Certaine conceptions, or, Considerations of Sir Percy Herbert, upon the strange change of peoples dispositions and actions in these latter times directed to his sonne.

Against Atheism .

IN the first Place , if any do suppose , that there is no God , or omnipotent Disposer of all things , with a certain kinde of order , but as if by chance every creature did produce and suffer increase and diminution , without any further design and intention , the opinion is not onely most ridiculous , but even repugnant to Nature it self , which seems to pretend an orderly Rule in all her Actions and Effects ; for that besides the general confusion it would soon bring upon each production , in regard Seeds in every Species , could not in a short time but jar amongst themselves , wanting the true mixture , by the application of those helps necessary for Increase and Continuance , as Sun and Rain with the like , without which all generations would quickly perish , it is evident the ancient Philosophers meerly by the compulsion of Reason , without any manner of Revelation from Heaven , were forced against their Wills and Appetites not onely to confess some Supernatural and Divine Operatour , that made the World and commanded at first the course of the Heavens , with the influence of the Planets , that they might be proportionable to the Commodity and Subsistence of lower Motions ; But also acknowledged one single Essence and Deity , as Master of every Creation , since they knew divided Powers could not be omnipotent , in respect they might have several Wills which must needs produce diverse Effects tending to confusion , by which means things would not be conveniently governed and ordered to Subsistence and Increase : Besides , we may fall upon this consideration , that there was never yet any people upon earth , how Barbarous soever in their understanding , and rude and ignorant in their conversations , though separated from all possibility of Instruction , but by the very documents of Nature it self , did use a formal Sacrifice , or exteriour Worship to some god or other , whom they did in a sort fear and reverence , though they had not knowledge sufficient by education , to distinguish rightly who he was , or what were his Attributes : Again , it hath been observed that scarce any Atheist , how wilde and blasphemous soever , in his discourses , and infamous and dissolute in his course of life , but at the sudden apprehension of death or some other imminent danger , would seem to cast up his eyes to Heaven , as demanding a kind of assistance in his necessity , being induced thereunto , onely by a natural instinct of feare , though perhaps in perfect safty , he would be either of another opinion , or of a different comportment ; which shews there is somthing supernatural , that compelleth man to acknowledge and reverence his Creator , let his will be never so perverse , who must be honoured in spight of all wickedness : Further let us but cast our looks upon the Plants of the Earth , with their wonderful effects , and we shall see every where , such diversity of kinds , both in shew and operation , and yet proceeding but from one Womb , that it would amaze our consideration to learn to know how they could be distinguished in their growth , not having any relation at all to each other , which certainly cannot be without some Divine providence : In like manner we may behold every little Bird naturally to have a several way of building its Nest , according to the same Species he is of , which Form constantly he maintains though he be never so far distant from others of that kinde , however he is not capable , either of art or imitation , and with all as soon as the young are out of the shell , they can readily without instruction , provide for their own safety and commodity , without Practice or Information , whether it be to defend themselves , against the violence of ravenous creatures , though they never saw the like before , or to seek those nutriments which their welfare requires : As for example Ducks presently after they are hatched will covet the water , though Chickings cannot by any means be induced to enter into a pool , for fear of being drowned , for that Nature teacheth them they may not swim , having no other experience for that Science , then what their omnipotent Creator hath Divinely infused into them for their preservation : Whereas of the contrary man is not endued with such timely foresight ( though he be of a far more noble making ) because his wise God sees it not necessary for his present being , in that he hath ordained him reasonable creatures for his defence , and to take care of him whilest he is young , which I say shews a high providence beyond all dispute : Again , who is it hath placed so admirable a property in the Loadstone , and keeps the Sea within his bounds ? notwithstanding the continual course of so many Rivers , which else would exceede according to the rule of other waters , to the destruction of the whole World , but he that hath designed all things to work convenient effects , by his omnipotency towards preservation , since no Schollership or Learning is able to give convincing Testimonies of either : And last of all it may be considered , that man being the noblest of Creatures visible , if there were not somthing above him , he himself should be the orderer of nature , since all things else we see want Sence or Reason , and man also not knowing its uttermost bounds , we must conclude he was created by a more excellent Essence ; As for Example , we see this huge Ball of the Earth hangs in the ayre , without any support , contrary to the nature of all solid bodies that ever fall downwards , by the meer compulsion of their weight ; so that of necessity there is somthing more powerful then Nature , that commands it against its course , which cannot be man , because he is not onely ignorant of this , but many other misteries . Again , it is unpossible that Nature can be this omnipotent Eternity , for that we see her in most things subject to accident , and apparantly decays dayly in her productions , which shews she is not Perfect and Independant , and therefore can be no god ; for man being her best piece , is born infirm , lives a time with trouble , and at last dyes by Violence or Age , all which seems to be to little purpose , for the being of the World , without any other designe or end : Wherefore we may conclude , that somthing above either man or nature must needs order all things according to his pleasure , for some use more then ordinary , since certainly his works can be no more in vain , then himself can be without eternity , and how his intensions can be less then to an eternal end : I cannot see the least reason , that ought to administer any occasion of dispute , however for orders sake , we may discourse in this manner .

For the Immortality of the soul. That as this mighty omnipotent and all powerful God , hath here created a most large and beautiful World , full of all kinde of useful varieties , so must this world be created to some other effects , then onely to produce and consume , without any other purpose or designe : And what could the intention of this creation be , but to preserve some immortal thing , ordained for Gods own proper and particular Use and Service , which can never end ? neither is it possible that this thing , or subject of Gods intention , can be any other , then mans reasonable Soul , in which he hath placed so clear an understanding , differing from all creatures else in a most high measure , since Beasts , Birds , and the like , are endued onely with Life and Sense , whereas man alone enjoys the fruition of Reason , by which he comes to know , the very nature almost of all other things : But here perhaps may be alledged , that we give too great a prerogative to mans Soul , since he doth no more exceed other creatures in knowledge , then one creature seems to pass another in subtilty , which shews degrees , as they say , of excellency in ordination , though not perfection in mans Creation : Unto which Objection , I shall briefly make this Answer , That as it had been an needless or impertinent thing ( as I intimated before ) for God Almighty , to have made the World with its Beauties , meerly for mans Subsistence ( as being held the best of Creatures ) and himself to be created to no other end , but onely to live and dye , and others to succeed him , which is nothing else , but to go round in a Circle , without either design , intention or purpose ; Which certainly as this cannot stand with the nature of Gods Wisdom , so of the other side , it may easily be determined , by any reasonable judgement , how far the capacity of mans soul goes beyond the understanding of all other creatures , that were ever yet made in the world , since he is able , a knowing way by the very strength of reason , not onely in times of danger and necessity , to call upon his Maker with some confidence for assistance , ( which no other living thing will be able to do , by all the instruction can be infused into him by humane Art whatsoever ) but even in some sort , can define his Creators very Nature and Essence , by those Rules given him by Divinity and Philosophy , allowing and disproving them if there be occasion , by his own natural Reason and Apprehension : Which is a difference of so high a prerogative , that by it we resemble Gods own Image , in foreseeing , judging , and distinguishing of good and evil , right and wrong , as also between ignorance and science , whereas other creatures carry about with them only Sense and Memory , that serves them but for subsistence and preservation , being all they need for the end they were made , which was alone for mans use and commodity : For no person in his right wits will tell me that an Elephant , or a Fox ( they being esteemed the wisest , and most intelligible of creatures ) can be instructed by all the learning in the world , for never so many years together , to govern a Kingdom , lead an Army , or give convenient Counsel in matters of difficulty , much less to know the orderly course of the Planets : Wherefore I must conclude , that as there is no comparison between mans Understanding , and other Animals , of what excellency soever , so God Almighty having given mans reasonable soul , so principal a preheminency above other creatures , it must be that if any thing ordained for eternity , and eternal somthing must be ( as I said before ) for which this great world was made , since his Wisdom , Goodness , and omnipotency , could not act any thing in vain , which of necessity must follow , if man should onely live to dye after a while , without injoying any further happiness or end : As for Example , it would be esteemed a very great madness ( or at leastwise a palpable indiscretion in humane Actions ) for any person to breed and nourish living creatures , without some intention , either to supply his necessities or please his senses : Much more ridiculous to think God Almighty ( that is not subject at all to error ) should create and preserve what , he did not intend for some purpose : Wherefore I say this divine Essence , as he cannot be capable of these or any other Passions and Defects , so would he not have made this world , without an intention conducing to eternity for their sakes , to whose use the earth was ordained at the first : Since all his operations can tend to no lower an end in every of his Works , which must be infinite like to himself : of the other side , certainly this Object of his , can be no other then the Soul of man ; he onely of all other creatures , being indued with a reasonable and noble Understanding , and therefore pleased it should participate of a Glory ( out of his infinite mercy ) that could not be created , because his sublime goodness never intended any thing directly for destruction , but by way of accident , or rather provoked thereunto by his necessary Justice for his eternal Honour : But if mans reasonable Soul should be Mortal , as some Fools perhaps may ridiculously suppose , what priviledge hath his excellent creation above other inferiour creatures , over whom he is ordained Lord and Master , nay rather I may say apparent disadvantages , since not onely most living things exceed him in the Faculties , and Use of their Senses , but also in not being subject to the unhappiness of the perturbation of the minde , upon the arival of worldly accidents , which may be esteemed the greatest afflictions of this Life : for that foreknowledge and apprehension of Death , or Miseries before they come , are a continual discomforture to all present Delights , and an interruption to that content , which should render him happy and pleased within himself ; Whereas unreasonable creatures want those perturbations of thought and apprehension , to afflict them : So that if man had not Immortality to expect , in lieu of such sufferings , I might truly affirm his Creator had done him much injury in giving him a reasonable Soul , to his further disquiet and vexation , and might justly conclude him more unfortunate in his creation , then all those creatures , over whom he is designed to govern ; which certainly his good and wise God never intended him , since he was pleased to make him so excellent in his understanding : And so I end with Atheism , though I must again fall upon a new Dispute , concerning Infidelity , which is no other , then to doubt something of the Person or Passion of our Saviour .

That our Saviour was the true Messias .

WE shall begin with the time of Christs coming in the Flesh , which apparently was foretold , should be when the Jews Scepter was to be taken away from the right Line , and a general Peace proclaimed over the face of the Earth : Both these , I say , were punctually fulfilled at his Blessed Birth ; insomuch as not onely Herod who then wore the Diadem of Jury , was a meer stranger as well by Extraction as by Nation , but also the Temple of Ianus , was then shut up in Rome , the accustomed Ceremony belonging to such a Iubily of Pacification : Next it was plainly Prophesied by many places in Holy Scripture , that the Iews in time to come , should be discarded for their impiety , and the Gentiles to be Elected in their Rooms : All which we see at this day so exactly performed , that they are not onely scattered over the Earth without Honour or Dominion ( being a Scandal and Reproach to all other Countries ) but have not so much , as either Temple or Priest , to offer their Sacrifice or exercise their Rights , whilst of the contrary , we behold the Christian Religion , most gloriously to flourish amongst the Gentiles , almost over the whole world , to the absolute abolishing of all the ancient Idols , which in the Primitive times were so generally esteemed and worshipped , that whosoever refused their adorations , were to undergo the worst of torments , for their contempt ; however , this Faith of ours had no visible encouragement to humane eyes ; but of the contrary , was frighted by horrid terrours received from the blood of Martyrs , and yet these people were onely perswaded to their constant and admirable belief , by the poor and simple Preaching of a few unlearned and contemptible Fishermen , insomuch , as great and wise Doctors in a manner in an instant , gave up their lives willingly , to most exasperated and cruel Tyranny , in witness and confirmation of that blessed Truth , notwithstanding the opinions themselves that they were taught , were against all appetites , and Sense of man , which of necessity must imply , that these strange and suddain opperationses , could proceed from no other thing but divine instigation : Besides , we see according to many Predictions of the Prophets , that Kings and Queens , are become nursing fathers and mothers to this holy Faith , with so much alacrity , that they are not onely content to submit to the Churches jurisdiction , but in a manner lay down their glorious Crowns and Scepters , ( with the more humility ) to prostrate their persons , at the steps of this Tribunal : which certainly is beyond all humane apprehension to conceive ; since neither honour , profit , nor worldly felicity , seems to attend the intention of their practices : Neither had the Doctrine at the first , ( as I say ) any probability to be believed ; for that it taught such strange and unheard of mysteries , that could not come almost within the compass of any brain to invent . And surely if man onely had been the Author of this change , he would have devised some more easie way to have pleased flesh and blood , or to have better satisfied peoples understandings : much less would Jesus Christ in the very infancy of this belief , have subjected not onely himself , but all his Disciples , to such penurions want , and most intolerable torments ; accompanyed with nothing else but contempt and scorn , without any hope at all , either of benefit , honour , or reward , if as an Impostor onely , he had intended the deceiving of the people , for his own vain glory . Next , if we consider , the most woful and lamentable destruction of Ierusalem , to happen so directly according to our Saviours saying , though that City was then at the present , in an extraordinary flourishing condition ; and in a perfect subjection to the Romans , whose Emperour the inhabitants professed to serve , love , and honour , before all the world , we may easily perceive , that no less then a Divine Spirit could have uttered those Prophesies , as also hapning immediately after his death and passion , it was most apparant , a heavenly hand onely punished their impiety , both for the cruelty used towards his person , as in regard of their obstinacy in refusing his Doctrine , denying him to be their spiritual King : which curse also hath continued ever since upon their condition as a remarkable plague for their ingratitude ; whilst of the contrary ( as we see ) God Almighty hath advanced his own glory every where , by striking dumb all the Oracles of the Divel , notwithstanding they have been violently supported , by the Art and power of tyrannical Princes over the world : until at last , we may behold these great Monarchs of the the earth , forced to submit themselves to the belief and jurisdiction of that seeming contemptible Church in the beginning , which they had most maliciously persecuted ; insomuch , as at this present , there is not to be found any Nation or persons , of the Pagan Religion any where ; however that opinion was wont to entertain the pens and actions of multitudes of great and learned Philosophers , for many hundreds of yeers together , accompanyed with the delusions of their false gods ; which now are all vanished into smoak ; and the Christian Faith alone dilated amongst the Gentiles everywhere , to the wonder of all humane consideration ; again , we may reflect upon that saying of holy Scripture , as a further testimony to this Truth , against the Jewes : I have no will in your offerings , nor gifts will I receive at your hands , for from the rising of the Sun to the going down of the same , my Name is great among the Gentiles ; and in every place there shall be sacrificing , and a pure offering offered to my Name : Which intimates no other , then that the Jewes were to be despised and turned off , and the Gentiles introduced into their places . A Prophecie so plainly verified in these dayes , that we do not onely see , the Jewes and their Religion laid aside , with the general calling of the Gentiles , but also this oblation every where offered by the Christians , consisting onely in one thing , and performed after one manner , though in many places ; whereas the Sacrifices and Ceremonies of the Jews were divers , both in matter and form , as well as the performing thereof was confined to one place : besides , we might bring not onely the Confessions of the heathen Oracles themselves , for the Divinity and Godhead of our Saviour , but the ancient prophecies of the Sibyls , allowed , approved , and preserved ; with a great deal of veneration by the Roman Monarchy and other Commonwealths , if there were any need either to strengthen our Testimonies , or confute other opinions ; to which we may adde these considerations , that it is not probable that so poor a beginning as had first the Christian Religion , against the sense and appetite of humane nature , persecuted with violence in the very infancy of the Church , countenanced by none but despicable people , and the belief of it self grounded only on imaginable fruition , her mysteries in a manner not being conceiveable almost by the highest capacity , should so suddainly increase , and so long continue , notwithstanding all the oppositions from time to time sustained , both from Craft and Tyranny ; if this sacred Truth were not supported by an omnipotencie , not to be contended against by all the power of earth and Hell : Wherefore I must conclude , that as these proofs are sufficient to any indifferent understanding , whereby to convince all men of Infidelity , touching the Divinity of our Saviour , and the truth of his suffering for our offences ; so are we obliged to observe his precepts in particular , if we hope to receive benefit by his death , as they are declared in the same holy Scriptures . And consequently ought , under the pain of a most terrible condemnation to abate in us , if not the appetites , yet at leastwise the practice and violence of sin , that seems in this corrupt age , to take so much possession of our persons and actions , as if Religion were turned , onely to a vast Chaos of confused liberty , without temper or morality .

In which wild exercise of preposterous sensuality , perhaps many are confirmed out of some presumptuous hope , that God Almighty doth not readily look upon the transgressions of guilty offenders .

The punishment of the Angels against all vain Presumption .

AGainst which pernicious fancie , may be brought this Discourse , First we will begin with the Angels before the creation of the world , as it may be believed according to some opinions , who were the perfectest of all creatures , & in whom God intended not only to shew his power & goodness , but his Justice and hate of sin , for as he made them in the highest degree of happiness , to express his Majesty ; so he punished their single offence , to shew his equity , not in any kinde pardoning them , in regard of the sublimity of their making , since knowing him best in doing any thing against his Divinity , they could not but offend him most ; wherefore he , as I say , neither put limitation nor condition to their punishments ; for as his omnipotency was by them more cleerly discerned , by reason of their excellent nature , so was the eternity of their unhappiness to be without redemption , for abusing so much that knowledge , the more justly inflicted upon them , both for our future examples , that we might not too much presume and for the declaration of his own glory , who will be always just : each appearing as well in the blasphemies of the damned , as in the adoration of the blessed ; since all creatures actions are alike to his Godhead , neither rendring him more nor less then he is : for as by the participation onely of his goodness , we receive benefit according to that obedience we shew in performing his Commandments , so of the contrary , if we do not fullfil his will , we must not think to escape correction , because he never goes from himself ; for he can no more comply with sin , then he can lay down his Divinity ; being both attributes of his eternal essence : and therefore , as he spared not these excellent spirits , meerly out of his justice , though it were but onely in one single thought of pride , we must not think to be protected by his mercy , committing dayly so many crimes .

In the next place we must reflect upon the punishment of man for his transgression , The punishment of man for his transgression in Paradise . who as he had less knowledge of his Creator in his sinning , so was he more gently used in Gods indignation ; for notwithstanding he deserved also a perpetual condemnation for his offence , in regard of the eternal majesty against whom he rebelled , yet by reason of the natural frailty of his condition , by which he was more subject to erre in being made of earth , God was pleased to annex certain conditions , and provisoes to the sentence ; nevertheless , with so high a consideration of his own justice , that he would no otherwise give him any hope of pardon , then by the assurance of the death of his onely son ; having decreed in his eternal wisdome , that no lower a price could make satisfaction , to appease his divine wrath conceived against man , for having broken his Commandments , then an omnipotent pawn , since as man had offended his Creator , no less then a Creator was to redeem the offence ; by reason of his heavenly justice , that necessarily seemed to exact so high a condition : wherefore , as I say , there was no other way left , but for the Son of God to take upon him our flesh and blood , because as God in his own nature could not suffer , so our nature onely could not satisfie , without some divine conjunction ; which are most convincing Arguments to shew the extream severity of God Almighties justice , when he would not fall upon any other means for our Redemption : however , we see that although the Son of God was designed to perform this mysterious service to his Father , for our benefit ; which goodness is not to be comprehended by all the mortal thoughts in the world , much less to be requited by any humane action or endeavour ; yet for all this excessive love expressed to mankind , God was not pleased presently to bring him into Heaven , or place him again in his earthly Paradise , but on the contrary , enjoyned him a continual penance , which was , to get his living all the days of his life by the sweat of his brows , and withal ordained his wife to bring forth children with pain and travail , as temporal punishments designed to each , whereby they might also in their own persons satisfie Gods justice , in regard of their own first disobedience , over and besides the sufferings of our Saviour : which playnly demonstrateth , that this great God of ours will not be so easily pacified , however the presumption and lunatick fancies of many , may suggest to their overweening appetites , a hope to enter into heaven , accompanied with all the delights of the world ; as if we were here only for our pleasures , and not for the necessary maintenance of a pilgrimage upon earth , which is to work forth our salvation with industry , care and trembling .

Again , we may consider Cain , the first man that was born of a woman , The punishment of Cain . who however his sin was extraordinary , yet the original proceeded from a kind of penuriousness in his nature , onely to preserve his best things from the consuming fire of Sacrifice , which notwithstanding was so resented by his Lord and Maker , that he not onely permitted him to fall into those horrid crimes of envy and murther , but presently chased him from the society of all good people , with a kinde of a loathing terrour to himself , laying a general curse upon his whole posterity , who after were totally destroyed in the universal stood , with those they had corrupted , for whose punishment that deluge was sent upon the face of the earth , as an apparant mark of Gods indignation against wicked persons , who are not alwayes alone chastised for the offences they commit , but also oftentimes in their posterity ; since it is not to be doubted , but some of those that perished in the general destruction pleased God in their actions , as is intimated by the second Epistle of St. Peter .

Next we will remember Cham , The chastisement of Cham. the unfortunate son of Noah , who onely for his irreverence to his fathers frailty , was eternally punished ; upon which occasion receiving his curse , he was instantly banished from his presence , and for his offence became the father of a most impious and rebellious Nation , both against God and man : insomuch as tyrannical Nimrod his grandchild , after he had presumptuously made war against heaven , in the building of that stupendious Tower of Babel , where his proud works were confounded by the diversity of languages , he set up the first Idolatry , causing himself to be worshipped as a God : from whence hath proceeded errour , wickedness and damnation ever since to people , until the force of our blessed Saviours bitter Passion absolutely destroyed all those lying Oracles , that so long deluded the earth , with the false opinions of that pretended true Religion .

The affliction of the Jewes . Here we must introduce the story of the Jewes : A people particularly elected out of mankinde , to be the objects of Gods love and care , as another example of his justice : for , however their punishments were but proportionable to their knowledge of his Divine essence , in regard they were not so perfect as Adam , to understand his will and pleasure , who in Paradise had absolute power to forbear sin , and do good ; so were their chastisements for the most part but temporary and worldly ; not imposed upon them and their posterity eternally as his was : yet if we look upon their many sufferings and captivities , we shall finde , notwithstanding that God Almighty did not forget their offences , permitting but two of all that numerous Army , that came out of Aegypt , to enter into the Land of Promise , the onely hope and desired period of all their tedious travels ; in which number Moses that most excellent servant of God , and indefatigable Captain , also was included , by reason of some small defect , in the execution of his Office , which not onely shews the impartiality of God Almighties justice , as well towards those he loves , as to them he hates , but may very cleerly admonish us against the fancy of presumption , in that our Creator can no more comply with sin , or pardon it without our repentance and satisfaction , then he can leave off the Attributes of his own Divinity and Omnipotency .

Again , The punishment of Eli the Priest , with Saul and others we may consider the rigid severity of his justice , in the further progresse of this story , however to avoid prolixity , we shall onely name a few examples of those particular persons , he seemed most to favour : and to this purpose , passing by many others most exemplar : we will begin with Eli , Samuels master , who was a man neither of an ill inclination , or visibly much defective in his Office : yet we read , that by reason of that remissnesse , he used in not punishing and reforming his children , and those Priests under his charge ( being admonished thereunto ) he not onely was chastised with the lamentable news of the death of both his sons , & the taking of the Ark by the Philistins , according as it was foretold , but suddenly broke his neck , falling from his seat , as the report was made unto him of those misfortunes : next we may reflect upon King Saul , whom God Almighty had onely pickt out to be the Prince of his people , though afterwards he became the subject of his wrath : for not enduring to hear the praises of David , whom he seemed to envy , preferring his own vain-glory before the will of God , in a short time he fell to be such a ●● wards became a also monument of destruction , in only looking back upon that dreadful spectacle contrary to Gods commandment , perhaps with some repining appetites , in regard of those pleasures she was unwillingly forced to foregoe .

The children of Israels sensuality punished . Again , it is to be noted , that the children of Israel having freed themselves from their intolerable slavery of Egypt , by their miraculous passing the Red Sea , under the conduct of Moses : yet because in their journey ( with too much sensuality ) they called to minde the flesh pots they had left behinde , were not onely continued wandring in the Desarts of Arabia , for forty yeers together , bitten with Serpents , and often times pined with hunger , but at last lost their lives , and wasted out their dayes , in that peregrination , insomuch , as but two persons onely of the whole numerous company ( as I said before ) born in Egypt , were permitted by the just judgement of Almighty God , to enter into the Land of Promise , which flowed with milk and honey , notwithstanding God Almighty had designed them to be his elected people ; and whose posterity afterward , accordingly did supplant other Nations .

From this Discourse , we will proceed to the consideration , of the several fates of the four great Empires of the world , The fate of the four Monarchies of the world , and first of the Assyrians . since they are so largely mentioned in holy Scripture , to be Prophetically figured by divine revelation . To which purpose , we may begin with the Assyrians , in order to ancient Histories , as well humane as sacred , wherein it is recorded , that when as Balthazar the last King , perceived the judgement of God pronounced both against his life and Dominion , by the dreadful hand-writing upon the Wall , which none could interpret but Daniel ; himself and his Concubines , were then riotously feasting without care or trouble , in the mighty City of Babylon , which according to the foresaid Prediction , Cyrus that very night took by surprize , not onely to their confused amazement , but in confirmation of Gods indignation against such sensual stupidity , that leaves not men any apprehension of their own danger : wherein may be also noted , that as the fall of this great Empire was probably a stupid sensuality , since the Monarch himself did not sufficiently apprehend his danger , whereby to be careful enough , to provide resistance against his enemy , being so neer him ; so of the other side , it pleased Almighty God to demonstrate unto him his own terrible fate , when he was acting the highest expressions of his luxuries and insensibility , as a more remarkable judgement against that horrid and beastly sin .

