Palladis palatium vvisedoms pallace. Or The fourth part of Wits commonwealth.

the swéetnesse of trifling toyes , & what a ioyfull thing is it vnto me now to let go those things which before I feared to loose ? For thou ( oh Lord ) diddest cast them out of me , and thou , ( oh chiefest swéetnesse ) diddest enter in their roomes : thou more swéete then all pleasures , but not to flesh and bloud : Thou that art more cleare then all light , more inward then any secret , and more excellent then all honors , but not to those that are high in their owne conceits . Aug. confess . Abstinence is the mother of health , and pleasure of sicknesse , for without meate and drinke lust quickly ceaseth . Hierom. in his epist. Moderate , and temperate meate , is commodious both to the soule and bodie . Hierom. ad Rusticum . Great abstinence is daingerous vnto the tender , before they come vnto ripe age , Idem ad latam . Abstinence , if it be so thou tame not the body as much as it can abeare , is no vertue : and it is very inordinate , if the body be brought lower then it ought . Greg. lib. 20. mor. Not the flesh , but the vices thereof are through abstinence to be extinguished : so it is necessary that euery one be so farre foorth continent as may destroy the vices , not the flesh : for oftentimes in pursuite of the enemie , therin , we kill the citizen whom we loue : and oftentimes also while we do , as it were spare our fellow Citizen , we further the enemie in the skirmish , Idem . The appetite and not the meate is faultie : for oftentimes we eate dainties without any fault finding : but we do distaste those meates that are more grosse , without any féeling of conscience , Idem lib. 30. moral . Nothing is so pleasant as meate well digested and decocted : nothing so auaileable vnto health , nothing so much surthereth the sharpnesse of the sences , nothing so much repelleth sicknesse as moderate refection . For sufficient not onely nourisheth vs and preserueth health , but also begetteth delight : But superaboundance , or excesse causeth diseases , bringeth molestations , a yonge man disobedient : a rich man that will giue no almes : a woman that is vnchast : a maister without vertue : a contentious christian : a poore man proud , an vnrighteous king : a negligent Bishop : a common wealth without discipline : and the people without lawe . Augustine .

Acceptation of persons . GOD forbid that into the Tabernacles , rich men should be accepted before poore , or noble before them of lowe condition : when thou rather hast chosen that with the weake thou shouldest confound the strong . Agusti . Greatest is the offence of ministers , because they respect not the causes , but the persons , and the iust poore man being despised , the vniust rich men are honoured . Ambrose . In iudgment let not fauour beare sway , but giue sentence according to the equity of the cause . Idem . It is not consanguinity , but the bond of vertue that linketh men together . Idem . The affection vrgeth vs to do many things : for whiles we regard the alliance of our earthly bodies we oftentimes offend the creator both of bodies and soules . Hierome . To accept the person of a man , is not to honour him as he is a man , but for some other thing wherewith he is endewed . Gregorie . Vniust iudges , while they consider the calling of men , do erre in iudgment yea very oftentimes the iudges themselues doe corrupt the vpright when as they themselues doe shamfully defende the guilty and vniust . Isydore . The acceptation of a mans person is a certaine slender reuerence or regard giuen vnto any one , not of desert , but for feare or profit . Cardinall Hugh . Iudgment is easilie peruerted by the rich mans bribes : but a poore man wanting what to giue is not only● contemned , but also against equitie is oppressed . Isydore . The persons of men , not the iustnesse of the causes are accepted : bribes not lawes are regarded : not what reason speaketh , but what the will affecteth : not what the minde thinketh , but what the minde desireth : not what is lawfull but what pleaseth is regarded : nay the eye is neuer so single , that the whole body may be light , but alwayes some leauen is mixed wherewith the whole lumpe is corrupted . Innocentius . The poore mans cause is with delayes neglected : & the rich mans cause instantly prosecuted ; To the poore all rigour is shewed , to the riche all curteste vsed : the rich mens bad causes are hardly looked vnto , but the poore are charged with hainous crimes . The poore mans tale is negligently hard , but the rich mans words are highly esteemed . Idem . The poore man cryeth , and no man heareth : the rich man speaketh & euery one applaudeth : the rich man speaketh and all men hould their peace , and his words are exhalted vnto the clouds : the poore man speaketh , and they say , who is this man ? and if he offend euer so little , he is quite ouerthrowne . To the rich they say : sit downe here and rest thée well : but to the poore they say , stand there , or els sit at my foote-stoole . Idem .

Aide . ALL men ought to be loued equallie , but if thou be not of abilitie to profit all men , succour those especially who by reason of the times or the places , or by any other opportunities , are by a certaine lot vnited vnto thee . Augustine . It is vpright counsell , that if thou desire to be holpen of those that are thy betters , thou thy selfe shouldest yéelde succour vnto thine inferiours . A friend will beare his friends burthen . Idem . It was pretilie said of a certaine man who falling into a Well was almost choaked with the water , and an other man comming vnto the Well wondering said : how commest thou hither ? I pray thée said the man in the well bethinke thee of meanes to helpe me forth and aske me not how I fell in . Idem . Those aides are not easily gotten in aduersity which are not sought for in prosperity . Idem . If one man cannot be holpen vnles another be hurt , it is better that neither be profited then one hurt or hindered . Idem . It is impudent begging to require aide of him in necessity and trouble , whom in thy prosperity thou thy selfe contemnedst . It behoueth him to feare damnation who hauing liberty of speache with the rich doth not make intercession for the poore as well as he can . Gregorie . He that may help , and yet doth not , maketh himselfe a part-taker : he that furthereth anothers good setteth forward also his owne . Idem . To helpe the poore is a déede of charitye , but to desire the helps of the mightye is an argument of pride . Idem . To withdrawe somewhat from thine owne pleasures and bestowe it vpon thy brothers necessities , argueth that there is a temperate meane in the loue that thou bearest vnto thine owne selfe . Bernard . Do so for others that thou leaue not thine owne businesse vndone , for wée are not bounde to profitt our freinds and hurt our owne selues . Cass . He that denieth aide vnto another man , thinketh that he needeth not the helpe of other men . Lactantis . It is an extreame greefe to an honest man to be forced to helpe him whom to help he hath no delight . Seneca . It is reason that he who in prosperity holps others , should in aduersitie be holpen him selfe . Idem . Whosoeuer may saue ones life that is ready● to perish and yet doth not , is himselfe guiltye of murder . Idem . It thy friend fall into pouerty study to helpe him : nay rather ( if thou canst ) to preuent his neede . Idem . In vaine doost thou séeke for aide of him of whom thou hast deserued to be punished : as thou hast done to others , ●o expect that others should doe vnto thée . Idem .

Anger . AS Vineger if it remaine long multeth the vessell , so anger if it continue vntill the morrow poisoneth the heart . Augustine . The anger of a brother if it be inueterate , is turned into hatred : Anger troubleth , hatred extinguisheth : Anger is a moate , hatred is a great beame . Idem . No man that is angry , supposeth himselfe to be angry without a cause . Idem . Resist anger if thou canst , if thou canst not , giue place thereto : if Anger shall preuent , and preoccupie thy minde , and shall seize vpon thée , leaue not thy place : thy place is patience . Ambrose . It is no meane thing to mittigate anger : it is no lesse then not to be at all troubled in minde : this latter belongeth vnto our selues , the former vnto nature . Idem . He that is moued with himselfe for being soone angry , ceaseth to be angry with an other : but he that will iustifie his owne anger , is more inflamed , and soone offendeth . Idem . It is an excellent thing to temper the motion with councell : neither is it accounted lesse vertuous to bridle thine anger , then not at all to be angry , séeing that for the most part this is estéemed the lesse , the former the greater . Idem . Praise-worthy is the saying of Architas of Tharectum , who being angry with his Bayliffe , said : Now were I not moued with anger I would surely beate thée . Hierome . Through anger a man becommeth so foolish , that he knoweth neither what to do , or in what order any thing ought to be done . Gregorie .

Blessednesse . WRetched is the man who knoweth all things but thée ( oh God . ) But he that knoweth thée and all things els , is blessed , not for that be knoweth other things , but for the knowledge of thée alone . Augustine . Blessed are the vnspotted in the way : as if it had béene said , I know thy desire : thou séekest happinesse . If therefore thou desire to be blessed , liue vnspotted . Idem . That blessednesse is impersect , of whose eternitie thou standest in doubt . Idem . He is not blessed who possesseth those things that he desireth , if be so his will be inclined vnto euill : But happy is he that obteincth all that he wisheth , and wisheth nothing vnbeséeming or euill . Idem . Blessed is he who longeth not after those things , which being enioyed become burthensome : being beloued yet doe defile : being lost , doe vex and torment a man . Is it not sufficient with honour to despise those things which thou partest from with griefe ? Bernard . Albeit all men are not a like exalted vpon earth , yet their blisse in heauen shall be alike : and the very remembrance of the fault shall be possessed with that blessednesse , not which distaineth , but which tyeth vs more néerely vnto ioy . Idem . Happy is he by whose height to his friends is giuen cause of ioy , to his enemies of griefe , to his posteritie renowne , to the strong and lustie an example , and vnto the slow and sluggish allurements vnto vertue . Cassius . That ( vnlesse I be deceiued ) is true and perfect felicitie , which maketh a man sufficient , mighty , reuerend , famous and ioyfull : and ( that thou maiest know that I haue déeply wayed it ) which can perfectly performe euery one of these , ( because all things are the same ) that I acknowledge to be true and perfect felicitie . Boetius .

Benefits or Benefitting . The definition . A Benefit is a willing action of the minde , giuing and receiuing ioy , by bestowing that which it doth . Augustine . In Gods sight the hand is not emptie of a guift , if be so the coafer of the hart be full of good-will . Idem . Thou oughtest to giue that which may hurt neither thy selfe nor yet another man . Gregorie . No man doth well against his will , albeit that which he doe be of it owne selfe good . Idem . Vertue knoweth no measure of thankesgiuing : neither is contented to repay that which it hath receiued , but desireth to requite double that which if hath taken . Augustine . There is great difference betwéene the matter of a benefit , and the benefit it selfe : for neither siluer , nor gold , nor any other thing which we receiue of our friend , can be termed properly a benefit , but the benefit is the very affection and will of the giuer : But the ignorant only call that which is giuen the benefit : An emperors crowne , apparell , and chariot , neither of these is properly honor , but the ensigne of honour : So likewise that which appeareth to the sight is not the benefit , but the signe of the benefit . Seneca . There are many that will accept of no good turnes at an other mans hands because they are vnwilling to do any good turnes to others themselues . If contrary to thy expectation thou receaue a benefit , although the same ( in value ) be bestowed on others also , yet is the benefit greater vnto thée because it came vnlcoked for . This ought to be the lawe of a benefit betwéene two : he that conferreth it , ought presently to forget it , but he vpon whem it is conferred ought alwayes to remember it . Seneca . Oftentimes it falleth out that those things which are requested are ●urtfull if they be graunted , and therefore ired of those from whom thou vniustly tak●●t , then goodwill of those vnto whom thou vnwisely giuest . Seneca . It is a very commendable thing to preuent the request of an honest man by yéelding vnto his desire before he hath altogether vttered his minde , for he will be halfe ashamed to aske , where 's a knaue in asking wtil be impudent . Nothing is more dearly bought then that which is by much intreatie obtained , for it is a heauie and greanous saying , with a delected countenaunce to say , Sir I intreat you . Seneca . Many men will do a good turne vnto other , but it will be with such frowning and angry woords that a man would repent him to haue obteined a venefit at their hands .

Blasphemie . Their offences are as great who bla●p●eme Christ r●igning 〈◊〉 heauen , as ar●the sinnes of those who crucified him vpon the earth . August super ma● It was a death vnto the Iewes , when they hearde any blasphemie , to rent their clothes , as Paul and Barnabas when they should be bonouted with diuine worship , rent their garments .

