudden occasions of sinne are most dangerous : for while the sences are set vpon by vnthought of obiects , reason wants time to call a Counsell to determine how to resist the assault : 't is a faire booty makes many a thiefe , that if he had missed of this accident , would perhaps haue liu'd honestly . Opportunity is a wooer , that none but heauen can conquer . Humanity is too weake a spell for so powerfull a charme : shee casts a fury into the bloud , that will teare out a way , though the soule bee lost by it . The racke is easier then her importunity ; flames are snow-bals to it : sure if the Diuell would change his properties , he would put himselfe into this subtill thing : she puls vs with a thousand chaines ; at euery nerue she hangs a poize , to draw vs to her sorcery : and many times in our gaine , wee are lost for euer . What , tortures cannot force vs to , she will smoothly perswade : shee breakes all bonds , lawes , resolutions , oathes . Wise was the abstinence of Alexander , from the sight of Darius his daughters ; lest their beauty should incite him to folly : shee runnes vs into forbidden errors , & makes vs so desperate , as to dare any thing : If shee offer mee her seruice to ill , I le either kicke her as a bawd to vice , or else winke , when shee shewes mee her painting . Occasion is a witch , and I 'le be as heedfull in auoyding her ; as I will bee wary to eschew a sinne . But if I bee constrained to heare the Syren sing , Vlisses was wise , when hee ty'd himselfe to the mast .

LXXIII .

My hatred to my enemy shall be but in part , my loue to my friend , whole and intire : for howsoeuer I may hate my enemies vices , and his ill conditions ; yet will I loue his person , both as he is a man , and my brother . His detestation is too deepe , that will burne his linnen , because 't is foule ; they may both returne to their former purity , and then to hate , is sinfull . But as for my friend , I will loue both his person , and his qualities : his qualities first , and for them his person . Yet in neither will I so hate , as to bee a foe to goodnesse ; nor so loue , as to foster Iniquity : 'T is a question which is the worst of the two , to bee vices friend , or vertues enemie .

LXXIV .

Next God , the good man is the onely friend ; for when all other slinke out of the way , hee onely is a secure harbour for a shipwrackt soule to ride in ; If he be vpright that be falne in distresse , he then relieues him , as a brother , as a member : If lewd , yet necessity induceth a commiseration , and seeing the glorious Impresse of the Almighties image in him , hee can not , but for his Fathers sake , affect him . If hee be poore , of God's making , by the vnauoidable designement of a supreme prouidence , nature incites a reliefe : For he knowes not how soone , a like lot may fall in his owne ground . The same sunne saw Iob both rich , and poore to a Prouerbe . If his owne ill courses haue brought his decay ; hee is not so obdurate , and flinty , but that hee can afford him a hand of compassion , to strengthen him a little , in the midd'st of disasters : hoping that his charitie may either worke his returne , or stay him from speedy ruine . If he be ill , he is a Magistrate , to correct and reclaime him : if good , he is a father , to vphold , and loue him : if rich , he reades him a lecture of moderation , and discreet disposure ; tels him , not possession , but vse , diuitiates a man more truely : if poore , he sets him to Schoole with Paul there to learne , Content is plenty ; tel's how that Pagan Cynick could laugh at riches , when he call'd them nothing but fortunes vomit ; if wise , hee is his delight , and solace ; euen the Granar , where he leaues his load , and lockes his store : if ignorant , hee instructs him with the Oracles of God , dictitates sentences vnto him , & speakes all , tanquam ex tripode . Euery way I finde him so beneficiall , that the pious will not liue , but with him : and the badde man cannot liue without him . Who had salu'd the offending Israelites , had not Moses stood vp for to intercede ? it shall more ioy mee to liue with Christians , then men .

LXXV .

The hard-hearted man hath misery almost in perfection : and there is none more wretched , then a man with a conscience feared . Other sinners march in the high-way to ruine ; but hee as hee goes , builds a wall at his backe , that hee cannot retire to the tent . Neither Mercies , nor Iudgements , winne him at all . Not mercies : those his pride makes him thinke but his due , and while they are but common ones , they passe away with his common thoughts . Benefits seldome sinke deepe in obdurate minds : 't is the soft nature that is soonest taken with a courtesie . Not Iudgements ; for either he reuerberates them back , before they pierce , as a wal of steele doth a blunt-headed arrow : or if they doe perhaps find entrance , like the Elephant , with the convulsion of his nerues , & his bodies contraction ; hee casts out the shaft that sticks within him : so still he rests vnmollified , for all this raine , and haile . Warnings to peruerse dispositions , are the meanes to make them worse : Those plagues , and wonders that would haue melted a milder soule , only reduced Pharaoh's to a more hard , and desperate temper . Strange ! that hee should locke out of his own good , with so strong a key , so sure a Ward ; when euery vice that defiles the minde , findes both ready and free welcome . If I liue in sinne , God's first call is mercy ; I had better goe willingly , then be led by constraint : 't is fit hee should know the smart of torture , that nothing will cause to confesse but the Racke : if I finde God whips mee with any sensible stroke , I will search the cause , then seeke the cure : such blowes are the physicke of a bleeding soule : but neglected , my sinne will be more , and my punishment : 't is in vaine to bee stubborne with God : hee that can crush vs to nothing , can turne vs to any thing : let mee rather returne speedily , and preuent Iudgements , then stay obstinately and pull downe more : as 't is a happy feare , which preuents the offence , and the rod : so that is a miserable valour ; which is bold to dare the Almighty .