But however the Persians by this fatal and sudden conquest , Of the Persians . made themselves Masters of the Assyrian Monarchy , which they continued with property for some generations , yet it was not long , before they also fell into extream riots , and carelesness both of their persons and honours ; insomuch , as we reade , that certain Embassadours being sent from Persia into Greece , and there feasted by a King of Macedon , they became so insolently debauched , contrary to the customes of that more temperate Country , that they peremptorily demanded , to have the conversation , and company of the Grecian Ladies at their entertainment , which they supposed durst not be denyed them with a liberal freedom , as a right appertaining as they thought , to the prerogative of their calling , in being messengers , sent from the greatest Monarch in the world ; but the young Prince , ( though his father at the present was something afraid , to contradict their humours ) disdaining their carriage and insolent demands , caused both himself , and some other noble men of the Court , to be disguised in womens apparel ; and in this posture again entring the room , when the Embassadours began to be rude and lascivious , they suddenly drew out certain weapons , which to that purpose they had secretly hid under their garments , and fell upon these companies with so much fury , that their lives quickly payed the price of their inhumanity ; which notwithstanding , ingendred such a quarrel between the two Nations , that never ended until Alexander the great became absolute master of both , by the overthrow of the last Darius , who also came to battle against him triumphing , with all his Concubines in a most profuse way of sensuality ; which presently after was punished , not onely in the absolute losse of all his vast Dominions , but by a most lamentable and ignominious death in his own person .

Which conquest brought the Monarchy of the world to the Grecian power , Of the Grecian Monarchy . until their licentiousness also lost it to the Romans : for Percius their last King , having by his unworthy and false disposition , exasperated the Senate of Rome , they sent the Consul Paulus Aemylius into Greece , with a strong Army to chastise him for his basenesse ; whom being overcome and brought with some intention of honour ( in regard of his quality ) to the presence of the General : yet behaving himself most poorly and ignominiously , unbecoming his person , though in his prosperity he was both proud and sensual , he was so disdained by the Consul , and hated by the souldiers , that presently after the triumph , he was put to a most cruel death in Prison by his keepers , who could not endure his person : whilst in the interim his eldest son and heir , became a common Register in Rome , the onely means left him to gain his subsistence .

And thus ended also that great and sometimes famous Empire , The fate or declining of the Roman Empire by reason of luxury . which continued in the Romans the last of the four , until that Empire became in process of time also drowned in luxury , according to the report of many authentical Authors , who affirm that Brutus and Cassius were held to be the last of the Romans , or onely brave persons of the age , endued with noble Spirits , and free from sloathful sensuality , insomuch , as that once gallant people within some yeers , were absolutely captivated again , under a base & slavish Tyranny , as they had been formerly by licentious Tarquin , though some gallant men now and then appeared amongst them : which Dominion remained uncertainly flowing , from one Tyrant to another , till the unlearned Turks ( that at present enjoy the fruitfullest of their Dominions ) became Masters of their chief Country ( as namely Greece ) that in past ages was esteemed Mistress of the world , both for Art and Valour , whilst temperance governed her actions : though now it be become of so base a production , that the people thereof have left them neither Science nor courage , but of the contrary , are wrought at present into so unworthy a stupidity , with their continual excesses , that ( as 't is observed in their dispositions ) they would not be delivered from their slavery if they might , lest they might be put to the exercise of any laborious industry in the world , according to the custom of other free Nations ; and in this condition are content to see their children taken from them by force , to be used at the pleasure of their Lords ; either to be sold in the common Markets , or reserved for the vilest Offices .

As these examples are convincing enough , to shew the judgements of God upon sensual and luxurious Countries in the general , Concerning the change in our own native Country . so may we turn our eyes of consideration upon our own kingdome , which no doubt ( as I have said before ) abounded with all manner of vice , before these late troubles began ; insomuch as I am most confident , that the sins of the Nation without limitation , have been the chiefest causes of our misfortune and present miseries ; which certainly requires rather an acknowledgement by sack-cloth and ashes , then an indulgent fancy to flatter our hopes , with amendment of the times . To this purpose we may call to minde , the flourishing state of our Country not many yeers since ; when every man seemed in peace with a most quiet security , to sit under his own Vine-Tree ; whereas now we enjoy nothing certain but troubles and vexations : the Nobility possessed priviledges of Princes , that now are scarce equal to Shoo-makers : the Gentry living in their brave houses furnished with all kinde of varieties both for pleasure and profit , and now those that are yet left standing , serve them but for more convenient prisons : the Commonalty that were accustomed to pay nothing out of their estates , are now constrained to defray the expences of many Armies , that scarce will let suffer them one night to lie in their beds quietly : the Clergy that bore jurisdiction in their several Parishes and Provinces , are now forced to quit their habitations and livings ; the Lawyers that commanded respect and money from Clyents , know not at present what Law is to be observed : the Universities filled every where with dainty wits and Learning , are derided for their over much knowledge : and last of all may be considered the rich City of London , that seemed to rule over the Ocean , and arbitrate the Trade of the world , is now so much impoverished , that it dares not set ships to Sea for fear of being robbed ; all which being confessed , we may very well conceive some divine anger and revenge hath caused this sudden change , especially the issue being not yet determined .

But if these representations be not of sufficient force to move our considerations in a convenient sense of our own danger , and by consequence to stir us up to some moderation in our courses , yet let us see whether there be left any spark of religious hónour in our dispositions ; so far as to be perswaded by the extraordinary love of Almighty God alwayes shewed to mankinde from his first Creation to more goodness , since it may be supposed no reasonable creature can be so unworthy , as not by way of humane gratitude , to be willing to repay some requital for benefits received : at leastwise to expresse desires of acknowledgement , though we may want an absolute power to do what we would in regard of our own frailty : and the rather do I use these just perswasions , for that it shall appear by the following Discourse , that God Almighty hath taken more care in the preservation and salvation of mankinde , then in conserving the very Angels in heaven .

Considerations of gratitude in regard of Gods goodness and love shewed to man-kinde .

CErtainly , however we must confess , that those Spirits were created to enjoy a perpetual and a most sublime blessedness , yet were they not the ordained in so certain a condition of continuance , but that they were subject to fall , as afterwards multitudes of them did , and the rest were constrained to confirm their establishment by a most sharp encounter with Lucifer , and his ateendants , over whom at last they got a most glorious and heavenly victory , through the constancy of their wills to serve their Lord and Creator by an intire spiritual obedience . Wherein as I may say , Gods justice appeared something severe to their adversaries , if we reflect but upon the extraordinary mercies shewed unto our selves upon all occasions : for that he imposed upon the fallen Angels an eternal condemnation and punishment without revocation or hope of redemption by the observation of any new injunction : whereas he did not alone at the first make man with an intention to bestow upon him that happiness which they had lost , but implyed an infinity of love and care to preserve him still in the same capacity : for when he had placed him in that delitious Garden with an absolute power and free-will to do good or evil , which was plentifully furnished with all the ornaments of nature , for the commodity of his being and subsistence , he onely imposed upon him one single Commandment no way seeming difficult to be observed : and notwithstanding he soon broke this easie precept by the peevish frailty of his nature that overcame his Grace ; yet God Almighty neverthelesse , was so far from not having compassion of his person , and taking commiseration of his offence , that immediately he promised him Redemption by the death of his Son ; as also the more to honour the contemptible substance of his Creation , being nothing but earth , he obliged our blessed Saviour to take upon him the very cloathing of our flesh and blood , because all man might also be capable of a perfect felicity , and enjoy a priviledge and Prerogative beyond all the Quires of Angels in Heaven : Who not onely stood most stupendiously amazed at the favour bestowed upon mankinde , but the very Devils themselvs , that then were also Angels , foreseeing the mystery in regard of the excellency of their knowledg , became perpetually damned , onely for endeavouring to resist Gods will and pleasure in that intention : which exprest above so much beyond all humane apprehension , that the consideration of it onely is able to confound all our actions , and astonish our thoughts to the day of judgement , if this dull sensuality of our natures did not so much intangle our senses , with worldly concernments , that the cleer faculties of our Soul , cannot operate at all nobly to our advantage . And yet further to shew the continuance of God Almighties affection towards man ; although his just wrath had chased Adam out of Paradise , as from a place onely intended for his innocency , yet he did not presently commit his person to some dark and horrid prison , there to be deservedly punished according to the nature of his offence , for the breach of his former injunction , in part of satisfaction until his Salvation could be effected , by the Passion and death of his dear and onely Son , as his Mercy had determined ; but put him into a world created with all manner of convenient varieties , for his necessary recreations , though to be injoyned with labour and pains to keep down the stubborn rebellions of his flesh ; and in the interim comforted him with continual hopes of his speedy Redemption with many promises , to make his posterity by Grace a most glorious Nation above others , until more particularly Abraham setled both a Church and people in his own family : so that Iacob his grand-childe having many sons , from whence proceeded the twelve Tribes , though they were by accident brought into Egypt , where they were forced to confess their sin against their brother Ioseph , for which fact , as it may be supposed , their posterity were detained captives for some hundred of yeers , to shew that God had not altogether forgot the offence : yet being afterwards released , by the religious and painful conduct of that great and good Captain Moses , whom God Almighty had specially chosen to put an end to his peoples miseries , he established them as a particular Nation of his own , whereby to be worshipped with some form and order , from whence his own Son also and their Messias was to come in the flesh ; notwithstanding they never left murmuring in their journey , not onely against their Commanders , but even at God himself , which shewed , they carryed still with them the former corruptions of nature , and ingratitude with augmentation : however , he neverthelesse bare with their peevish disobedience , until he brought their posterity into that Land promised to Abraham & his Seed , as if his whole thoughts had been imployed onely in their consideration , since the like rebellious proceeding from such multitudes of preservations could not probably be imagined , to have almost come from the damned themselves . And there as I say being arrived , he never left their protection , until they had absolutely subdued all their enemies to their mercy , they possessing in the interim their Territories , with so many signal victories , that those parts of the world began to be terrifyed with their fame : insomuch , as at last becoming so prosperous in their peace and tranquillity , that needs they would have a King to govern them , according to the custom of other Nations : Which also being granted them by God Almighty , he gave them one amongst the rest , the most glorious and wisest Prince that then lived upon earth , according to the relation of his greatnesse and wisdom , particularized in holy Scripture : who was not onely visited and courted by forraign powers at a very great distance , but built also such a Temple for the Jewes seruice by the presence and assistance of other Kings , as an additional honour to his own extraordinary riches and splendour , that the like Fabrick was not again to be seen in the whole world : and thus they continued their reign and glory , until Solomons Idolatry and their own sins divided the kingdom into two parts , by which means they suffered many captivities ; however their gracious God never totally forsook them , still interviewing their chastisements with multitudes of consolations by holy Prophets and other Revelations concerning his pleasure and their own Salvation : sometimes sending them home to build up again their Temple , and other while scourging them for their wickednesse ; intermixing , alwayes blessings with punishments , as if his own glory had chiefly consisted in their good , until at last finding their stubbornness was incorrigible by ordinary means , he sent amongst them his own Son our most dear Saviour , not onely to redeem all mankinde , but to teach them new Lawes both of Morality and Divinity ; but they now being come to the uttermost period of all wickedness and ingratitude , were so far from entertaining this sweet guest with love and wisdom , that they handled him with so much cruelty , that if all the barbarous Tyrants in the world , had been assembled together in Councel , to have performed acts of inhumanity , they could not have invented more transcendent cruelties against innocency : so that we may say even God Almighty , was forced to cast these people out of his favour , who were not to be reformed by any means he could use ; however , because he would not yet forget man , whom he had bought with the precious pawn of his own blood , according to his gracious assurance given to Adam after he had chased him out of Paradise , he chose to himself a new Church of the Gentiles , not in one place , but dispersed over the face the earth , to render his goodnesse more general , though much against his will by reason of those promises he had made to Abraham concerning his paticular Seed , which is most plainly verified in those sayings of holy Scripture , where it is affirmed , that often he would have gathered them together , as a hen inviteth her chickens under her wings and protection , but they would not : But to come yet more neer to our apprehensions , if not to procure in our souls both love and amazement , let us but consider in particular what our Saviour Christ personally suffered for man kinde ; which certainly he might have forborn , if it had not been in regard of his unmeasurable and infinite goodnesse , since our salvation cannot any way benefit his majesty , or increase his honour ; wherefore it was meerly for our sakes , that he hath been willing to do these wonderful things , to prevent our perpetual damnation , which his divine justice must otherwise have inflicted necessarily upon our unhappy persons : by which considerations let us unpartially weigh , what gratitude we owe such a Redeemer , especially when we are to receive the onely good by it our selves .

Christs particular persecution .

TO this purpose we may begin , first with the persecution of his very infancy , by that bloody and proud Tyrant Herod , to preserve with greater security ( as he thought ) that kingdom which he had unjustly usurped by the Romans power from anothers right ; notwithstanding his own Conscience told him ( by the inquiry he made of the wise men , and the resolution of the Doctors thereupon ) that he was the true Messias long expected : which not onely caused his most long and tedious journey into Egypt with his mother , not sufficiently provided , as it may be believed , of convenient necessaries , but was a cause after their return that he was constrained a long season to obscure himself to prevent the like danger , having heard of the murther of so many children , in regard , Herods son then reigned in his fathers place : wherein ( as it may be supposed ) Jesus onely took upon him the ordinary helps of humanity , since it was not needful to make use of the demonstrates of his divine power towards the conversion of those people whom he came in the flesh to save : in which affliction it may be imagined , or rather considered , that he not onely underwent the sufferings of the body , but in some sort the passions of the minde belonging to man , and so consequently was grieved at exteriour accidents , with the rest of his friends , living in this poor , contemptible and needy manner about thirty yeers together ; all that while performing such ordinary labours as belonged to the meannesse of that condition , which for our sakes he was pleased to enter into , whereby the better to conceale or shade the bright rayes of his Divinity from humane eyes , until the time should come for the declaration of his glory : but at last being called by the secret decrees of his Almighty father to preach to the Jewes , he continued at least three yeers , doing such stupendious miracles , and shewing forth such acts of austerity and penance , as were able almost to convert the Divels to goodnesse : however , his own people were so far from hearing and believing him , that instead of following his Doctrine , and obeying his jurisdiction , that they brought him to a most shameful condemnation before a heathen Judge , with all the spight , malice , and ingratitude could be imagined ; in the circumstances of which persecution , may be considered these particulars following .

More particulars of Christs persecution and sufferings . First , That he was betrayed by no other , then one of his own chosen Disciples , with whose losse he could not be but extreamly grieved in his thoughts : by whom , as I say , he was delivered into the cruel hands of his worst enemies , though until then esteemed his onely people ; and in whose company he had conversed for some yeers , with all the sweetness of behaviour could be practised , in the interim performing so many acts of charity , both by his miraculous cures and continual instructions , that it might have taught a new humanity to al the monsters upon earth , if they had been capable of reason ; but these wretches , notwithstanding , brought him before Pilate , fast bound by strong cords , with such derision and scorn , as almost could not be exampled , where they accused him with so much violence , that the Pagan himself was constrained in regard of their preposterous importunity , finding him altogether guiltless , furiously to scourge him before their faces , with an intention onely to save his innocency from death , thinking these torments , would have procured some compassion in their stony hearts : however , they persisting still in their devilish malice against his person , for no other cause , as I say , but that he had preached against their luxuries and pride , cryed out violently to the Judge , that unless he crucified him for making himself a King , contrary to the Lawes , he could be no friend to Caesar , which words of theirs so terrified the unjust and fearful President , that he delivered Barrabas a most notorious malefactor , and sent our Saviour with a company of barbarous souldiers , wearing a Crown of sharp Thorns upon his sacred head , to the common place of execution ; as also bearing his own Cross upon his bloody shoulders , for his greater contempt and indignity , where at last being arrived with many a weary and painful step , he was fastned with rough nayles to that Tree , that was ordained , though for his torment , yet for our comfort , and being after a time lifted up into the ayre between two thieves , excessively heated by his intollerable sufferings , he called for something to allay the outragiousness of his thirst : but their unexampled and most cruel inhumanity , could afford him no sweeter a mixture , but Vinegar and Gall , to give him any refreshment , as the uttermost and last period of all their wickedness and ingratitude : which several torments certainly being put together by our consideration , cannot be thought but to exceed the affliction , of all the people that ever suffered persecution : for as he was more pure and perfect in his constitution then other creatures , so by consequence must it be thought , those pains he endured were sharper and livelier tasted by his senses , in regard of the excellency of his making , then by other men , since obstructions as we know in the Organs & vital parts cause sometimes a kind of stupefaction or insensibility in the flesh & apprehension , which he was not subject unto either by nature or accident : besides we may ad , that as he was free from all the passions of vain glory or any manner of hope of future reward for his sufferings , being both God and man , so could he not be eased in his torments by those hopes which do use oftentimes to abate much of the torture in other people ; and on the other side his grief was increased all the time of his life by his omnipotent foresight , knowing before hand that he should not onely die in the general , but also what particular cruelies he was to endure , so that as I say , his imagination was alwayes full of such grievous considerations , both in regard of himself that was personally to suffer them , as also out of a dear compassion to his most beloved mother , that he knew would be present at his passion , mournfully accompanyed with his Disciples and the rest of his kindred and friends .

Secondly , If we further reflect upon the parties that used him in this manner , Other considerations concerning his sufferings . and the principal occasion of their malice , we shall finde ever causes still for the augmentation of his afflictions in many other particulars .

And to this purpose we must consider , that those who were his chief persecutors , The circumstances of his sufferings . were his own particular people , chosen above all other Nations in the world by himself to be cherished and loved , and from whom in the flesh he was naturally descended , so that it was no other then their own blood into his veynes , which they sought most lavishly and maliciously to spill , upon no other reason , but that in a sweet and mild way of conversation , accompanied with miracles and benefits , he laboured to perswade them to their own salvation , that the Gentiles might not bereave them of their ancient inheritance , possessing themselves of those places in Heaven that he wished them before others . Next what a Corrasive was it to his gentle heart and Divine soule , to see them make use of no other creature to betray his innocent person , but his own Disciple , instructed with his domestick affairs and expences , which made him most bitterly to complain , that he that eat his bread , for a little money had both unnaturally lifted up his hand against him , and had been won to undertake so great a treason , contrary to all the rules of friendship , duty , and fidelity , which almost no heathen would have performed , for any reward could have been promised .

Thirdly , after he had at his last Supper bequeathed unto his Apostles the pretious Legacie of his body and blood to remain ever amongst them as a most admirable token of his love , presently going into the Garden , to pray , and there being in an excessive agony at the remembrance of his approaching Passion , sufficiently demonstrated by those distilling drops of blood and sweat that plentifully fell upon the ground from his most blessed body , he could not obtain from his three chief Disciples , to watch one hour with him , notwithstanding his earnest entreaty , and the great gift he had a little before bestowed upon them , which cannot again but be thought extraordinary troubles to his already afflicted minde .

Fourthly , when he was apprehended by the cruel souldiers with violence and fury , certainly it could not be but some present horrour to his confused imagination as he was man , to see himself suddenly left by all his friends , who fled fearfully away to prevent the like danger to their persons ; however they should have rather chosen to have dyed with him , according to their several professions when he was yet safe amongst them . And most of all that his chief Apostle , upon whom he had conferred so high a dignity , and in whose special friendship it is to be supposed , he imposed trust and confidence , should not onely timerously amongst the rest leave him with his enemies ; but most cowardly deny him before a few contemptible servants , with oathes and protestations , being so transported with the sense of his own danger , that he would not so much as own his Masters acquaintance , in that assembly , to his further disgrace , he being at the instant most disdainfully used by all the spectators , that were present at his examination before the high Priest : which may be added to the rest of his afflictions .

The cruelty of his persecutors with his sufferings as well in minde as in body . Fiftly , we may remember that when he was brought before King Herod , who was inflamed with an earnest desire to see him in regard of the general fame that was spread abroad of his wonders and miracles , and to this purpose had an intention no doubt to have honoured his person ; of the contrary to be sent back again from his presence , with all the scorn and contempt in the world , cloathed in a white garment , either like a mad man , or a fool , which opinion the rude and barbarous souldiers prosecuted in so violent a manner , that it was one of the chiefest causes of his being crowned with Thornes , whereby in derision they might the more properly salute him as a mock King of the Jewes ; putting in the interim a contemptible Reed in his hand in lieu of a Scepter , with other ornaments of spight and disgrace over his blessed shoulders ; which instruments also they made subjects for the further augmentation of his torments , in striking him often with the Reeds upon his already wounded head , that the sharp and pricking Thorns might make the greater impressions , whereby the more to increase his anguish and pain . And last of all , we may call to minde , that when he was upon the Cross ready to yield up the Ghost , he most sorrowfully beheld his ever dear beloved and honoured mother , who never could finde in her heart to leave him in all his miseries , though those cruel spectacles abundantly augmented her inward afflictions , with eyes of no small compassion and grief standing neer him , with heavy looks and most desperate passions , bewailing her own losse and his suffering , neither being in a condition to assist one another , but by condoling language and perplexed soules , since our Saviour would not make any use at all of the prerogative of his Divinity , to moderate the sufferings of his humanity : for as man had offended the Majesty of his father , that great God could not be satisfied without an extraordinary pacification : All which , I say , may put a full period to every consideration that can possibly be imagined by any mortal apprehension ; wherein I must confesse , I do not more wonder at his goodnesse , then at his enemies cruelties and his friends forgetfulnesse , wherein would be increased my admiration , if our hearts should not be touched with something more then ordinary gratitude , and the rather for that we our are to receive the onely benefit of this due and needful consideration . For let any man take apart these infinite sufferings , setting aside the multitudes of his other mercies , and but indifferently weigh the natures of them in every particular circumstance , and I dare be bold to say , all the stories in the world cannot paint forth the like examples of cruelty , indignation and spight , either done to , or endured by what Martyrs or wicked persons soever ; much lesse should it be thought after the believing of these passions , that we were created for nothing but to be delighted with ease , quiet , and all the sensual pleasures ; our roving and wild fancies can invent or covet : but that we may not be without all humane testimonies to confirm God Almighties expectation concerning our duties in suffering , though I intend not to make any comparison : I shall instance the examples , of some few of his good servants , who as it should seem , held it necessary upon occasions offered , to sacrifice all they had to his blessed will and pleasure .

The Vertues of Abraham .

WE shall first speak of Abraham , who was , as I may say , the miraculous father of all the Jewish Nation , a man exercising so many vertues , that it is a question , whether his piety , valour , humility , obedience , faith , or good nature most exceeded : for after that by God Almighties special command he had quitted his native Country , and all his friends and acquaintance , but his Nephew , Lot , whom he brought along with him in his Pilgrimage , amongst strangers and barbarous people , when both their flocks increased so exceedingly , that they could not possibly longer live together by reason of the dayly contention of their herdsmen , Abraham bad his Nephew chuse the best part of the Country for himself ; and by that means Lot inhabited in the Towns , whereas his Uncle still kept the fields , dwelling onely in Tents , wherein appeared both love and humility . Again , when he had heard that Lot unfortunately was taken prisoner , with al his substance , he presently with a world of courage and resolution , armed all his domestick servants for his speedy rescue , and fighting with his enemies , he delivered his Nephew , and made all his opposers with their wealth captives to his mercy ; however , after this conquest he was so far from enriching himself by the spoyls , or being elated by the victory , that he not onely returned the goods back again to the owners , but with a great deal of humility presented the tenth part of his own to Melchizedeck the Priest , as a testimony of his obedience and gratitude to God Almighty ; to whose honour also in every place where he came , he built Altars , circumcising himself and all his family , according to his commandment . But now growing old , and finding he was not like to have any posterity by his wife , he was induced by her importunity to take her handmaid into his bed , by whom he had issue : neverthelesse , when it was the will of God to make him the happy father of his legitimate son Isaac , in whom all Nations were to be blest , he drove both Hagar and her son absolutely out of his Dominions and protection ; which however , as it may be believed , strook the old man to the heart with a most passionate grief , yet he was so far from being disobedient , that he resolved with a ready willingnesse rather to endure any discontent inwardly , then outwardly to displease his wife , whom he knew had received a particular blessing from God . And now we must come to the grand master-piece both of his faith and resignation , when God Almighty enjoyned him to Sacrifice the life of his onely son and heir , both spiritually and temporally : the first , in that he was promised to be made the father of the people of the Jewes ; and the other , for that Abraham had no more issue to inherit his worldly substance : here it will be convenient to reflect upon his many supposed humane passions , in the prosecution of this action ; however as it appeared he overcame them all by his ready obedience and abundant confidence in God , in regard of his extraordinary desire to fulfil his will and pleasure in every thing ; first therefore , it may be believed , that he could not but apprehend greatly the horrid and amazed discontents he should give his wife , whom he was alwayes so willing to please , when the first report should be made unto her , not onely of the death of her sole childe , in whose promising towardlinesse , she received dayly so much comfort , besides her divine assurance , of his hopeful prosperity , but to consider him slaughtered by the cruel hands of his own father , for no known cause could be imagined . Next , what a perplexity was there amongst his own thoughts , sometimes perhaps a little staggering in the right understanding of Gods promises , when he supposed it was unpossible for him to have any more children by reason of her extraordinary age , and so by consequence had little hope left him of peopling of Nations out of his loynes , much less to propagate the Church of God by his issue ; which until then he never doubted . Thirdly , may be imagined the natural and divine strife that was within his bosome , by reason of the passions of love , pitty , faith , confidence , obedience , and improbability , joyned also with worldly interests , of which he could not chuse out of humanity but be sensible : and yet notwithstanding all these furious torments and combustions in his minde , this great and most confident servant of God ( as it is related in holy Scripture ) went on to this strange Sacrifice , with a quiet and gentle demeanour , talking with his innocent son , to the place designed for his execution , where after some circumstances , and as it may be thought other discourses of patience and consolation , being ready to lift up his fatal , though pious , hand for the slaughter , he was suddainly hindred by the administration of an Angel from Heaven , that not onely gladded his heart , but approved his faith by the shewing him another acceptable Sacrifice , ready prepared for the offering . And last of all , to make a full period of his glorious and most pious life , being prepared to rest his bones in his wives Sepulcher , constrained thereunto by the extremity of age , he called his trusty servant unto him , and there taking his oath between his thighes , conjured him , never to take a wife for his son , but from his own kindred , however he might have advanced his fortunes with huge sums of mony , as it may be supposed in the place where he then remained , in the Land of strangers , by reason of the general fame he had personally purchased in their Country ; however , as I say , this good man chose rather to send the hope of his house far from home , with the losse of all his worldly substance , then that he should be in danger to mixe with the Gentiles , or contract marriage amongst uncircumcised people : all which testimonies evidently shew , how much Abraham preferred the service of his Creator , before all other considerations ; besides , it is to be noted in his whole life , he never ended or begun any of his important actions , as is recorded for the most part in holy Scripture , but either with Thanks , Prayers , Obediences , or other pious devotions performed to his great and omnipotent Creator , who remains certainly still the same God in Heaven and earth , and therefore cannot but expect the like duty from our actions and endeavours , though our corrupt manners , and most slow intentions , seem at present to put a difference between our own condition and this holy mans .