Bondage . WHosoeuer is dismaid with feare , ensnared with delight , leo with lust , exasperated by anger , or oppressed with sadnesse , is in bondage : for euery passion is seruile , Augustine . A good man although he be in bondage is free , but an euil man although he be free yet is he in bondage . Idem . Bondage is the obedience of a discour aged minde , which wanted his owne iudgment . Cicero . All bondage is miserable , but to serue an vnhonest vnchaste and effeminate person is vntollerable , and most wretched . Idem . Many men are in bondage , one to lust another to couetousnesse , a third to ambition , but most to feare . There is no bondage more dishonest then that which is voluntarie . Idem . Whosoeuer is angry with his seruants , and is cruell withall , doth sufficiently demonstrate 〈◊〉 he wanteth nothing but powre and abilitie against others also . Idem . Whosoeuer iudgeth that bondage happeneth vnto the whole man , erreth : for the body is bound vnto the will of the maister , but the minde is frée , and subiect to no humaine law : Idem . Behaue thy selfe chéerefully with shy seruants , not proudly , for they had rather reuerence thée as their better and superior , then feare thée . Idem . Diogenes should haue béene sold for a bond-slaue , and a certaine man who was willing to buy him , demanded of him what seruice he knew : who answering said ; I know how to command freemen : wherefore he set him at libertie , and deliuering vnto him his owne sonnes , said , take and rule these my children , Aulus Gall. Art thou willing that thy flesh should serue thy soule ? let thy soule serue God : before thou thy selfe gouernest , thou oughtest to be gouerned . August . No man can in one and the selfe-same thing serue God and Gods enemies : for he which pleasureth Gods enemie , sheweth himselfe a back-friend vnto God . Gregorie . Many valiant men are oftentimes compelled to attend a whole day vpon an earthly iudge , when as yet God who is iudge of all , dispatcheth those that call vpon him seruently in the minute of an houre . Idem .

Charitie . In Charitie a poore man may be rich , but without charitie all men are poore . August . Charitie is the roote of all goodnesse , and couetousnesse the roote of all euill : both of which cannot be in one man , because vnlesse the one be rented out , the other cannot be planted : in vaine dooth he séeke to crop the boughes , which endeuoureth not to pull vp the roote . Idem . Charitie sédeth the hungry , so also doth pride : the one that God might be glorified , the other that it selfe might be praised . Idem . Whatsoeuer hath charitie , neuer wanteth whereof to giue . Idem . I neuer remember that he dyed an euill death , which willingly exercised the workes of charitie : for he hath many intercessors , and it is impossible that the prayers of many should not be heard . Idem . Euen as many boughes spréede out of one roote , so many vertues procéede out of Charitie only : neither hath the bough of good-worke any gréenenesse if it remaine not in the roote of charitie . Gregorie . Stubbernesse will not suffer vs to enter into other mens hearts , neither d●th suspition suffer vs to beléeue that we are beloued of others : This double disease is cured with a double charitie , to wit , that Charitie which séeketh not its owne , and that Charitie which beléeueth all things . Bernard . Charity which is of God , is as a certaine forcible power of vertue , vnder which happy pleasure buddeth , and holy workes fructifie , it is in aduersitie patient , in prosperitie temperate : mightie in humilitie and ioyfull in affliction : wishing well vnto the bad , and ouercomming the euill with good . Cassiod . What ( oh Charitie ) can in praise of thée be more spoken then this that thou causedst God to discend from heauen , and also man to ascend from earth to heauen . Great I say is the veriye of thée , which causedst God to humble himselfe vnto the dust , and raisedst men from dust to heauen . Hugo . Charitie is the strength of faith , and faith the bond of loue : and then is the name true , and the fruite of them both perfect , when asthere is an indissoluble knot betwéene them both , for where soeuer they are not both present they are both absent : because the one cannot

serued lust . They are altogether vnworthy of a reward who haue endured no trauiale to deserue it , for it is fit that those that haue sought best should haue the glory of the victorie . Isydore . Chastitie is an ornament of noblemen , an exaltation of inferior persons , the nobilitie of the ignoble , the beautie of the deformed , the ioy of mourners , an encrease of all comlinesse , an ornament of religion , a lessener of others offences , a multiplier of deserts , and a friend of all creatures which God hath made . Cyprian . Six things conserue chastitie vncorrupted , to wit : Sabrietie , labour , roughnesse of apparrell restraint of the sences , little talke vitered honestly , shunning of oportunitie both of the person , time , and place . Cassiodorus . It is a greater matter to roote vp the fuell of lust in our owne nature , then to expell vncleane spirites out of others . Beda . It is an easier matter to restraine the vnknowne pleasure of the flesh , then once hauing tried it , to forgoe it . Idem . Chastitie is a vertue , not onely bridling the assaults of lust , but also shunning the occasions . Cicero .

Correction . TO bridle by the raine of reason , an in-bred error , or caused by custome , may rightly be termed Correction . Augustine . We neuer ought to thide others for their offences , vnlesse out owne conscience doe first inwardly tell vs , that it procéedeth from loue , and not of hatred , ambition or vaine glory . Idem . Loue hartely and then speake what thou wilt . Idem . The Phisitian vnto the raging franticke man is troublesome , and the father séemeth troublesome in nurturing his sonne , the one by binding , the other by beating , but both by louing : But if either Parent or Phisition by neglect should suffer either of both to perish , it might be more rightly termed exactlie then loue Idem . Publike offences ought to be publikly

forth into the maine Deean , and then being vnable to passe further , are forced to retire the same way they come euen so they began in ignorance , and ended in ignorance . Chrysost. Curiositie is the searching out of super flnous matters which nothing belong vnto a man Hugo . We ought not to pry into those secrets which God would not haue knowne : but those things which he hath reuealed are not to be neglected , least in the former we be fonnd ouer curious , and in the later damnably ingratefull . Prosper .

Conuersation . HOly conuersation c̄onfoundeth a mans enemie , edifi●th a mans neighbour , and glorifieth God . Isydo . It is an excellent thing to liue vprightly iustly , and holyly amongst the wirked and vngodly . Gregorie . It is no great praise worthy matter to be good amongst the good , but to be good amongst the wicked : for as it is at greater offence not to be good with the good , so is it most worthy a●d like a valiant champion , to be good amongst the bad . Idem . The Ministers of Christ so ought to behaue themselues , that their inwards liues may be answerable to their outward conuersation . Bernard . Pythagora● , when a certaine man in his hearing said , that he had rather be conuersant with women then with Philosophers , answered , so had Swins rather wallow in the mire then in the cleare water . Val. Max. So behaue thy selfe towards thy inferiour , as thou wouldest haue thy superiour to behaue himselfe towards thée . Seneca .

Discipline . HE that but a little while , for shams refuseth discipline , shall euer after remaine in the shame of foolishnesse . Pythagoras . Humilitie is the beginning of discipline , whereof ( there being many documents , ) these three are most principally to be regarded of the learner . First that he estéeme not basely of any mans writings or science . Secondly that he be not ashamed to learne of any : Thirdly when he hath gotten knowledge , that he condemne not others . Hugo . Oh how setled discipline causeth euery state both of the body and also of the minde to be . It subiecteth the neck , setleth the eye liddes , ordereth the countenance , ruleth the eyes , bridleth laughter , moderateth the tongue , tempereth the throate , asswageth anger , passifieth rage . Bernard . We ought carefully to beware that he which séeketh knowledge , despise not discipline . Hugo . Education & discipline forme manners , and euery one is wise in that which he hath learned .

Discord and Dissention . BY concord and disagréement small things become great , but by discord and disagréement great things vanish and become weake . Whosoeuer outwardly asslicteth his body , but abhorreth concord , praiseth God outwardly , but hateth him in his heart . Hierome . As nothing is more acceptable vnto God then loue , so nothing is more welcome then chiding and brawling vnto the deuill : whosoeuer therefore by rayling and scoulding drineth his neighbour out of charitie , serueth the deuill and not God . Gregorie . Contentions men can offer no arceptable sacrifice vnto God , as long as they are out of loue and charitie with their neighbours . Idem . Discord is the falling out of some who before were tied together with the bond of loue . Concord is an agréement of minds in honest & vpright manner : but he that soweth strife , or hatcheth contention is a seditious person : the beginning of discord is , to claime that properlie his owne , which was common vnto others : nothing is more vnbeséeming , then to fall out with those with whom thou hast liued familiarly . Flie contentions especially , for to ●●riue with thine equall is doubtfull , to contend with thy superiour is madnesse , to fall out with thy inferiour is basenesse , but especially to enter the listes with one that is light headed , for he hurteth him that is absent which striueth with a drunkard . Isydore .

Delight and pleasure . THey soonest féele afflictions , who haue béene before acquainted with continuall delights . Bernard . Those most often drawe vexations from the flesh , who are most delighted with the pleasutes of the flesh . Gregorie . He that in his youth giueth himselfe vnto delights and pleasures , in old age shall vndergoe many sorrowes . Idem . Pleasure and delight beate a man and so leaue him , wound a man and then giue him the slip , make him wretched , and then leaue him in miserie . Ambrose . Corporall delights are greatly desired before they be had , and when they are had they presently make a man weary thereof : but contrarily spirituall delights , when a man hath them not , are loathed : but being had are more and more desired : in the formet the appelite begetteth fulnesse , and fulnesse disdaine : but in the latter the appetite begetteth fulnesse , and fulnesse appetite : For spirituall delights doe increase the desire thereof in the minde euen when they doe also fill . Gregoric .

Desperation . DEsperation is an assured death , and the murtheret of the soule . Ambrose . To commit any sinne is death vnto the soule : but to dispaire throweth it quite into hell . Isydore . Repentance is appointed as an hauen against dispaire : and the day of death is vncertaine , to the ende we should not increase our sinnes . Augustine . Let no man dispaire : Iudas perished not so much for his offence , as because he despaired of pardon . Idem . The first way to saluation , is to abhorre the offence , the second not to despaire of pardon . Hugo . Desperation shutteth heauen gates against vs : hope openeth , and faith maketh a broad entrance . Isydore . In mans life his end is to be respected and not his beginning , for God regardeth not what manner men we line , but what we dye . Idem . Oh Iudas more wicked then all men , whoe by repentance turned vnto God , but by desperation yéelded himselfe vnto the deuill . Leo Papa . He relyeth vpon worldly vertue , that dispaireth of Gods ayde and assistance . Ambrose .

Detraction . OVr patience is tryed by detraction . Augustine . Nothing is more easte then for one that is idle and slouthfull to detract from other mens labours . Hierom. Detract not from any mans good deseruings : and if be so thou desire to séeme praise worthy by an other

Deuill . THere is a certaine wicked and craftie spirit , an enemy vnto man , and an hater of iustice . This spirit ( the Deuill ) not fortune , layeth trappes for all men , and those that knowe not God he hindereth with error , he outtwhelmeth with foolishnesse , he compasseth with darknesse that they may not come vnto the knowledge of God , in whome alone wisdome and euerlasting life consisteth : but those that know God , those he assaulteth by craft and subtiltie , that he may hinder them by lust or incontinencie , or if they be ( as all men are ) stained with sinne , he threateneth them with death , and if crast saile , he assayeth to quell them by force . For they which attribute vnto fortune the power to bestowe good and euill , are too credulous vnto worldly and vaine opinions . Lactantius . The Deuill enuieth man-kinde , desiring to subiect that vnto himselfe , because he foresawe that man would become God . Bernard . It is the Deuils part to suggest euill , it is ours not to consent . As often as we resist them , so often we ouercome them , we honour God who visiteth , that we should sight : helpeth , that we may ouercome : strengthneth vs , that we quaile not . Idem . The Deuill is a crastie enemie , whose first suggestion if we resist not , he possesseth wholye before we are awares . Isydore . The Deuill when he intendeth to deceiue any man , first endeuoureth to know his nature , and thereby gath●reth vnto what sinne he is most a●●● . Idem . By how much the Deuill per●●●ueth the end of the worl● to approache nearer , by so much the more he pers●cuteth , desiring that he may bring many vnto hell , wherevnto he knoweth himself to be foorthwith condem●●● . Idem .

rest him whom thou enuiest : Idem . Whiles the elect profit in goodnesse , the reprobates are mooued vnto extreame rage , and doe persecute those growing good things , which themselues would not imitate . Nazianze . I am a man , but I know not how to shun the enuie of worldly things , it is easier for a poore man to flye contempt , then for a riche man to anoyde enuie . Cicero . Thou canst no wayes more gaule and sret the enuious man , then by being sernant vnto vertue and good liuing . Idem . Vnderstand what Enuie is : It is a repining at anothers good . And vnderstand also this , that no vertuous man enuieth any man . Idem . The enuious man is angry closely , but enemy like . Idem .