LXXVI .

Some mens Censures are like the blasts of Rammes Hornes , before the walles of Iericho : all the strength of a mans vertue they lay leuell at one vtterance : when all their ground is onely a conceited fancie , without any certaine basis to build on . What religious minde will not with amazement shudder , at the peremptorie conclusions , where they haue set their period ? Wondring , Man that knowes so little , should yet so speake , as if he were priuy to all . I confesse , a man may roue by the outward lineaments , what common inclinations rule within : yet that Philosopher did more wisely , that seeing a faire face , with a tongue silent , bade him speake that he might see him . For the cheeke may be dimpled with a pleasing smile , while the heart throbs with vndiscerned dolors : and as a cleere face shewes not alwayes a sound body : no more is an ingenuous look , alwayes the ensigne of a minde vertuous I wil onely walke in Christ's path , and learne by their fruits to know them : where I want experience , charitie bids mee thinke the best , and leaue what I know not , to the Searcher of heart's . Mistakes , Suspect , and Enuie , often iniure a cleere fame , there is least danger in a charitable construction ; In part hee s guilty of the wrong that 's done , Which doth beleeue those false reports , that runne .

I will neither beleeue all I heare , nor speake all I beleeue ; A mans good name is like a milke-white ball , that will infinitely gather soyle in tossing . The act of Alexander in this cause , merits an eternall memory : that hauing read a Letter with his Fauorite Hephaestion , wherein his mother calumniated Antipater , tooke his Signet from his finger , and appressed his lips with it : Coniuring as it were , the strict silence of anothers disgrace : Oh Alexander ! this very action was enough to make thee famous , who should not in this admire , and imitate thee ? A desire to disgrace another , cannot spring from a good roote : Malice and basenesse euer dwell with calumnie . I will iudge well of euery man , whom his owne bad life speakes not ill of : if he be bad , I 'le hope well ; what know I show his end may prosper ? I had better labour to amend him to himselfe , then by publishing his vices , make him odious to others . If hee be good , and belongs to God , how can I chuse but offend much , when I speake ill of a child that is indeared to such a fathers affection ? God loues his owne tenderly ; and whosoeuer offers a disgrace to them , shall be sure to pay for 't , either by teares , or torment .

LXXVII .

There are three things especially that a Christian should know : His owne Misery : Gods Loue : his owne thankefull Obedience . His misery , how iust ; Gods loue , how free , how vndeserued ; his own thankfulnesse , how due , how necessary . Consideration of one , successiuely begets the apprehension of all : Our misery shewes vs his Loue : his Loue cals for our acknowledgement . Want makes a bounty weightier : if wee thinke on our needs , wee cannot but admire his mercies : how dull were we , if wee should not value the reliefe of our necessities ? he cannot but esteeme the benefit , that vnexpectedly helpes him in his deepest distresse : That Loue is most to be prized , whose onely motiue is goodnesse . The thought of this , will forme a disposition gratefull : who can meditate so vnbottomed a loue , and not study for a thankefull demeanour ? His minde is crosse to Nature , that requites not affection with gratitude . All fauours haue this successe , if they light on good ground , they bring forth thankes . Let mee first thinke my misery , without my Sauiours mercy : next , his mercy , without my merits : and from the meditation of these two , my sincerer thankes will spring . Though I cannot conceiue of the former as they are ; Infinite , and beyond my thought : yet will I so ponder them , as they may enkindle the fire of my vnfained , and zealous thanksgiuing . That time is well spent , wherein wee studie thankefulnesse .

LXXVIII .

Though the fooles of the world think outward beauty the only Iewell that deserueth wearing ; yet the wise man counts it but an accident ; that can neither adde , nor diminish , to the worth of vertue , as she is in her selfe : so as hee neuer esteemes her more , or lesse , but as he findes her accomplisht with discretion , honesty , and good parts . If my friend be vertuous , and nobly-minded , my soule shall loue him , howsoeuer his body be framed : and if beauty make him amiable , I needs must like him much the better : the Sunne is more glorious in a cleere sky , then when the Horizon is clouded . Beauty is the wit of Nature put into the frontispice . If there be any humane thing may teach faith reason , this is it : in other things , we imagine more then wee see : in this we see more then wee can imagine . I haue seene ( and yet not with a partiall eye ) such features , & such mixtures , as I haue thought impossible for either Nature to frame , or Art to counterfet ; yet in the same face , I haue seene that , which hath out-gone them both , the Countenance . Oh! if such glory can dwell with corruption , what celestiall excellencies are in the Saints aboue ? who would not gaze himselfe into admiration , when he shall see so rich a treasure , in so pure a Cabinet , vnmatched vertue , in matchlesse beauty ? But if my friends body hath more comelinesse , then his soule goodnesse ; I like him the worse , for beeing but outwardly faire . Wickednesse in beauty , is a traytor of the Bed-chamber ; poison in sweet meates . A vitious soule , in a beautifull body , I account as a Iesuite in the Roabes of a Courtier ; or somewhat more fitly , a Papist , that will goe to Church .

LXXIX .