The Vertues of Moses .

NExt we shal mention Moses , that great charitable and indefatigable Captain of God Almighties , who however he was preserved by Pharoahs daughter , and by that means adopted her son , and so consequently as it may be believed , made the heir of most , if not all her wealth and substance , yet was he so far from forgetting the distressed condition of his miserable Country men , being in a manner consumed with their hard labour of the Egyptian slavery , that he not onely kept them daily company , whereby the better to honour them with his presence , but most passionately revenged their injuries upon all just occasions ; insomuch , as to that purpose , he slew an insolent enemy of theirs , with his own hands , to the provocation of Pharoah , and all his Court , for which fact he was forced to flie from all his prosperity and dignity , into a strange Country , where he remained not onely a poor shepheard , but a most diligent servant to his surly father-in Law for a long season ; defending in the mean time , with his personal valour the causes and rights of simple virgins , that wanted other assistance , until God Almighty was pleased to call him to the deliverance of his people with strong conjurations , since his humility was unwilling to accept of so great an Office , professing himself to be rude of speech , and therefore not capable of such an imployment : but being , as I say , both commanded , and strengthned by Gods Divine illumination , he went with a bold courage to the King of Aegypt , notwithstanding those multitudes of pernitious Magicians about his Throne , and resolutely demanded the Restoration of the Jewes ; however , being denyed his just , and charitable request by the proud Tyrant , after many miracles shewed in confirmation of his absolute Commission from God Almighty , he invited and perswaded the people to follow him into a land of freedom , though their jelousies and feares , a long space resisted his intentions , to his no small vexation and grief , for whose safeties in prosecution of the intended journey and promised prosperity , he divided the Red-Sea , to make their passage . But neverthelesse this stubborn and perverse people , were so little grateful to him for his wise conduct and most painful endeavour , enduring now and then some penury in the Desarts , that they never forbore murmuring against his actions , as upbraibing him , that for his own ambition , he had brought them from the flesh pots of Egypt , to endure hunger and thirst in the wildernesse , which affronts and contumelies , he alwayes bore with so admirable a patience , that instead of punishing them for their wild and preposterous disobedience , he comforted and incouraged them with mild language and good principles , praying to God upon all occasions for their forgivenesse and prosperity ; insomuch , as his two hands were sometimes underpropped by others , to strengthen them towards the continuance of his supplication , he being altogether weary and tired , by those devout exercises , which his heart willingly could never let him give over for his peoples benefit : and when their impious Idolatry and peevish impatiency , had notwithstanding inflamed the wrath of God , against their wicked proceedings , insomuch as he seemed to put on an absolute resolution to destroy them ; the charity of Moses was so great , and his love so intire to that ungrateful multitude , that desired God Almighty also , to blot him out of the book of life , that he might perish together with his Country-men , if he would not be pleased to change his determination : O admirable constancy and goodnesse ! beyond the capacity of humane nature to apprehend ; and the rather for that it may be conceived , the chief cause of his affection had reference to Gods honour , in that he supposed those people were ordained , to establish his more real and formal worship in the Land of Promise . Again , if we look at his unwearied justice from morning till night in hearing Law suits between party and party , we shall finde such an unparalell'd fortitude as cannot be imagined , wherein notwithstanding his humility was so great , that he submitted himself to the Counsel of his Father in Law a plain man , who told him he did unwisely , to over burthen his strength and ability , with multitudes of intricated businesses ; and to that purpose wished him to chuse able and inferiour judges , to take off from his care some part of the trouble concerning those causes depending before him , referring the most weightiest onely to his own judgement , and censure ; whereas until then he sat alone upon the Tribunal , both for morality belonging to his subjects more civil conversation towards the Government of their persons and goods , and also to judge those more divine things , that belonged particularly to the service of Almighty God , according to those Revelations , and precepts he had immediately received from Heaven , whose infallible Oracle he seemed dayly to consult , and with such a wonderful fervour and diligence , that as he never attempted matter of consequence , without seeking and knowing first the will & pleasure of God , so did he never return from those extraordinary extasies , but with fear horrour and trembling both to himself and people . But as I shall not need , here to number more of his excellencies , since they are so largely recorded in holy Scripture ; so may it also be considered , that most of those admirable books were written by his own hand , that treated of the Jewes actions in the beginning , for example , to the stupid world , to learn what they ought to do according to their capacities in endeavouring the service of God from the bottom of their hearts ; since certainly he cannot be pleased with lukewarm affection , much lesse for people onely to comply with their own affections , as if for no other end they had been created , specially when his best servants could not , by what hath been said , expect that priviledge and liberty .

The extraordinary goodness of King David .

ANd now we must fall to consider the actions of David , that great and good King of Israel ; who however he fell into some grievous sins by reason of humane frailty , yet he kept his heart still right in the pure sight of his omnipotent Creator , as appeared , not onely by his extraordinary pennances , mortifications and continual complaints declared in his prophetical writings , but by the very testimonies of God himself , who approved him to be a man according to his own heart ; so that boldly we may affirm his perfections , which in this manner we shall particularize .

First , we may reflect upon his constant valour alwayes shewed against the enemies of his Religion and Country , as well in the death of Goliath that furious and blasphemous Gyant , as in the multitude of victories gotten against the wicked Philistins , and other tyrannical Nations , wherein the true service and worship of God was the onely object of his thoughts , as appeared by his bringing home again the Ark with such joy and gladnesse , that he was even derided and contemned by his own wife , for those publique expressions , for that his gestures seemed ridiculous to her eyes and apprehension , being performed in the person of a King .

Next , we may remember not onely his wonderful goodnesse towards his Lord and Master Saul , though with an envious malice he most wickedly prosecuted his life , but the extraordinary love and reverence he shewed to his person when he had him twice in his power , onely blaming his own presumption , for having cut off so much as one small piece of his garment , as a cleerer testimony of his intended fidelity . Again , when the news was brought him of his unfortunate death , as he conceived , with too much insultation by an officious messenger , although by that accident he entred presently into the possession of the Kingdom , yet he punished the author of the intelligence for his too much want of duty , in rejoycing at the destruction of his King , being his natural subject ; wherein , I must say , appeared a double vertue , the one , in conquering his own affections , the other , in being just to his dead Master , though alwayes a bitter enemy to his subsistence . Here also I must remember the constant affection he shewed to the posterity of Ionathan his friend ; however , it may be supposed he never wanted instigations of jealousie from others , that in time his race might aspire to the Crown in the right of their father , and when this proved real in his own son Absolon , who not onely most trayterously rebelled against all the rules of duty , good nature , and gratitude , but most wickedly abused his bed in publik , to take off from the people the apprehension of all hopes of reconciliation . This pious and indulgent Prince , was so far from revenge in his nature , especially against his own flesh and blood , that he most grievously complained at the newes of Absolons death , wishing his own life had payed the ransome of his misfortune : where by the way , it may be also remembred , that after his quiet restauration to his kingdom , he would never suffer that man to be punished , that not onely in his adversity upbraided him with most spightful language , calling him dog and the like , but maliciously flung stones at his person , in testimony of his inveterate hatred conceived against his condition ; neither must be forgotten the tendernesse of his affection he bore to all his children , yet still joyned with such a confidence in Gods mercies , and so much fear to displease or to offend him , that when his child was sick , he continued in sadnesse and mourning for many dayes together , alwayes hoping to obtain his recovery . But when he found it was Gods pleasure , he should die , and none almost durst bring him the newes , for fear of his further vexation , yet when he was told it by way of necessity , he presently rose up from the ground with a seeming joyful countenance , onely saying , Gods will be done ; withal declaring by words that as long as the childe was living , he hoped by his supplications to obtain Gods favour . But being dead , he found it was his pleasure to deprive him of the blessing ; and therefore , might offend more in too much afflicting himself : So called for water and meat according to the custom of other people : which certainly shewes that in all his actions , he intended alwayes to conform his will to the honour and glory of Almighty God , against what worldly appetites soever . Again , may we consider , his extraordinary pious magnanimity , that when water was brought him from the Well of Bethlehem , by those three valiant souldiers , that so manfully ventured their lives to quench the Kings thirst , he refused to drink of it ; saying , he would not buy the satisfaction of his Senses at so dear a price , and so ordained it as a Sacrifice for Gods service , notwithstanding at the present , he endured most excessive pain , by reason of his extraordinary drought : however , prophane Authors have mentioned some such examples in Alexander the great , and others , yet certainly this most vertuous Prince onely performed this act of magnanimity , out of the consideration of a religious end , and not induced thereunto , by any fancy of vain-glory whatsoever ; which for the most part accompanyed all the actions of the heathens . Amongst the number of his heroical deeds and heavenly resolutions , may also be remembred this one , that when God Almighty had resolved to chastise him for numbring the people , for that he seemed not sufficiently to rely upon the power of Heaven , without joyning thereunto humane assistance and confidence in his thoughts ; he chose that Plague that was most general because his own particular person might not seem freer from danger then the rest of the people ; which shewed a most excellent indifferency and justice in his nature , against the ordinary affections of man , that use to carry us too violently to our own concernments and particular interests ; And was the more to be admired , in regard that God Almighty had chosen him from a poor shepheard to be a most great and glorious King , and so by consequence allowed him to enjoy what felicities could possibly be lawful in this world ; as a testimony to other Nations , that he not onely intended him private favours , but also to honour his fame in strange Countries amongst the Gentiles , for the greater majesty of his own power ; and yet I say , this good Prince had alwayes so much care to please God , and such a continual remembrance of his own condition , that as he declareth himself , his pennances were exceeding great , and his afflictions in minde in a manner perpetual , insomuch , as according to his true writings , he washed by night his Couch with tears , and eat his bread by day mingled with ashes ; professing himself to resemble a Sparrow solitary upon the house top , or a sad Pelican in the Desart . In fine , if we consider those vast volums which he wrote of his own sorrowes , cares , and troubles in Spirit , though darkly figuring therein , our Saviours Passion , Sufferings , and eternal kingdom , we may easily believe , he spent not much time in the pleasures and delights of this world ; however , his youth , condition , and opportunities , were sufficient enticements to all earthly vanities ; and onely his wisdome , temper and goodnesse , withheld him from those unnecessary and vain passions , which he knew entertained , would neither secure his own salvation , or satisfie Gods justice .

Strange sufferings of a woman and her seven sons .

THere was as the Holy Scripture saith , seven brethren with their mother apprehended by the commandment of King Antiochus to be compelled to eat Swines flesh , by whips , scourges , and other torments . But the first of them said , What seekest thou , or what wilt thou learn of us ; we are ready to dye rather then to transgresse the lawes of God coming from our fathers ; Wherewith the King being inraged , appointed frying pans and brazen pots to be heated , and the tongue of him that had spoken first , to be cut out , as also the skin of his head to be drawn of ; with his hands and feet to be chopped off , the rest of his brethren and mother looking on . And now when he was made in all parts unprofitable , he commanded fire to be put to him ; that breathing as yet he might be fryed in the frying-pan : wherein when he was long tormented , the rest together with their mother exhorted one another to die manfully , saying , Our Lord God wil behold the truth , & wil take pleasure in us , as Moses declared in the profession of the Canticle . The first therfore being dead , they brought the next to make him a mocking stock , where the skin of his head being also drawn off with the haires , they asked him if he would yet eat before he were punished through the whole body in every member . But he answered in his Country language , that he would not do it , so receiving the torments of the first , and being at the last gasp said , Thou indeed a most wicked man in this present life destroys us : but the King of the world w●ll raise up those that dyed for his Laws in the resurrection of eternal life . After him the third is had in derision , and being demanded his tongue , he quickly put it forth , and constantly stretched out his hands saying with confidence : [ From God do I possesse these members , but for the Lawes of God I do now contemn the same , because I hope I shall again receive them of him , ] To the amazement both of the King and standers by , by by reason of the young mans courage , that seemed to esteem the torments as nothing ; who being dead , the fourth they vexed in the same manner , with tormenting him , and now when he was also ready to die , he said , It is better for them that are put to death by men to expect hope of God , that they shall be raised up again by him , for to thee there shall not be Resurrection unto life : So bringing the fifth , they tormented him ; but he looking upon the King said , Thou having power amongst men , whereas thou art corruptible , doest what thou wilt , but think not that our stock is forsaken of God : wherefore do thou patiently abide , and thou shalt see his great power , in what sort he will torment thee and thy seed . After him they brought the sixth , who being ready to dye said thus , Be not deceived vainly , for we suffer this for our own sakes , sinning against our God , and things worthy of admiration are done in us : for that thou hast attempted to sight against God . But the Mother above measure marvellous and worthy of good mens memorie , which beholding her seven sons perishing in one dayes space , bare it with a good heart for the hope that she had in God , exhorting every one in their Country , language manfully being replenished with wisdom , and joyning a mans heart to a womans cogitation , she said unto them , I know not how you appeared in my womb , for neither did I give you Spirit , soule or life , and the members of every one I framed not : but indeed the Creator of the world , that hath formed the nativity of man , and that invented the Original of all , he will again restore with mercy unto you Spirit and life , as now you despise your selves for his Lawes . But Antiochus by these actions thinking himself contemned , and withal disdaining the voice of the upbraider ; when the youngest was yet alive , he did not onely exhort with words , but also withal affirmed , that he would make him rich and happy , and being turned from the Lawes of his fathers , he would account him a friend . But the young man being not inclined to these things , the king called the Mother and counselled her to deal with her son for the saving of his life ; wherupon she promised him to advise her child ; so bending towards him as mocking the cruel Tyrant , she said thus in her Country language , My son have pitty of me that have born thee in my womb nine moneths , and gave thee milk for three yeers , nourishing thee and bringing thee to this age ; I beseech thee my son look to heaven and earth , and all things that are in them ; and understand that God of nothing made them and mankinde : So it shall come to passe , that thou wilt not fear this tormenter , but being made a worthy partaker with thy brethren , take thou death that I may again receive thee with them : When she was yet delivering these things , the yong man said , For whom stay you , I obey not the commandment of the King , but the ordination of the Law which was given by Moses , But thou that art become the inventer of al malice against the Hebrews , shalt not escape the hand of God , though we for our sins do suffer those things : and if the Lord our God hath been angry with us a little for rebuke and correction , yet he will be reconciled again to his servants ; But thou O wicked , and of all men most flagitious , be not idly extolled with vain hopes , for thou hast not escaped the judgements of Almighty God , who beholdeth all things : My Brethren having sustained short pains , are become under the Testament of eternal life : but thou by the judgement of Almighty God , shalt receive punishment for thy pride ; And I also as my brethren , do yeeld my life and my body for the Lawes of our fathers , invocating God to be propitious to our Nation quickly , and that thou with torments and stripes mayest confesse that he is onely God ; but in me and my brethren shall the wrath of the Almighty cease , which hath justly been brought upon all our stock . Then the King incensed with anger raged against him more cruelly above all the rest , taking it grievously that he was mocked , so this also dyed unspotted , wholly trusting in the Lord : where last of all , after the sons the Mother was consumed , and thus ended these most glorious sufferings , wherein may be considered these following particulars . Considerations upon these sufferings . That seven goodly young men , in the very flower of their age should with such courage and fortitude , not onely willingly deprive themselves of all worldly honour , meerly for the love of God , since the Tyrant offered them what preferments they could almost desire , quitting their Law , but to endure with such admirable constancy , the cruellest of torments personally , whilest in the interim their vettuous and most magnanimous Mother , with religious , though grieved eyes , stood by like a heavenly rock , to behold her children dismembred and torn in pieces by the violence of stripes , scourges , and other exquisite devised tortures , never almost invented before by humane malice and subtility ; wherein appeared not the least signe of wavering or vain-glory : But of the contrary , were so far from justifying either their actions , deservings , or sanctity , that they professed openly , they suffered those punishments justly for their own sins ; as they hoped in expiation of the general faults of the whole Nation of the Jews , and to that purpose comforted and confirmed each other with godly , pious , and valiant exhortations , full of comfortable assurances in the mercies and goodnesse of Almighty God , who would raise them up at the last day , to the comfort of themselves , and the absolute confounding of all his enemies ; where also may be remembred the Pathetical , grave , and wise conjurations of their most brave and holy Mother , that however she did not know , how she had framed their members in her natural womb , yet she was assured , that their supernatural father , if they continued constant to the end , would again give them new spirit and life , to his honour , and their abundant felicity , not seeming at all to desire their comfort and conversation in this world , since that satisfaction could endure but a short time , but onely wished to possesse their companies in an eternal and heavenly mansion , where they might enjoy one another , for ever before the face of God , by way of an infinite blessednesse , and to this purpose , after she had joyfully beheld the last catastrophe of her sons constancy and most violent sufferings , their dead bodies being exposed to her view , as bloody sacrifices of humane cruelty , she offered up her own life most couragiously to be consumed also by torments , as a full period to the Hecatomb , in confirmation of her own faith , and as a worthy example for her Nation to all eternity ; which heavenly Tragedy , I hope , is more then a sufficient testimony to shew , that these people could not have been drawn away contrary to their duties , by the fond and idle vanities of these times , that renders so many now carelesse either of belief or manners . Neither can we say these onely have given patterns to the world of their holy and admirable constancy , since the Primitive Church , after our Saviours passion , hath produced some stories of the same nature , that were acted also by heroical persons of the female sexe .

The wonderful life of Saint John the Baptist.

LAst of all , we shall mention Saint Iohn the Baptist , whose sins certainly could no way make him deservedly liable to those austerities he exercised upon himself , though it should seem God Almighty neverthelesse thought it necessary , that the forerunner of his dear son , should make plain the steps of his Saviours Passion , with wonderful examples of penance in his person , as a cleerer testimony that it is unpossible but by such means to please God , or at leastwise to have an absolute intention so to do , if the occasion be presented in this humane life ; for we must be assured this world was not created for a Paradise , but for our pilgrimage ; neither did ever yet any person go to Heaven , but either through the fire of tribulation , or by the practice of mortification , exampled by Jesus Christ himself upon earth , and imitated by all the glorious Saints and Martyrs of his Church from the very first beginning of times , and must so continue unto the end of the world ; however , lesse and more according to the blessed pleasure of Almighty God , who will have such testimonies from his servants , for more assured marks of their own interiour affection to himself , in regard of the benefits they have received from his eternal Majesty , not onely for their Creation , but preservation and Redemption . To which purpose as I say , we may consider the life of this great Prophet , who as it should seem , notwithstanding his supream priviledge of being the greatest , that was ever born of a woman , could not be exempted from the mortifications belonging to humane condition , which in his own person , he performed most rigorously , not onely in debarring himself from all youthful delights , but in abstaining from his necessary acquaintance that should have administred to his conveniency and subsistence : for as we reade , he went at seven yeers old into the Desart , where he could not have lived , but that he was supported , and relieved by the special grace and assistance of Almighty God , beyond the ordinary course of nature . Besides , he was onely cloathed in Camels haire , and fed upon Locusts and wild honey , neither drinking wine nor strong drink ; which being in my opinion the highest expressions of a mortified life , are sufficient examples to shew , that this very course was ordained him from Heaven , to teach the world pregnant documents of voluntary affliction , towards the fulfilling of that new Law , that was to be established shortly after by our Saviour : since neither his Senses nor his understanding seemed to entertain any earthly satisfaction , according to the custom of other people ; which manner of living notwithstanding he continued many yeers , wherin was spent and wasted the chief flower of his age , as being by a prophetical spirit ( no doubt ) foretold , before he came to any seeming or competent yeers of discretion , that it was not onely most necessary , for his masters service , but absolutely agreeing with Gods will , that he should exercise the same Authority , which Jesus Christ determined both to teach and practice in his conversation amongst men ; and to this purpose our Saviour was never mentioned by holy Scripture to laugh in all the time of his being here , though frequently he shed teares for the sins and miseries of the world ; most plain and evident testimonies , that at leastwise he expects from us a convenient suppression of all inordinate passions and appetites . Furthermore , when this great Saint came to the full period of that time for what he was designed , he not onely instructed the people without any manner of flattery or connivency , in those high mysteries belonging to his calling , but most earnestly preached still penance to their cares and considerations , as if nothing but a proportionable measure of that wholesom salve , was to be applyed . And did neverthelesse maintain his own profound humility in such an excellent nature , that notwithstanding the largenesse of his Commission and dignity of his office , he would not be brought by all the admiration , and almost adoration of such persons as came to hear him in the wildernesse , to confesse any power or good belonging to himself ; though his words and actions seemed to the vulgar and rude multitude most miraculous , but alwayes referred the honour and praise to him which was to follow . And to that purpose sent his own Disciples to be instructed by our blessed Saviour , whom also in the flesh he would not have baptized , meerly out of a trembling reverence at the deep consideration of his divine person , though he was onely sent into the world for that effect , if he had not been urged thereunto by an absolute necessity , as fearing further to offend , by reason his obedience might have been brought in question . And last of all may be considered , that whereas he might probably have received what honour he had pleased from Herod , if he would any way have complyed with his wifes unlawful ambition , and his own violent lust ; yet he was so far from giving of any manner of countenance to either , that he told the incestuous King publiquely , with a most bold courage , and zealous intention , that he could not by the Lawes of God keep his brothers wife . In prosecution of which admonition , he willingly laid down his life , for the exact maintenance of Religion and Justice . And thus ended that most glorious champion and Herald of Christ his happy dayes , to our example and benefit , if we concur also with the same supernatural Grace offered from Heaven , to suppresse inordinate passions and fleshly appetites ; which onely keep the Soul from acting nobly according to the intention of our Creation .

The small satisfaction of earthly pleasures considered .

NOw we have done with these holy men , we will a little fall upon the consideration of the small satisfaction or prerogative of earthly felicities or ambitions , that appear so exceedingly to bewitch our understanding , in so much as they seem to take from our very hearts all manner of effectual desire to prosecute not onely this obligation of a noble gratitude to God , but hinder us from procuring the least security to our selves , contrary to the example of these godly people , mentioned in my Discourse ; who certainly enjoyed the same faculties of nature as we do , and therefore might have possest the like appetites of humanity , if Grace had not predominated . In demonstration of which I am perswaded , nay I am assured , that if all the exquisite Epicures in the world , and wisest Statesmen , were gathered together in one Councel , to consult and devise a way for a person to enjoy a perfection of happinesse upon earth , and a full power were given to all his Senses in each faculty , to tast every delight of nature in the superlative degree , not being subject to any natural restriction , or could be interrupted by accident , yet he would finde some defects in the possession , not answering his expectation ; if not otherwhile a kinde of wearisomnesse in the very fruition , by over much satiety ; which apparantly would be demonstrated by his coveting something else , which he supposed he had not , to the new perturbation of his unsatisfied minde . And this plainly shews , that mans true and perfect content , must be fixed in a higher Region then in this world , to afford his thoughts rest and quiet . Of the other side we see , ambition consists wholly upon the matter in nothing but expectation and opinion , since it is evident , we are more taken with hopes of honours to come , then absolutely satisfied with those that are present . As for example , what boy is there at School , that doth not heartily desire to be a man , though youth be esteemed the darling of nature , because he apprehends to want something of his perfection in his boyish estate ? Again , what man is there , that is arrived to that period of yeers , that doth not as earnestly wish to be in his former condition ? Apprehending the too fast coming on of old age as a defect , which seems not onely to be a vexation , but some horror to his thoughts if he carry about with him nothing but humane considerations . Also if we reflect upon the many chances of mans life , we shall finde , that the pains and care we take to pamper our selves , and nourish our ambition , do more then weigh down the pleasures we can any way hope to obtain ; for that all our delights are most commonly interrupted either by infirmities , or some other crosse accidents , use any industry we may to the contrary . Neither is there any person of what happy Calling or degree soever , but seems oftentimes even weary of his own time ; insomuch , as when day comes , he wisheth for night , and in the night he longs passionately for day ; and so from one posture to another , still hoping to enjoy new felicity , as if he had not yet tasted sufficiently towards the fruition of a perfect settlement ; being carryed onely thereunto by his roving fancy and unsatisfied nature : which argues , that the very disposition of man cannot be made happy with this world , in what degree soever obtained . And to this purpose we see , new inventions and delights must be sought hourely , or multitudes of divertisements of all kindes , the more insensibly to passe away the houres and dayes of our life , and yet nothing seems so terrible to our apprehensions , as to think our time should ever come to an end . So that we neither can be content to think of leaving this world in any manner , but of the contrary , hate all remembrance of it ; and yet , in effect we do not take any real pleasure to possesse life . Wherefore , I must conclude with this principle ; that since earthly concernments are but at the best mortifications as we make them , how much better were it , and more agreeing with reason , the contrary being no other then an impious madnesse , not to make use of such vexations ( which will come upon us do what we can ) towards the obtaining of such a happy state , as neither admits of defect or suffers termination . So that since it is apparant , that our thoughts have no circle to walk in but that of Religion to finde out not onely divine security , but as I may say humane satisfaction , according to the very words of the Holy Scripture , that bids us first seek the kingdom of God , and all other things shall be given unto us ; it must needs be an intire lunacy , to involve our actions and desires in too many sensualities , and much more to nourish our pride and torment our thoughts , with inconvenient and violent ambitions , by ayming at that which in a manner nothing can arrive unto , but vain imaginations , whilst in the mean time we leave the essential point of our happinesse altogether unregarded . O madnesse of man-kinde ! And yet we are so foolishly transported beyond all reason , with this violent desire of earthly satisfaction , that if at any time we enjoy but a smackering of worldly vanities , we become so passionate to make a further progresse therein , that we cannot rest day nor night without afflicting our mindes , as it were destroying in our selves those very comforts that God Almighty intends barely for humane consolation . However , I do not say this to take away absolutely from a man , the appetite of all conscionable and noble affections , for that were totally to overthrow honest industry and lawful endeavours ; seeing it is little lesse evil to do it , then ayme at nothing ; especially for that we are not able alwayes , to employ our thoughts and actions intirely in the effecting of divine things , or conversing inwardly with Angels ; but my intentions hereby are , to have a body so to square and regulate his passions , by a discreet rule of moderation in all his desires and undertakings ( considering what any can go about of worldly concernments , are not onely in every respect subject to diversity of accidents , but in themselves never so wel obtained , not worth our chief consideration ) as not to be confounded or overmuch distasted , either by needlesse vexation , if they may not be purchased , or to fall into too much desperation , being again lost after they are once had . And a great deal lesse ought we to be afflicted when such transitory things are taken away from our possession , by the immediate hand of Almighty God , who knows best what diet we need in the whole course of our frail life . For as we desire earthly acquisitions ( especially superfluities ) more out of a vain opinion to be said or thought we have them in our power , then out of any real benefit we hope for , or enjoy by the possession ; since for the most part our servants are partakers with us alike , if not oftentimes in a greater measure in the sensual use of them ; so of the other side , if we look onely upon the point of reputation and estimation , in being thought to possesse much beyond the capacitie of other people , which as I said before depends meerly upon an airy opinion , we may have the same honour by letting them go patiently , or losing them gallantly ; and a great deal more if no personal fault by carelesse neglect , be laid deservedly to our charge , then if we should have possessed them to our selves and heires for many lasting generations ; witnesse the late King , who will be more glorious in after times ( according to many mens judgements ) for the extraordinary conquests his constancy and courage got over his oppressions , then if he had quietly and peaceably dyed in his bed a natural way , after a long and flourishing reign , possest of all his humane honours and Dominions . Truly the effect of vertue is of such a property , that it cannot be taken from us either by time or power ; whereas riches and worldly preferments , are for the most part , more belonging to fortune and accident then to our selves . Neverthelesse I say , this vertuous benefit cannot be obtained , without some absolute or signal victory purchased over all base and earthly passions and affections . And to shew how much God Almighty hath been ever pleased to honour , and in a manner to eternize in this world such endeavours , especially when grounded upon Religion and good intentions ; there have been many persons that onely have sought Caves and Desarts for their habitations , to avoid all kinde of remembrance , as divers holy Saints and Martyrs , who indured in their particulars , as much scorn , contempt , and neglect , as humane malice could invent , or their own humility desire ; yet both their names and fame live now amongst us with that eminency , as if their actions had been continually recorded ( whilst they were living ) by multitudes of writers , according to the custom of the Meads and Persians ; when as most of those great and glorious Kings ( with many other Monarchs of latter times ) I may confidently aver , have wanted Monuments , or at leastwise a true relation of their actions , notwithstanding the onely Heaven they desired after their deaths was , to be continued fresh in the memory of posterity . So that we may boldly affirm , there is neither real felicity or certain content to be hoped for in this world , depending upon any manner of sensuality or ambition , since all things desired without doubt are but either surfeits or opinion , although a man should every day in the yeer , be furnished with varieties according to his own wishes , and each houre in the day , could gain strength and vigour to enjoy them ; insomuch as it is unpossible a mans minde can be ever satisfied , without prescribing to himself a moderation in affections : which truly will not be had unlesse he place his thoughts chiefly upon the intention of his Creation ; and by that means resolve to use the things of this life with temper , since as I must say often , they are onely given us for our recreation , and not for our Heaven : which determination and no other , will soon render all accidents , not onely conveniently indifferent and necessary to our present and future being , but even by such resolutions , accompanied with some proportion of Grace , ( not to be compassed but by this means ) we shall be able to make extream advantages of crosses and misfortunes , that do what we can with all the endeavours and power of this world , will still come upon us , and to our further vexations , if we prevent not the apprehension of such accidents by higher designes . In conclusion , whosoever can put himself in this happy condition , whereby he may be master of a discreet temperance in all his actions , probably in a short time may finde out a passage to other vertues , until at last they bring him to that content , which he can never obtain by his inordinate passions ; since the world will not afford what it was not made for . And therefore it may be esteemed a maxime of the wisest Philosophy to think , there is no happinesse so great in this life , as to be well able to disgest all unhappinesse .