Exercise . EXercise is a continuall vse and custome . Cicero . Mans life may sitly be compared vnto Yron : for Yron if it be vsed , is worne by little and little : but if it be not vsed , it will be presently consumed with rust : euen so by exercise , a man at length is spent : but if thou exercise nothing , sloath and idlenesse will more consume thée then continuall exercise . Aulus Gell. All arts , and all maner crafts , by dayly vse and practise doe profit , which séeing it is true in small matters , how much more carefully ought it to be vsed in great and waightie matters . Vegetius . By diligence the hardnesse of any worke is eased : euen so prudence without iustice is little worth : but iustice without purdence is of much value : and likewise knowledge with practise is little worth : but skill and practise conioyned are very auaileable . Boetius . Experience prooueth , that all artes without practise are hardly kept : and euen as the armes by long intermission from their businesse become vnfit and vnapt , so likewise witte if it be not vsed , decayeth . Cassiod . Reading is a way to instruction , but conference being conioyned profiteth more : for conserence canseth docibilitie more then reading dooth , because by conference all doubts are resolued , and often by questioning the hidden veritie appeareth , which otherwise had béene vureuealed . Isydore .

Excuse . THe multitude of companions , causeth not the fault to be alowable or vnpunishable . Augustine . He offendeth twise , who séeketh to excuse a bad turne by defending it . Idem . Whatsoeuer company thou frequentest , beware that thou intermedle not much with others conuersation , and if it be so that any amisse be committed , séeke rather to excuse the matter , then to accuse the dooer . Bernard . A mans owne conscience is an assured excuse , howsoeuer he be censured by others . Idem . Euery man can frame some excuse ; the proud man would séeme constant : the prodigall , liberall : the couetous man a good husband , the rash and hasty would be thought valtant : the cut-throate miser , a sparer : the sluggish , quiet : and the fearefull wretch would séeme wary . Prosper . Lay aside excuses , no man sinneth vnwillingly , for all sinne is voluatarie . Idem . A childe is excused by his age , a woman by her fire , a stranger by libertie , an houshold body by familiaritie , and a friend is as ones selfe . Cicero . Giue not hard sentence against thy neighbour , but rather excuse him . If thou cannot excuse the fact , yet excuse the intention , suppose ignorance to be the cause of the offence , suppose mishay , suppose ouer sight . But if the certaintle of the matter will not admit excuse , yet perswade thy selfe , and say vnto thy selfe thus : The temptation was great , and forcible , and I my selfe might haue béene ouercome by the like , if it had happened vnto me . Bernard . If a man commit an escape or offence , his intention and meaning being good , God forbid that it should be obiected vnto him , because he did euill against his will . Augustine . Those are not fault worthy , who commit small offences , that greater may be anoyded : for it is not losse to loose a little , if by the losse thereof a great deale may be saued . Idem . It oftentimes happeneth that whilest wicked men cannot defend those faults whereof they are accused , become impudent , and so waxe proud in their owne defence , and séeking to find out faults in him who accuseth , thereby thinke themselues blamelesse : and i● be so they cannot finde out ought which they may iustly blam● , then they finde hoales where no hoales are , that they may haue wherewith to cloake their owne vices . Gregorie . Although things are true , yet ought they not to be beléened without sufficient proofe , or confession of the delinquents themselues : for not he that is accused , but he that is conuicted , is guiltie . Bernard . This is a great fault in many men , that when they should repent them of their faultes , they frame excuses , and so ●●●end more by drawing defences for their faults from thence , whenes repentance ought to procéede . Cassiod .

Example . HE that liueth well secretly , and giueth no example vnto other mens , procéedings may be compared vnto a coale which , burneth inwardly , but outwardly séemeth to be dead . But he who leadeth ●n vpright life both privately and publickly may be compared vnto a Lampe , which burneth it selfe and giueth light also vnto others . Gregorie . It is a thing ingraffed by nature , that a shamefast man should loue him that is chaste , a wise man him that is discréete , a pittifull man him that is liberall : and that all men should loue their owne vertues in other men also . Oftentimes the very countenance of an honest man is a chastisement vnto the vniust , and a ioy vnto the vpright . Ambrose . There are many men who are more readily drawne vnto the loue of heauen and heauenly things , by example , then by preaching . Gregorie . I estéeme no counsail● better , 〈◊〉 ( if thou desire to instruct thy brother ●● those things which ought to be done ) that thou stirre him vp vnto better ●●uing , not perswading him by 〈◊〉 but by déede and actions . Idem . No man is more hurtfull in the Church , then he who liuing 〈◊〉 , cloaketh his actions with the name of holinesse , or by reason of his order or degrée . For no man presuming to reprooue him because of his ministery , his faults are more hurtfull by example vnto others , because others 〈◊〉 rence the offender , by reason ●● his order , and thinke that lawfull ●● be 〈◊〉 by themselues , which their gho 〈◊〉 ther doth before them . Idem . Euery one who being a ruler , 〈◊〉 wickedly and vniusly in the sight of those ouer whom he ruleth , as much as in him lyeth , destroyeth them and although it may so fall out that some not imitating him escape , yet all as for him , perish . The later day is a Scholler vnto the former : A wise man by an others fault will indeuour to amende his owne . It is good to tread our prede●essors steppes , if they haue gone well before vs . Seneca . Euery good Christian , ought to take example of good life at Christ and his actions . Bernard .

Flattery . WHosoeuer flattereth euill liuers , layeth a pillow vnder the slugg●●ds head : insomuch that he who ought to be reprehended for his sault , being incouraged therein becommeth worse and worse . Gregorie . As the scoape of the Orator is by loue to perswade , and of the Phisitian by medicines to cure : Euen so the slatterer intendeth by his faire wordes nought but to deceiue . Chrysostome . Euery flatterer is an enemie vnto vertue , and dooth as it were strike a naile into his eye with whom be communicateth : and ought by so much the more diligently to be looked vnto , by how much the more he séemeth to loue . Chrysostome . Nothing so much corrupteth mens mindes as flatterie : for his tongue cutteth more kéene then the weapons of our persecutors . Hierom. Deceiuable flattery is a most creuen thing . Augustine . The tongues of flatterers binde 〈◊〉 in their vices : for it delighteth a man to doe those things , for which he feareth not the reprehender , but also looketh to be praised for performing them . Idem . When we are passing vnto our heauenly country , we ought not to giue eare vnto the Syrenian songs of flatterers . Hierom. Flattery is the very nurse of sinne , which is accustomed to administer mater vnto those who doe amisse , as eyls yéeldeth liquor vnto the flame . Beda .

We are then faithfull , when we performe in déede that which we promise in wordes . Idem . Infidelitie is by nature like vnto a sandy barren ground which is alwaies fruitlesse be it neuer so well watered . Chrysostome . That man hath all in himselfe , which hath himselfe : but no man hath himselfe which hath not God , and he hath God who beléeueth in him , and acknowledgeth him to be the author of his saluation . Cassiod . He that looseth his faith hath nothing else for to loose . Seneca . Faith is an assured conceiuing of the trueth without any knowledge of the cause thereof . Idem . As to be alwayes learning argueth that a man is neuer perfect , euen so alwayes to séeke for witnesses argueth that a man vnwilling to beléeue . Chrysostome . As the hard stones being wrought in a worke are permanent , so the Gentiles albeit they are hardly brought vnto beléefe , yet once beléeuing they perseuere therein . Idem . Doe not vnderstand that thou mayest beléeue , but beléeue that thou mayest vnderstand : for vnderstanding is the reward of faith . Augustine . Faith is more wealthy then all wordly riches , more strong then all humaine strength , more wholesome then all earthly Phisick .

Greese . THere is no griefe which by tract of time is not lessened and diminished . Cicero . A good courage in extreame gréefe is a remedie therof . Idem . No man can gréeue long and much withall : for so hath louing nature disposed , that our griefe might be eyther short or tollerable , and this is a comfort in ex●reame anguishes , that eyther they will endour liues or we ouercome them . Senaca . Griefe if thou yéelde vnto it will breake t●y heart : but if thou resist it it will be ouercome of thée . He more easilie vndergoeth griefe , who is accustomed therevnto , then he that hath seldome tasted thereof . Cicero . Euery man is by so much the more perfect , by how much he dooth more throughly conceiue anothers griefe . Gregorie . A due consideration of the cause thereof , dooth mittigate the sharpnesse of the griefe . He that is endued with fortitude , despiseth and setteth light both by griefe and death it selfe . Cicero . We may hardly beléeue a gréeued minde : for griefe will compell the innocent sometimes to frame a lye . Seneca . He is riche , who is able to beare with an vpright minde whatsoeuer euilles or vexations doe happen . Idem . We haue greater cause to gréeue when ones owne desert caused the same , then when we are punished wrongfully ; for we ought rather to ioy , then gréeue , when we suffer vniustly . Idem . Inward griefe sooner bringeth a man vnto the graue , then outward sorrow which commeth not them the heart . Idem . If thou suffer affliction , if wante , and necessitie , if persecution , if slanders , and vniust defamations , or what soeuer els , take ●● patiently and gréeue not , and Gods holy spirit shall minister vnto thée sufficient strength to vndergoe all miseries and calamities . Idem . Be ready to administer comfort vnto the gréeued soule , and adde not griefe vnto griefe .

Guile and Deceit . POysons that they may deceiue , are enuolued in Dunnie , and vices deceaue not but vnder the shew and appearance of vertues . Ambrosius . Many men liue plainely and prosper in all things , and many deale alwayes subtiltie and yet are alwayes behinde hand . Idem . Many men liue plainely and prosper in all things , and many deale alwayes substillie and yet are alwayes behinde hand . Idem . A man may more easily shunne the dangers of a professed she , then of a sained friend , because for the one he will be alwayes armed , but for the other he is vnprouided . Idem . A guilefull enemie endeuoureth to make a shewe of loue : and yet desireth to wound . Idem . It is deceit when one thing is done , and another made shew to be intended . Idem . He is crastie who imitateth vertue by guile and deceit . There are many who being endued with sharpe wittes , abuse their good guists by conuirting them vnto deceite and guilefull dealings . Idem . He dealeth not deceitfully in Gods worke , who when he giueth himselfe vnto good studies , disireth not humane praises nor worldly preserments . He dealeth deceitfully who by concealing the truth , séeketh either his owne commoditie , or anothers discommoditie . Aulus Gel. Words are appointed not that therby men should deceiue one another , but that thereby one man might open his thoughts vnto another : wherefore to vse words to deceiue and not to that end that they were appointed , is a great sinne . Gregorie . Persidiousnes is an hidden & deceinable euil , whose most effectuall powers , are to deceiue and slatter . Val. Max. He who deceiueth his friend that reposeth his trust in him , is more to be detested then he that deceiueth him that reposed no confidence in him .