As I thinke there are many , worse then they seeme ; so I suppose there are some , better then they shew : and these are like the growing Chesnut , that keepes a sweet , & nutrimentall kernell , included in a rough , and prickely huske . The other , as the Peach , hold a rugged and craggy stone , vnder the couer of a Veluet Coat . I would not deceiue a good man either way : both offer a wrong to vertue : The one shewes her worse then she is ; dulling her beauty with dimme colours , and presenting her , with a harder fauour then her owne : The other doth varnish ouer the rottennesse of Vice , and makes goodnesse but the vizor for hypocrisie . Either are condemnable : painting the face , is not much worse , then wilfull soiling it . He is as well a murtherer , that accuseth himselfe falsely , as he that did the act , and denies it . One would obscure goodnesse , with Vice ; the other would palliate Vice , with goodnesse . Fraud is in both : and I am sure no Plea can make deceit allowable . I will therefore striue to auoid both ; and with Chrysostom either seeme as I am , or bee as I seeme . But if I should erre on one side , I had rather resemble a plaine Country-man , that goes in russet , and is rich in reuenues ; then a riotous Courtier , that weares glorious apparell , without mony in 's purse .

LXXX .

A Christians voyage to heauen , is a sentence of three stops ; Comma , Colon , Periodus . He that repents , is come to the Comma , and begins to speake sweetly , the language of saluation ; but if he leaues there , God vnderstands not such abrupt speeches : sorrow alone , cannot expiate a Pyrats robberies ; hee must both leaue his theft , and serue his Country , ere his Prince wil receiue him to fauour . 'T is he that confesseth & forsakes his sinne , that shal find mercy : 't is his leauing his wickednesse , that is as his Colon , and carries him halfe way to heauen . Yet heere also is the Clause vnperfect , vnles he goes on to the practice of righteousnesse , which as a Period knits vp all , and makes the sentence full . Returne , and penitence is not sufficient for him , that hath fled from his Soueraignes banner ; hee must first doe some valiant act , before by the law of Armes , hee can bee restored to his former bearing . I will not content my selfe with a Comma ; Repentance helps not , when sinne is renued ; nor dare I make my stay at a Colon ; not to doe good , is to commit euill , at least by omission of what I ought to doe : before I come to a Period , the constant practice of piety , I am sure , I cannot bee sure of complete glory . If I did all strictly , I were yet vnprofitable ; and if God had not appointed my faith to perfect mee , miserable . If hee were not full of mercies , how vnhappy a creature were man ?

LXXXI .

Euen from naturall reason , is the wicked man prou'd to bee sonne vnto Satan , and heire of hell , and torments . For not to speake of heauen , ( where the blessed are happy , and al things beyond apprehension excellent , ) euen in the Firmament , we see how all things are preserued by a glorions order : the Sun hath his appointed circuit , the Moone her constant change , and euery Planet & Starre their proper course and place . For as they are called fixed Starres , not because they moue not at all , but because their motion is insensible , and their distances euer the same , by reason of the slow motion of the eighth sphere , in which they are : So they are not called wandring Planets , for that they moue in an vncertaine irregularitie ; but because those seuen inferiour Orbes , wherin they are set , are diuersly carried about ; which makes them appeare sometimes in one place , somtimes in another , yet euer in the settled place of their owne Orbe , whose Reuolutions also , are in most strict , and euer certain times ▪ The earth likewise hath her vnstirred Station ; the Sea is confin'd in limits ; and in his ebbings , & flowings , dances as it were after the influence , and aspect of the Moone ; whereby it is both kept from putrifaction , and by struggling with it selfe , from ouer-flowing the land . In this world , Order is the life of Kingdoms , Honours , Arts : and by the excellency of it , all things flourish , and thriue . Onely in hell is confusion , horrour , and amazing disorder . From whence the wicked man shewes himself sprung , for there is nothing that like him , liues so irregular , and out of compasse . Disorder is a bird of the Diuels hatching : I feare lest those that rent the Church for Ceremonie , haue some affinitie with that prince of mis-rule : wee oft finde the parents disposition , though not propagated to the child , yet followed by him . I do not censure , but doubt . We haue seldome knowne him good , that refuseth to obey good orders . Who can expect a fruitfull crop , when the field is somtimes blasted with Lightning , sometime drenched with invndations , but neuer cherished with a kindly Sunne ? things vncapable of a true forme , are euer mending : yet euer vnperfect : when the rankes are broken , the victory is in hazzard . One bad voice , can put twenty good ones out of tune . I will first order my minde by good resolution ; then keepe it so , by a strong constancie . Those Souldiers dyed brauely , that where they stood to fight , they fell to death .

LXXXII .

In euery man there bee three things that encounter our Consideration ; The Mind , the Behauiour , the Person . A grosse blemish in any of which , sticke some disgrace on the vnhappy owner . If the Mind be vitious , though the carriage bee faire , and Person comely ; Honesty esteemes not outward parts , where inward Grace is wanting . If his mind be good , & carriage clownish , his outward bad demeanour makes his inward worth ridiculous : and admit he hath both deseruing applause ; yet a surfeited and diseased body , makes al disregarded ; while the approch of his presence may proue preiudiciall , infectious , noisome . To remedy the defects of all these , I finde three noble Sciences : Diuinity , Philosophy , Phisick : Diuinity , for the Soule ; to preserue that vnstain'd , and ; holy ; as also to indue it with vnderstanding ; for God with his Graces , instils Knowledge : it was the keeping of his Law , made Dauid wiser then those that taught him . Diuine knowledge is not without humane ; when God giues the first , in some measure hee giues both : and therefore we seldome finde the ignorant man honest ; if hee bee mentally , yet hee failes expressiuely . Philosophie , for his manners and demeanour , in the many contingent things of this life ; to fit him both with decent Complements , and sufficicient stayednes : neither sauouring of Curiosity , nor rusticity : nor was euer Religion found a foe to good manners ; For shee shines brightest in a braue behauiour , so it bee still free from affectation , flattery . Philosophy is the salt of life ; that can dry vp the crude humors of a nouice , & correct those pestilent qualities wherewith nature hath infested vs : which was ingenuously confest by Socrates , when Zopyrus by his Phisiognomy , pronounced him fouly vicious . Physicke , to know the state of the body ; both to auoyde distempers in health , and to recouer health , in wearying diseases ; 't is the restitution of decaying nature : when she is falling , this giues her a hand of sustenance : it puts away our blemishes , restores our strength , and rids vs of that , which would rid vs of our liues . In all these though a man bee not so learned , as to teach them to others ; yet in all I would know so much , as might serue to direct mee , in mine owne occasions . 'T is commendable to know any thing that may beare the title of Good ; but for these so pleasing Sciences , I will rather study with some paines , then want experience in things so necessary . Thus shall I fit my mind for God , my body to my mind , my behauiour to both , and my friends .