Whether or no when we have gained this victory , there must not be something to direct us in Gods Worship , of an infallible nature .

BUt now when we have gained this noble victory over our passions , though we may esteem the greatest part of our work effected , in regard that naturally flesh and blood are the chiefest obstacles against divine resolutions and self content ; yet neverthelesse , we may fail in the observations of those duties , belonging to the necessary worship of God , whereby our happinesse will come also to be destroyed ; if we submit not our selves to som infallible directions , which certainly can be no where found but in the Church of Christ , framed by his own hands , and ordained to be the Tribunal of the Conscience , placed here upon earth , not onely to instruct and chastice , but to afford us true consolation . So that I suppose , it will not be altogether impertinent , to discourse a little concerning the properties thereof , in that its jurisdiction and authority , seemeth to be the very Bases and foundation of all our belief . To this purpose it must be first considered , whether such an Assembly hath been established or no. Certainly humane experience teacheth us , that there was never yet any Law given to a Nation or a people , but a Tribunal also was ordained to be a Judge of that Law , as well to inform the Subjects concerning the doubts of the right interpretation of the injunctions prescribed , as to determine the due execution of them , that people might neither pretend ignorance or use malice , without being instructed in the one , and punished for the other ; much lesse may it be thought that God Almighty , who is wisdom and justice it self , would have imposed observations of a mystical nature upon his established subjects , without having instituted as well a way how they might be instructed in their ignorance , as corrected in their stubbornnesse : especially when the truth of those heavenly principles given were impossible to be known to proceed from him , but by some ordinary information , agreeing with their capacities and understandings . For however in the beginning those Documents , might be confirmed by miraculous inducements , to some few particularly instructed to that purpose , yet could they not well be continued to posterity , but by usual wayes , since every person was not ordained to be a Prophet , or to talk with God face to face as Moses did , who gave our Ancestors the first methodical rules , which ever since have been maintained amongst men by tradition from hand to hand . Neither is it likely that this omnipotent , and as I may say , most affectionate Providence , would have lesse care for the preservation of the unity of Religion with the Christians , that are a people gathered and extracted from all the parts of the world , differing in tongues and kindred ; and so by consequence have more need of his assistance , then he had to conserve it in the twelve Tribes of Israel , that were a generation onely confined to one Country , and therefore could not so easily differ in points of Faith , or be corrupted in manners for want of due information ; yet neverthelesse we see God Almighty held it so necessary a thing with those few people , though united and circumscribed , as I say , into a most narrow and small circuit of ground and Territorie , that he had alwayes his Church and High Priest amongst them , unto whose Decrees our Saviour Christ himself commanded the Jewes to be obedient ( however the men at that present that governed were most corrupt and wicked ) onely because they sat in Moses chair , and enjoyed of right a supernatural prerogative , by way of an orderly succession which he intended should onely continue until after his passion , that he might establish his more lasting and holy Church , which by his own promise is to indure without interruption , until the end of the world , being invisibly to be alwayes governed by the Holy Ghost , for the more assuredness of infallibility , which plainly shewes that such a thing must be upon earth ; Whereunto are annexed also these marks of power and perspicuity , Power and perspicuity also annexed to the condition of this Assembly , since it is said , he would not onely place his Tabernacle in the Son figuratively , meaning his Church , but we are admonished in holy Scripture from our Saviours own mouth , that whosoever will not hear his Church shall be esteemed no better then a Heathen and a Publican ; which truly would seem to any man a most impertinent saying , if there were no such Assembly upon earth to be heard and listened unto : For it is not to be supposed , we should upon all occasions mount into Heaven , either to be instructed in our doubts , or to give information against our neighbour erring , so that of necessity , there must be some Congregation or Tribunal on earth established to that purpose ; besides , by the very Articles of our Creed , we are to believe the Holy Catholick Church ; which implies a certainty of there being such a thing , before we can believe what it sayes . So that we may conclude it a most ridiculous madnesse , to think there is no visible and real place or Chair upon earth , where men may go to receive true and undoubted information concerning matters of Religion ; especially when it is not credible that every particular person should have sufficient direction by Revelation , since the greatest Prophets that were ever sent into the world , were constrained to fetch their instructions oftentimes from others .

In the next place it is as necessary to believe , that this established Assembly must be infallible , That this Assembly must also be infallible . as that it is at all ; since if it should be otherwise , our directions would sometimes misse , and so consequently we might ignorantly contract errours in our wayes and endeavours , instead of running surely in the direct path of Almighty Gods principles and commandments towards our future salvation : For it is evident by the rules of reason , upon all intended certainties , there ought to be some means prescribed us , whereby we may be sure we are right . As for the purpose in all humane matters , we are accustomed , to use the benefit of weight , measure , or some other experience , before we have sufficient assurance any thing is just according to our intention : much more are we to believe , that our Saviour Jesus Christ , after having shewed such a mystical love in our redemption , would not have carelesly exposed us to a dark Labyrinth of confusion and incertainty concerning the knowledge of his Law , of such a consequence to be observed ; nay , rather it is to be supposed , he would have written it in brasse for our better instruction , if he had not ordained an Assembly onely for that effect ; but for a greater confirmation of our purpose , we may remember what the holy Scriptures tell us ; that the Church is the pillar of Truth , and therefore consequently cannot be false ; neither could Gods revealed will and pleasure in an ordinary way and without miracle , come to be known to our humane understandings , but by the Records delivered unto us , by the unquestionable Authority of the Churches tradition , that renders them Authentical to our belief , without which they have no seal of exemplification or testimony , since it is not enough to say , that one place of Scripture , is perfectly able to interpret another , without a more assured rule , when as we do not know by our own reading and particular Science , what places are true Scripture and which not , having onely the letter of the book to look upon ; and as little can we be assured that we do expound those writings right as they were intended ; because it belongs not to any private spirit so to do : of the contrary , it may be feared according to the words of Saint Peter ( especially if we use too much presumption ) that being unlearned and unstable , we may wrest the Text to our own damnation . So that of necessity there must be something above our selves , not onely to be the interpreter of this Law , but also to tell and shew us the Law it self that was ordained , so that I must leave it to any common understanding to consider what can be more proper for this then the Church of God , that he hath promised to be withal until the consummation of the world . We may also extract another assurance , out of the old Testament , which is that God Almighty said , in time to come he would chuse such an Assembly by orderly succession , whose spirits as it is written should conserve knowledge , and the true Spirit should be put into their mouths , from generation to generation for ever . Wherefore I say , as this must needs be meant onely by the universal Church , so of the other side , such persons cannot be but esteemed most ridiculous in their opinions , that will not allow this Assembly , the prerogative of knowledge and interpretation , and yet do assume to themselves , perhaps being ignorant in a high nature , a most infallible way of understanding , as well what books are Divine Scripture , as also what interpretation ought truly to be given to every Text , though they are plainly forewarned of the danger , by those very Epistles that they themselves have judged to be true Scripture ; but as these few proofes may be sufficient , as I said before , to perswade any reasonable and competent understanding , concerning the infallibility of this Assembly , instituted by our Saviour , and governed by the Holy Ghost ; this being granted , that of necessity we must believe the Assembly , we cannot by any reason deny our obedience to the Authority .

But here perhaps may come a new question , according to some Athiestical Tenents of these times , Against the Tenents of the age , that would onely have a Law of nature or Morality for people to follow . whether or no God Almighty have appointed man any other rules , then the Law of nature , measured out only by his own private judgement ? which certainly are most grosse and absurd opinions ; for by these maxims , there should be no difference between men and beasts in their course of living , since the latter have a kinde of order allowed them to use by the meer instinct of nature , though they want reason . As for example , they ingender seasonably , procure to themselves competent food and rest , with a certain care also of their own preservation , and in like manner will defend those of their kinde ; sometimes with the desperate hazard of their lives . And man by this rule should do no more , which not onely seems repugnant to Gods wisdome , but is against the dignity of mans creation ; in his not receiving or enjoying some prerogative in his employment whilst he is here , by reason of his eternal condition hereafter ; so that without doubt God Almighty intended man , some extraordinary work in this world beyond other creatures that were ordained meerly for his use and subsistence , having placed in him a reasonable and understanding soul. And certainly this employment can be no other then some immediate and particular service belonging to his own worship , which other creatures are not able to perform , as being no way needful for their condition , since they can neither know God , or are to expect any thing after this life is ended . Whereas man being capable of both , his Creator hath placed him here for some time , that he may make use of his own faculties , either for his benefit or condemnation ; but for a further confirmation of this Reason , there never was yet any people so rude and ignorant in their conversation , but used a reverence , if not a real worship or Sacrifice to some supposed Deity or other , which they not onely counted most sacred , but themselves particularly with a kinde of a wonderful awe were restrained from offending in their conceived rights , as fearing otherwise they might be punished by a supernatural power ; which either shewes that nature it self teacheth all people to observe such principles , or that they had in the general received by tradition some Documents to that purpose , from the very infancy of the world , though they had lost the perfect use of them . For it is not to be supposed , that men ever living amongst Rocks and Mountains , could without any manner of information or instruction , have invented so much of Divinity as we have declared , without some inducements , since no mystical profession doth seem to agree with their rough kinde of conversation , or wilde appetites ; and therefore such people could not but desire to be at the most liberty . So that as it is evident , by all the grounds of Nature , and Arguments of Reason , that God Almighty hath designed himself a particular worship upon earth , so hath he revealed the manner how to be performed from time to time to his Church , which for the most part put it down in writing , conserving such Records inviolably without corruption , and delivered them in that manner to posterity with many other Truths , by way of verbal Tradition , as the Articles of our Creed , and the like , amongst which Precepts we have the Ten Commandments , that in effect contain the whole Law both Divine and Moral ; wherefore since it is apparant , that our great Creator , hath appointed his Godhead a real worship in this world from man , answerable to the dignity of his Creation ; and that he hath revealed the particulars of his pleasure by Scripture , the truth of which Records , being to be tryed and approved by the Church , having onely the spirit of right interpretation , we are by an infallible consequence not onely to obey , but relye upon this Assembly .

Some general instructions concerning the practice of Gods own proper and immediate worship .

BUt now that we have found out that God Almighty must have a real worship , we are as well to be instrcted how it must be effected , which may be reduced to these particulars . First , that there must be used a holy and divine Sacrifice , that was instituted by our Saviour Jesus Christ , as an essential duty belonging to his Majesty and Godhead , which cannot appertain by any means to any creature . Next we are taught also , that it be performed with an outward reverence and an inward intention , accompanied with love and attentivenesse ; however , more particularly to be observed and put in practice , at those times when we are obliged by the orders and rules of the Church , to give our personal attendance at this grand duty commanded . And so by consequence not to entermix our devotions willingly , with any vain or idle cogitations , since if such distractions be frequent , they are apparant demonstrations , that although God Almighty hath our body in point of Ceremony , yet he doth not possesse the heart in matter of love . For when we are transported by diversity of objects , it is unpossible but that there must be some defect in affection ; to prevent which , when we perceive such distempers , to steal upon our deceived Senses and wandering appetites , by reason of the frailty of our nature , that ever seeks the lowest Center , according to the base matter of which our bodies were first framed , we are obliged by a speedy and discreet correction ( upon the least apprehension ) to call in question our omissions , before a Religious judgement . And this principally , to prevent an ill custome growing upon us , lest it may soon take so great footing in our manners , that if not resisted within a short time , will absolutely , though unawares , destroy that Grace in our souls that is necessary , as well to keep us from being overcome by dangerous temptations , as to make up capable of doing good instead of evil . 'T is true , such a contention at the first , may prove something irksome to many ; especially to youthful dispositions , that commonly take delight in varieties , who naturally are distasted and wearied with setled objects ; yet certainly the more such a vertue is practised with courage and resolution , the greater ease shall a person finde daily in his devotions , untill it bring him in the end , not onely to obtain an absolute victory over most of his passions , but even to entertain a singular delight in every exercise of Religion ; which once made a mans chief businesse , I am perswaded , their is neither honours , sensualities , or any worldly pleasure can afford so much content ; but for the better obtaining of which benefit , we ought not at any time to pretermit our daily and ordinary customes of devout exercises , whether in reading or praying , without urgent occasion , upon any flatt●ring pretensions of conveniency & necessity , that the devil and the flesh do often suggest to our wavering imaginations , as baits onely laid for diversion , lest by such omissions we contract more slothful inclinations in our selves concerning the performance of any vertue ; when as of the contrary , in observing punctually times and seasons for our devotions , we shall apparantly finde a kinde of hearty zeal in our soules towards Gods service in most things . As for the purpose , there be some people , that will sit in a manner continually day and night at Cards or the like , without ever seeming to be tyred , when as the least time spent in holy exercises , is a vexation to their thoughts : Whilst of the other side , such employment to a truely religious man , in a Monastery , to be enjoyned him as a penance , would appear perhaps to be a mortification of some extraordinary nature . The reason being onely this , that the one hath procured such a proportion of Grace , by his frequent and diligent observation of his duty , that it renders the contrary distastful unto him ; whereas worldly persons have so benummed their zeal , and deaded their understanding by giveing way upon all occasions to sensualities , that nothing seems delightful to their thoughts , that is mixed with any religious observation . Also many new converts in their first entrance into Religion , appear wonderful zealous in their profession , because for the most part , they employ their whole time concerning the businesse they are about , by reason of the need they have of instruction in forms and customs ; whereas others of a longer standing not seldom are wearied out with knowing too much , and practising too little ; and so by degrees begin to slack in their daily and ordinary devotions , until at last they make what is or ought to be a duty , a meer formal Ceremony and no more ; which shews that intentional diligence procures fervour , and fervour obtains Grace . But certainly as no cold way of devotion can possibly please God , since he hath declared to spue them out of his mouth , who are onely lukewarm in his service ; so have we multitudes of testimonies even amongst the barbarous Gentiles , as if nature it self taught a man a fervour should be used in his Religion , without any other instruction . In testimony of which we read , that when Agamemnon and the other Princes of Greece were to take their journey toward the City of Troy , it was thought a necessary duty , whereby to make their voyage prosperous , and to appease the anger of the Goddess Diana , that their Captain & General should Sacrifice his own daughter ; which truely was a sufficient expression of fear to offend those false deities , as also a most evident argument of the care those people had , diligently to perform their Rites , and observe those principles commanded them . In like manner the Romans never came home with victory obtained against their enemies , but the first thing they did when they entred the Town , was to visit the Temple of Iupiter in the Capitol with Triumph , whereby to render thanks to the gods for their successe , and this Ceremony was not to be performed by themselves in person , but being accompanied with their whole Army , that all might be partakers and joyn in the common duty and Sacrifice . In Holy Scripture we finde that the Priests of the dumb Idol Baal , performed their impious devotions in their contentions with righteous Elias , by strange and wonderful cuttings and mangling of their bodies , to render the god propitious to their Prayers ; which truly were effectual signs of their earnest thoughts , though pernicious actions . Again , with what extraordinary want of compassion both to themselves and posterity , did the deluded people sacrifice thier own children by fire to Molech , accompanied with the noise and sound of many instruments , because their ears should not be won to any manner of pity , by reason of their fearful shrikes and cries , whilst their bodies were burning , and consuming in that terrible manner . All which no doubt could not be done without a great deal of fervour and confidence in their horrid and barbarous rights , that at least may serve to reprove the cold practices and customes of these times . Besides if we seriously reflect upon the intentional devotion of the tyrannical Turks , we may finde perhaps occasion enough ( by reason of their frequent example ) to condemn our extravagant thoughts and loose actions in the performance both of our exterior and interior duties in our sacred and commanded Religion : Since as it is confidently reported , there are many Santons or Saints , as they call them , living in that Country , who having made a Pilgrimage to the Tomb of their false Prophet Mahomet , have put out their own eyes , because they would be no more obliged to behold any earthly things ; as esteeming all other sights ( after this supposed holy journey ) most vile and prophane , and in this manner resolve ; to die cloystered up in some dark Dungeon , excluded from the conversation of mankinde . O God , if the devil have such power , to infuse these resolutions into the stony hearts of ignorant Infidels , what infernal madnesse is it , that not onely obstructs so much divine cogitations of Christians , being present at those sacred mysteries , But , when they are absent , involves all their thoughts and actions in a thousand fantastical and dangerous sensualities : to whom I must proclaim , that their condition in the day of judgement , will be a million of times worse , then the state of those that ignorantly worship any false deity , with a hearty zeal : for certainly God Almighty more looks at the intention of man , then at the capacity he hath to do him service , since no humane employment whatsoever can in its own nature , any way be beneficial to his Godhead or Divinity , but meerly by accident as it tends to our own salvation , wherein his mercy and goodnesse doth more abundantly appear .

Wherefore as we see , not onely by the direction of the Church , but by the examples of all other people in the world , there is a necessity of a certain kinde of fervour in all manner of acts of devotion ; however , more especially in the essential part of Gods worship ; So ought it be esteemed the most highest Treason against the Majesty of God to deny him publiquely , when there is occasion of such confession , or hypocritically to use this service as a stall only to compasse wordly ends by a seeming though not hearty compliance : and to this purpose often-times perhaps many people come to the Sacraments , bespotted inwardly with divers hidden crimes , without having made due examination of their own Consciences , or putting on any resolution to mend either for the present , or perchance to quit their sins till they leave them . In which posture they neither make true confessions , or resolve upon any charitable satisfaction ; whereas we are obliged by the declared principles of this infallible Church , I have so often mentioned ( the very Conduit that conveys unto us , if not the Grace of God , yet at leastwise the knowledge how we may obtain it ) to cleer our Consciences from all fraud and deceit ; and with a most humble and sorrowful reverence , to approach those high and dreadful mysteries , ordained for mans salvation . Which being impiously perverted , turn into the worst corruption concerning our manners ; however , it self being intirely pure , can receive no detriment at all . Wherefore I say , let those fantastical spirits , that either make ends or humour a parcel , if not oftentimes the chief part of their Religion , take heed , lest not onely the judgement of God punish with rigour their hypocrisies in the next world , which will not be prevented , but also shew some marks of his indignation in this life , against their impious dissemblings ; since many terrible examples might be produced to that effect out of very approved Authors , if there were any need to strengthen this certainty by humane relations . For it is sufficient we have admonitions and instructions out of very Scripture it self , the best warrant of all others , which saith , omitting divers others , that the flesh profiteth nothing ; to be understood in my opinion , that the receiving of the blessed Sacrament availeth not one jot in outward Ceremonie , unlesse it be accompanied by a real and pure intention of the receiver . Which was also apparantly verifyed in the last Supper our Saviour made with his Apostles , when as the eleven were strongly confirmed in their faith and vertue , by their good intentions in that holy institution and exercise , as bringing love to accompany their duty and service , whereas Iudas that wicked Traytor eat Christs body with a false heart and a corrupt soule , which made him not onely at that very instant go go forth hastily to perform his horrible intention , without seeming at all to reflect upon the hainousnesse of his crime , but afterwards it took from him the least appearance of any Grace , insomuch as he neither could not repent , or have any confidence in Gods forgivenesse ; and therefore , onely in a desperate manner returned the money he had taken , and presently went and hanged himself , who else might have found as much mercy as the Thief did upon the Crosse ; Since Gods goodnesse is beyond all transgressions of man , provided there be a fitting compliance on his part ; which however as I say , cannot be obtained , being accompanyed with any manner of hypocrisie and dissimulation , in regard God Almighty is onely the God of Truth , and not of deceit , as himself hath often declared . Besides , Saint Paul tells us , that he that takes the Sacrament unworthily , decerneth not the Lords body , to his further guilt and condemnation . So that we may confidently conclude , Who doth not prepare himself as he should , in the entertaining of this admirable benefit intended for mans preservation and salvation , doth fit his person the readier for the devils service and possession ; since ( as I said before ) God Almighty doth chiefly aym at the heart and intention , without which he will not be pleased , by what formality soever ; neither can his omnipotent justice be cousened by any humane hypocrisie , since his divine Science was able , as you have heard , to sift the subtile thoughts of the very Angels before they fell ; wherefore it is a most ridiculous Chymera to think , that the grosse craft of man can cover or conceal anything from his infinite knowledge , and as much simplicity accompanied with impiety , to believe , that man hath power to prevent his own punishment , if he offend this omnipotent Science in this nature . Which being granted , the onely way to make this necessary preparation is , exactly to follow the rules and directions of the Church ; that is , intirely to be sorrowful for our faults , to confesse them truly without any manner of guile or affectation ; and lastly ( though not least of all ) to make full and willing satisfaction to any we have injured , without all which conditions , as no seeming absolution that is given , can be valid , so shall the receiving not onely be most horrid , but the greatest sacriledge can be committed upon earth , since neither long Prayers , exact Fastings , or frequent Almes deeds can profit anything to purpose , without these punctual or intentional observations : for it s said that God Almighty is a jealous God , and will not be satisfied without our whole heart and best actions , which being freely bestowed upon him , he is not onely most easie to be pleased , but ready in every occasion to cover and forgive the frailty of our nature , that at the best hath sufficient need of the assistance of his heavenly Grace , being else able to do nothing . These considerations may serve to put us in minde as well of our own duty that we owe our Creator , by an exterior and interior Sacrifice , with other observations contained ( upon the matter ) in the first three Commandments belonging immediately to the proper and particular worship of God ; as also ought bring in like manner into our remembrance other duties , appertaining to humanity and conversation , numbred , as I may say , in the last seven injunctions delivered to Moses . Where it may be noted , that God Almighty was pleased to shew a most admirable goodnesse , in that he took but three Commandments to himself , and left the rest for our neighbours benefit , whereby the better to conserve charity in all our intentions . But for that the suppressing of our passions and appetites is the only way to begin these common duties , without which they cannot well be performed , I shall discourse chiefly upon two Capital sins , namely pride and sensuality , which in truth contain or occasion all other vices ; the one seeming to bear greatest domination in the soul , as the other doth in the body . And first I will speak of pride , in regard it maketh war with the noblest part , that we have immediately received from God by way of infusion , though joyned with our earthly substance , or over-powred by it , it becometh lesse able to act towards the intention of our Creation .

Of Pride beeng the chief vice belonging to the Soule .