Heresie . HE is an Heretique , who for desire of any temporall commoditie , and especially of glory and renowne , broacheth new opinions . Augustine . He is an Heretique who obstinately defendeth an error , after the trueth is manifested . Let Heretiques dispute wholy out of the Scriptures , and not insist vpon such points as the Pagans and Infidels doe , and their opinions will easily be ouerthrowne . Tertullian . Heretiques bring in a great number of Apocrysall bookes and bassard writings , that they may amaze the vndiscréete , and such as are ignorant in Gods booke . Ireneus . Heretiques searing to be ouercome by the truth , and thereby compelled to shake hands with vs , fall a rayling , or els stoppe their cares , that they may not heare , or their eyes that they may not sée the trueth , and so be conuerted . Lactantius . Heretiques respect not so much honest life , ciuill conuersation , and bountifull pittie towards the distressed , as to be praised and boasted , if be so they may but séeme to ouercome by syllogismes , sallacies , and false arguments . Sozome . Rotten flesh is to be eaten away , and scabbie sheepe to be seperated from the shéepfould , least the whole man and the whole flock be destroyed , and infected . Arrius was but one sparke in Alexandria , but because he had not béene at the first suppressed , the whole citie , and country was set on fire and destroyed . Augustine . As those that haue a wicked opinion , albeit their conuersation be outwardly good , are to be taken héede of , euen so are they also to be taken héed off , who are of sound opinion , and yet liue wickedly . Chrysostome . Many séeking by comtemplation to obteine more then they are able to conceiue , runne into peruerse errors : and whiles they refuse with humilitie to be the Schollers of truth , they become maisters of errors . Gregorie .

Humilitie . EVen as a Trée to the end it may growe an bright , ought to haue good roote downeward : so whosoeuer hath not his minde fixed vpon humilitie , is exalted vnto his owne ruine . Augustine . Thy country is on high , and humilitie the waye therevnto , wherefore then if thou desirest to come vnto thy country doost thou leaue the way which leadeth therevnto . Idem . Humilitie oftentimes boweth that which neyther force , nor might could cause to bend . Ambrose . By humilitie all our déedes are seasoned . Augustine . Whosoeuer death not héere on earth himselfe , shall hardly be partaker of the glory in heauen . Gregorie . Humilitie is a glorious thing , and pride it selfe desireth to be cloaked with the name thereof , least it growe into contempt . Bernard . It is true humilitie for one to estéeme basely of ones owne selfe , and to commend good partes in another without either malice or ranckor . Gregorie . Whosoeuer thinketh to be truely vertuous without humility , dooth as he who gathereth duste vpon an heape , and placeth it in the winde , which is no sooner downe but it is carried away . Idem . He that is humble in minde , and estéemeth of others more then himselfe , desireth not superioritie : and dignitie slieth from him that prosecutesh it , but proseeuteth him that flyeth from it . Chrysost. To be truly humbled , is a sure argument of grace . Humilitie is the way vnto humilitie , euen as patience is the way vnto peace , or reading vnto knowledge , therefore if thou desire to be humble walke in the way therevnto , for he only that is truly humble spareth his owne soule , who because he would not be thought to be that which he was not , as much as he can desireth not to be knowne to be that which he is . Bernard . Humilitie especially consisteth herein , that we subiect all our actions vnto Gods will . Idem .

Ignorance . IGnorance of God , for the most part is the mother of dispaire . Bernard . Many things are vnknowne , which ought to be knowne , which happeneth either by carelesnesse to know , or sloath to learne , or shame to enquire , and this ignorance is intollerable . Idem . It is as great an offence is be ignorant in that which one ought to knowe , as it is to doe some things that ought not to be done . Seneca . He that séeth the light knoweth how to iudge of darknesse , for he that is ignorant of the light , approoueth darknesse for light . Gregorie . They flatter themselues vnto their owne condemnation , who that they might haue the more libertie to sinne , are willingly ignorant . Bernard . He that is most expert , wise , or wittie , may iustly confesse that he is a scholler , yea altogether ignorant in some things . Cicero . When as we know our owne ignorance , we will the more willingly be are others burthens . God neuer forsaketh him who trulie knoweth his owne sinnes . Gregorie . Knowledge is two wayes necessary vnto saluation , to wit , knowledge of God & of thy selfe : because as by knowledge of thy selfe thou learnest to feare God , and by knowledge of God to loue God likewise : Euen so contrarily ignorance of thy selfe engendreth pride , and by ignorance of God thou fallest into desperation . Bernard . It is better to be ignorant then to erre , and faithfull ignorance is better then rath knowledge . August .

Infirmitie . IN all diseases there are three espeaciall gréeses , to wit , feare of death , bodily paine , and the intermission of pleasure . Seneca . Many men liue as they lust , and yet are alwayes instie : and many neuer stray from Hyppocrates rules , and yet are alwayes sickly . Idem . Health is more welcome vnto those that haue béene gréeuously sicke , then vnto those that neuer knew what sicknesse meant . Seneca . No man is without some infirmitie , therefore beare with another mans infirmitie , as thou wouldest another man should beare with thine . Idem . Laugh no man to scorne in his infirmitie , least another man doe the like by thée also . Idem .

Iustice . EVen as a Lanshorne in the night giueth light , but in the day time the light thereof is not discerned , so also mans instice being compared with Gods instice , is altogether iniustice . Gregorie . Iustice rather séeketh others commoditie then ones owne , preferring the common good before a mans owne priuate gaine . Ambrose . All other vertues are contained vnder the name of iustice alone . Hierom. It is iustice to loue men for iustice sake , and not to thinke scorne of iustice for the persons sakes . Gregorie . Iustice is the libertie of the minds giuing vnto euery one his proper dignitie , to wit , reuerence vnto ones better agréement with ones equall , discipline vnto ones inferior , obedience to God , holinesse vnto ones selfe , patience vnto ones enemie , and pittie vnto the dissressed poore . Anselme . Iustice respecteth neither father nor mother , but the truth onely : it accepteth no mans person , it imitateth God . Cassiod . There is no greater iniustice then theirs , who when they most especially deceiue , yet so handle the matter that they would séeme to be honest men . Cicero . A iust man will neuer thinke himselfe iust inough , but alwayes hungreth and thirsteth thereafter : insomuch that if he should liue neuer so long , yet would he alwayes couet to be more iust . Bernard . The iustice of the King , is the subiects quiet , the defence of the country , the fréedome of the common people , the care of the distressed , the ioy of all men , the temperatenesse of the ayre , the caime of the Seas , the fertilitie of the land , the comfort of the poore , the heritage of sonnes , and vnto himselfe the hope of eternall happinesse . Cyprian . Iustice giueth vnto euery one his owne : giue therefore vnto thrée that which belongeth vnto them : to wit , vnto the Prelate reuerence and obedience , the one whereof commeth from the heart , the other belongeth vnto the body : giue vnto thy equall counsaile to instrua his ignorance , and ayde to succour his infirmitie : giue vnto thy inferiour admonition , that he may beware , and correction that he proceede not in stnning .

Knowledge or Wisdome . HE most espeacially defireth to know God , who for the desire that he hath vnto vertue , would gladly be ignorant in worldly matters . Gregorie . They can neuer attaine true wisedome , who deceiue themselues with their owne vaine foolishnesse Idem . The thiesest wisedome is an vpright life , and iust hart to God-ward , wherby the pure with the pure , and the godly with the godly are conioyned . Nazi . Idlenesse is the mother of foolishnesse , and labour of knowledge , the trauaile of knowledge is thréesould ; to wit , the labour of discipline , exercise , and doctrine : in childhood discipline , in youth exercise , and in olde age doctrine : in childhood to learne that that is vnknowne , in youth to practise that which in their childhood was learned , and in olde age to instruct others therein . Hugo . Knowledge cannot be taken away by violence , nor corrupted by age , it is decreased by disuse , and enlarged by practise . Cassiod . Knowledge ought to be greatly estéemed , for no man can faithfully séeke that whereof he is ignorant , and an vnknowne euill is neither feared , nor can be preuented . Chrysost. There are some who desire to know , to that end only that they may know , & that is meare curiositie : some likewise are desirous of knowledge that they may sel it , to wit , for money , for honors , and that is dishonest gaine : and some there are that desire to know that they may be knowne , and that is idle vanitie : and some there are who are desirous of knowledge , that they may instruct , & it is charitie : and some also are desirous to know , that they may profit thereby , and it is wisdome . Bernard . A wise man will admire nothing when once it is come to passe , nor yet iudge any thing impossible before it be effected . Cicero . No man can liue well , nor yet in a meane , who careth not for wisdom . Sen. To know althings except God , and to be ignorant of God , is to know neȳther God nor any thing els . For he that is ignorant of God , is ignorant of his saluation , and he who is ignorant of his saluation , all his knowledge tendeth vnto his greater condemnation . Idem . To say that a man knoweth that wherein he is ignorant , is ouer rashnesse : and to say that he knoweth not that which he dooth knowe is ingratitude . Augustine . A man ought to know that he is of himselfe nothing , but what he is , he is of God , and for God . Idem . Nothing more encourageth our hope to attaine knowledge , then the consideration of this one thing , to wit , that those who in times passed haue béene very ignorant and vnlearned are now become for their iudgement and knowledge admirable . Idem . Vnto a wise man and one that is indued with knowledge , all places are alike , he supposeth himselfe to be no where a stranger , but euery place is vnto him as the place of his education . Idem . He that is in loue with himselfe being a foole , shall neuer become wise , neither shall he become that which he would be , vnlesse he despise that that he is . Augustine . In learning the wiseman findeth that whereby he may be made more wise , the warriour whereby he may be in minde incouraged , from thence the Prince learneth how to gouerne his people quietly : and to be briefe , there is no state of life which the excellent knowledge of letters may not better , and profit . Idem . Nothing is more seruently loued then wisdome , nothing more swéete in possession : herehence it procéedeth that many desire to become wise , but they faile in the attaining thereof : but all men may be iust if they perfectly desired to be iust . A man may loue wisedome excéedingly , and yet faile to attaine it : but by how much more a man loueth iustice , by so much shall he be more iust . Many hauing atteined vnto learning end knowledge , vse it not vnto Gods glory , but abuse it vnto their owne praise , being puffed vp therewith , and so sinne grieuously thereby from whence they ought to take good lessons for the amendment of their sinfull liues . Idem . The wisedome of the iust is , to faine nothing by oftentation , but to open the truth therof in words , to loue the truth as it is truth , and to hate falshood : to doe good fréely , and rather to beare euils patiently then off●r any willingly : to estéeme reproache for the trueth sake , gaine ; but this simplicitie of the iust is derided of the world , because they estéeme the puritie of vertue foolishnesse . Gregorie .

Learning . EArthly prosperitie comforteth thè body , but the tongue of the learned , preaching the glad tidings of the Gospell , bringeth farre more comfort vnto the soule . He that reprooueth all men by leading a life conformable vnto his doctrine , sufficiently declareth himselfe to be learned : neyther is young age in a Doctor to be despised whom both his life and indgement doe commend . Ambrose . As it is a wise part to gather vine branches in an hedge , and clusters of grapes among thornes warely , least that whiles thou séekest the profitte thereof , thou pricke thy fingers : euen so great care ought to be had , that thou imitate not him dooing euill , whome thou hast heard speake good things . Augustine . A mans life ought more to be regarded then his learning : for a good life without learning is commendable , but learning without a good life lacketh integritie . Ambrose . It is as godly an act to instruct the minde with wisedome , as it is to giue sustenance vnto the body when it lacketh . Bernard . In reading , not the wordes but the trueth is to be regarded : for oftentimes the plaine trueth , and craftie falshood are commixt , whereby simple men are oftentimes intrapped , and swéete wordes make fooles faine : for the loue of worldlye skill dooth nought els but puffe a man with vaine praises : and looke by how much greater a mans studies haue béene , by so much the more dooth it cause a man to swell with disdaine . Isydore . The sinner hath his mouth shut , because be that hath not taught himselfe cannot instruct another . Origen . Little woorth is learning vnlesse it be approoued by industry , study , labour and diligence . Cicero . The noble possession of learning , being deuided amongst many is not destroyed , and being deuided into parts séeleth not any lessoning at all , but waxeth dayly so much the more durable olde , by how much the more it hath béene made common . P. Blesen . By other mens actions a man ought to learne what a man ought to doe himselfe . Cicero . It is more auaileable to heare one teach , then to studie vpon the booke , because thereby a more déepe impression is made in the minde . Val. Max.