LXXXIII .

The distempers of these times , would make a wise man both merry , and mad : merry , to see how vice flourishes but a while , and being at last frustrate of all her faire hopes , dyes in a deiected scorne ; which meetes with nothing in the end , but beggery , basenesse , and contempt . To see how the world is mistaken in opinion , to suppose those best , that are wealthiest . To see how the world thinkes to appall the minde of noblenesse with misery ; while true resolution laughs at their poore impotency , and slights euen the vtmost spight of tyranny . To see how men buy Offices at high rates , which when they haue , prooue gins to catch their soules in , and snare their estates , and reputations . To see how foolishly men coozen themselues of their soules , while they thinke they gaine , by their cunning defrauding another . To see how the proiectors of the world , like the spoke of the Wheele of SESOSTRIS Chariot , are tumbled vp and downe , from beggery , to worship ; from worship , to honour ; from honour , to basenesse againe . To see what idle complements are currant among some that affect the Phantasticke garbe : as if friendship were nothing but an apish salute , glossed ouer with the varnish of a smooth tongue . To see a strutting prodigall ouer-looke a region , with his wauing plume ; as if he could as easily shake that , as his feather ; yet in priuate creep like a crouching Spaniell , to his base muddy prostitute . To see how pot-valour thunders in a Tauerne , and appoints a Düell , but goes away , and giues mony to haue the quarrell taken vp vnderhand . Mad on the other side , to see how Vice goes trapperd with rich furniture , while poore Vertue hath nothing but a bridle and saddle , which onely serue to increase her bondage . To see Machiauel's tenents held as Oracles ; honesty reputed shallownesse ; Iustice bought and sold ; as if the world went about to disprooue Zorobabel , and would make him confesse , mony to bee stronger then Truth . To see how flatterie creepes into fauour with Greatnesse , while plaine dealing is thought the enemie of state , and honour . To see how the Papists ( for promotion of their owne Religion ) inuent lyes , and print them ; that they may not onely cozen the present age , but gull posterity , with forged actions . To see how well-meaning simplicitie is foot-ball'd . To see how Religion is made a Polititians vizor ; which hauing help't him to his purpose , hee casts by , like Sunday apparell , not thought on all the weeke after . And which would mad a man more then all , to know all this , yet not know how to helpe it . These would almost distract a man in himselfe . But since I finde they are incurable ; I 'le often pray for their amendment in priuate , neuer declaime , but when I am call'd to 't . Hee loseth much of his comfort , that without a iust deputation , thrusts himselfe into danger . Let mee haue that once , and it shall neuer grieue mee , to die in a warrantable Warre .

LXXXIV .

To reuenge a wrong , is both easie , and vsuall ; and as the world thinkes , sauours of some noblenesse : but Religion sayes the contrarie , and tels vs 't is better to neglect it , then requite it . If any man shall willingly offer me an iniury , hee shall know , I can see it ; but withall , he shall see , I scorne it : vnlesse it be such , as the bearing is an offence . What need I doe that , which his owne minde will doe for me ? If he hath done ill , my reuenge is within him : if not , I am too blame in seeseeking it . If vnwillingly he wrongs me , I am as readie to forgiue , as hee to submit : for I know , a good minde will bee more sorrowfull , then I shall be offended : With his own hand hee rebateth his honour , that kills a prisoner humbly yeelding : Who but a Deuill , or a Pope , could trample on a prostrate Emperour ?

LXXXV .

I obserue none more lyable to the world 's false censure , then the vpright nature , that is honest , and free . For many times , while he thinkes no ill , hee cares not though the world sees the worst of his actions ; supposing he shall not be iudged worse , then hee knowes himselfe : but the world beeing bad it selfe , guesses at others by his owne : so concludes bad , of those that are not . Some haue I knowne thus iniur'd ; that out of a minde not acquainted with ill , haue by a free demeanor , had infinite scandals cast vpon them ; when I know , the ignorant and ill world is much mistaken , and coniectures false . I will neuer censure till I see grounds apparant : hee that thinks ill without this , I dare pawne my soule , is either bad , or would be so , if opportunitie but seru'd him . In things vncertaine , a badde construction must needs flow from a badde minde : who could imagine priuate vice which they doe not see , by a harmelesse carriage , which they doe see , vnlesse either their own ill practice , or desires , had prompted them ? Vice as it is the Diuels issue ; so in part it retaines his qualities ; and desiring others bad , beleeues them so . But vertue had a more heauenly breeding : shee is wary , lest shee censure rashly : and had rather straine to saue , then erre to condemne . If my life bee free from villany , and base designes , I know , the good will speake no worse then they see : as for those that are lewd , their blacke tongues can neuer spot the faire of vertue : onely I could sometimes grieue , to see how they wrong themselues , by wronging others .