PRide , I may say , not onely fools the understanding to errour , but involves our actions with injustice . Being composed of partial self-love , and extraordinary false opinion , not suffering us to know our selves rightly , or behold others with indifferency . And was so odious to Almighty God in the beginning , that he punished the first demonstration thereof in the Angels , by the greatest effects of his wrath , as of the contrary , he redeemed mankinde by the highest example of humility , condemning them without revocation , because they had so offended against the Majesty of his glory , with a kinde of a knowing presumption , and saved us by the passion of his onely Son , for that our frailty seemed something to plead our pardon before the Throne of his Mercy . Pride confounded Pharoah and all his host in the Red Sea , when as the humility of Moses conducted the children of Israel safely to the Land of Promise . In fine , the meeknesse of the blessed Virgin made her the Mother of God , the greatest prerogative could be bestowed upon mortality : and insolency turned the mightiest Monarch of the earth into the nature of a beast , onely to feed upon the herbs of the field . This violent Lunacy , I say , is the more hard to be perceived , for that however it be lofty in its own proper quality , yet it doth not alone appertain to persons of the highest conditions , which shewes it claims a hidden and secret interest in the Soule , not alwayes appearing visible ; for that there must be some certain concurrency of power to make it shew it self to others ; however , it proves to be of a most dangerous consequence , when it gains too great a liberty of working amongst the common people , that lack both education and discretion to temper their own rude appetites ; as being not so sensible as nobler persons of honour and humanity , which renders them altogether barbarous , when eminency as an object of their envy , comes within the compasse of their power and spight , which might be demonstrated by many sad , bloody , and terrible examples . But as it is unpossible to judge rightly of this humour in the disposition of any man , because it consists in so many several expressions , and appears upon divers and multitudes of occasions , so is there no better a way to finde the disease in a bodies own person , then strictly to sift the Conscience by the rules of reason and Religion , with a kinde of equal consideration , free from all partiality ; that is to say , whether or no he intend all the honour and esteem he desireth , chiefly for the service of God , accompanied with a due consideration of the intention of his Creation , whereby he may not exact from another in his mind some unlawful due , more then appertains unto himself , to some others losse or derogation ; for otherwise I will not call any manner of respect that is desired pride . Since as naturally we can but covet our own good , and so consequently to attempt esteem . So when it is demanded and required with moderation , as an indubitable right belonging to our fortune , merit , and condition , there is no injury at all done , either to God or a third person . For no doubt every man may as well conserve his honour as his estate , both being inherent rights to him and his posterity . And certainly those that deny us those national dues , are not onely themselves injurious , but may be justly taxed of pride , if not of rude insolency ; which I rather say , because in these days there may be noted a strange kinde of injurious intention in most of the inferior sort of people , to withdraw themselves from observing all ancient decorum in this nature . An appetite in my opinion that hath not onely lately distracted exceedingly the government of this kingdom , but hath destroyed already much of the glory of the Nation , since convenient degrees must be observed to render any Commonwealth happy , lest confusion at last take away what is necessary for Magistracy and obedience towards peace and unity . But of the contrary , if we perceive our inclinations only given to study vaingloriously our own private esteem , without having either due consideration of others rights , or charitably being willing to reflect upon meaner conditions , in that they are subordinate to us in the worlds eye , though equal with us in Creation ; without doubt we may conclude , that some dangerous inflammations doth possess our inward parts that will not long want a subject to work upon . Neverthelesse the humour of it self for the most part is ridiculous , since it is not the vain opinion of our own personal deserts , that can render us more worthy in the thoughts of others , if we deserve not the consideration , and if we do merit a particular regard in some few things , we destroy that estimation we covet oftentimes by expressing too much violence in the desire . There is another kinde of ignoble pride , proceeding from low and poore thoughts , and not from the inflammation of honour and courage , which makes people , though insolent in posterity , yet most base and dejected in adversity , rather courting respect and esteem by way of flattery , from contemptible persons upon any false tearms of injustice , then industriously endeavouring brave and gallant designs to gain commendations . This I know to be the custome of many , who seem to desire vulgar peoples applause , when they appear carelesse of the knowing approbation of religious and worthy men , either being perhaps confident of the number of the commenders , or not having a sufficient capacity to judge of the right value of both . However , to compasse which the better , they will professe a kinde of equality in their actions , with the worst of their companions , as if neither birth nor vertue were to be esteemed : pretending this to be done out of good nature and some humility extraordinary in their dispositions , so to level themselves with others , when I am confident often times , is proceeds from the quintescence of Pride , as not knowing else how to be so well observed . Thus much I have said , because I would not have these low humours of the age be taken for humility , or a constant and laudable bravery in mens thoughts and actions , to be interpreted pride , since the custome of the one , and the want of practice of the other , not onely made our Ancestors glorious , but have rendred our selves most unhappy . For where stations are not kept to measure out to people their desert , it is unpossible with any confidence or alacrity to prosecute to the end the course of vertue ; which Rome , however a Commonwealth , observed most punctually , or else could never have come to that greatnesse ; and to this purpose all degrees had their places , to distinguish worth and merit , as marks of political reward , though now that rule and order , as I may say , is esteemed either folly or presumption . 'T is true , I cannot deny , but there hath been shewed often times in the actions of great Monarchs , too great an insolence concerning their deportments ; ignorance certainly being the cause at any time , why pride appears too much to outward view . But withal , we finde Nero the very worst of humane monsters , was more then besotted in his disposition , with a vain and foolish ambition of popular praise , that rendered him not onely ridiculous to all men of a noble and worthy conversation , but made him really cruel to all such as opposed that humour , not being willing to see a mighty Emperour contend with common fidlers in the open Theatre , for vulgar applause , and in that posture to wipe away the sweat with his own hand , because the people were delighted with his observation of their ordinary customs ; which certainly he did only because he was transported with a mad and preposterous desire of praise , proceeding no doubt , from the highest instigation of pride . And yet this proud man was so base in his disposition , though foolish in his thoughts , that when his wickednesse had deservedly tumbled him from his Empire , his deluded fancy was yet bewitched with a ridiculous vain-glory , insomuch , as he aymed at nothing but to be consined into the Country of Egypt , there to exercise his trade of singing amongst the common people , whose applause he violently coveted ( as it may be imagined ) beyond all other greatnesse . So that we may conclude , as Pride often times is accompanied with the worst cruelty , so not seldom is it joyned with a contemptible want of courage : witnesse also the ordinary people of Holland , who are insolent without measure , and yet cowardly beyond other Nations ; however , they have had alwayes that good fortune , to make other Countries to fight for their pride , which themselves personally durst not maintain . Certainly , a noble disposition either hates Pride , or tempers it with humanity , which at least renders it sufferable , whereas the contrary makes it barbarous . But for that the effects are divers , according to accidents and natures , we shall discourse a little of several parts of this humor .

Many dependencies belonging to this infernal Lady Pride .

THere is no doubt but Pride may be without envy , though envy cannot be without Pride ; therefore may be likened to extracted poyson from a dangerous Plant , for that Pride is not deadly of it self , but by way of use and application , retaining the capacity , though not always working the effect . But envy of the contrary , ever hurts either a mans self or others ; And remains like a concealed flame , at the best seeking occasion to burst forth to the destruction of some good thing , and in the interim consumes where it lies hid . Neither can it at all be satisfied , because it ayms not onely at unreasonable , but unpossible periods ; that is , to darken the Sun-shine of vertue , which will now and then appear in spight of what black clouds soever of malice , for that it is of a pure and prevailing substance by nature ; whereas those of grosser and more ignoble composures are dispersed by every winde or little rain of discovery ; for although false and counterfeit stones , sometimes with false and sophisticated art , may shew fair to the view of ignorant persons , yet when the Diamond is produced in competition , they soon lose their luster and belief . Most commonly this appetite is ingendred in those persons , who are defective in themselves , though they do not sufficiently perceive their own infirmity , and lesse the capacity of others to discern ; and by that means in a wrong posture go about to set up their particular esteem , or violently seek to pull down others to their own level . This humour truly is so much practised in this age , as I have heard some say , that shortly it would be esteemed a crime to laugh , for fear of being held to enjoy too much innocent content , though without other eminency . Which makes me in my thoughts to cry out for Academies , to instruct youth in vertue and morality . For if people would but strive by a noble industry , to render themselves deserved patterns of emulation , and not examples of envy to others , there would be no time left them , to entertain so unprofitable a disposition , from whence proceeds nothing but falsenesse in conversation , distraction in absence , and revenge in actions , without any benefit at all purchased therby , either to present content , or future satisfaction .

The property of Revenge . As envy may be said to be a corroding mineral , drawn from that huge mountain Pride , so revenge may be compared to hot and firy vapours , that often break from thence , to a kinde of ominous destruction . Or rather may be termed Prides worst executioner & bloody servant . But however , it aims always at dangerous and unhappy periods , yet certainly the progresse it makes for the most part is sweet and pleasant to depraved natures , since it affords not onely delight by reason of that victory it alwayes hopes for , but prove extreamly pleased and satisfied , being obtained ; however , I must confesse , the joy indures not long ; for most commonly some kinde of despair followes soon after ; yet neverthelesse , in the interim during the prosecution , a wicked man is not much tormented in his thoughts , for that the passion of revenge , doth alwayes transcend the apprehension of danger , which is the reason that so unhappy a resolution is continued ; for notwithstanding it proceeds no further then intention , wanting time and conveniency to execute , yet the determination all the while is so strongly accompanyed , with hope of effecting , and so busied in seeking the best opportunity , that it never gives a person of a malicious nature , leasure to be sad or melancholly : Whereas of the contrary , envy seems still to oppresse with a cold despair , that never affords any manner of content or satisfaction . Although envy be the less dangerous properly , yet certainly revenge is the more noble humour , for that it is still accompanyed with some hazard , whereas the other seems ever to bark afar off , or whisper privately in the dark ; though perchance neither have hearts good enough to forgive , or great enough to forget ; revenge is justifiable in none but in the supreme power , who is pleased to call his divine justice by that name ; for he may onely revenge injuries with rutribution , whilst we alone can but consider them with an intention of prevention , since if we go further , we do but usurp his office and condemn our selves . Neverthelesse , we may safely punish , having lawful Commission , derived from his heavenly sword of Justice , established here upon earth for our more honest and regular conversation ; though this too must be put in execution without all partiality , lest revenge happen to be encreased by hypocrisie under the pretence of justice .

The next imperfection of the Soul I will mention shall be Vain-glory , Of Vainglory . which in truth is no other then a certain kind of weak lunacy or fantastical madnesse , ingendred between pride and want of judgement , for that instead of perswading our actions to be esteemed by others , thereby we make our own persons become ridiculous ; since for the most part we dream that every extravagancy , should procure belief and opinion in those , that have no cause to be partial . Besides , the humour or vanity is accompanied with some species of ill nature , as well as folly ; for they that possesse these fancies in their dispositions , look so much upon thir own passions , that they altogether passe by anothers deserts , by which means they fall oftentimes to be hated by all , instead of being valued by any ; as it were never seeing but through a perspective glasse , at both ends , where they either behold too much , or apprehend too little ; not being able to judge rightly of their own wants or others perfections . By which means they appeare most commonly like men half drunk , that are readier for expression , though unfitter for action . Which I may say again , is a passion so much in fashion in these times , that people seem to be transported with certain thoughts , as if they had been onely their own creators ▪ scarce allowing God Almighty any share at all in their being and fortunes . To cure this disease , men ought to look upon God not onely as the Author of every good , but also to conceive each reasonable Creature to be framed by the same hand , wherein no difference hath been made and intended , but by accident or Grace . For as the Diamond and the Flint are not of equal vertues in every respect ; so each is profitable in its kinde : the one bearing price , as the other produceth fire ; wherein the latter seemes notwithstanding better to comply with mans commodity , though the former rather procures admiration . So that if we have parts above others in our own apprehensions , let us make use of them with modesty , and they will appear more illustrious to the eye of the world ; if we want such abilities , though we may ( in some sort ) cover our defects , we ought rather make them up with our goodnesse , then render our selves worse by assuming what is none of our own , to the injury of others .

Disobedience is not onely another effect of Pride , Disobedience another effect of Pride . but was the first sin that ever was committed upon earth by humanity , wherein God Almighty was so displeased against man , that nothing but the death of his own Son could asswage his wrath . Besides , the contrary is so necessary a property to be continued in all conditions , that the world cannot subsist without it . However , I may boldly say , this latter age hath not onely created strange thoughts concerning this duty , but almost hourely produceth wonderful examples against the maxime : however we shall set down only three common duties of this kinde , proceeding from the first infancy of the world , which have been made good eversince , both by the Commandments of God , and all Moral Documents . We will first begin with that obedience that is due from Children to their Parents , which ( setting aside Gods own immediate Precepts ) is an obligation challenged by way of natural right , for having brought us into the world , that else should have been nothing ; Children are bound to afford their Parents , at all times , and upon every fitting occasion , an obsequious reverence , though never so much under anothers jurisdiction ; as also another duty of gratitude for their education and preservation in their infancy , which neverthelesse is to be esteemed more or lesse , according to the care was had of their persons , when they were not able to provide for themselves ; insomuch , as no deficiency of the Parents part ( in my opinion ) can take away altogether that humane respect and honour that is due by nature . As for example , When a daughter is bestowed in marriage , although by that means she becometh under anothers jurisdiction , and in that regard , cannot dispose of her self without her husbands leave , towards their service , yet certainly she is still obliged to afford them upon all convenient occasions , a dutiful reverence ; neverthelesse , I must confesse in these times , we hold it sufficient satisfaction , if children become not wholly reprobates to their own destruction , without having any consideration of their Parents particular . The next obligation of obedience is due from servants to their Masters , which however it be limited to time and contract , is not onely to be observed in Conscience according to the conditions agreed upon ; but also there is a civil duty of respect to be observed , after the time is expired , unlesse some just cause hath been given to the contrary . But , for that I intend to speak something more hereof in another place , I shall mention onely now the last obedience , which is due from the Subjects to their Prince , instituted , as I may say , in the beginning of the world , which may be divided into three kinds . The first was that purchased by Nimrod , being wholly usurped and therefore might have been cast off again , upon the first opportunity : however , the continuance did perhaps render it lawful to posterity . The second was domestick or voluntary , verified in the person af Abraham , over his pious and godly family , which was approved no doubt by God Almighty , when he commanded them to fight with those who had taken unjustly Lot prisoner ; again , Abrahams Dominion was justified , when he tyed his servant ▪ by an oath to provide a wife for his son : and the last is that of compact and agreement , which makes subjects by their own consent become under the power of rule , as may be testified by Pharoah and his people ; which work was brought about by Ioseph , when his subjects changed their liberty for subsistence and livelihood . And this being contracted for , and afterward confirmed by proscription , could not again be cast off , without incurring the penalties belonging to Rebellion . For the Jews could not have avoided the lawfulnesse of the jurisdiction ( notwithstanding their cruel persecution and slavery ) but that it was the declared will of God , revealed particularly to Moses , this by that means they should be freed from their misery , under whose power are rightly contained , all the governments of the earth .

Of Ingratitude Ingratitude is not onely another effect of Pride , but may be said to be a most ignoble property , since it doth not onely defraud goodnesse of its due , but seems not willingly to encourage vertue in any kind which was the reason that the wise and brave Romans , ranked it amongst the worst of vices , and to that purpose appointed punishments for the offehders . God Almighty first fell out with Cain for his ingratitude , though he afterwards condemned him for his hypocrisie . Truly I may affirm , this vice appears to have gotten a particular jurisdiction in this Nation at present , since many of those most obliged prove the greatest Traytors to their benefactors ; neither is this done covertly and in the dark , but most commonly is owned as a piece of excellent wit ; and so consequently esteemed a kinde of vertue , for servants to be unfaithful in their duty , or friends to deceive trusts committed unto them : and so far hath private interest taken possession of honour , good nature , and conscience , that every person that walks according to these old maxims , is either esteemed a fool or a Heretick . Certainly God punished the devils with the greater indignation , for that in their thoughts they were unwilling to be thankful for his benefits ; whereas man had a condition annexed to his condemnation , because it was frailty rather then an intention of ingratitude , that caused him to offend ; however , he seemed more really and punctually to have broken his Commandment . For my part I hold those as worthy that raise monuments to vertue , as those which good fortune hath made famous ; since however they may have wanted the opportunity and conveniency of acting , yet neverthelesse they retain in their minds a certain intention of honour .

The next appetite of Pride is ambition , however it is onely it but by accident or intention , Of Ambition and its property . since nothing renders that name unlawful , but either too much passion in the prosecution , or over much desire by way of private interest ; yet some perhaps will quarrel with the name onely , which I cannot but except against ; for as the too much coveting of honour and preferment out of a personal respect , renders the desire unjustifiable : and so by consequence proves to be a meer ambition ; so of the other side , a moderate seeking of a just esteem , is no more then a natural indulgency , warrantable in our humane condition , since without this hope for the most part , our noble endeavours should want recompence , whereby mens vertuous intentions would cool in the prosecution , before they could come to a ripenesse fit for use or example . For if our frail natures had no other object to behold , then barely that reward we are to expect in the next world , it is to be much feared , that people would grow so slack in endeavouring of laudable ( nay I may say ) necessary things , that at last all honour and vertue would be in danger to be wholly neglected , by which means unworthy persons should com to be of equal Authority with the best , and no priviledge at all given to industry . As for example ; What souldier would expose himself willingly to the hazard of the Cannon , without some expectation of recompence from his General ; or if a baser man then he were to be esteemed alike . Nay let us but consider , how many great Schollers or grave Clergy-men , notwithstanding they are sufficiently acquainted with the depth of Conscionable rules and maximes , would with so much violence follow their studies to gain learning , unlesse they thought their Science should advance them above other men in estimation ? though some few may be found altogether mortified in their worldly passions . We see also Children and youths are induced to learn , by promised honour and preferment in their studies during their being at School . And certainly their pious and Religious Masters , would not ingraft in their tender yeers such principles , if every kinde of ambition in its own nature were unlawful ; for most commonly what inclinations we take when we are young , do very seldom quit us in our age ; and more especially those thoughts , that tast either of ambition or covetousnesse . Wherefore we may be satisfied , that it is not the desiring of any lawful thing that creates an ambition in our mindes , but the over desiring onely ; and truly in doing so , we do but resemble a bedlam , who violently catcheth at a handful of ayre , supposing he hath something in his hand , which being opened , proves but imagination . Of covetousnesse as a dependant of Bride . For the too much desire increaseth opinion , and that is made lesse by experience , until at last it falls into nothing at all , agreeing with our imaginary expectation . Lastly , we will come to the covetousnesse of the age , a mad effect also of the minde , wherein for the most part little reality appears , in that we desire to be owners more of wealth , then to have the sruition thereof ; since commonly in our own persons we make use but of a small portion of what we covet ; it seems to have the neerest affinity with ambition , for as the extream aspiring man gives his thoughts no repose , by reason of his over aiming desires ; so cannot the avaritious person scarce afford his necessities sufficient , in regard of that craving and unsatisfied humour . Wherefore properly , they may both be esteemed brothers in folly , as well as in sin . Since alike they onely please the fancy , not reflecting at all , upon the impossibility of compassing what is desired ; for the period will still be behinde do what we can , if there be either a greater or a richer man in the world then our selves ; and though there should not be any to exceed us , yet certainly our thoughts would run at new Chymera's , either above the clouds , or under the earth . However , I do not say , that either of these appetites are unlawful , but in the handling ; for as we may desire honour , so may we purchase wealth ; provided it be with the conditions of justice and moderation . But O the infernal covetousnesse of the times ! When neither kindred , friendship , gratitude or Religion , are considerations to be put in competition with self interest . To get wealth we deny our blood ; to get wealth we violently break the strongest bonds of trust : to get wealth we forget all courtesies ; to get wealth we forbear no sacriledge , in justice , or hypocrisie ; in conclusion , to obtain this troublesome we know not what ; we slight our parents , we disobey our Magistrates , we rob Churches , we commit murthers , and live in communication more like ravenous beasts then humane creatures , laughing inwardly at all considerations of charity , as onely a vain and ridiculous opinion ; however ordained as a sacred tye from above , to unite affections in the service of our great Creator , without which it is unpossible to please him or save our selves . And thus have I in some sort run through these few passions of the minde , as representations onely of the things we ought to avoid , that properly belonging to Pride ; which is the chief mother of mischief that disquieteth the Soul , and hinders it from placing her principal felicity in another sphere , where there is absolute honour , content , and security to be had ; the fruition of which , as I say , for the most part , are hindred by the extraordinary inflammations of this fantastical humour , being kindled and set on fire by the devils craft , and nourished and fed by the worlds vanities . So that now we must fall upon a new discourse , concerning the imperfections of the body , which however , they are of a more grosse and dull nature ; yet are they of little lesse power then the former to destroy in us , not onely the effects , but the very appetites of vertue . For however perhaps they do not raise our thoughts to the forementioned whimsies and Chymera's , yet they blunt and stupifie our apprehensions in such a manner , that we become in time wholly drowned in a Sea of sense and stupidity , not much caring , and lesse knowing what we do However it must be granted , that this Lady and generall Queen called Luxurie , hath in like manner as well as pride , many attendants , that operate according to severall inclinations and dispositions in our fleshly and more ignoble parts , which in order we shall briefly touch as we have occasion .

Some kinde of description of Sensuality .

SEnsuality may be esteemed either one generall corruption proceeding from a poisoned education , or a whole Magazin of imperfections , demonstrated according to accidents and opportunity , that for the most part are increased by custome , & continued in age , which seldome admits of any thought of repentance in a man untill the very last houre ; and then too perhaps with so little efficacy , that it proves more formall then beneficiall . In this progresse and journey of luxury , the noble soule appeares so to be imprisoned with aboundance of confused obstructions , that it hath not sufficient liberty given it to produce any thing worthy of its dignity and creation , as I may say , like some learned Philosopher , captivated amongst boores and clownes , that are neither sensible of honour , or capable of instruction : As the Angels fels fell by pride which is no other then a lunacy of the minde , so man offended in sensuality that is an inchantment of the flesh ; And God Almighty seemed to ballance these two sinnes by a certaine kind of equality in his heavenly determination ; For that , as he punished the divels for their presumption , with an irrevocable decree , not at all admitting any condition or hope of satisfaction ; so did he redeem man by so admirable a way , as it seemed to exceed the others condemnation and losse : This vice of all others in my opinion , proceeds from the poornesse of mens spirits , either that they would not take education when they might have had it , whereby to have been able better to have imployed their minds in noble cogitations , and honourable actions , or else being overcome by the predomination of their senses , have sloathfully lost that courage that was necessary to maintaine vertue in their thoughts and intentions . Truly we see it is the very propertie of most unreasonable creatures , to conserve with some care and industry the beauty of their being , though not made for eternity , since they to that purpose doe daily order their naturall cloathing to the best advantage , avoyding in the interim all occasions to doe themselves injury and disgrace , lest they might become unusefull in their severall kinds ; and yet a sensuall man is not ashamed to sully his soule , and bespot his reputation , not only with wicked , but preposterous vices , almost of all natures and conditions , to gaine a little satisfaction to his appetites , however in effect he continues still unsatisfied : for I will be bold to say , most commonly such people are so opprest either with sad and heavy thoughts , or overviolent longings , as they are constrained to drive out one vexation after another with new excesses , which serve for no other end but the more to inflame their desires , untill at last they are brought to such a stupidity , that every appetite whatsoever becomes even unpleasant . Thus consuming their discontented houres in fancies instead of realities , like men in dangerous and desperate dropsies , the more they drink to satisfie their thirst , the lesse have they ease of their paine : But however it be not supposed , that all esteemed sensuall people are thus buried alive in a stupidity of viciousnesse , yet neverthelesse give me leave to say , that I have known some eminent persons in these times , that in their youth were famed beyond measure , for the excellency both of their naturall and artificiall parts and abilities , as well for learning and eloquence , as spirit and courage : yet at last falling into sensuality , according to the custome of the age , they did not onely cast off from their thoughts all manner of seeming apprehension of these noble vertues , but in a short space became also most cowardly and base in their dispositions , in so much as they were content upon all occasions to submit unto the poorest , fearfullest , and lowest kind of submission could almost possibly be put upon them , rather then move any way to action or vertue : which in my conceipt are admirable effects of this sordid and inglorious imperfection , when it getteth so great a prerogative in mans nature , that the soule hath lost absolutely her priviledge and honour : Witnesse Marke Anthony , that once noble Roman , who most contemptuously lost both his Empire and life , by reason of his sensualities ; for in his last expedition that was to determine the Monarchy of the World , he left his Souldiers fighting , and shamefully followed Cleopatra to her regall City of Alexandria , where they were accustomed to spend whole nights and daies in severall luxuries : As another example of basenesse by reason of this ignoble inclination , we may look upon the Emperour Vitelius , who having gained the dominion from Otho by the Sword , he lost it againe to Vespasian in sensuality ; for which his subjects did so extreamly contemne his person , that being at last taken prisoner in regard of his adversaries prevailing power , he was so shamefully used by the rabble and common people , that a Noble man of honour passing by at the same time , was forced ( though not out of compassion to his person , yet out of a respect to that dignity he had once enjoyed ) to runne him through with his weapon , because he should not endure more disgrace of that miserable nature . And in this manner did this luxurious Prince , ( who in his youth notwithstanding was a gallant man , as appeared by his deportment in Germany ) end his wretched daies , as a just reward for his so much degenerating from his former vertues , by his frequent sensualities and debaucheries ; whilst his parcimonious and abstonious enemy in the mean time raigned with all prosperity and glory could be imagined , not onely accompanied with multitudes of famous conquests , but also left after him for his eternall memory , most wonderfull buildings and monuments ; a great part of which being extant to the amazement of the beholders . Wherefore I must conclude , that sensuality takes away from a man the noble & reasonable property of the soule , that should not onely cleare his understanding , to the discerning of reputation , but to the practising of vertue ; which being stupefied and obstructed , as I say , by continuall ease and pleasure , the spirit at last becomes so adulterated , that it is unpossible to entertaine any thing in the disposition , but some base pride or envy , which for the most part never leaves such people as long as they live ; being alwaies maintained and nourished by those flatteries , that accident or rather a kinde of necessity hath cast upon such men , to keepe them waking with some entertainments of recreation : And this is the reason , that no discourses in a manner are heard in their mouths , but detraction proceeding from the very spirit of malice , because they cannot be at all confident of any goodnesse in themselves , whereby to commend laudable vertues in others . Besides , there may be alwaies noted a kinde of cruelty in their natures , proceeding from that they are apt to suspect every thing but flattery : notwithstanding that deceives them most of all , being in truth the greatest sensuality of all others ; for that clawes the soule with such a bewitching harmony , that people who are so inclined , become metamorphosed like Vlysses companions , till at last they become even hoggs instead of men . For another testimony of what I say , concerning the nature and corruption of sensuality , let us but looke backe at the actions of Alexander , who in the first entrance into his conquest , was mercifull , active , and faithfull , and yet after when he began to tast too much of the Persian luxuries , he became cruell , suspitious and proud , in so much as he neither spared his best friends , nor regarded the wisest Philosophers , who proved in the end to be so overcome and inchanted by flattery , that he not only esteemed those people his mortall enemies , that would not adore him for a God , but destroyed their persons with as much spight and malice as could be imagined , untill he rendered himselfe to his own native country hatefull , if not in some sort ridiculous ; which truly amongst others are most pregnant examples to shew how much a man goes from himselfe , when he falls too precipitatly into sensuality ; as of the contrary what noble thoughts and gallant actions people are capable of , as long as they keepe their soules cleare from obstructions of this nature . For according to my observation , I never read of a temperate person , that was not attended upon with many other eminent vertues , that made him both happy and famous , whilest of the other side I have observed for the most part , all noted Tyrants to be branded with a kind of an Infamous opinion of luxury , in the whole course of their lives . Certainly temperance and activity , are the badges of nobility and wisdome , when as sloath and sensuality , are onely inchantments of flesh and bloud , that worke men out of their wits , goodnesse and honour , to make them slaves to the devill and misery : But however in some sort this may serve for a generall demonstration of this naturall imperfection , or rather deprivation of grace , by reason of a mans own selfe , wanting a necessary courage to resist both weake and strong temptations of this life ; yet for that , as I said before , there are severall distempers arising or belonging to this grand stupidity , though not all appertaining alike to each person and disposition , we shall mention now the quality and practice of some particular vices , as I conceive , now adaies most in fashion and use , which may be counted meer dependencies upon sensuality .