Liberalitie . IT skilleth of what minde and not of what state he be that giueth , for it is not praise-worthy which is done of compulsion or brauerie . Seneca . Beware that thy liberalitie be not greater then thy abilitie , for in such liberalitie there is alwayes a desire of getting , eyther by huck or cruck , that thou mayest haue alwayes somewhat to giue : and most commonly thefts ensue such liberalitie : for when by such manner giuing thou beginnest to be in necessitie , thou art forced to lay hands vpon other mens goods , and in so dooing thou precurest greater hatred of those from whome thou hast wrongfully taken , then loue of those to whome thou hast vnwisely giuen . Cicero . A good turne quickly done is twise done . He is leasse deceiued that is quickly denied , then he that is put in hope to obtaine by faire promises . If a man deny to giue vnto one whome he hath alwaies béen accustomed to giue , he enforceth him to séeke it by crooked meanes . Seneca . Well answered Alexander a certaine man vnto whome he had giuen a citie : for the man sayd , that so great a gift became not his base fortune , Allexander replied , I estéeme not so much what it becommeth thée to receiue , as what it becommeth me to giue . Idem . The hand neuer wanteth what to giue , if the heart be filled with good-will . Hierom. Liberalitie alwayes maketh hast , and it is proper vnto a liberall man to doe that which he dooth quickly . Idem . For if a man profit an other , and yet protract time from day to day before he performe it , he looseth two especiall things , to wit , both the time and the opinion of a friendly minde . Seneca . Liberalitie is not defined by heaping vp of riches , but by the affection which thou hast to giue . Idem . It is more greeuous vnto a liberall man , not to haue bestowed that which was behooue full , then to haue bestowed that which was not behoouefull . Idem .

Miserie . HE knoweth well how to beare temporal miseries , who knoweth how to reioyce with inward hope . Gre. Miserie , is the aboundance of tribulation , and wante of consolation , when a man is many wayes cruciated , and yet cased by no man . Idem . If we diligently consider of the the matter , we shall finde that the generall miserie of man-kinde is thréefould , for we are easte to be seduced , weake to effect ought , and vnable to make resistance . If we would iudge betwéene good and bad , we are deceiued : if we assay to doe good we saint : if we desire to resist euill we are weake and easily ouercome . Bernard . A wise wretch is more a wretch , then a clownish miser : for the former knoweth how to exagerate the causes of griefe , but the latter dooth not . Boetius . Sinners are to be adiudged by so much more miserable , by how much the more often they are suffered to procéede in their sinnes vnchastened . Gregorie . Wherefore was I borne vnto labour and trauaile ? my dayes are spent in confusion . If he who was sanctified in the wombe , spake such wordes of himselfe , what shall I wretched man say of my selfe , who was conceiued in sinne , borne in sinne , and yet vile wretch remaine in sinne ? woe vnto me poore wretch whom thou my mother hast brought foorth euen the childe of vexation and sorrow . Wherefore had I not dyed before I was brought foorth ? Wherefore was I taken vp vpon the knées and nursed ? wherefore did I sucke the dugges to prolong my life in miserie ? better had it béene for me , if dying in the wombe , I had neuer béene brought foorth , or being borne I had béene presently brought vnto the graue , that thereby I might haue escaped the miseries which now I endure . Innocentias . Man was made of dust , dung , and ashes , and which is worser , of most filthy séede , conceined in the lust of the flesh , in the heate of lust , in the stinking of luxurie , and which is worst , of and in the spottes of sinne , borne was man to labour , feare and griefe , and which is more miserable , vnto death . He dooth wicked things , whereby he offendeth God , he offendeth his neighbour , and displeaseth himselfe . He committeth dishonest things , whereby he d●fileth himselfe , staineth his credit , and tormenteth his conscience . He dooth vaine things , whereby he neglecteth things profitable and necessarie . His meate becommeth a fire which burneth alwayes , and is neuer quenched : his foode a woorme which alwayes groweth without ceasting , an heape of filthe which alwayes stincketh most horribly . Idem .

Mercie and Pittie . A Man ought to haue a great care with what minde he spareth for as there is a punishing pittie , so there is a sparing pittie . Augustine . It is a great comfort vnto the troubled soule , when as a man being as it were wrapped in vices , and séeing himselfe depriued of vertues , flyeth onely vnto the hope of Gods mercie . Greg. God is mercifull & of great pittie ; God is mercifull vnto all men , and his mercies are aboue all his workes . Oh vile man doost thou heare of so great mercies and yet relyest vpon thine owne vertues and deseruings . Idem . All men are found guiltie , both Iewes and Gentiles , and all haue néed of Gods mercie . Ambrose . When as mans helpe most faileth , then ought we most especially to relye vpon Gods fauour and succour . Idem . Pittie consisteth in giuing almes , in forbearing wrongs , in remitting iniuries , and in instructing the vnskilfull . Mercie is the helmet of saluation , the ornament of faith , the propitiation of sinnes : this is it which prooueth the iust , strengtheneth the godly , & comforteth those that serue God deuoutly . It is a more mercifull déede to succour and helpe the poore that want , then the rich that lack not : for he that giues vnto one that hath not néede thereof , dooth as it were powre water into a vessell which runneth ouer before . Cass . Let not him that hath vnderstanding be silent , neither let him which hath plenty with hold his hand from giuing : let him that hath oportunitie and ●●tte meanes , not faile but make intercession with the rich for the poore , least he incur the penalty of damnation of retaining their talent . Raba . Mercie is so great a vertue , that without it , other vert●es , although they be , cannot auaile : for although a man be faithfull , chasse , sober , and endued with other worthy vertuas , yet if he be not mercifull , he shall not obtaine mercis . Leo Papa .

Nature . NAture is content with the least and smallest things . Nature dooth make many signes and tokens vnto vs that we might vnderstand what she meaneth : but we become deafe , not hearing what shée saith . Cicero . Education altereth nature , as by the example of the two Dogges procéeding from one Dam at one litter , the one whereof being vsed vnto the pot , the other vnto hunting , before which ●● Hare and a potte of Pottage being placed , the one followed the Hare , and the other can presently vnto the Pottage pot . Idem . It is good to breake those that are of a stubborne nature whiles they be young , least when they become elder they be too strong to be ruled : as by the example of the twig , which when it is young may be bowed any waye , but being growne vnto some bignesse is not able to be bended . Idem . That which is bred in the bones will neuer out of the flesh , neither is it possible , that man that is borne of sinfull flesh , should be cleane without spot of sinne . Idem . God and nature haue made no things in vaine , for all things serue vnto some purpose , but man wanteth knowledge to apply euery thing vnto his proper end . Aristotle . We ought to hould the same course that nature hath prescribed vnto vs , not declining there from : all things are easie and plaine vnto those which haue an insight thereinto , but those that resist nature doe as it were striue against the streame . Idem . Man is by nature wicked , naught , and corrdyt , neither can so much as a good thought procéede from vs , vnlesse our nature be seasoned with the salte of Gods holy spirit , which is the true guide that leadeth vs vnto eternall blisse , which our owne nature cannot attaine vnto . Nature is an vpright dispensor , distributing vnto euery one that which is agréeable .

Negligence . NEgligence is the slouth of the minde , whereby euery one is negligent in the performance of that wherevnto he ought to haue an especiall regarde . Hugo . If sometimes we be seduced to let slippe small things without any respect therevnto , we will in time growe more bould to commit greater ouer-slippes without any care . Idem . We are all of vs very circumspect in small matters , but very negligent in great and waighty affaires , and the occasion hereof is because we are ignorant of the true lise . Hiero● . A great punishment hangeth ouer their heads , who doe the Lords worke negligently , as especially ouer the heads of Preachers and Pastors , who for lacke of spirituall foode suffer their flockes to perish , and to become a pray vnto the deuill , whiles they themselues neglecting their owne charge , giue themselues vnto slouth and idlenesse . Idem . We ought not to doe our businesse negligently , but with care , héedfulnesse , and warily : and especially seruants ought not to be idle , but well eccupyed , whether they be in their Maisters sight or not , knowing that the Lorde their spirituall Maister séeth at all times whether they be negligent or not . Idem .

Nobilitie . THe chiefest libertie is to be with God , and not to serue sinne : and the chiefest nobili●ie with God is to excell in vertues . Hierom. I cannot greatly praise Nobilitie : for a good man séemeth vnto me noble : but he that is iniust although he be descended of a better stocke then Iupiter himselfe , séemeth vnto me base and ignoble . Demosthenes . The Nobilitie of our kindred little auaileth , vnlesse we our selues be good and noble : for by how much the better thou art by birth , if thou excell not in vertues also , thou art by so much the more culpable and reproouable . Idem .

Obedience . IT is better to obey God then man , and it is better to obey our maisters then our fellow Schollers : and it is also better to obey those that haue rule ouer vs , then strangers : wherefore without doubt , not to obey those whom most especially we ought , is most de●estable . Bernard . Certainely he that sheweth himselfe ready to obey before he is commanded , deserueth more thankes then he that obeyeth after commandement giuen . Idem . We ought to obey , not with seruile feare , but with affectionate loue , not for feare of punishment , but for loue of iustice , and for right cousnesse sake . Gregorie . Perfect obedience is ignorant of the lawe , neither is it restrained with bounds . Yea it dooth performe more willingly then is commanded of necessitie . Idem . Nothing is more vniust , then that a man should desire to be obeyed of his inferiours , who himselfe will not yéelde obedience vnto his superiours . Augustine . In obedience this is a generall rule to be obserued , that by how much more difficult the matter is , by so much the more praise-worthy is obedience : and by how much more easie the matter is to be performed , by so much more great is the offence if it be not effected , then the matter deserued praise if it had béene fulfilled . Bernard . Disobedience procéedeth from the obstinacie of a stubborne minde , not willing to obey him that iustly commandeth . Idem . If ( thy superiour commanding the contrary ) thou vse any words at vnawates , it is an offence : but if thou speake rashly and willingly , the offence is by so much more the greater .

Obstinacie . THere are thrée sortes of obstinate men : the first is of those who profit nothing by correction : the second of those who by correction are made worse , and the thrid of those who promise amendment , but do not accordingly : by correction Manasles was made better : Naball by admonition became worser : and Pharao by affliction was more hardened . Hugo . It is méere obstinacie , out of the vnreasonable and vncontrouled pertinacie of the minde , to refuse to yéelde obedience vnto better things . Cicero . Then is our infelicitie consummated , when as dishonest things doe not onely delight , but also please , and hardly can there be any place for remedie , when as those things which haue béene vices , are accoumpted vertues . Seneca .

Order and degrees . BY order things are conserued , but by disorder things come vnto ruine and confusion . Not our degrées and dignities make vs néerest vnto God , but our loues eyther good or bad , doe conioyne vs vnto him , or seuer vs from him . Collumb . Euery man ought to acknowledge his owne order and degrée , and to vnderstand what belongeth therevnto , and so to order & gouerue his actions , wordes , gestures and manner of his habite , that it be agréeable vnto his degree , least he heare this saide vnto him by God . Because my name was blasphemed among the Gentiles for your sake , &c. None ought to be admitted vnto holy functions , but those whose integritie of life hath béene formerly approoued . Idem . He that ordereth his owne steppes rightly , giueth light also vnto others how they ought to walke . Children ought not to be admitted vnto holy orders , least they doe by so much . the sooner fall and come vnto ruine , by how much the greater hast they made to clime vnto promotion . Idem .