LXXXVI .

Euery man either is rich , or may bee so ; though not all in one and the same wealth . Some haue abundance , and reioyce in 't : Some a competency , and are content : some hauing nothing , haue a minde desiring nothing . Hee that hath most , wants something : hee that hath least , is in something suppli'd ; wherein the minde , which maketh rich , may well possesse him with the thought of store . Who whistles out more content , then the low-fortun'd Plow-man , or sings more merrily , then the abiect Coblar , that sits vnder the stall ? Content dwels with those , that are out of the eye of the world , whom she hath neuer train'd with her gawds , her toyes , her lures . Wealth is like learning , wherein our greater knowledge , is onely a larger sight of our wants . Desires fulfilled , teach vs to desire more : so wee that at first were pleased , by remouing from that , are now growne insatiable . Wishes haue neither end ; nor End . So in the midd'st of affluencie , wee complaine of penurie ; which not finding , wee make . For to possesse the whole world with a grumbling minde , is but a little more specious pouerty . If I be not outwardly rich , I will labour to bee poore in crauing desires ; but in the vertues of the minde , ( the best riches ) I would not haue a man exceed me . He that hath a minde contentedly good , inioyeth in it boundlesse possessions . If I be pleas'd in my selfe , who can adde to my happinesse ? as no man liues so happy , but to some his life would be burdensome : so we shall finde none so miserable , but wee shall heare of another , that would change calamities .

LXXXVII .

To haue beene happie , is wretched ; to bee happie , momentany ; to may bee happy , doubtfull . All that the world yeelds , is either vncertainely good , or certainely ill . Euen his best cordials , haue some bitter ingredients in them ; lest foolish sensuality should catch them with too greedie a hand . Wee should surfet with their hony , if there were not gall intermingled . The reason of defect I finde in the obiect , which beeing earthly , must be brittle , fading , vaine , imperfect : so though it may please , it cannot satisfie . Earth can giue vs but a taste of pleasure , not fill vs . What shee affoords , let me lawfully vse ; trust to , neuer . He onely , that hath beene , is , and shall bee for euer , can make my past happinesse present , my future certaine , and my present continue , if not as 't is , better , and then for euer .

LXXXVIII .

A good name is among all externals , both the best , and most brittle blessing . If it be true , that Difficilia quae pulchra , this is a faire beatitude . 'T is the hardest both to get , and keepe : like a glasse of most curious workemanship , long a making , and broke in a moment . That which is not gained but by a continued habit of many vertues , is by one short vitious action , lost for euer . Nay , if it could onely vanish in this sort , it would then by many be kept vntainted : If it could not be lost but vpon certainties ; If it were in our owne keeping ; or if not in our own , in the hands of the wise and honest ; how possible were it to preserue it pure ? But alas ! this is the miserie , that it rests vpon probabilities , which as they are hard to disproue , so they are readie to perswade : That it is in the hands of others , not our selues : in the custodie not of the discreet , and good onely ; but also of Fooles , Knaues , Villaines : Who though they cannot make vs worse to ourselues ; yet how vile may they render vs to others ? To vindicate it from the tongues of these , there is no remedie but a constant carefull discretion . I must not onely be good , but not seeme ill : Appearance alone , which in good is too little , is in euill too much . He is a wilfull murtherer of his owne fame , that willingly appeares , in the ill action hee did not . 'T is not enough to bee well liu'd , but well reported . When we know good fame a blessing , wee may easily in the contrary , discerne a curse : whereof wee are iustly seized , while wee labour not to auoid it . I will care as well to bee thought honest , as to be so : my friends know mee by the actions they see , strangers , by the things they heare : the agreement of both , is the confirming my goodnesse . The one is a good complexion ; the other a good countenance : I deny not but they may bee seuerall ; but they are then most gracefull , when both are seated together . It had beene well spoken of Caesar , if hee had not put her away , when after tryall , and the crime cleered , hee said , Caesars wife should not onely bee free from sinne , but from suspition . An ill name may bee free from dishonestie , but not from some folly . Though slanders rise from others , we our selues oft giue the occasion . The first best way to a good name , is a good life : the next , is a good behauiour .

LXXXIX .