Gluttony a chiefe effect of sensuality , with other vices also belonging thereunto .

ANd first we will begin with Gluttony , as seeming to have the next affinity with it . Truly , in this vice man doth not onely come neerest to the nature of a beast , since procuring of food is its chiefe pleasure and property , but by way of intemperance ; when practised inordinately in this particular , he seems to exceed unreasonable creatures in dishonour ; for however they appeare to take their chiefe felicity in eating , yet neverthelesse they feed with some order , by instinct and the direction of their kind , thereby to render themselves more fit for the use they were created ; and to that purpose will scarce at any time goe beyond their bounds by any manner of excesse , if they be left to their owne dispose ; also procuring to themselves being diseased , remedies of nature : witnesse the gallant Falcon , that takes frequently stones for casting and clensing of her body , whereby to avoyd all superstuities , to be the better able to make use of her wings for flight , when she hath occasion to shew her courage ; neither ordinarily will she covet meat , but when she findes her gorge absolutely emptied of other food : In like manner , every little and contemptible cur , after he hath sufficiently eaten to fill his belly , with a certain kind of temperate providence wil endeavor to hide the rest , to be reserved for another repast , without any signe at all of gluttony , as if nature had taught him what was best to be done for his own preservation ; Whilst an intemperate man , of all other creatures , seems by his continuall excesses , neither to be governed by reason nor nature : insomuch I have heard many say , that provided they had good meat , they did not care if they were alwaies obliged to eate it in a hogs-stie , or any other contemptible or dishonourable place ; as if the very delight and happinesse of their soules consisted in nothing but eating and drinking : Nay further , in these latter times this dull satisfaction of mens appetites hath been so taken up by custome , that not onely women of the best quality , have not been ashamed ordinarily to frequent most impudent and confused entertainments , in base and obscure Tavernes , but also to shew the greater and more extraordinary profusenesse in those meetings ; feasts of no small expence have been made without table-cloathes or any other convenient furniture , where nothing for the most part was to be heard , but a certaine confused noise , with the exercise of burning of dublets , and drinking healths out of shooes , instead of distinct discourses and commendable recreations : so that I may boldly say , that God Almighty hath found us out in these follies ; and certainly will never leave punishing us untill we become more moderate , since in my opinion it is not to be doubted , but these kinds of debaucheries so frequently practised have been the greatest cause of our present miseries that we so much complaine of ; for by such courses the noble men not onely lost their Honours , but the Gentry spent their Estates , not leaving themselves sufficient interest in the Country to govern the people , with any advantage tending to peace and unity ; and so by degrees their own tenants necessarily began to stand more peremptorily upon their own feet , by which meane men of smallest quality came in play , to the overthrow of those of the better sort . Besides this generall intemperancy , most violently raigning amongst the Commanders in the late Kings warres , proved of such an unfortunate consequence to his affaires , by reason of that wilde liberty that every man took to himselfe , that probably it lost him his Kingdome : For , by this means order and rule in his Army was turned into confusion , whereby duties became neglected , trusts corrupted , and mens courages adulterated , in so much as his Officers instead of giving testimonies of their valour and conduct , they brought their reputations into nothing but scorn and contempt , untill at last they lost both themselves and cause , to those their thoughts never esteemed before .

The next attendant that seems to wait upon this swoln lump of sensuality is lascivious love , that seeks onely to satisfie sense , The inconveniences of vain and idle making of love . without having the intention of prosecuting the end of Society , according to the ordination of God Almighty in Paradise . Which appetite I say , although it be most agreeing with the nature of humanity , and in that regard many brave persons have erred , yet certainly lust doth not onely sympathize with the condition of a beast , that is carryed on to that act by a fleshly delight without other design , but seemeth in us to taste something more of wild concupiscence ; for however they ingender by kinde without any regard of mixture , because they have no rule prescribed for their actions , yet Providence hath ordained such a temper in their proceedings , that for the most part they observe times and seasons for their copulation . Which shewes that nature in them onely intends procreation , that is all the marriage they are appointed to make , whereby their kinde or species may be preserved upon earth , when as man involved in this sin , doth not appeare to be restrained either by Nature or Grace , but runs on violently in the prosecution of his appetites with a more raging madnesse then those animals , that have but two things enjoyned them by God and Nature , which is procreation and food . When I reflect upon these considerations , I cannot but wonder at some people , who having been reproved for their excessivenesse in this vice , and to this purpose were demanded , why they having such noble and beautiful wives , did not content themselves rather with their companies and conversations , then with base women of a far inferiour degree to them in all manner of perfections , they presently returned this answer , that as they could no way deny the comparison , so was there no other reason to be given , but that they were their wives , and the other not ; wherein may be noted , the strong temptation and power of the devil in this one vice onely , when he is able so to infatuate our understanding , that we must chuse the lesse worthy subject for the delight of our Senses , rather then the better , for no other reason , but because sin belongeth to the one and not to the other . Which belike made Marke Anthony being of the same disposition , leave his gallant wife Octavia , and cast himself violently into the armes and embracements of that proud strumpet Cleopatra , notwithstanding she apparantly contemned his person , as she did afterwards undo his fortune . But setting aside these presidents , we may consider many young people of our times , who spend in a manner their whole lives , in nothing but making of foolish love , and sitting in womens chambers at unseasonable houres , without any kinde of intention of marriage , which at the best are high provocations of lust , besides other inconveniences in nourishing of sloath and creating of jealousies .

But for that idlenesse for the most part not onely affords the opportunity , Idlenesse the chief nurse not onely of this vice , but of many others . but is the general employment of the age ( if properly doing of nothing may be termed an employment ) as another dependant belonging to sensuality , I shall particular the nature and prejudice thereof . Idlenesse hath been esteemed by religious and wisest judgements the ground-work and Bases of all inconveniencies in mans vocation , since want of some designed employment in resolutions , not onely brings a certain kinde of lazie inclination upon the body , but also gives too much leasure to the minde , to dwell upon diversities , of Chymera's , profitable no way but to breed fancies instead of acting nobly . So that it being unpossible to continue always in imagination without some diversions and recreations , to sweeten again the over tired spirits , we must of necessity be satisfied with some delight or other , though never so unlawful for refreshment , wherein for the most part affections belonging to flesh and blood , will have the chief interest in our corupt natures . Wherfore nothing being neerer at hand to please Sense , then eating , drinking , lust , with other softnesses of the body , as lying in a warm bed , sitting by a fire side , flattering discourses and the like , necessarily man in a short time must take his principal fruition in some or all of these ; for , that as I said before , he doth not constantly employ himself and thoughts , towards the accomplishing of any setled thing worthy his consideration . Which may be very well verified by this common saying , That it is better for a person to rip his garment and sow it again then to be idle . As much to say , that a man ought ever to have some designe a foot , to employ either his mind or body , and is held so unnecessary a thing amongst the unlearned Turks , as we esteem them , that there is none of what quality soever ( the Emperour not excepted ) but hath some certain trade or other put upon his condition . We finde that God Almighty even challenged this duty from man in his first Creation , when he ordained him to prune and dresse the garden of Paradise . As also being driven from thence he continued him still that injunction , declaring not onely by his works that the earth should not bring forth fruits , but by mans labour and industry , but also let him know that he was to gain his living by the sweat of his brows , as also that his wife with all other women descending from her , were designed to bear children by trouble and pain . Nay , we may say , that nature her self seemeth in all things to have such an intention , when not onely every living Creature , but the Plants of the field have an industrious intention to labour and yeerly to renew their cloathing , as if they went in a circle of travail and employment , though to my no small amazement , I have heard many in this corrupt age , not ashamed to brag openly , that they were good for nothing , intimating as though industry and intention were an apparant dishonour . Amongst which number , I have known some so supinely negligent and lazie , that they could not finde a time to perform any necessary businesse , by reason of their confused resolutions , that never designed any certain time when to begin , and so from one hour to another , deferred the things they were to do , until at last perhaps they lost wholly the opportunity , though ever had the determination .

In fine , I cannot but conclude with this opinion , that as idlenesse is a most dishonourable and unprofitable vice , since it seems to pervert the very intention both of God and nature , either by false apprehensions or too much sensuality , so for the most part doth it still ingender in mens bosomes not only distracted but discontented thoughts , by reason it drives us from one imagination to another , without any manner of reall satisfaction in any thing we either long for or desire ▪ however self-interest and extraordinary passion to be contented , is the true cause of the disease in mens minds and dispositions .

Of sloth , being another dependant . But as Idlenesse may be said to be the bawd that inticeth the virgin-soule to all manner of sensuality : so sloath must be esteemed the soft bed , whereon whoredomes of that nature are daily committed . Slothfull persons may be compared to those dead bodies which the Divels are accustomed to carry in the ayre full of all putrefaction , that however they be not capable of acting themselves , yet by accident become instruments of horrid inchantments : such a creature cannot be better likened , then to a huge mountaine of earth , that containes hid in its bowels rich mines of Gold , which will not appeare but by the violent agitation of some extraordinary earthquakes that display the concealed treasure . In like manner , the bright faculties of a mans soule doe never appeare in a slothfull body , but when strange and unexpected chances cause them to remove by force . Confounded with this inclination , man seemeth to have no further a journey to make but to his grave , since he is not onely altogether uselesse to others , but wholy buried in himselfe , not seeming any way to parcipitate of any of the active elements , but of clay onely , that is the last refuge for mortality . If God almighty had not intended man for motion and exercise , according to his naturall capacity , it was to little purpose to have created a world for his dwelling , furnished with so many diversities of varieties for the practice of his reason ; but might have cast him in some obscure place of small extent , there to have remained quiet untill the day of judgement , without either trouble or consideration . Certainly the Heathens were so out of love with this disposition , that the fortunate and wise Commonwealth of Rome not onely appointed a Censor to enquire after mens actions , that they should be good , but also to seeke into their vocations , that the● might be alwaies conveniently imployed . Truly I may say this is an humor of a most unhappy nature , since it is not onely of all others most unprofitable , but wonderfully unsafe to a mans future condition , for that every day it drawes him further off from vertue and religion , though it seems to give the best opportunity for contemplation . If we look at the practise of the age , we shall finde it abounds in most persons , being now the generall custome for women , not as in former times to prevent the Sunne rising in their early activity ; but rather to observe his setting , before they can be got out of their beds : and for young men , they are scarce carried in their thoughts to any manner of intention at all of activity , but where some perswasion of luxury and sensuality leads them .

The next imperfection I shall speake of , Of inconstancy another part of sensuality . is Inconstancy , that rather proceeds from the weaknesse of nature , then either from malice or custome . And however it may be thought onely to belong to mans deceived and embroyled judgement , that makes him so often vary determinations , according to severall objects presented before his fancy ; yet we may say it comes also by reason of a kind of fearfulnesse in a mans disposition , wanting a sufficient fortitude to be confirmed against doubts , rising from too much apprehension ; wherein for the most part the divell and the world are principall actors , for as the one strives to unsettle the understanding , by confused and bewitching fancies , so the other doth intangle peoples imaginations with too many representations of painted delights , so that oftentimes they make choice of white fo● Funerals , and black for Triumphs . Wherefore I say , it is most necessary for any person , that either pretends to Honour or Religion , not onely to be constant ( provided his counsels be grounded upon profitable deliberations , without obstinacy or precipitation ) but to put on such a noble fortitude in his resolutions , that he may be able to resist all temptations that are ready daily to make warre against his piety and reputation . Yet truly , I know many so flexible and inconstant in their natures , that they are not onely upon all occasions subject to be changed in their opinions ( without any grounds or reason ) by such as speak last with them , but for the most part are sottishly led by the counsels and perswasions of people of a far lesse capacity then their own . Insomuch as in regard of this imperfection , they seem not at all to have any power over themselves and actions : When of the other side , perhaps persons of Honour and Religion , whose love they have sufficiently tried , cannot procure the least confidence and beliefe in their thoughts : Which I can attribute but to the strange influence of the Planets in this unfortunate age , that makes people doe what is most against their own good , as it were by a certaine kind of inchantment of their senses and understandings , towards depraved and preposterous actions .

Last of all , Impatiency depending also upon sensuality I shall mention impatiency an imperfection also in my opinion which may be said to belong to sensuality , for that it proceeds from not being able sufficiently to suffer what he cannot help . The actions of an impatient person may be likened to those of a drunken man , that in his insensibilities hath conceived some intention of opposition to this humour , and therefore in the high way begins to quarrell with a bush of thornes ; in which foolish contention he receives many pricks and scratches in his face and hands , without other revenge or satisfaction ; or rather may be resembled to some barking Cur , that greedily runs after the stone that was cast at him , whereon by reason of his preposterous violence he prejudiceth his teeth , instead of doing any injury at all to the subject or motive of his choler . But however this defect of nature may be charactered and esteemed , yet it is an imperfection of a most prejudiciall condition , since as it advanceth no mans profit and advantage : so of the contrary , it augments and increaseth every mans sufferings , leaving him for the most part unrelieved in his extremities , by rendring him incapable of counsell . Besides it is unpossible for any man to live with conveniency and safety in any ordinary conversation of this world , without a competent proportion of patience ; since as the minde is subject to perturbation upon every slight occasion , so are new accidents and objects daily presented in this life , whereby there will be necessary occasions given to make use of temper ; since both joy and sorrow are most commonly entertained in our apprehensions naturally with too much passion . For whosoever is in prosperity , seldome resteth without new ambitions ; and they that are in adversity , most commonly make themselves worse , by not bearing their crosses with sufficient pacification . However there are not only several degrees in this imperfection , but divers kinds of impatiency : As for example , there are some wise and religious persons , that notwithstanding they would constantly and resolutely undergoe what martyrdome soever , yet are they so above measure precipitate in their studies , that they can scarce afford themselves leisure for any recreations , and by that means bring their bodies ( if not their minds ) into a most desperate condition of health ; which can be interpreted no other then a want of patience in their natures , in not being able to waite with temper an ordinary conveniency , by reason of their over violent desire of accomplishing what they intend . Of the contrary again , there be others of a more inferiour courage , that having entred upon any designe in their resolutions , give it over in the halfe way , meerly because they have not a competent patience to prosecute it to the end or period : which truly oftentimes proves extream prejudiciall to a mans affaires and reputation , since a man in so doing must be thought either to have begun unwisely , or to have left off inconstantly . But as these briefe descriptions may be sufficient to bring into our remembrances the unruly and most dangerous passions of the mind , as well as the more grosse and disdainfull appetites of the flesh ; from both which not onely proceeds the depravation of heavenly grace , that should keep reasonable man in the whole course of his life , but also takes from him in a manner all sense of honour and humanity : So must I again begin a new discourse concerning the nature and duty of morall conversation , not yet spoken of which seems to be so much neglected and adulterated in this unfortunate age , that men endeavour nothing but a false and deceiptfull kind of way in all their words and actions ; as if truth were to be esteemed but a needlesse and contemptible decorum , onely to be observed by fooles living upon earth , or penitents shut up in Monasteries .

Against the pernicious and ignoble custome of Dissimulation .

THe first generall corruption I will name shall be Dissimulation ; unto which as I may say people are so inclined , that it is unpossible almost in any communication to know what another meanes , by reason whereof there is scarce any content at all left in society , or almost a necessary confidence to be had in any thing that is said or done The first war that the divel made with God Almighty upon earth after his fall , was by dissimulation , whereby he endeavoured to corrupt man , to become a Rebell like himselfe ; and prevailed so farre in this designe , that the Sonne of God was constrained to sacrifice his own person , to make up againe that great and unfortunate breach , whilst in the mean time , the Serpent had a temporall curse laid upon his condition , which was to creepe all the daies of his life on his belly , and to eate dust from the ground , to signifie ever after , he was to be esteemed the worst of creatures , onely because the divell had assumed his shape , to practice and put in execution his deceipt . Wicked Cain in the very infancy of the world used dissimulation in his accustomed Sacrifices , that drew down Gods anger upon him : which afterward made him become so impudent a reprobate , that he not onely against the rules of nature and humanity shed the blood of his innocent and vertuous brother , but was so unfortunately mistaken , that he even thought to have couzened God himselfe by his dissimulation , however he was invited to the acknowledgment of his offence . Whereupon wee may conclude , that scarce can there be any crime of a high nature committed , but for the most part something of deceipt must accompany the action ; and to shew how much God Almighty doth abhor all manner of falsification , he would not prosper the Jewes Army , or grant them any more Victories against their enemies , untill deceiptfull Achan was brought forth before the people to be stoned to death , and his goods consumed with fire ; because he had concealed part of the Riches gotten in the City of Iericho , contrary to his commandement . We may also remember what desperate impieties Saul contracted to himselfe , after he practised those deceipts against David , untill at last they brought him to be his own murtherer , whilst in the interim he possest his Kingdom whom he most hated and feared of all others . The Scribes and Pharisees , who were designed instruments for Christs death and passion ( as we read ) came to St. Iohns preaching with false and dissembling hearts , amongst the rest of the multitude , which was the cause why he called them a generation of Vipers . Our Saviour himselfe most earnestly warned the people to take heed of the leaven of the Pharisees , as foreseeing they would prosecute him to the very end , in the spirit of dissimulation and hypocrisie , not onely by often tempting him with deceiptfull questions , but at the last act of his condemnation , in professing themselves servants of Caesars , to obtaine greater credit and beliefe , when as it was well known , they hated nothing more in the world , then to be under that jurisdiction ; which was afterwards verified in their many rebellions . Iudas also began his wicked purpose in dissembling , when he murmured amongst the rest at the losse of the sweet oyntment that was poured upon our Saviours head ; pretending hypocritically , the cost had been better bestowed on the poore ; though his intention was onely , to have had the money at his own dispose , being purs-bearer ; which covetous disposition of his sufficiently appeared , by betraying of his Master for so small a summe : And yet this man was so transported by the opinion of his own craft and subtilty , that when he was told particularly he had resolved in his minde to be the Traytor , he had neither wisdom nor grace to repent or be admonished ; but of the contrary , went presently out of the room to execute his determination ; to which purpose , a while after ( being accompanied with a Troop of Souldiers ) he bestowed upon his Master a trayterous kisse by way of salutation , the chiefe signe agreed between them , as a distinction for his more certaine and easie apprehension : Which shews that God Almighty in detestation of this manner of sinne , is oftentimes pleased to give over such people to their own perdition , in the very spirit of ridiculous folly ; not suffering them in any kind to reflect upon their own misery and impiety ; as it were being drunke and infatuated by a certain overweening conceit , that they are by cunning and dissimmulation , able to deceive not onely men , but Heaven it selfe : Which no doubt was also the opinion of Ananias and Saphira , when they concealed part of the money from the Apostles ; wherein appeared a most remarkable judgement of God upon their persons : Yet not because they had no mind to have bestowed so much to charitable uses , but for that after they had seemed to have given before the multitude ' , they endeavoured again a dissembling way , to have couzened the expectation of their gift . For it was plainly told them , that they might have chosen at the first , whether they would have contributed or no , but they were undoubtedly punished in that they had lied to the holy Ghost , wherein they committed sacriledge , by reason of their intentionall deceipt . Truly if we reflect but upon the constancy and suffering of old Eleazer in the Machabees , we may have by that martyrdome a sufficient example to instruct our beliefe concerning this duty ; who rather then he would consent to the seeming onely of eating Swines-flesh ( though in act he should not have been obliged thereunto ) he chose to die a most cruell and violent death ; as fearing else the scandall that might have risen thereby to young people of his Nation , to whom he desired to be a worthy and memorable testimony of goodnesse and piety . Muchlesse certainly ought we to premeditate dissimulation , as an introduction to all our actions and designes , which is a custome now adaies so much in fashion , that I have observed it sometimes affected , without any intention at all of compassing benefits ; but as it were onely to be esteemed wiser then other persons in worldly affaires ; neverthelesse oftentimes it doth of the contrary , destroy what is most coveted and desired , since it ingenders so much distrust between parties treating , that it is unpossible to have sufficient confidence of one another to conclude almost in any thing to purpose ; which is the reason generally , that there are so few differences of law and contention compremised ; for each person according to his own secret intention of deceipt , believes the same thoughts are in his adversarie , and so consequently feares to be couzened . O horrid custome , as I may say , and as much bewitched imagination , that thus perverts the institution of common society , to the depriving us of the greatest delight of mankind upon earth , in regard we cannot conveniently make use of our reason and naturall knowledge , but must be forced to live with one another like ravenous beasts , alwaies watching either occasions to entrap , or seeking out waies to prevent : Whilst in the interim sweetnesse , affability , and security , are not to be expected by the good , and as little intended by the bad . But perhaps it may be thought , that notwithstanding these Scripture examples , Abraham who was one of God Almighties chiefe servants , seemed not onely intentionally , but actually to dissemble , when he affirmed Sarah to be his sister , whereas she was really his wife ; unto which I answer , that as he was not bound to discover himselfe so farre to his enemies , whereby an eminent prejudice might have befallen his person , so of the other side , I am of opinion , that if the thing had not been also true which he averred , in regard ( according to the Jewes custome ) she might be held his sister by reason of the neere kindred and affinity between them , he could not have been altogether freed from the sin of dissimulation . For if the Text be considered , he did not deny her to be his wife , onely tacitely concealing it , but affirmed her to be his sister , because she was so to be esteemed also by his Country lawes ; which priviledge he was content to make use of to saye his life , being in the hands of barbarous Tyrants . Besides there appeared no intention in him to injure a third person , and therefore was at the more liberty to use his own discretion , without declaring an apparent untruth , which certainly he could not have done lawfully , though it had been to have saved his own life . There is no doubt but a man may in some sort deceive and couzen the expectation of thieves , and murtherers , by seeming sometimes one thing and doing another , in cases of necessity or conveniency , without any manner of danger to his religion and honesty : however the common practice thereof in triviall things in my opinion is naught ; and not to be used for feare of the habit , that at last may render a man too insensible of failings in this nature , whereby his nature is in danger to be brought by degrees to a kinde of falsnesse in conversation ; that as I said before is a means to destroy all civill society , or confidence necessary to be expected in matters of greatest weight and consequence ; and at the best it diminisheth love , abates charity , and destroyes friendship , which I may say are the chiefe ties belonging to humanity : Since there can be no indifferency in communication , where one party takes upon him a liberty to dissemble , and the other professeth all manner of freedome and integrity , both in words and intentions . But much more is this falshood to be abhorred , when it is practised with a trayterous heart to the ruine and destruction of innocency .

Of the breaches in conversation proceeding from the falsifying of words and promises .