Pouertie . MIserable is the state of the poore man : if he begge he is ashamed , if he begge not , he pineth with hunger , and yet to begge necessitie compelleth him . He blameth God as vniust , because he hath not rightly ( in his iudgment ) deuided the wealth of the world : he accuseth his neighbour of enuie , because he yéeldeth him not succour : he frowneth , murmureth , and curseth : where vpon the wise Salomon said ; It is better to die then to liue in want : and to be briefe , if thou be poore thy brother will forsake thée , and thy friends depart from thée . Innocentius . The poore man that hath almost nothing , yet being content possesseth all things , and on the contrary , the riche man which hath many things , yet wanting content , is as he that hath nothing . The poore man cannot be happy in his owne minde , vnlesse he haue séene those that haue béene in prosperitie to haue suffered shipwrack : ioyfull pouertie is an honest thing , but it cannot be pouertie , that is borne chéerefully , for he that taketh pouértie patiently is is a rich man : and not he that hath little , but he that desireth much is a poore man . Seneca . Pouertie ought to be loued , if for nothing els , yet for this cause onely , because thereby thou t●yest who are thy fréends , and who not . Idem . Pouertie hath this one discommoditie , because it wanteth wherewith to succour those that are in aduersitie . Idem . Pouertie is the beggerie of the mind , and not the want of wealth . Gregory . Those that are poore in spirit , when they haue done any good thing , glorifie God : if any euill , they accuse themselues . Augustine . It is an hainous offence with a soornfull eye to despise our poore brethren , and disdainfully to contemne them because of their pouertie ( who otherwise were our equalls ) is no lesse offensiue . Idem . The poore when all worldly meanes faile , yet then are they comforted in the Lord . Idem .

Preaching . IT is a gréeuous offence , for thrée causes to conceale Gods wordes , to wit , either for feare , slouth or flattery . Hierom. Euery Sermon that edifieth not the hearers , is turned into their greater condemnation . Idem . Euery doctor that peruerteth those sharpe sayings of Scripture ( whereby he ought to recall his bearers ) vnto smooth sayings , and speaketh in such manner that he correct not but delighteth his auditorie , corrupteth the pure iuice of Gods holy word , and mingleth it with his owne exposition . Idem . Many make long and tedious sermons , but without knowledge , and some againe speake fewe wordes but much matter . Idem . A man ought to be first himselfe cleane , and so to cleanse others : to be wise himselfe , and then to teach others wisedome : to be a light , and then to lighten others : to be sanctified , and then to sanctifie others . Idem . A Preacher ought not to declare all things vnto the vnlearned which himselfe knoweth , because the ignorant ought to be first instructed in more easie points , before they can be able to conceiue the more déepe and secret misteries . Idem . He gathereth large & ample fruites of his preaching , which dooth before exercise himselfe in good workes : for the words want authoritie , if good déedes be wanting . Nazianzene . If thou neglect to fulfill that which thy selfe teachest , thou sowest thy selfe , and others gather in the haruest . Ide . A Preacher ought to haue an especiall regarde vnto the time and place , and capacitie of his auditors , for one worde well and fitly placed , edifieth more then many vnaduisedly offered . Idem . As the flesh waxeth strong by mea●e and delights , euen so the spirit is nourished with Gods word . A Preacher ought not to preache himselfe , but Christ . Idem .

Quarreling , strife , and contention . CHristians ought to forbeare and forgiue one another , if be so that one haue a quarrell against another , euen as Christ forgaue vs , for how can we expect forgiuenesse at Gods hands , if be so we our selues will not forgiue those that haue offended vs . Colossians . 3. 13. It is good to speake wiselie , and warily , for oftentimes much coutention , quarrelling and debate , ariseth of a word ill placed , though well meant . Augustine . Nuarrell not with one that is mightier then thou thy selfe art , for he hath the aduantage of thée : might ouercommeth right . There are many who doe nought els but sowe the séedes of quarrels and contentions betwéene neighbours , but Christ saith ; Blessed are the peace-makers , for theirs is the kingdome of heauen . He that delighteth in quarrelling , shall not want with whom to contend , for rather then he will be quiet , he will be at debate with his owne selfe . Gregorie . It is better to dwell in a small cottage with a quiet wise , then in a sumptuous and stately house with an vnruly and quarrelling woman . It is a grieuous thing to dwell with those who when they haue sayd what they can , and spoken the worst , yet alwayes séeke new occasions of new quarrels . Augustine . Where strise , quarrelling and debate are there godly liuing is wanting . Idem . As nothing is more precious in the sight of God , then loue : so nothing is more desired of the deuill then the quenching thereof , for from thence arise debates contentions quarrellings , fightings , murthers , and many other very haynous and gréeuous sinnes . Gregorie . No roome is large enough for those who cannot well agrée , but a small corner is spacious enough vnto those whose mindes are vnited by loue and goodwill . Ambrose .

Quietnesse , peace , and tranquilitie of minde . THe quietnesse and tranquility of minde , is more to be estéemed then any worldly , wealth whatsoeuer : for what though a man possesse infinite riches ? what though hée want not any outward things that might serus for his delight ? what are all these to be accompted of , if be so thy minde within thée be still tormented with vnquiet thoughts , and discontented cogitations . Nazianzene . A guilty conscience condemneth a mans owne selfe , when as no man els accuseth him : but a cleare conscience is accompanted with quietnesse , peace , and tranquility of the minde , when as many falsly accuse him . Hier. Enough consisteth not in the aboundance of wealth , for he that hath a little and a contented minde , hath more then hée that enioyeth much and yet is not contented . August . God most commonly blesseth the poore with quietnesse , peace and content of minde , when as yet the ritch though they enioy more , haue lesse content and tranquility of minde , then the poore haue : and this is one especiall token of Gods goodnesse towardes the néedy and poore , that he endueth them with so much the more ample measure of the one , by how much more they are scanted of the other . Hugo . By how much more excellent the minde of man is , then his body : by so much more are those things that bring content vnto the one , to be estéemed , then those things that bring pleasure vnto the other . By the quietnesse , peace , and tranquility of the minde , the life is prolonged , but sorrow , & care hasten death . Cassiod . It is a good thing to liue in quietnes with our neighbours , and friends , and it is a good thing so haue rest and quiet from warre with forraine Nations , but it is a more blessed thing to haue quietnesse and peace , betwéene God and thine owne soule . Oftentimes the poore labouring man cesseth quietly after his labours , vpon a bed of straw , when as yet the rich mans minde is so oppressed with cares , & thoughts concerning worldly matters , that he cannot sléepe vpon a bed of downe .

Resurrection . THe iust man shal arise that he may iudge , the vniust to be iudged , and the wicked to bee punished without iudgement . Cassius . Our redéemer died that we should not feare death : hee shewed his resurrection , that we might haue an assured hope of our resurrection . Greg. In euery déede and action which a man vndertaketh he hath some hope of future commodity : for he that ploweth doth it that he may reape . He that fighteth , fighteth that he may ouercome , and to bee without hope of resurrection , all respect of godlines is set apart . Chrisost. Some there are who considering that the spirite leaueth the body : that the flesh is conuerted vnto rottennesse , rottennesse into dust , and dust vnto elementes that cannot be discerned with bodily eyes , doe therefore dispaire of the resurrection . And respecting the dry bones onely iudge it impossible that they should againe be couered with flesh . Who if be so they haue not an assured hope of the resurrection by obedience : yet ought they assuredly to beléeue this by reason . For what but the resurrection rooth the continuall course of the elementes declare . For by the courses of times and seasons wee see that trees doe loose their greene leaues , and likewise they doe cease to beare fruites , and yet suddenly as it were out of drie wood we sée ( as if a resurrection were comming ) the leaues to spring , the fruites to grow vnto bignesse , and the whole trée to be as it were againe cloathed in a fresh garment . Christ came into the world , and by his birth , life , words , déedes , passions , death , resurrection , and ascention , hée fulfilled all the prophesies , and sayings of the prophets , August . The Sonne of God was in his assumption translated from his humanity vnto diuinity : in his resurrection from passibility vnto immortalitie : in his ascention , from low degrée vnto equality with his Father , because that look● how low was his fal from his Fathers bosome vnto the crosse , so high likewise might bee his exaltation from the crosse vnto the right hand of his Father . Idem . Let vs waigh with our selues the small séede of any trée that is cast into the earth that a trée may procéede there from , and let vs if possibly wée could comprehend , how in so small a séede so great a trée should be inclosed , that there-hence procéedeth . Where is the woode , where the barke , where the gréene leaues , and where the plenty of fruites . Was there any such matters to bee perceiued in the séede , when as it lay ouer-couered in the earth ? what woonder then is it if so it please God , who is able of so small séedes to produce so great trées , to make againe a man of the small dust , being conuerted into his proper elements . Greg. We that are afflicted and tormented in Christes passions , shall againe reioyce and be glad in his resurrection . It was not by chaunce that the Disciples , seeing the Lorde yet the beloued Disciple was absent , but comming afterwarde might heare , and hearing might doubte , and doubting touch , and touching might beléeue . I saye it was not done by happe , but that by séeing and féeling , he might be made an assared witness● of his resurrection . Greg.

Reuerence . REuerence is a vertue whereby we do yéeld vnto our betters , dutyfull regard and respect , in the humality of the body , in gesture , behauiour bowing of the head , and by vtterance of words . Cicero . We cannot adiudge them worthy of reuerence for their honours , whom wee iudge to bée vnworthy of honours . Boetius .

Reconciliation . HE thinketh vainely who iudgeth that God will bee so pleased with him , who himselfe will not be pleased with his neighbour . Chrisostome . If thou haue offended in thought make amendes and be reconciled in thought : if in words , by wordes , if in déedes , by déedes , for thou canst not pacifie him whom thou hast offended with déedes , without déedes . Thou doost foolishly to desire of the Lorde , thou doost vainely to giue almes of these things which thou hast spoyled others of . For what auaileth it thee if one pray vnto the Lorde for thée , & an other against thée , according vnto that in Ecclesiastes the 34. The Lord alloweth not the guifts of the wicked .

Riches and rich Men. THose are true riches , which being once had cannot be lost . August . epist. 140. It is as hard a thing for a rich man not to bee proude , as it is for a chollericke man not to bee angrie . Riches are gotten by much labour , trauaile , and paines taking : are kept with continuall care , and left with ertreame sorrow . Gregorie . Most commonly the prodigall spend , thrist consumeth that in sewe dayes , which his pinchfist father scraped together in many yeares . Riches if we come by them iustly , and vse them rightly , are the blessings of God , but if we abuse them they were giuen vs vnto our greater condemnation . It is an easic matter for a man that is rich to séeme to despise riches : but it is a very difficult matter for him that is poore , not to desire to be riche . Gregorie 11. moralium . It is not a sinke to be riche : but not to distribute thereof vnto the necessitie of the poore , that is haynous in the sight of God . Chrysost. Where riches are honoured , good men are despised . If thou haue plentifull , spend neither too prodigally , nor yet kéepe together too niggardly , so shalt thou be neither in future time néede , nor yet in bondage vnto thy riches . Solon . It is a thing very common that the children of poore and meane men become very wealthy : when as yet the children of rich men decay and come vnto indigencie : which procéedeth partly from hence , that the one because he hath little , is sparing , and painefull , the other hauing much and not knowing how it was gotten , spendeth prodigally , not thinking that euer his wealth wil be consumed . He is truely rich whose life is vertuous , & abounding with good workes . Augustine .