All earthly delights I finde sweeter in the expectation , then the inioyment : All spirituall pleasures , more in fruition , then expectation . Those carnall contentments that heere wee ioy in , the Diuell shewes vs through a prospectiue glasse ; which makes them seeme both greater , and neerer hand : when hee tooke Christ to the Mountaine , he shewed him all the Kingdomes , and the glory of them ; but neuer mentions the troubles , dangers , cares , feares , vigilancies , which are as it were the thornes , wherewith a Crowne is lined . Oh! what mountaines of ioy doe wee cast vp , while wee thinke on our earthly Canaan ? whatsoeuer temporall felicitie wee apprehend , we cull out the pleasures , and ouerprize them ; the perils and molestations wee either not see , or not thinke of : like the foolish man , that at a deare rate buyes a Monopoly , wherein hee counts the gaines , and ouer-casts them ; but neuer weighs the charges , nor the casualtie , in making of him lyable both to the hatefull curse of the people ; and the seuere censure of a Parliament . Herein wee are all fooles , that seeing these Bladders , wee will blow them beyond their compasse . 'T is Satans craft , to shew vs the inticing spots of this Panther , concealing the toruitie of her countenance . But when againe wee looke at heauenly things , like a cunning Iuggler , he turnes the glasse ; so detracts from those faire proportions , the chiefe of their beauty , and worth : those , we beleeue both lesse , and more remote ; as if hee would carrie vs in Winter , to see the pleasures of a Garden . Thus the heart informed by abused sences , is content to sayle as they steere ; so either tombes her selfe in the bosome of the waues ; or cuts through the way to her enemies Country ; where shee is quickly taken , ransack't , and rifl'd of all . If this were not , how could wee be so heartlesse in pursuite of celestiall prizes , or what could breed so soone a loathing of that , which most we haue coueted , and sweat to obtaine ? If my mind grow enamoured on any sublunarie happinesse , I will coole it with this knowledge : and withall tell her , shee is happier in apprehending the taste , without the Lees ; then in drinking the Wine , that is yet vnfined . That felicitie which experience findes lame , and halting , Thought and supposition giue a perfect shape . But if the motions of my soule wheele toward any diuine sweet , my strongest arguments shall perswade a proceeding . Heere imaginations dark eye is too dimme , to fix vpon this Sunne . When I come to it , I am sure I shall finde it transcending my thoughts : Till then , my faith shall bee aboue my reason , and perswade mee to more then I know . Though fruition excludes faith , yet beliefe makes blessed . So I will beleeue , what yet I cannot inioy .

XC .

Euery mans actions are according to his mind , tedious or delightfull . For be it neuer so laborious and painefull , if the minde entertaines it with delight , the body gladly vndergoes the trouble , and is so farre at the mindes seruice , as not to complaine of the burthen . And though it be neuer so ful of pleasure , that might smooth the sences ; yet if the mind distastes it , the content turnes to vexation , toyle . Desire is a ●ind that against the tyde can carry vs merrily ; with it , make vs fly . How pleasant would our life be , if we had not crosse gales to thwart vs , various tydes to checke vs ? With these , how full of distresse ? yet in them , we often increase our sorrows , by vainely striuing against vnconquerable fate ; when if we could but perswade our minde , wee might much ease both it , and our body . That which is bad , though neuer so pleasureable , I 'le striue to make my minde dislike ; that my body also may bee willing to forgoe that , which my mind hates . That which is good , and should be done , I 'le learne to affect , and loue ; howsoeuer my body refuse . As my mind is better then it ; so my care shall bee more to content it : but most to make it content with goodnes , otherwise I had better crosse it , then let it settle to vnlawfull solaces . I prefer this vnquietnesse , before the other peace . That which is easie , I le easily doe ; that which is not , my mind shall make so . My life as it is full enough of trauaile ; why should I by my mindes loathing , make it seeme more difficult ?

XCI .

I cannot know God as he is ; if I could , I were vnhappy , and he not God . For then must that eternall omnipotencie of his be finite , and comprehensible ; else , how could the fleet dimensions of the minde of man containe it ? I admire the definition of Empedocles , who said , God was a Sphere , whose Center was euery where , and Circumference no where . Though his full light bee inaccessible , yet from this ignorance springs all my happinesse , and strongest comfort . When I am so ingulfed in misery , as I know no way to escape ; God , that is so infinite aboue mee , can send a deliuerance , when I can neither see , nor hope it . He needes neuer despaire , that knowes he hath a friend , which at all assayes , can helpe him .

XCII .

If I were so punisht as to liue here perpetually , I would wish to haue alwaies such a mind , as I find after the conquest of a strong temptation : then haue I as much happinesse , as can be found in this lifes moueables . The tryall first bewrayes the danger , then the escape vshers in succeeding ioy : and all know , the Sun appeares more lustrous to a prisoner that comes out of a Dungeon , then to him that dayly beholds his brightnesse . When is wine so pleasant as after a long thirst ? Besides , the soule withdrawne from GOD , returnes in the end with comfort , and againe sweetly closeth with her Maker ; whose goodnes she knowes it is , to make her so brauely victorious . We are neuer so glad of our friends company , as when he returnes after tedious absence . All the pleasures that wee haue , rellish better when wee come from miseries ; then , what a glory is it to a noble spirit , to haue endur'd and conquer'd ? there being more sweetnesse in a hard victorie , where wee come off faire ; then in the neglected pleasures of a continuall peace . Those Fowles taste best , that we kill our selues in birding : what bread eates so well , as that which wee earne with labour ? And indeed 't is the way to make vs perfect ; for as he can neuer bee a good Souldier , that hath not felt the toyle of a battell : so he can neuer be a sound Christian , that hath not felt temptations buffets . Euery fire refines this gold . If I did finde none , I should feare I were vices too much : or else that God saw me so weake , as I could not hold out the encounter : but seeing I do , the pleasantnesse of the fruit , shall furnish me with patience , to abide the precedent bitternesse ; This gone , I shall find it a felicity to say , I haue beene wretched .

XCIII .