AS I have sufficiently demonstrated the inconvenience of this custome of dissimulation , I must speak of those breaches in conversation , that proceed from engagements by word ; which as I may say are certaine religious ties belonging to honour , whereupon depend for the most part the entrance into leagues and contracts , before they come to more absolute obligations ; however without them it is unpossible to proceed to periods and conclusions , since words and promises must first passe , before intended agreements can any way be finished , depending meerly upon a noble faith ; which is the reason that the word of a Prince and a Gentleman , hath been held in all ages in a manner sacred , and far more binding then prisons or writings ; in regard it is to be supposed , that penalties belong unto the one , and nothing but a mans own honour obligeth him to the other , which makes a difference between us and inferiour creatures , who have chaines and other means ordained to keep them in order ; whereas we ought to have no constraint but reason , and the freedom of the soule : wherein holy King David was so punctuall , that he would not himself put to death Shimei , who had most wickedly cursed him in his adversity , because he had promised the contrary ; However no doubt by some propheticall inducement , he advised his son Solomon to bring him to his grave with blood for his offences after his death . We finde that Ionathan observed his promises so inviolably to David before he was King , that neither regarding his fathers present anger , or the losse of his own inheritance , he could not be brought to falsifie the least word that had passed between them . If we consider the wonderfull magnanimity of Iepthes daughter , we may behold an admirable example left to posterity concerning this duty ; for perceiving her most loving father had engaged himselfe ( though rashly ) to her destruction , whereat he seemed excessively afflicted , she bid him with constancy perform the execution , since ( as she said ) having opened his mouth to God , it was meet he should punctually fulfill his promise , without any consideration of her particular ; and the more was this invitation to be admired , in regard it was unpossible she should be any way weary of her own life , being a beautifull young Virgin , and the onely childe of the chiefe Prince of the Countrey : Neither doe I believe the people of that age would have suffered Iepthe so lamentably to have sacrificed his sole daughter , without they had conceived it a most necessary thing to have all solemne promises & words given to be performed in every particular ; and however this may be thought a vow , and therefore the more strictly to be observed , yet neverthelesse it was but meerely voluntary at the first , without any obligation exacted either by right or command : which made it differ no further from a bare promise , but that it was better attested , in regard it was made before the face of all the people ; by which meanes it could not be concealed ( in respect of the ceremoniall part ) though inwardly I conceive it no more binding to Iepthe , then if he had resolved upon such an action in his private chamber . But however it may be esteemed a greater obligation , what we promise to God , then what we assure to men , yet certainly among the very Heathens themselves , we shall finde a most punctuall observation of this common duty , which in a manner doth unite and tie together all morall and humane society ; as may appeare by many examples in prophane Authors . However I doe not believe their actions in this point were regulated by any of our rules of religion , but rather were carried on to the maintenance of their honour , and the conservation of their faith by a certain gallantry and noblenesse ingrafted in their natures and dispositions , by those principles given them in their education and breeding , amongst the rest . There was a Roman Generall being taken prisoner by the Carthaginians , and having formerly promised all fidelity to the Senate of Rome , concerning the execution of his office and charge , for their best advantage : who continuing thus a Captive for some time amongst his enemies , at last they began to thinke his good usage and releasment might produce some beneficiall effects towards a peace , which they earnestly desired to make with their adversaries , by reason the Warres had exhausted their Treasure , and drawn their Commonwealth low in many other particulars ; however they could not conceal it from the knowledge of their prisoner . To which purpose having first conjured him to be their friend towards the obtaining of their wishes , they set him at liberty to return again to Rome with some Embassadours they intended to send with certain Propositions of amity and friendship ; though with this Proviso , that if they should not obtain their desires , he was to promise them upon his honour , to render himself as before into their hands . The conditions being accepted , he went along with their Messengers , and being there arrived , contrary to their expectation , instead of perswading the Senate to hearken to any agreement , he declared it to be their disadvantage and dishonour , to make any Peace at all with the Carthaginians , in regard of their enemies disabilitie to make longer war , assuring them he was sufficienlty informed of his relation , by many reasons and circumstances . So that this Oration absolutely broke off all manner of Treaty between the two Commonwealths , whereby either insued a new war , or at leastwise the continuance of the old ; yet nevertelesse this brave and honest General , though he had exasperated and enflamed his enemies , by the faithful and profitable Counsel he had given his friends in Rome , returned again to Carthage according to his promise and word given , there to be used at their discretion , which he was certain could produce no other effect , then to the taking away of his life in a most cruel manner : Wherefore being arrived , and a full relation of all the passages made in the open Senate by their Embassadours , he was presently not onely seized upon with as much violence as their transported spleens could hasten their Officers to execution , but presently put to death , with all the exquisite torments could be devised by inraged and mercilesse people , that were deceived and cousened in their expectation . This act certainly exprest not only a world of magnanimity in his person , but an intire noblenesse and truth in his disposition ; as well concerning that faithful counsel he gave his friends and Country , to whom he conceived himself obliged for his birth and employment , as in the punctuall observation of his words & promise , which he had given and made to his enemies , who he knew would revenge it to the uttermost of their power . In this manner did this brave Roman give a remarkable testimony to all posterity , what obligations are due in point of honour to words and promises . Now if this part of Morality , was accustomed to be so strictly observed amongst the Pagans , having little or no Religion to regulate their actions , what may we conjecture of the duty of Christians , whose Professions are to serve the onely God of Truth , that without doubt can never be pleased , with any manner of falsifications ; neverthelesse we see this miserable age , is so far corrupted in this nature , as I may say , without any kind of apprehension of honor , that it is almost grown a maxime never to speak what a man thinks , or do what he sayes .

But as I have mentioned this one example of a Heathen , I must also remember in this place another of a Christian , not onely of a memorable consequence , but the more to be regarded , for that it was chiefly grounded upon a religious duty .

Which was that of Lewis King of France , surnamed the Saint , when he made war in the Holy Land , who being in the like manner as the former taken prisoner by the Infidels , with most of his Nobility , at last by hard labour and with much difficulty , he made shift to contract for his Ransome and liberty , though at an excessive rate , yet esteemed better then to end his dayes in a miserable and horrid captivity . But when according to the agreement the mony came to be tendred , which was procured with difficulty from the estates and fortunes of his people , the Commissioners whom he employed in the service , used such dexterity in their office and employment , that they over-reached the enemy in the account ( though by no fraudulent deceit ) whereby they reserved a considerable sum to the Kings use , of capacity perhaps sufficient , to have defrayed a great part of the journey homewards ; which being related to the pious Prince , with all the circumstances thereunto belonging . However , he was upon his departure , yet considering it might prove some scandal to his Religion , he resolved not to put to Sea until the full of the contract was performed in every particular . And to that purpose , he not onely sent the residue of the mony to his adversaries , but withal commanded his Treasurers in his name to excuse the Act , as done without his order and privity . Which being exactly effected , & the Pagans fully satisfied , he joyfully took shipping with the rest of his company . Now though this pious deed I must confesse , was beyond any obligation , yet in regard the contrary might have bred some jealousie and suspicion in the thoughts of the Saracens , concerning the actions and intentions of this good King , whereby his Religion might have been dishonoured , certainly it may seem a most pious and laudable resolution ; and truly cannot be but a worthy and admirable exemple , not onely to teach other Princes their duty , but also may serve in some sort to instruct all people , what considerations ought to be had in performance of promises ; especially when they are made upon equal and just confidence of both sides . For if this tye be not observed after a strict manner , there is no possibility left to be assured , either in contracts or conversation . Which is the reason that in the accidents and chances of war , souldiers after they are taken , oftentimes are let go upon their words ; however in prisons , the same persons are perhaps kept by strong guards . Gamesters , who for the most part are men not to be secured by any Bonds and Writings , concerning the payment of debts , yet when they borrow mony of their companions upon their words onely , for the most part will be sure never to break , as esteeming it a point of honor belonging to Society and conversation , not to be violated by any means . Nay , very thieves are so punctual in this observation , that they will scarse deceive a person , whom they had determined to rob , if they have made any engagement to that purpose ; and yet our poor Country , that was one famed beyond all other Nations in this particular , is now grown to that infamy , by reason of this false way of conversation , that the people can neither be trusted by others abroad , or be at all confident of themselves at home .

Concerning the breaches of trusts upon special confidence and obligation .

THe next and last falshood I shall mention , is breach of trusts , when others put confidence in our truth and integrity ; which was the crime of Architophel King David's esteemed Counsellour , who betrayed his Masters secrets to his unnatural son Absolon , in which wickednesse and rebellion , they both miserably perished by the just judgement of Almighty God . Again , we read that as Sampson was deceived by his wife , whom the Philistians had craftily put upon him for that effect ; so themselves were most remarkably punished by reason of their being Authors of the Treason ; insomuch , as he destroyed most of the Nobility in his last end : And this was effected no doubt by the meer instigation of Heaven , as a just reward for so unnatural a trechery , though withal I cannot deny , but that they were most pernicious people , and enemies to Gods worship . King David did so abhor this infidelity and breach of trust , that he put to death the young man , that brought him word of Saul's destruction , only for that he seemed to rejoyce in his Kings fall , notwithstanding he himself was to enjoy thereby the Kingdome , without obstacle and hinderance . Also he slew the two Thieves Buana and Rechab , because they had killed trecherously Ishbosheth , however he was not alone his mortal enemy , but sought the Crown from off his head ; which justice he rather executed upon them , because they had been both Saul's servants . These certainly were not only religious demonstrations of a noble disposition , but testimonies of his opinion of this duty , when as he would not seem to countenance acts of so unworthy a nature , though himself was to reap the onely benefit . Moreover , he was so far in his own person from being unfaithful to Saul when he lived , that notwithstanding he alwayes persecuted him most spightfully for his life , he thought it a kinde of impiety to have cut a piece of his garment , though it were but to let him know he had him in his power , without doing him any other prejudice .

But however Scripture examples are of best Authority for our instructions , Alexanders detestation of falshood , and incouraging of loyalty . yet we may reflect a little upon Heathen practises , as farther testimonies of morality . Amongst which number , we may consider that Alexander the Great was so just and noble in his disposition , concerning this duty of trust , that when he understood Darius after his defeat was cruelly murthered by his chief Commander Bessus , he never left prosecuting of the wicked Traytor until he delivered him bound to the brother of the King , who executed him with many torments according to his deserts . When of the contrary , this generous Prince used those with all manner of honour and repect , who had proved faithful and constant to their dead Master until his last end . For example , There was an old Nobleman of special trust about Darius person , who being brought to his presence , and not able to light off his horse , by reason of his age and many infirmities , he himself walked a foot conferring courteously with him in the sight of his whole Army , until perceiving the man something out of countenance to see the King in that posture , whilst himself rid , presently Alexander called for his horse to accompany him with more freedome and conveniency .

Another act of magnanimity and justice , I shall mention of a Roman Consul , A brave example of Justice . who having besieged a great Town in Italy , whereupon a trayterous and false Schoole-Master , that had most of the Noble youths of the City under his charge and care , thinking to make a benefit to himself of their persons , in that necessity one day leading the boyes into the fields , according to his custom , pretending onely their recreation ; when he had them at a convenient distance for an escape , he suddainly ( contrary to their expectation ) brought them into the enemies Camp , and presented them with great joy unto the General as an acceptable service , deserving as he thought , both reward and commendation . But the Noble Commander reflecting upon the wickednesse of the fact , and false intention of the Master , as also noting the dejectednesse of the countenances of so many youths of principal families , instantly gave order to have the fellow stript of his cloaths in his presence , causing also his hands to be bound behind him ; and being in this posture , he willed a good rod to be delivered to every one of the Scholars , commanding them to drive again their Trayterous Master into the City with whips and scourges , there to receive further punishment , according to the discretion of their injured parents . This truly was an act both of extraordinary justice and courage , since as he was willing to punish Treason , notwithstanding the benefit might have redounded to himself if he had pleased , so of the other side , did he shew a bravery in his own disposition , that he would not darken the glory of his actions , by any such base wayes and means , though the opportunity was offered unto him .

I shall remember one act more of justice , done by a person of the same Nation , Another example in the like kinde . not differing much from the former in nature and manner .

There was a certain young woman of birth and quality , who living in a Town that was besieged by the Romans , promised for a competent sum of gold , to deliver the place without any further trouble , into the possession of the enemy , which being effected without any condition in the bargain made for her own life , she presently went to the General to demand the performance of the contract , whereupon he commanded so much mony and other rich Jewels to be brought into the place , as had been promised for her recompence , where when she was ready to receive the possession of the wealth , according to the greedinesse of her appetite , who for such a gain had sold her friends , kindred , and Country , he suddainly caused the souldiers of his Guard , and to cast it all upon her at an instant , whereby instead of enjoying the benefit of the riches answerable to her covetous expectation ; she became intombed for her wickednesse and Treason , as a memorable sacrifice offered to right and equity . In this single act appeared a double justice , The one in bestowing upon her what was promised , punctually to perform the agreement . The other in putting her to death for her crime , she not being priviledged by the Law of Arms from slaughter , in regard there was no condition made for her safety . These stories I mention to shew how hateful breaches of trust have been alwayes esteemed by Heathens and Infidels , when as the greatest and worst Tyrants were never willing to countenance acts of this nature .

Witnesse in part , our Richard the third of England , who however he promised the reward of a thousand pounds , Richard the third an enemy to trechery , though a Tyrant in his other actions . to that person that should bring forth the Duke of Buckingham , his esteemed mortal enemy , yet when he understood he was betrayed by Banister , one whose obligations to his Lord , should have made him trusty against all provokements by way of gratitude , if not fidelity , he not onely refused him the reward promised , but delivered this opinion of the action ; that he that could dispence with his conscience , to deceive his trust concerning the protection of so good a Master , flying to his assistance in his necessity , it was unpossible but he would do the like with his King if it were in his power . Neither did God Almighty himself forbear the punishment of this unworthy wretch , as appeared by most remarkable judgements not long after . For presently his eldest son fell mad , his second was drowned in a puddle of water , his onely daughter was strook with a most loathsome Leprosie , and himself in his declining age , was arraigned and condemned for Felony ; thouh with much ado he was saved by his Clergy . All which , truly in my opinion , were apparant testimonies of Gods anger against the nature of this base sin , since it cannot be conceived by any that lived in those times , that he was so punished in his family for other cause , then that he had betrayed that trust that was committed to him , grounded upon reasons of obligation and promise . Wherefore when I consider the strange kinde of breaches of trusts now a dayes , I know not whether I should more wonder that people are suffered to live by God Almighty , in regard of their falshood , or be scandalized at their so little apprehensivenesse of their own intolerable basenesse in this nature ; for it is generally noted , those who have been most obliged either by courtesies or duty , take the first occasion in these distracted times to prejudice other mens fortunes and estates .

But however , according to my own opinion , I have spoke sufficiently concerning this duty in the general , yet I think it not amisse to declare some Divine , Natural , and Moral examples , belonging to two obligations in particular . Which are the ties of friendship and service , that have been in all ages held necessary ties to be observed : For without the first it is unpossible almost to be secure in any conversation , and being deceived in the latter , no person can be well assisted in affairs appertaining to every mans condition , though I do not affirm they are alwayes to be practised in this high nature I shall mention ; but presidents ought still to be of the best stamp and workmanship , left they be too slightly imitated , and so consequently prove not profitable for those that have a mind to do well .

The nature and property of entire friendship .

WE will speak first of friendship contracted either by nature or upon obligation , such as past between Ionathan and David , in the very infancy of their acquaintance , which was so in violably maintained and conserved by these two godly and Noble persons , that it seemed to weigh down all the considerations of humane and worldly concernments ; when as neither the competition of Crowns nor the losse of Scepters was able to work differences ; but of the contrary , such a Religious sympathy continued alwayes in their hearts , as if they had coveted more each others happinesse and prosperity , then their own . Neither certainly could this love and friendship proceed from Ionathan , out of any weaknesse of nature or want of valour , since he was known upon all occasions to expresse courage and shew wisdom , in matters of greatest difficulty and necessity . For however he had in his resolutions so wholly submitted himself to the will of God , that he was content to transfer his fathers kingdom to David and his posterity , as appeared by the compact made between them , wherein it was agreed , that he should have a care of his issue ; yet in the last bat tail that was fought with the Philistins , he most valiantly sacrificed his own life in defence of his Country and Religion , to shew that notwithstanding he expected no Dominion in his own particular , yet he would faithfully perform that office in the general , that belonged to his honour and Conscience , concerning the just defence of the people . But for that it may be thought these actions proceeded chiefly from the inspirations of Heaven ( as no doubt they did ) I shall recount some more humane examples to shew , that this duty hath been ever esteemed of a most high nature amongst Heathens and Philosophers . To which purpose I shall mention this remarkable president of two Learned friends in the the time of Dionysius the Tyrant . A wonderful friendship exprest in the time of Dionisius the Tyran . The one of them being wrongfully accused by the Kings suspicion , had liberty notwithstanding given him to follow his occasions , upon security undertaken by the other , that if his friend did not return at the day appointed , to yeeld his body to the stroak of the executioner , himself should pay the forfeiture of his offence , by the same punishment . Whereupon he failing something of the time appointed for his appearance , his companion was brought out into the Market-place , to suffer death according to the agreement ; but the other hasting to the place before the Executioner had done his office , and finding his dear friend in that posture , being so neer his destruction , suddainly cast himself at the feet of Dionysius , demanding his discharge , in regard he was ready as he said to be sacrificed to his indignation and cruelty . The other that was prepared for the slaughter , being desirous to redeem his friends life by his own losse , seemed not onely extreamly troubled at his appearance , but more perplexed a great deale at his offer , telling the Judge that now the limited time was expired , he conceived that none but himselfe was lyable to the judgement , and therefore accordingly expected the execution : Whereupon his companion being transported with the feare of his friends danger , conjured the tyrannicall King to consider , not onely with compassion , but some justice , that himselfe was the guilty person , and therefore it could not stand with the rules either of equity or humanity , that an innocent should suffer , when the faulty appeared ready to satisfie for the offence . The other also being in a manner beyond his senses , finding the King was inclinable to perform his friends request , in regard he seemed to have more reason in his pleadings , presently turned to the people , and desired their assistance in his request , alledging that his friend could not now justly suffer , for that himselfe had punctually contracted for his penalty and redemption . But whilst the strange and unexampled contention continued , to the no small amazement of the spectators , who could not but wonder at so rare and excellent a friendship , Dionysius himselfe after something a long pause rise from his seat , not onely pardoning them both their lives , but with all earnestnesse intreating them , to take him also as a third person , into their admirable society and friendship , which he vowed he would esteeme as a principall honour and happinesse . In this story may be noted , not onely the wonderfull effects of an intire friendship , but the power of such examples , to soften the stony hearts of the most cruellest Tyrants in the world . Which shews , that even perversest natures may be overcome by those noble passions , though according to the practice of this age , these and the like relations may be esteemed no other then as ridiculous fancies , proceeding from extravagant inventions ; but give me leave to say , that notwithstanding we are not bound upon all occasions to imitate these high presidents , yet certainly we are not to abandon all manner of good nature and friendship , dissolving every obligation onely upon interest & commodity without other consideration ; since both divine and morall principles , meerly by the rules of charity and gratitude seem to challenge respects due from us to others , as well as to our selves .

And our Saviour Christ , when he lived here upon earth , was so farre from disdaining this humane passion , that he seemed to love one Disciple above all the rest with a naturall affection . As I have related this remarkable example of constant friendship , so shall I in this place relate another of admirable love and affection , acted by a Heathen Prince , wherein he absolutely overcame his own earthly passions , meerly to satisfie his sons desires .

An admirable example of love & friendship in another nature . There was a King raigning in Persia , who having married a most beautifull young Lady , it fortuned his sonne , a gallant and generous Prince , being taken with her rare and excellent parts , fell of a sudden so excessively in love with his faire mother in law , that he had no power either to master his own passions , or to conserve so intirely as he desired , his former approved duty and obedience to his father ; in so much as contending strongly for some time between these two extreames , at last , being wholy overcome rather by nature then reason he waxed sick , which by degrees increased so violently upon his constitution , that being able no longer to support the weight of his distemper , he was forced at last to yeeld to the perversenesse of his infirmity , and by that means within a few daies became past all hope of recovery , notwithstanding the skill and diligence of all the best Physicians of the Kingdom ; which not onely dejected his father after an extraordinary manner , but put the whole Court into a most desperate sadnesse ; and the rather was their amazement encreased , by the opinion conceived of the strange fatality of his losse , since no art was able to dive into the conjecturall knowledge of his disease . However when all mens thoughts were not onely distracted , but at a stand , concerning this miserable unfortunate accident , one Physitian amongst the rest , that was better knowing , or at least wise more diligent in his service , one day being present , perceived a wonderfull change , and alteration in the beating of his pulse , when the Queen entered into the room to visit her sicke sonne in law , in so much as at last by more carefull observation he became certainly informed , that onely his hidden and secret love to the Kings wife , was the sole occasion of his violent distemper ; for that his bashfull and dutifull nature durst not own an affection against all lawes of humanity : Wherefore retiring himselfe into his chamber with these cogitations , to consult more freely with his thoughts , he concluded that it was unpossible to save the Princes life , without absolute satisfaction in his desires ; and instantly he resolved notwithstanding any hazzard could befall him , to make the King acquainted with the discovery of this mysterie , whom he knew had only power to save his son , since the Chastity of the Queen was no way to be attempted without his privity .

In this perplexity , as I may say , he went presently unto the King , for that the least protraction threatned destruction ; where being come into his presence , he fell down at his feet , telling him in particular the condition of the young Prince , with all the circumstances thereto belonging ; and humbly desired his gracious pardon , if he had any way offended him in the relation , since it was no other then a duty he conceived he was bound to offer unto his Majesty , though his life were to satisfie the offence . The King having fully heard this unexpected discourse , not onely pardoned the Physitian , according to his desire , and commended him for his care and affection ; but wished him also to be diligent in other discoveries of the same nature . In this posture he presently went to the Queen , where after he had informed her ( to her no small amazement ) of all these strange passages , he violently conjured her by the duty of a wife , and the compassion of a woman , as also the affection of a mother in law , to tender his sonnes life , who was as he said , both the hope of his Kingdome , and the comfort of his old age , which in particular was so far to obey his commands , that she would condescend to promise the Prince a fruition of her love , upon his recovery . The Queen being something distracted at these unusuall injunctions , not being able perfectly to discover the Kings minde , and lesse resolving in any kind to injure her own honour , stood for some time inwardly disputing with her own thoughts , untill finding by the Kings further discourses , that as he wished her no way to wrong her chastity , but onely seemingly to satisfie his son , whereby he might be freed from the danger of his present sicknesse ; so was the least delay to the Princes expectation , no lesse then personall and present death . Wherefore after some other speeches and circumstances of the Kings , the Queen in a humble and gracious manner uttered this language , That as her honour was more belonging to him then to her selfe , in regard of the dignity of his : calling , so would she have him to thinke , she ever tooke his commands to be the onely rule of her obedienec ; however she hoped he would not enjoyn her any thing that should be prejudiciall either to his Crowne or her owne modesty ; with which confidence she promised to use both charity and diligence towards the recovery of the Prince . In fine , after some time the King finding by this means , his son not onely to have past all hazzard & danger , but to have recovered much of his strength and beauty ; though , as he was informed , he continued still the same violent affection to the Queen , he caused a generall Proclamation to be made through his Dominions , as if he intended to sacrifice unto the gods for the safety of the young Prince . And to that purpose gave order , that upon a day appointed his Subjects should assemble , according to the custome of Persia , before his Palace gate , there to understand his further will and pleasure . The time being come , he was mounted upoon a glorious Throne , cloathed in all his Royall Robes , his beautifull Queen sitting of one hand , and the Prince his son of the other : where , after he had made a long and eloquent Oration in commendation of his Wives chastity , and his Sons vertues , whereby he put the people in minde of the losse they might have sustained by his death , he not onely in the face of the whole multitude bestowed his Queen upon the Prince for his wife , but gave him also the present possession of many Kingdomes , as a Dower towards the better maintenance of their affections , to the joy and amazement of all the Assembly .

Now , I say , if this high act of magnanimity of a Heathen Prince be well considered , we shall finde a wonderfull demonstration both of his naturall goodnesse , as well as of his perfect friendship . For however it be not to be supposed , that a man for any pretence whatsoever , should give away his wife to satisfie anothers unlawfull passion , being against the rules of our Religion , yet there appeared in the carriage of the businesse , not onely an intire naturall love , but a most constant and friendly affection , which no , doubt the young man had purchased from his father , by his many merits , and other valuable considerations , that use to unite hearts ; and so , as we may say , was strongly maintained in the thoughts and resolutions of that Noble Prince : for that he determined ( as hath been related ) without any manner of reflection upon his own particular , absolutely to throw away his greatest delights , rather then to hazzard or endanger his sonne ; wherein he exprest more desire of conserving the made love between them , then to satisfie in any way whatsoever his own appetites . Since to this purpose , he parted voluntarily with his beautifull and vertuous wife out of his own bosom , onely to be willing still to enjoy his friends conversation , to be esteemed as he believed above all other happinesse . And however , as I said before , these strange examples are not to be used as presidents , for the directing of our morality , in that they are against the principles of our Religion ; yet truly they may serve to give some testimonies reflecting upon the practises of these times , since most people seem to esteem onely private interest without any consideration either of faith , affection or good nature . But to shew that even nature her selfe seems in unreasonable creatures to pretend to a certaine kind of friendship or gratitude upon many occasions , I shall make relation of one or two stories to that purpose , which notwithstanding they may appeare in some sort past all beliefe , yet are they recorded for truths in authenticall and approved Authors . However put the case they are not true , yet may they serve as figures for instruction .

The story of Androclius the Roman slave . The first that shall be remembred is that of Androclius the Roman slave , who being cruelly used by his master , fled into the Desart from his service ; which was a crime almost esteemed of the highest nature in those times : after this flight he remained in a cave concealed for some daies , hoping thereby the better to avoyd the pursuit . However it hapned in the interim , that a huge Lyon entred the place where he was , who having by some accident gotten a thorne in his foot , and perceiving the man there , he presently fell at his feet , as if he desired relife at his hands ; whereupon the fellow after some amazement and feare , perceiving at last his intention , and glad of the occasion , undertook cure ; which he might more conveniently performe , in regard he had brought along with him many necessaries fit for such a piece of service , in that he was accustomed by those instruments to heale his own sores received from the scourges of his passionate master ; by whose care and industry within a short space the Lyon became not onely reasonably well recovered of his wound , but daily went abroad into the Forrest , as well for his own sustenance , as to provide also meat for his Physician ; which continued them both in that posture and society , untill the slave either weary of that uncouth conversation , or desirous to save himselfe by a further flight , took a resolution to part from the cave ; however in the execution of his purpose he proved so unfortunate , that he was again taken and brought to Rome , there to be devoured by wild beasts in the publique Theatre before all the people , as a judgement conceived answerable to his crime . But being exposed upon the day appointed to the fury of a huge Lyon , that seemed ready prepared with open mouth to receive him , of a sudden to the amazement of the spectators , instead of tearing him presently in pieces ( as he had done many before ) he cast himselfe at his feet with a fawning countenance ; whereupon instantly enquiry was made after the reason of such a sudden change , since lately he had shewed himselfe more furious then all other beasts of his kind . But the slave being examined in many particulars , as if he had used some inchantment towards the Lyon , he declared the whole story of his flight , and of his entertainment in the Cave ; where he cured , as he said , the Lyon of a hurt he had got in the foot ; for which act of gratitude , as was conceived , the beast had contracted some friendship with his person , that as yet appeared not to be out of his remembrance ; since he had exprest it in as high a way as could be imagined towards his preservation . All which being believed of the people , the poore slave was not only pardoned his life , but his freedom was also granted him by his master , as a fitting reward for so strange an accident . Another I shall also mention , though not after the same manner , yet may be esteemed of the like quality , onely the difference is , the one contracted friendship out of gratitude and obligation , the other meerely by a secret instinct of nature .