Repentance . HE that by repentance turneth vnto the Lord , shall be made pertaker of eternall blisse with the Angels in heauen . August . There are many who are more ashamed to repent , then to sinne , oh wonderfull madnesse . Art thou not ashamed of the wound it selfe , and yet blushest to haue it bound vp and healed : is not the wound loathsome and stincking : hie thée therefore vnto the Surgion , repent thée , acknowledge thy sinnes and saye , oh Lorde , I haue sinned against thée , pardon mine iniquities , for I haue done amisse . August . de penitent . To sinne and not repent therefore . is a more haynous offence in the sight of God then was the sinne it selfe . Chrisostome . As the penitent thiefe vpon the crosse by his example of repentance , and his being receiued vnto mercie , gaue good reasons vnto many sinners , that they should not despaire of Gods mercies : so likewise it is to be feared that many presuming vpon the like grace , doe throw themselues headlong into damnation , not beginning to repent vntill such times that they haue no time of repentance left them . Repentance is deriued as it were of punishing , because that man dooth by repentance as it were punish the euill that hee hath committed . For these thrée things which by the outwards striking of the brest are signified , to wit the brest , the hand , and the sound , denoteth that wée repent vs of those things which wee haue done amisse by thought , worde and déede . Hugo .

Slouth . SLouth is a certaine drowstnesse of the minde , whereby any man neglecteth to doe any good things , or to finish ought being begunne . Barnard . Of Idlenesse no profit , but discommodity and losse ariseth : Esaw béeing slouthfull lost the blessing of his birth-right , because he had rather take meat● then séeke to get it . August . The slouthfull man will and will not : he is noted by the name of a slouthful man who wil willingly raigne with God , but is vnwilling to take paines for God . Beda . Rewards please him when they are promised , but spirituall combats terrifie him when they are commanded . Slouthfull men iudge that nothing can be done , which they themselues cannot performe , giuing sentence according vnto their owne infirmities For we suppose those things whereunto we are not accustomed , hard and intolletable to be endured . We estéeme it a torment to want wine , or to arise at the breake of the day , yet are not those things difficult , but we are fēeble and weake .

Securitie . IT oftentimes happeneth that he who by the battell of temptation could not be ouercome , hath yet greatly béene damnified by his owne security . Greg. Security ought to be in our hope , and feare in our conuersation , that thereby those that striue may be cherished , and those that are secure punished . No man ought to liue securely in that life which is called altogeather a temptation , knowing that as of bad he may be made better , so contrariwise of good he may become worse . August . Many men by a secure carelesnesse in a small time runne into more dangers , and incurre greater losses , then after in all their life long they are able againe to recouer , be they neuer so vigilant . He that is secure in his own busines , will surely be remisse in anothers .

Scripture . HE hath learned most who dooth most : but if I performe that which thou declarest , and thy selfe net performe it , my déedes doe rather hold off the scriptures , then thy spéech which thou vainely hablest . Hierome . We ought to vse the holy Scripture in stéed of a looking glasse , by correcting that which is amisse , concerning those things that are well and decent , and by reducing those things that are in a meane vnto a more perfect order . Idem . The meditation of the Lawe , consisteth not so much in reading the Scripture , as in executing the preceptes therein contained . Idem . If there bee ought in the worlde that maye bee a staye vnto a wise man , and may perswade him ( béeing pestered with the hurlie burlies , and troublesome turmoyles of this world ) to beare all things patiently , that I assuredly perswade my selfe to be principally effected by reading & meditating the holy Scriptures . Idem . We ought neither to speake or doe ought , for which we cannot be warranted by the holy scriptures . Basilius . Whatsoeuer is not of faith is sinne : but faith commeth by hearing and hearing by the word of God , therfore without the scriptures all our actions want a true ground which is faith , & so consequently al our actions which are not directed by the holy scriptures , are sinne . Idem . We maye say vnto a man falling from his state : Let no man wax proud : and we may say vnto a man that is risen from his fall . Let no man despaire . Behould how wonderfully the scripture vseth the selfesame word to depresse the proud , and to exalt the humble . It recalleth the proud vnto the seare of humility , and the humble vnto the assurance of faith . Oh inestimable medicine of a strange nature , which being laid after one & the selfesame order , by pressing downe dryeth vp the swelling humors , and by raysing vppe infuseth drye . It terrifieth vs from the fall of euill things , but comforteth vs with our reperation .

Tribulation . BY afflictions and tribulations we loose earthly things , but by patiently sustaining thereof , we multiply heauenly ioyes . Greg. The Lord maketh the way through which his elect are to passe vnto him , rough and hard least that being delighted with the pleasure thereof , as it were with the ioyes and delicates of this life , they should rather choose to linger in their iourney then hasten vnto him , and so respecting the pleasantnesse of the way , should forget their country whereunto they were going . Idem . As the starres doe shine in the night but are not séene in the day time : euen so true vertue which oftentimes in prosperity is not apparant , yet in aduersity and tribulation is séene most euidently . Barnard . Be not angry though the wicked florish in this world , and the godly suffer tribulation , because it is not proper vnto true Christian Religion , to be exalted but to be depressed . The wicked haue no inheritance in heauen , nor the godly in the world : But the godly ought to reioyce in this life with all assured hope of their future felicitie in heauen . Beda . Let vs beare patiently small matters and crosses , remembring what he suffered for vs vpon the crosse who inuiteth vs vnto that heauenly banket in heauen . Cassi . No man knoweth how much he hath profited but in aduersity : because euery one receiueth the blessing of Gods grace in rest and quietnesse , but how much he hath receiued is declared onely in the sufferance of tribulation and aduersity . Greg. God is a Phisition , and tribulation a medicine for our health , and not a punishment for our damnation : man comming vnder the hands of the Phisitian is tormented , wounded , and cryeth out bitterly , but the Phisitian heareth not according vnto his patients minde , but as it may be for his health : euen so likewise the Lord afflicteth his beloued with tribulations , crosses , and anguishes , that he may bring those vnto him by that meanes who otherwise would runne headlong into perdition .

Temptation . OVr auncient enemy the deuil ceaseth not euery wher to lay snares , that he may weaken the faith of beléeuers by any meanes whatsoeuer for he knoweth whom to alure with the lusts of the flesh , into whom to infuse the poison of enuy , and to whome he may appose the alurementes of luxury : hée knoweth whome to vexe with griefe , whom to deceiue with ioy , whome to oppresse with feare , and whome to seduce with admiration . He prtes into all mens manners , he winnoweth out as it were their causes , he searcheth al mens affections , and there ●ence séeketh to produce causes of their hurt , wherein euery one is most bustly occupted . Leo Papa . The deuill , before he assay to tempt any man , first diligently waigheth his nature whom he meaneth to tempt & so apptieth himselfe by faire and smooth meanes to cause a man to offend in that case , whereunto he is by nature most inclinable : vnto those that are of gentle & milde behauiour , he opposeth ryotousnesse , and vaine-glory : but vnto those that are of a more sterne conuersation , be instanateth anger pride and cruelty . Prosper . Whiles we breath in this pilgrimage our life cannot bee without shine , it cannot be without temptation : because our p●ogresse is made through temptations , neither doth any man know himselfe aright valesse he be tempted , neither can he be crowned vnlesse he ouercome , neither ouercome without fight , neither can be fight vnlesse be haue enemies with whome he may fight . Augustine . In all temptations resist the diuell and he will flie from thée , but if thou giue ground vnto him he will pursue thée . The Lord by Ieremie saith vnto Iurie , how long shall wicked thoughtes habour in thee , he asketh not wherefore they come but wherefore they staye : for manye good men are oftentimes ouertaken with euil thoughts but yet they will not yéelde their consents thereunto . Ambroie .

Vertue . ALl vertues are so linked together that he that lacēeth one , lacketh all , & he that hath one hath al. Hierome . The minde cannot haue vertues kingdome , vnlesse it first shake off the kingdome of vices . August . A poore man that hath nothing at all , may be vertuous as well as the rich man , that hath all things in aboundance . He is endned with many vertues . who loueth vertue in another as well as in himselfe Seneca . There can no more perswasiue meanes be vsed to pursue v●rtue , then the consideration and remembrance of our owne sinnes . Hugo . Vertue which is constrained is not vertues , for that cannot be said to be a vertuous déede ( in respect of the agent ) which is of necessity commanded to be done . What is vertue but a mederine , and what ; is vice but a wound , where , as therefore we doe make a wound of the medecine , God maketh a medicine of the wound , that those which are wounded with vertue , might be healed with vice . Greg. Vertue ought to be more estéemed of vs then any possessions , any wealth , and aboundance of earthly , treasure , or what soeuer transltory , and momentarie riches , because the one remaineth for euer our owne , but the others are no longer ours then whiles we enioy them here in this world : and besides all goods , wealth , riches , or any earthly possission , many be diuers wayes lost , and are subiect vnto many casualties , but veriuo goeth with vs vnto our graue , and leaueth vs not here , neither in the worlde to come . A good worke man conuerteth all things vnto the best vse that may be , and a veriuous man vndergoeth all things patiently , and apylyeth euerye thing vnto the furtherance of godlynesse . Enuie attendeth vpon vertue , ready alwayes to blemish her best actions .

Vowes . ENforced vowes are not to be kept . Better is it not at all to vow then to vow the performance of an euill action : and better is it to breake the performance of a bad vow , then to execute it . Let it not repent thée to haue vowed thy seruice vnto vertue , but rather reioyce that thou art restrayned from that which would incurre thine owne losse and hinderaunce . It is an happie necessitie which compelleth vnto better things . Augustine . He is iustly enforced to pay that promiseth of his owne accord fréely . Barnard . If thou haue made a wicked vow , breake promise therein , and in a dishonest cause alter thy decrée : performe not that which rashly thou hast vowed : badde is that vow which is performed with sinne , as for example , if rashly and in thy fury thou haue vowed the death of any man , is it not better that thy vow be broken then kept . Isydore . In making a vow first consider whether it be agréeable vnto Gods wil , and next whether thou be able to performe it , If both these concurre then sée that thou haue a care diligently to performe that which so iustly thou hast bound thy selfe vnto . Miserable is the state of some roysting ruffians , who in a brauery or any other wicked humor vow the performance of many vile and odious actes , but more miserable is their estates who not onely vow , but more wickedly performe that which so vnaduisedly they enterprised . If thou haue vowed any good act , delay not the time of performance therof for he that is not now apt , to morrow wilt be more vnapt , and allwaies the longer the doing of good is delayed , by so much is it the worse .