Earth hath not any thing more glorious then ancient Nobility , when t is found with vertue . What barbarous mind will not reuerence that bloud , which hath vntainted run through so large a succession of generations ? Besides , vertue addes a new splendor , which together with the honor of his house , challengeth a respect from all . But bad greatnesse , is nothing but the vigor of vice ; hauing both minde and meanes to bee vncontrollably lewd . A debauched sonne of a Noble Familie , is one of the intollerable burthens of the earth , & as hatefull a thing as hell : for all know , he hath had both example , and precept , flowing in his education ; both which , are powerfull enough to obliterate a natiue illnesse : yet these in him , are but auxiliaries to his shame , that with the brightnesse of his Ancestors , make his owne darknesse more palpable . Vice in the Sonne of an Ancient Family , is like a clownish Actor in a stately Play , hee is not onely ridiculous in himselfe ; but disgraces both the plot , and the Poet : whereas vertue in a man of obscure Parents , is like an vnpollish't Diamond , lying in the way among pebbles ; which howsoeuer it bee neglected of the vnciuill vulgar ; yet the wise Lapidary takes it vp , as a Iewell vnvaluable ; it being so much the more glorious , by how much the other were baser . He that is good and great , I would sell my life to serue him nobly ; otherwise , being good , I loue him better , whose father expir'd a Clowne ; then he that being vitious , is in a lineall descent from him , that was knighted with Tubal-Cain's fauchion which he made before the Floud .

XCIIII .

I find some men extremely passionate : and these , as they are more taken with a ioy ; so , they taste a disaster more heauily . Others are free from beeing affected ; and as they neuer ioy excessiuely ; so they neuer sorrow immoderately : but haue together , lesse mirth , and lesse mourning : like patient gamesters , winning , and losing , are one . The latter I will most labour for . I shall not lose more contentment in apprehending ioyes , then I shall griefe in finding troubles . For we are more sensible of paine , then delight ; the one contracting the spirits , the other dilating them . Though it were not so , liuing heere , vexations are more ordinary : Ioy is a thing for hereafter . Heauen cannot bee found vpon earth . Many great ioyes are not so pleasant , as one torment proues tedious . The father sighes more at the death of one sonne , then he smiles at the birth of many .

XCV .

In weighty affaires , wee can neuer doe well , vnlesse we know both our selues , and the thing wee intend . Truth falls into hazard , when it finds either a weak Defender , or one that knowes not her worth . How can hee guide a businesse , that needeth a guide for himselfe ? Haue we not knowne many , taking their abilities at too high a pitch , rush vpon matters that haue proou'd their ouerthrow ? Rash presumption is a ladder that will breake our necks . If wee thinke too well of our selues , we ouershoot the marke ; If not well enough , wee are short of it . And though wee know our selues , yet if ignorant in the thing , wee expose our selues to the same mischiefe . Who is so vnwise as to wade through the riuer he hath not sounded , vnlesse hee can either swimme wel , or haue helpe at hand ? Hee that takes vpon him what hee cannot doe , rides a horse which he cannot rule ; he can neither sit in safety , nor alight when he would . In whatsoeuer I vndertake , I will first study my selfe ; next the thing that I goe about : being to seeke in the former , I cannot proceede well ; vnderstanding that , I shall know the other the better ; if not the particulars , I may cast it in the general ; something vnseene , we must leaue to a sodaine discretion , either to order , or auoyde . 'T is not for man to see the euents , further then nature and probabilities of reason lead him . Though wee know not what will bee , 't is good wee prepare for that which may be : we shall brooke a checke the easier , while wee thought on 't , though wee did not expect it . But if knowing both aright , I find my selfe vnable to performe it ; I will rather desist from beginnings , then run vpon shame in the sequell . I had better keepe my selfe and ship at home ; then carry her to sea , and not know how to guide her .

XCVI .

What an elated Meteor would man grow to , did prosperitie alwayes cast sweetening dewes in his face ? Sure he would once more with Ouids Gyants , fling Mountaines on heaps , to pull downe God from his throne of Maiesty ; forgetting all felicity , but that aiery happinesse hee is blinded with . Nothing feedes pride so much , as a prosperous aboundance : 't is a wonder to see a Fauorite study for ought , but additions to his greatnesse : If I could bee so vncharitable , as to wish an enemies soule lost , this were the onely way : Let him liue in the height of the worlds blandishments . For how can hee loue a second Mistresse , that neuer saw but one beauty , and still continues deepely enamoured on it ? Euery man hath his desires intending to some peculiar thing : GOD should bee the end we aime at ; yet we often see , nothing carries vs so farre from him , as those fauours hee hath imparted vs : t is dangerous to be outwardly blessed . If plenty and prosperitie were not hazardous , what a short cut should some haue to heauen , ouer others ? 'T is the misery of the poore , to be neglected of men : 't is the misery of the rich , to neglect their God . 'T is no small abatement to the bitternesse of aduersities , that they teach vs the way to heauen . Though I would not inhabite Hell , if I could , I would sometimes see it ; not out of an itching desire to behold wonders ; but by viewing such horrors , I might value heauen more dearely . Hee that hath experienc't the Seas tumultuous perils , will euer after , commend the Lands security . Let mee swimme a riuer of boyling Brimstone , to liue eternally happy ; rather then dwell in a Paradise , to bee damn'd after death .

XCVII .