Vice . VIces do first possesse the minde , as it were vnder a shew of vertue , or at the least wise vnder pretence of some colourable reason , thereby to seeme more tollerable , but hauing once taken possession , it groweth vnto an habite , and so by custome the most detestable and odious vices seeme toiletable which were they indeede wayed in the ballance of iustice , would be exceedingly detested . Hierom. Euery vice is a sinne , and euen as custome in sinning taketh away the feeling thereof , so likewise the frequencie of some vices make them seeme vnto the vitious , no vices . Idem . There is a certaine affinity , ( as I may so say ) betweene some vices , as the dissolutenes of the spirit , the appetite of the throate , and the beast linesse of luxurie , much pratling , deceipt , and forsooearing : by the dissolutnesse of the spirit , the mind is drawen to gurmandize , and the belly being crammed with meates , the flesh is prouoked vnto lust : By much pratling , deceipt steppeth in , because it is a hard matter for him that talketh much , to be voyde of lying , and oftentimes dayly is bound with an oath thereby to deceiue men . Greg. Many are so bewitched with those vices that they possesse , that they will rather enforce arguments to defend them , they be induced by any reasons to forsake them . Seneca . Vices seeme to allure with rewardes , asconeteousnesse promiseth good store of money , rioteousnesse maketh she we of many pleasers , and fleshie delights : Ambition with brauenesse of apparrell , and the applause of the people , and consequently of power , and might , and whatsoeuer utay there-from arise . Idem . Godly parents haue not alwayes good children , neither haue wicked parentes allwayes vicious and bad children , as appeareth by holy Dauid , who had wicked Absolon , and so likewise of others who being themselues bad yet had godly children . Bernard . Vice is an inordinate naturall affection , and an act exceeding order aboue measure , when as it is moued to perpetrate that that ought not to be done , and exceeding measure when as it is moued more then it ought . Hugo . Forsake not thy friend for one vice , but rather beare with one impersection , if thou canst not reclaime him : for Nemo fine crimine viuit : there is noe man but hath some sault . Idem . It is an exceeding great vice to be prying into the actions of other men and not to regard thine owne , for none but Christ could euer rightly say who can accuse me of sinne 's From the hart of man proceede his thoughts , and most commonly such as are the outward actions of the body , such likewise are the inward thoughts of the minde , for albeit none but God alone can rightly vnderstand the secrets of mans hart , yet the outwarde actions being vicious , a man may iudge that the minde from whence they proceede is likewise corrupted , for such as is the trée , such is the fruite likewise : and such as is the hart , such likewise are the actions , either good or bad proceeding from thence . Nazian. Happie art thou ( oh man ) who descending from a vitious stocke , art yet thy selfe vertuous , for thy vertues do by soe much the more shine in thee , by how much the more the vices of thy progenitors darkned their glory , and spotted their good names . Hugo .

Women SAmpson a couragious & valiant man strangled a Lion , but he could not bridle his owne loue . He brake his enemies bondes , but he could not rule his owne passions . He burnt other mens haruests , but he himselfe being kindled with a womans loue , lost the haruest of his owne vertue . Ambrose . Wittily and not vntruly was it answered by one , who being demaunded what was lighter then the fire , said the smoke ? what lighter then smoake ? the ayre ? what lighter then the ayre ? a woman ? what lighter then a woman ? nothing . What auayleth it thee to watch thy wife so narrowly , seeing that an vnchast wife cannot be kept from dishonestie , and an honest and chast wife nodeth no custodie . For necessitie is an vnfaithfull keeper , but she is to be accompted chaste who had libertie to play the harlot and yet would not , and not she that would haue played the strumpet , and yet coulde not . What els is an euill woman but the enemie of amity , an vnauoydable punishment , a necessary euill , a naturall temptation , a desired calamitie an houshould enemie , ● delightfull losse , an euill ouershadowed with the colour of goodnesse ! Therefore if it be a sinne to sendè her packinge , it is a torment to keepe her , and of necessity a man must either commit adulterie , or els andure dayly warres , and skirmishes . Chrisost. Trust not a woman for her weeping , for she will deceāue thee with her teares if thou take not the better heed , teares are vnto women as redie as milke to be drawne out of a new melch cowes teates , they make shew of great sorrow outwardly when inwardly they ar̄e no whit greeded : wherevpon arose this saying . It is as muchpitty to see a woman weepe as it is to see a Goose go barefooted . Better is it to dwell in the corner of an house with a quiet woman then in a wids house with one that is a skoulde . If a Womans will were as much bente vnto goodnesse , as her witte is apt vnto euill a Prince neede no better counsailers . Wine and Women make men runnagates . A Stockfish , a Woman , and a Walenut trèe , The more they are beaten , the better they will bée . Women are wilie , and subtill withall , He that ouerreacheth them , is a Man stronge and tall . As by a woman our first parent Adam was seduced to eate of the forbidden fruite , eauen so likewise by a woman was the chiefest piller of the church who had before confessed the sonne of God , enforced to deny his Lord and Maister . Who is so madde as to disclose any sec̄ret vnto a woman , who only can conceale that which she knoweth not , and nothing else .

Women when they are met together keepe a chirping like the parliament of birdes : whereof arose this twofolde saying ;

Many Geese much gagling , Many women much babling .

And againe .

Many Gesse many 〈◊〉 Many women many wordes . A Cage for a ●ueane , a 〈◊〉 for a Roague , and a wispe for a skould , are as fit as meate for the body , cloathes for the backe , or a rod for a wanton boy . A woman if once she take a stomacke against any one is in exorable , and where she hateth she hateth deadly . A faire woman geuen vnto Iewdnesse is the greatest temptation that any one can haue , for with her eye the alureth , with her words she enticeth , and with her loue she killeth .

Wisdome , Foresight , and Prouidence . THose things which many seeming wise do approue for exe●●lent , being waighed in the ballance ●● God 's wisedome , are meerely foolish . for the wisedome of the worlde is foolish●●● with God . Bernard . Albeit the aduer●●●●es of religion do and euer did seeke by all meanes possible to ●●●une the light of the Gospel , & to bring grosse ; and palp●ble errours into the Church of Christ there by in time thanking vtterly to extinguish the truth of God , yet are all their ende●●ur● vaine , for the for̄eseeyng wisedome of God knoweth how to conuert their wicked purposes vnto the good of the godly . And albeit they kill and stay the constant professors thereof , yet hath God appoynted that the blood of the Martirs shall be the serde of the Church . Sanguis Martirum , semen est ecclesiae . A wise man is so tearmed , as it were foreseeing , for he will prouide for and preuente vncertaine happes . Isidore . By the wisedome and prouidenc● of God all thinges are ordayned and that which in mans iudgement cannot but fall out to the worst , yet his wisedome disposeth it to a good end : and that which we esteme as a punishment , God turneth it vnto a medicine . Hierome . A wise and foreseeing man will cast before hande what his charges and expences are like to ●rise vnto least that running one in an headlonge course , his purse be not able to discharge the charges that his owne follye hath procured . Idem . A sodaine mishappe and vnexperted is more hardly borne then that which commeth expected , Nam leuius ledit quicquid preuideris ante . Cato . Wisedome iudgeth not of thinges at all aduentares , neither doth it meddle with matters not pertayning vnto it : but being brought in as a iudge in any case , it waygheth the reasons that were the causes thereof , considereth of the circumstances inducing therto , and then pronouncing sentence according as the quallitie of the cause shall require , there by endenouring that neither she may be rightly accused of rashnes , nor yet ● findiscretion . A man endued with wisdome ought so ranck his actions into three partes , ordering well his actions present , forecasting for those that are to ensue , and calling to minde those that are passed : for be that neuer thinketh of his deeds passed destroyeth his owne life , and he that foreséeeth not those to come , falleth at vnawares into many dangers , and inconueniences . Senec. de quatuor virtutibus . Wisdome , ( or prouidence , ) is a present knowledge , throughly considering & pendering the future euent Ibidem .

Youth . EUen as in old men , sobriety and perfection of maners is required , so likewise , ought youth to be obedient , tractable , and willing to learne . Cyp●i . A yong man can hardly be wis● , ●●cause that wisdome is learned by experience which youth hath not tried . Aristotles Ethicks . He that in his youth hath learned to obay well , is most likely in his old age to gouerne well . Youth had need to be vertuously treyned vp in time of yongyeares , for how hardely many ( who haue in their yonge yeeres had the raine in their owne hands ) are restrained from those vices which in youth they learned , experience it selfe dayly teacheth . Good education formeth manners , and if thy children in their yong age be vertuously instructed , in thy old-age they will be a comfort vnto thee , but let them haue their owne will when they are yong , and when thou art old they will not reḡard thee . Youth is hotte , because the blood is then mo●● fresh , and it is a hard matter in youth to be free from lust . He that dying rich leaueth his wealth vnto prodigall youth , at the yeares end shall haue as many angels in his Coffine as the other hath in his purse . As it is an excellent thing to see youth well murtured , so is it a most odious thing to see an old man who is redie to goe vnto his graue , voyd of good manners . Vse no vnseemly speeches in the presence of youth , for there by thou thy selfe shalt be censured for vndisereete , & youth will be easily corrupted by thy lewde and Idle communications . For all of vs by nature are more ready and apt to nose and marke any idle and vaine words then to imitate any godly or vertuous actions . If then loue thy childe , in youth giue him correction , for he that spareth the rode spoyleth the child .

Quo prius induta est , seruabit odorem testa diù :

Looke with what liquor a vessel or cask is first filled , and it wil long retaine the smel therof , so likewise youth , &c.

The headlong courses of youth cause repentance in old age when as experience telleth vs how vaine a course we haue runne . Bernard . Youth is vnstayed , vnconstant , rash , he●●y , and vnaduised but when it hath runne his course , & seeth his owne fully , their beginneth to looke backe vnto the paths that it hath trode , & seeketh to redéeme the time mispent , when it hath no time lest to recouer it . August . It is a death vnto youth to be restrained of his liberty , but when riper iudgment hath taken possession of his understanding , then it confesseth that had not youth ben bridled , old age had been like to goe a b●gging . Euen as the Rose that in y● morning florisheth , but in the euening fadeth a way and withereth , euen so is the life of man , soone ripe soone rotten , no sooner at yeares of vnderstanding , & iudgment , but presently ensueth death before stayed experience can haue time to amend the giddie errouts of wanton youth . Bernard . He that marrieth a child , most . commonly dyeth a beggar , he that marrieth for beauty , oftentimes dieth a cuckold , he that marrieth a skould , hath a shrewde goose to pull , and he that in youth betaketh himselfe vnto lust , before olde age come shall want an hairy bushe to keepe his braines warme . Idem - Youth may be compared vnto a fertile ground , wherein whatsoeuer séede be sowen it will prosper , euen so youth , if the precepts of vertue and godlinesse bée so wen therein , they will fructifie and growe vnto a good increase , and likewise if vice be therein planted it will not be barren of corrupt liuing . To late commeth repentance 〈◊〉 old age , when youth hath consumed the treature that should maintaine thee in thy later yeares . Many in theyr old age and especially towardes their death are so tormented with the remembrance of their wicked youth spent in vngodlinesse , that they are all most as it were in despaire of pardon thereof . Hugo .

Zeale . IT auayleth nothing to haue the zeale of God without knowledge : the Iewes being blinde thought that they had the zeale of God , yet were they sacrilegious vnto the sonne of the Almighty , for they being ignorant of the righteousnes which came by the sonne of God , thought to cleaue wholye vnto their owne rightcousnesse , and so refused to submit themselues vnto the righteousnes of Christ , where vnto they ought to haue cleaued , Origen . The first occasion of well doing is the commendation of honest actions : for praise begetteth zeale : zeale procureth vertue , and vertue acquireth blisse , and this is the principall marke whereat all honest mens actions are chiefly bent . Nazian. The zeale of the Lord is a grace which searcheth and ouercommeth , yea it infuseth it selfe into the brest of the righteous . The zeale of God is life . Those that haue the zeale of the Lord . iudge all men that are enemies vnto God to bee theirs also , although they be father , mother , brother and sister , Ambrose . There is no sacrifice so acceptable vnto the Almighty as is the zeale of soules . Greg. Zeale is the feruentnesse of the mind prone vnto compassion of nature , the punishment of offences , and the loue of grace and goodnesse : zeale therefore profitably scourgeth a bad seruant , giueth wholesome correction vnto a froward childe , and carfully obserueth the bonds of wedlock . The first by punishment , the second by compassion , and the third by loue . Hugo . The Lord in his zeale will consume those that walke stubbornely after the inuention of their owne hartes . Deut. 29. 20. Blessed is the man that is zealous for the Lord of hoasts sake , the Lord will requite them with eternall felicitie . There is a zeale vnto life , and a zeale vnte death , the zeale vnto life keepeth Gods commandements , and for his name sake abhorreth to doe euill , such was the zeale of Phinees . The Lord of his mercie grant that we may be all zealous for his sake , and not suffer so many abuses vncontrouled as now we do .