Euery Vice makes the owner odious ; but Pride and Cruelty more then any beside . Pride hath no friend : His thoughts set his worth aboue himselfe , all others vnder it . Hee thinks nothing so disgracefull , as want of reuerence , and familiaritie . There is a kinde of disdaining scorne writ in his brow , and gesture ; wherein all may reade , I am too good for thy company . So 't is iust all should despise him , because hee contemneth all . Hee that hath first ouerprized himselfe , shall after be vnder-valued by others ; which his arrogancie thinking vniust , shall swell him to anger , so make him more hatefull . Pride is euer discontentiue : It both occasions more then any , and makes more , then it doth occasion . As Humilitie is the way to get loue and quietnesse : so is Pride the cause both of Hatred , and Warre . Hee hath angred others , and others will vex him . No man shall heare more ill of himselfe , then he that thinkes he deserues most good . It was a iust quip of that wise King , to that proud Physician , who writing thus , Menecrates Iupiter , Regi Agesilao salutem ; was answered thus , Rex Agesilaus , Menecrati sanitatem indeed he might well wish his wits to him , that was so vnwise as to thinke himselfe God . Aristotle , when hee saw a youth proudly surueying himselfe , did iustly wish to be as he thought himselfe ; but to haue his enemies such , as hee was . I dare boldly say , neuer proud person was well beloued . For as nothing vnites more , then a reciprocall exchange of affection : so there is nothing hinders the knot of friendship more , then apparant neglect of courtesies . Cruelty is a Curre of the same litter . 'T is natures good care of her selfe , that warnes vs from the denne of this Monster . Who will euer conuerse with him , that he hath seene deuoure another before him ? A Tyrant may rule while hee hath power to compell ; but when he hath lost that , the hatred hee hath got , shall slay him . Who wonders to heare yong Cato aske his Schoolemaster , how Silla liu'd so long , when hee was so hated for his crueltie ? it was a diuellish speech , that Caligula borrowed of the Poet , Oderint dum metuant : I am content if they feare mee , that they should hate me . And sure if any man tooke the course for 't , hee did ; when hee bade his executioners so strike , as they might feele that they were a dying . Hee that makes crueltie his delight , shall bee sure to haue hate his best recompence . Detestation waites vpon vnmercifulnesse : who would not helpe to kill the Beast , that sucks the bloud of the Fould ? What hath made some Nations so odious as these two ; Pride , and Cruelty ? The proud man will haue no friend ; and the cruell man shall haue none . Who are more miserable then they that want company ? I pitie their estate , but loue it not . Were I Lord of the whole Globe , and must liue alone , I had vnhappinesse enough to make my commands my trouble . The one turn'd Angels out of Heauen ; the other , Monarks from their thrones : both , I am sure , are able to turne vs to hell : it is better being a beast , then a dying man , with either vnpardoned .

XCVIII .

I know not whether is more true , That , likenesse is the cause of Loue : or , Loue the cause of likenesse . In agreeing dispositions , the first is certaine ; in those that are not , the latter is euident . The first is the easier loue ; the other the more worthy . The one hath a lure to draw it ; the other without respect , is voluntarie . Men loue vs for the similitude we haue with themselues ; GOD , meerely from his goodnesse , when yet wee are contrary to him . Since he hath lou'd mee , when I was not like him , I will striue to bee like him , because hee hath lou'd mee . I would bee like him being my friend , that lou'd mee , when I was his enemie . Then onely is loue powerfull , when it frames vs to the will of the loued . Lord , though I cannot serue thee as I ought , let me loue thee as I ought . Grant this , and I know , I shall serue thee the better .

XCIX .

What wee either desire , or feare , wee are easily drawne to beleeue . Tell the prodigal , his Kinsman 's dead should leaue him an estate to swagger with , hee 'le quickly giue credit to 't . The mother of a sicke infant , if shee but heares death whisper'd , she is confident her childe is gone : either of them transport the minde beyond her selfe , and leaue her open to inconueniencies . How many haue shortened their dayes , by sudden false apprehensions , that haue been help'd forward , by one of these two ; or else so discouered their mindes , as they haue made way for themselues , to bee wrought vpon by flatterie , by seducement ? In the one , Nature is couetous for her owne good ; so dilates her selfe , & as it were stretcheth out the armes of her soule , to embrace that , which shee hath an opinion may pleasure her : and this is in all sensitiue creatures ; though I know the desire of onely rationall , and intelligible things , is peculiar to Man : who by vertue of his intellectuall soule , is made desirous of things incorporeall , and immortall . Thus hee that would bee well spoken of , beleeues him , that falsely tels him so . In the other , Nature is prouident for her owne safety ; so all the spirits shrinke in to guard the heart , as the most noble part : whereby the exteriour parts , beeing left without moisture , the haire is sometimes suddenly turned gray : the heart thus contracted , and wrought vpon , by it selfe ; more easily then , admits any thing , that is brought her by the outward senses . Thus if the miserable Man heares a fire hath beene in the towne where his house is , he cryes vndone , though his owne were neuer in danger . In either of these , how might perswasion worke , and betray vs ? What nature hath infused , I cannot cast out ; correct I may . If I must desire , and feare , I will doe it so moderately , as my iudgement , and reason may bee still cleere . If vnawares I be ouertaken , I will yet be carefull to conceale my selfe : so though my owne passions bee ouer-strong ; others shall not see them , to take mee at aduantages . As many haue been spoiled by being soothed , in their plausible desires : so haue many beene abused , by being malleated , in their troublesome feare .

Resolutions may often change ; sometimes for the better ; and the last euer stands firmest . But vowes well made ; should know no variance : For the first should bee sure , without alteration . Hee that violates their performance , failes in his duty : and euery breach is a wound to the soule . I will resolue oft , before I vow once ; neuer resolue to vow , but what I may keep ; neuer vow , but what I both can , and will keepe .

FINIS .