There was a young boy , A strange relation of a boy and a Dolphin . who was accustomed often as he went to Schoole , to passe along the Sea-shore of Bayea , where there used to frequent a great Dolphin , being esteemed generally the King of fishes ; untill at last there became such an acquaintance and familiarity between these two creatures , that the fish ordinarily would take bread and other things out of the childs hand , as also come at the sound of his voyce , when he called him ; sometimes carrying him a mile or two on the Sea ; and after he had sported and played with him there a while , would set him again on land , and suffer him to depart . Which custome continued untill the boy by some accident hapned to die ; however the Dolphin notwithstanding daily resorted to the place , as it were to enquire after his companion whom he mist ; but at last finding he was absolutely deprived of that society , having ( belike ) no hope to see him againe , he violently cast himselfe upon the sands and died , as it was supposed meerly for griefe and apprehension of his losse . Which story , however I cannot affirme for certaine , yet Pliny relates it as a truth from many writers : but neverthelesse taken onely for Romancy , it may serve sufficiently for my purpose , which is to convince people by such inducements that the bands of friendship ought not to be broken upon any condition , without impiety & dishonour ; whenas unreasonable creatures meerly by the instinct of nature , have observed these ties , in so much as men have been amazed at their gratitude and constancy . But now , since it may be thought I have been something tedious upon this subject , or rather duty so little esteemed in these daies , I will come to the last fidelity , which in truth is a great deale more necessary to be observed then then the former , in regard of the daily use thereof upon all occasions : which is to consider what trust may be thought convenient according to the practice of other ages , from servants to their patrons .

The nature and obligation of service .

THis tye of service certainly is grounded both upon divine and morall principles : And our Saviour seemed himselfe to complaine most bitterly , that none but he which had eate his bread should be designed to lift up his hand against him . As much to say , he of all others should not have been the man chosen out for the treason . We read in holy Scripture that Abraham not only conjured his servant by a certaine kind of a curse , by reason of those obligations , which were due from the nature of his condition , being one of his family to be faithfull , when he sent him to seeke a wife for his son in the Countrey of Mesopotamia ; but also this godly and good natured person himselfe was so punctuall in observing his Lords commands , and fulfilling with expedition his expectation , that he could not be perswaded ( notwithstanding the occasion was extraordinary , and the intreaty most powerfull ) to stay any longer then one night in the house of Bethuell Rebeceas father , in regard of the speciall care was in his affectionate heart , to give his Master speedy satisfaction in his imployment , according to his conceived duty . Neither truly it is to be supposed , that Ioseph being intertained onely by a Heathen King , would have been so above measure advantageable in the execution of his office , in buying of all the Land of Egypt to his Lords proper use , but rather have made a benefit of his prophesying spirit , towards the enriching of himselfe and friend , if he had not thought it at leastwise a morall obligation belonging to his charge . We read that the Angell that accompanied young Tobit in his journey promised an extraordinary care and diligence in his behalfe , being hired thereunto ; which truly in my opinion may be taken as a figure or example of service . However there were other high mysteries contained in that speciall progresse ordained by God Almighty . Furthermore in this morall duty the Turkes are so punctuall in conserving all manner of trusts , that the very souldiers themselves that are accustomed to wait upon travellers for wages , wil not in their own persons do them any manner of injury , but rather defend them with a most constant violence from all such affronts intended them from others ; to which purpose I shall in this place make relation of a remarkable passage , to this effect .

A relation of a Turkish souldier . Some yeers since there was a company of English men travelling in Turkey , to informe themselves of the curiosity of those Countries ; & to that purpose for their better defence , they had hired three or four souldiers to be their guard , whereby to prevent all affronts and injuries that might be offered to their persons amongst the barbarous Arabians ; in which office ( as I said before ) they are extreame faithfull and diligent . However it so hapned , that one of our Countreymen having belike drunk more then was convenient , either for his present commodity or appearing safety ; and by that means committed many extravagant and most ridiculous insolencies in his journey , untill at last he fell violently upon his own souldier , not onely with abusive language ; but also in his madd choler gave him many blowes , whereat the company was something astonished as well as displeased ; and the rather for that notwithstanding he pursued the fellow in a most furious manner : yet the discreet & patient Janizary was so far from revenging the injury , that he onely endeavoured to avoyd his strokes by flight . But at last the businesse being composed , and the quarrell taken up , the souldier was demanded by some of the company , how he could possibly endure such affronts and injuries from a stranger ; especially when he was in his power , and under his protection . Whereupon he presently answered , that however he was abused by anothers insolency and indiscretion , yet in regard he had been hired with money to be faithfull in his office , he himselfe would not commit so great a wickednesse , as any way to deceive his trust by anothers example ; but was resolved rather to suffer more prejudice personally , then to be injust in his own duty . By which very act we may perceive , what opinion the Turkes have of this obligation of service , being contracted for in any kind , believing , as it should seem , there depends upon this duty not only a tye of trust and diligence , but of humility and sufferance , whilst they remaine under that condition . Other examples to this effect might be brought almost in all ages , to shew the nature and practise of this obligation , when as contemptible slaves have not onely oftentimes refused liberty and preferment , but have bit out their own tongues upon occasions being tormented , rather then they would accuse their masters ; by that means , as it were depriving themselves of the capacity to reveale their secrets in any kind . Others again in the warres have exposed their naked bodies to the fury of weapons and darts , when they perceived their masters person in eminent danger , only to save them from slaughter and destruction ; offering their own lives as affectionate sacrifices , to expresse the better their entire love and fidelity . It is recorded in some stories , that Leeimachus one of Alexanders souldiers continued so faithfull to his master the King , that however falling into his displeasure , for relieving of the Philosopher Calistines in his necessities , contrary to his command , he was condemned singly to encounter a Lyon ; yet when the King was in danger to be lost , being out of his way in a vast Desart , he runne a foot by his horse side a whole day together , to the hazzard of his own life , until he had brought again him safe unto the Army ; which act of courage and fidelity procured him so much favour from Alexander , that he became at last of such eminency , that he proved one of those Captaines that after the Kings death had in a manner the World divided between them . Neither can we but wonder at the strange examples of fidelity that are daily produced amongst the Indians ; which opinion as it should seem hath been so ingrafted in their natures and practises , arising onely from their rude principles in religion and morality , that we know it hath been the ancient custome , if not at this day , in many places , to cast themselves in the fire with the bodies of their dead Lords , there also to be consumed ; as if they thought it either an essentiall point belonging to their duty , or an undoubted part of their happinesse to accompany them in another world . But for a more neerer testimony of their naturall trust and affection , we may reflect upon the relation of the businesse of Amboyne , wherein some Iapan servants endured most intolerable torments by the Dutch , because they would not accuse their English masters . All which in my opinion are apparent evidences , either by the light of nature , or from some customary principles in religion or morality , even barbarous people conceive a certaine duty belonging to those that tye themselves to such a condition . However for the most part servants of this age , are so farre from performing their duty in this kind , that they doe commonly designe themselves under such a condition , but onely for their own pleasures and commomodities ; as if there were no other obligations to be performed , then to be called servants : And yet perhaps at last will violently presse for rewards , when as at best their service never merited one single yeers wages : which indeed makes the governing of families almost intolerable ; though I must confesse masters also may be sometimes deficient in their own obligations . But I will conclude this discourse with a story of a poore woman , notwithstanding her sex might have been excused , in shewing forth such testimonies of magnanimity and fidelity , which story relates much after this manner .

The strange fidelity and wonderfull sufferings of a poor woman-servant . When that most wicked and bloudy Tyrant of the World , the Emperour Nero put on a resolution to marry Popea , it was thought something necessary by his favourites to forge false accusations against his lawfull wife Octavia , not onely in regard of the nobility of her blood , and extraction , but for fear lest the people might be overmuch scandalized at the action ; to which purpose a mayd-servant of hers being brought to the Rack , before Tygellinus that infamous and cruell bawd ; after many furious and intolerable torments , which she suffered in defence of her Ladies chastity and honour ; at last she was demanded by that inhumane monster something concerning her mistresses deportment in uncivill tearmes , not becomming the modesty of her womanly eares to heare , or her bashfull tongue to answer : however being violently prest notwithstanding unto a direct and present reply , she told him in some passion that her Ladies secret parts were farre more chaste , and free from corruption , then his mouth ; and in this conflict yeelded up her life to their cruelty , as a testimony of Octavias innocency . By this magnanimous suffering may be noted the extream fidelity of this poore though couragious wench , who was so farre from betraying her mistris , that in the very heat of her torments she rather chose to exasperate the malice of those Tyrants , to her further punishment , then she would endure to hear so much as one dishonourable passage to be mentioned , that concerned the dignity of her Ladies person , as I may say , disdaining that so much as one uncivil or unbeseeming word , should be spoke that concerned her honour , though at that time she was forced to entertain such a combat as might have gained the victory over the stoutest and most couragious men , that ever yet breathed . Which being considered in each particular , may be thought extraordinary effects of that love and duty that belong to the condition of service ; for however she could not without some impiety accuse innocency , though many by meer force of tortures have been constrained to it in their own cause , yet if she had not been so much transported with her affection to her Mistresse , by which means she apparently exasperated her Judges , she might probably have obtained more favour or lesse rigour in her own behalf and concernment , wherein consisted the chief magnanimity of the action .

But as I have now briefly run through these extravagancies of nature , and corruptions of manners , from whence probably proceed all humane wickednesse , whereby people are carried on for the most part to be unjust to others , and injurious to themselves ; not onely against Religion belonging to God , but even contrary to morality appertaining to men and conversation . So of the otherside , ought we to expect by the exact rule of justice , after this life either punishment or reward , according to our comportments in these particulars , which however it be a principle most believe in the general , yet perhaps many may not seriously enough reflect upon the true consideration of their qualities , for if they did but apprehend the punishment and rewards with a competent understanding belonging to good and evil , it were impossible upon every slight occasion , to be carried away so much with preposterous practises , as experience in this latter age tells us men are . Wherefore , that we may come somethidg neerer our thoughts , by a collection of some circumstances of these particulars , as the Church of God tells us there is a Hell and a Heaven , which must by consequence follow , if there be a God and a Devil ; so may we in a sort measure out their natures and properties , by some humane descriptions and comparisons , although in no other manner , then the twilight resembles the day , or the least star in the firmament the bright Sun . And first we will begin with Hell .

Some kinde of demonstrations of the supernatural torments of Hell .

T Is true , as I have intimated already , notwithstanding it be unpossable to comprehend sufficiently the intollerable torments of this infernal habitation , by the meer apprehension of man , that proceeds no further then humane capacity , when as these infinite miseries being instituted by Almighty God in the greatest fury of his wrath , must needs be spiritual , and consequently supernatural , to satisfie his judgement , wherefore neither confined to place nor subject to mitigation , yet being computed with worldly sufferings , we may in some sort he sensible of their effects , if not of their natures and qualities . For which purpose let a man but set before his consideration and apprehension the miserable condition of a person cast into a deep and dark Dungeon , without hope of redemption , full of nothing but horrid dispaire and stinking vapour , there to have his naked body laid upon a broiling Gridiron over a most sulpherous and scorching fire , whilst his tender flesh by piece meals , should be continually torn from the bones by hot pincers , with all the violence and cruelty that could be imagined ; whether or no it can be supposed that this miserable wretch would not redeem his deplorable captivity if it lay in his power , with the greatest pennance and austeritie , that were ever yet suffered upon earth by any mortal creatures ; however , these punishments were only designed for some few yeers : so that let what man soever consider but the shortnesse of humane life in this world , wherein any thing can be acted or suffered by an equal estimate , and then tell me whether that person be not a most intolerable fool that seems so bewitched with momentary & painted delights , that he cannot in any kind reflect upon those torments that shall neither be confined to him , or can admit of any manner of comparison ; for if all the tortures that were ever yet invented by the most cruellest and subtilest Tyrants , were to be laid upon a sufferer , with the greatest art and violence could be devised , to cause despair and increase affliction , yet were they no more to be esteemed in regard of the infernal torments then the least biting of a flea is to be compared to those punishments we have mentioned , though executed , as I say , with what worldly power soever ; or then is the ordinary fire we use , to be likned to the Suns brightnesse , or the lightnings effect that in an instant , procures both fear and amazement ; Since we must expect the torments in the other life , to be so far from being understood , or comprehended by any humane imagination , that they are created not onely by God Almighties omnipotency , not a natural way as earthly things are , but as it were in the very spirit of his indignation against sin , that is more opposite to his Majesty a million of times , then light is to darknesse . For as we must suppose them ordained , onely to prosecute a divine vengeance , never more to be pacifyed by what mediation soever , and as little the Executioners to be won to any manner of compassion : so ought we to be assured , that both soul and body shall endure , not onely one common and particular torment , but multitudes of every kinde , answerable to each nature . For as the soul shall be continually tormented with the thought of that loss it hath sustained , being debarred from Heaven , and being brought into a most despairing condition , never to be redeemed by any care or endeavour , so shall every sense of the body and member a part be sensible of distinct punishments , as well as of the whole , though each insufferable in every particular , and yet not withstanding must be endured altogether without either relaxation or intermission . As for example , our eyes will be deprived of all light and faculty of seeing , and yet neverthelesse must be continually frighted , with most ugly and horrid visions of all sorts that can work terrour in a bodies apprehension . Our hearing likewise , although absolutely obstructed and deaf , as to any discourses of pleasure and consolation with other tones of harmony and delight , yet shall we conceive alwayes to apprehend in our imaginations , most terrible cursing , howlings , and other distastful lamentations of tortured persons . The smell in like manner , however of no use to our benefit and commodity , yet shall remaine alwayes suffocated and choaked with stinking corruptions of sufficient power to poyson whole worlds of people . Our taste , though continually glutted with loathsome superfluities in every kinde , yet notwithstanding shall we indure most outragious hunger and thirst , to the very appetite and violent desire of eating and consuming of our own bowels and intrails , for want of food and nourishment . And for our feeling , we shall need no more comparison , then perfectly to reflect upon either those torments we have already mentioned in this Discourse , or seriously to consider what is possible for people to suffer , either by fire , sword , scourges , or the like ; by the cruelty of what Tyranny soever without intermission . However , as I have said before , all earthly tortures are no more to be compared with Hell fire , then a man lying warm in his bed furnished with all delights is to be esteemed miserable , like him who being flead of his skin is presently cast into a frozen pool to be tormented to death with cold . For the fire which is to be punishment to the damned , hath three properties , as I may say , infinite in their natures , violently tending unto the unhappinesse of men condemned by the Majesty of God . The first is , that it can never be extinguished by what art or power soever . The second , that it shall never waste it self for want of matter to work upon , or at all consume the subject of its fury . And the third is , that it shall be no way limited in effect , being as may say , infinitely vigorous . So that we may conclude those flames to be powerful without resistance , lasting without end , and violent beyond sufferance .

Besides , it hath no manner of affinity at all , with any kinde of comfort or consolation , much lesse is it constituted to delight sense , or please apprehension . For it burns in darknesse , it scorcheth without warmth , and continues without use . Whereas those fires we have upon earth , are but hurtful onely according to accident and application , for however , they prejudice sometimes our persons , and hinder our commodity , yet in the interim they afford a certain kinde of content and satisfaction in being perceived , the nature thereof being of a pleasant aspect at the worst . And notwithstanding they often destroy and consume with no small violence , yet at that very time , they contribute something of commodity to the beholders , either by reason of warmth or light , which are properties delightful naturally to our humane senses ; whereas those black and unperceived flames of Hell , are not made capable at all of any manner of beneficial quality , as being wholly and infinitely intended by the exsperated justice of Almighty God , for affliction and punishment ▪ So that if people would but seriously consider these fearful particulars , and withal how little able mens bodies are in this world ( according to the custome of this luxurious age ) to endure any extraordinary hardnesse ( when for the most part we seem passionately sensible of the least aking of a tooth , bein ready to confine our selves to our beds for a small defluction of Khume ) me thinks the very apprehension of what may befal our condition in the other life , should make us perfectly sick indeed , though I do not say , of dispair , yet of profitable considerations , whereby either to perform austerities , or restrain vices ; Again , if naturally we cannot brook the sight onely of tortured persons in this world chastised for their misdemeanours , by a certain kinde of antipathy against blood and cruelty ; how shall we be able to suffer the torments of Hell both in body and soul , when as God himself is the Judge with a frowning brow , being an injured Majesty , and the devils the executioners full of unspeakable malice towards mankinde , in being exalted into their places , which they will be sure ever to remember with advantage , when their power shall be no more circumscribed and limited in that particular . O stupendious misery without bounds limits , or end ! Which however , by the opinion of most Divines , shall be increased by the very knowledge & memory we shall retain , in concerning how unfortunately we were deprived of the sight of God , by reason of nothing but our own foolish negligences , when we had the happy means so conveniently and lovingly offered us by the passion of our most blessed Saviour ; who certainly , as it may be conceived , would not have dyed and suffered for us , if the prevention of these horrid torments , had not been of a most infinite consequence to our avail . Besides , we may in some sort measure the nature of the torments in Hell , not onely by the devils cruelty , but by their ugly shape and deformity ; since as it is believed , if a man could but see one of them in his proper colours and horrour of his Office , it were unpossible to live after it one minute ; much more what an unspeakable terrour to be in the company of many millions of them for multitudes of lasting ages , especially , as I said before , having obtained an absolute jurisdiction over our persons , neither to be redeemed by any mor● industry , or their cruelty to be asswaged by any compassion or intreaty . And these torments and horrours , no doubt , will be amplified and augmented in a most high kinde , by that terrible and bottom lesse despair , that shall continually possesse and afflict our thoughts , as well in conceiving the present miseries we suffer , as in fully apprehending we shall never enjoy a better condition . And yet notwithstanding , we shall be so far from procuring any the least consideration from Heaven in our behalfs , that as the Devils will perpetually insult and triumph over our persons and afflictions , so shall the justice of Almighty God , alwayes from his Throne of glory , put us in minde of those faults for which deservedly we endure all our intolerable punishments , as it were by that means returning our curses and blasphemies upon our heads , to our greater shame and torment , which our desperate condition would willingly cast up at the Majesty of Almighty God . Neither will it be our smallest misery ( though all is infinite and boundlesse ) to behold with the eyes of our tormented soule the strange darknesse of the place , wherein we are imprisoned for ever , being of a most narrow capacity and extent , and yet filled with so many horrid confusions of all sorts , without any distinction in the least kind , that can pretend to variety ; in so much as it may be resembled to the worlds Chaos before the creation , though much more ugly and deformed . All these excessive , boundlesse and incomprehensible miseries ( I say ) we doe more then hazzard to undergoe , onely because we cannot finde in our hearts to forbeare the violent carreere of all passions and affections in every thing . However without doubt enjoyed any way in the greatest perfection can be devised in the world , and most agreeing with naturall sense and appetite , yet in effect they will prove but like the seeming beautifull apples , growing upon the bankes of Sodome , which being gathered containe nothing within them but dust and ashes . Nay further , I dare boldly and with confidence affirm , that men for the most part undergoe more labour , paines and vexation , both in minde and body , in procuring their own damnations , then others ( that make earthly things more indifferent in their desires ) doe in purchasing the joyes of Heaven . Wherefore I must conclude those persons to be wonderfull strange creatures , that continue in so stupid a madnesse , incompassed about with such infinite hazzards , onely to maintaine the possession , or I may say rather an appetite to purchase those things , which truly in themselves well considered , are not at all essentiall to any manner of apprehension or fruition ; which infallibly demonstrateth that mans faith is defective , or his judgement not competent , since either he must not believe what the Church and Scriptures tell him , or wants ability in his nature truly to comprehend the valew and waight of such principles ; and in this respect may be said to resemble the foot ( or rato exceed him in insensibility ) that chose to be a King onely for one yeere , and afterward all daies of his life to endure nothing but hunger , beggery and misery . For certainly as mans continuance in this world is no more to be thought of in comparison of eternity , then one yeere to be valued with the longest age ; so are all the afflictions upon earth that were ever yet endured by flesh and blood , no more to be esteemed with those torments of Hell , then dreams are to be reckoned with realities . Neither in truth can they admit of any manner of humane similitude .

But now that we have brought into our remembrance some kind of representation of these fearfull expectations , from the severe justice of Almighty God , his Majesty being exasperated against sinners , we will a little endeavour to sweeten these apprehensions , by some estimats of those blessings which his mercy hath prepared in Heaven for his friends . However they are much more difficult to be described then the torments of hell , by reason the soules fruition chiefly consists in speculation , that is in beholding the beatified vision of God with knowledge and security , which , as I may say , is not at all to be comprehended by our humane senses , and little more by the conceptions of our soule , being accompanied with the body unrefined : Which was the cause that Mahomet onely instituted a Paradise of sense , more probably to take the appetites of his Disciples and followers ; craftily conceiving , that if he should have preached to them such high mysteries , and promised to them rewards past their capacities naturally to conceive or apprehend , it would have quickly beat down the new foundation of his wicked building ; since the common people might not have been so ready to have followed his enticements , and entertained his doctrine : For truly hidden and supernaturall things are not so plausible to humane nature , as such as are more visible to the eyes , eares , and fleshly senses , which seem better to perswade common and not illuminated understandings . Neither is it possible to procure a competent proportion of this illumination necessary to salvation , without some speciall grace first purchased from Almighty God ; gained , as I may say , by our earnest desires , and diligent endeavours to serve him both with our hearts and actions , according to the Churches directions . But now to our purpose concerning our heavenly representations .

The wonderfull properties , and infinite felicities of Heaven in some sort described , according to humane apprehension .

AS Heaven certainly was ordained by Almighty God , for the comfort and felicity not onely of his good servants , but for the further declaration of his Majesty and glory , so may it be very well supposed , to be the prime piece of his creation , when as it is illustrated , as I may say , by his own presence that could not be created , and he being wonderfull and omnipotent in all his works , no doubt hath appointed that celestiall mansion , to be fully replenished with all manner of satisfactory varieties and beauties beyond any kind of conception : For if we with our naturall eyes cannot behold the Sun , without amazement ; especially when we consider and know it to be by evident demonstration above a hundred times bigger then the whole earth , shining and casting his light in such an admirable manner , to the benefit of the whole world , and yet must be at last changed or brought to nothing , as a contemptible creature , onely for a time made for mans use and commodity , without any manner of intention of eternity , what may we thinke of that refulgent habitation , where God himselfe hath placed his Throne , not onely to endure for ever and ever , but where he hath designed particularly his glory , goodness and omnipotency , to be worshipped and adored in a full and open prospect by us after the clouds of our fraile nature are dispersed from before our soules view , that darken her light and understanding , whilst she walkes here upon earth cloathed with flesh and blood . O that it should be possible that people can be taken with the representations of dainty maskes and the like , where onely fained Gods seem to be drawn in golden Chariots through the ayre , in which entertainment oftentimes our senses are so transported , that in our hearts we could wish to enjoy no other happinesse but to be alwaies in such company , where delicious gardens and fountaines might still afford our appetites varieties of earthly pleasures , and yet when any discourses are offered to our eares of these supernaturall and incomprehensible delights , both certain and permanent , we appeare altogether , as it were dead and insensible of the least apprehension of such perfections . Alasse , how we may perceive our selves to be overcome but with the reading of idle Romances ; or hearing other stories that tell us with a world of fictions of admirable places of pleasure , wherein remaine nothing but Nymphes and Ganemedes . Yet when we understand these true beatitudes to be described in Scripture , and set forth by other religious Authours , they seem not at all either to move our desires , or stir our appetites . The reason of which I say is nothing but a certain kind of stupidity , engrafted in our dispositions by custom , in regard we have not procured so much grace from Almighty God ( for want of diligence in his service ) as should cleare our mentall speculation , and elevate our soule to our proper sphere , there to converse knowingly : for such religious persons as have in a manner any way mortified themselves to the world , I dare be bold to affirme , take more delight and felicity in one heavenly rapture , then we can possibly in a thousand of these fantasticall imaginations that doe but leave the soule darkned in her understanding , without any reall satisfaction at all enjoyed .

But let us come as neere as we can by sense to the apprehension of these heavenly excellencies , as I may say , by naturall and humane comparisons , since it is unpossible altogether to shake off the appetites of this grosse clay , that will downward doe what we can ▪ especially leading our manner of lives . To this purpose we will begin first with the wonderfull extent of Paradise , being certainly one of the chiefe properties belonging to the beauty of any place or habitation ; for which effect we may reflect upon the consideration of the round ball of the earth , being of no penurious dimension , to be covered over with a large and vast Canopy of what matter we know not , though most admirably contrived ; and besprinkled clean through with multitudes of bright Starres , some equalling the whole world in greatnesse , and yet seem to possesse in a manner no place at all in the firmament ; by which comparison we may in some sort give a roving conjecture of the hugenesse and capacity of the Heaven of Heavens , wherein God Almighties chiefe glory is placed ; which is so farre above all these transitory Spheres both in height and greatnesse , that we may imagine it to increase , as one circle doth within another from this lower Heaven , untill it come not onely unto an unmeasurable , but an unconceivable vastnesse and infinity . So that without any more dispute we may very well conclude , that the Paradise of the blessed is great , without limitation ; and so consequently must exceed all proportion answerable to mans conception . The next benefit that may be thought to belong to this glorious habitation is Clarity , which certainly is so exceedingly illustrious in this place beyond expression , that as we may suppose the whole frame of the Heaven to be made of a transparent and Chrystalline matter , so is every soule therein remaining qualified or adorned with a particular light or shining , according to the degree of its happy estate , which neverthelesse in each doth exceedingly out-doe the brightnesse of the naturall Sunne in his greatest splendour . For that Planet , however created with admirable properties for mans commodity , yet being not ordained for eternity , the effects thereof cannot be perfect in any kind , because it selfe wants also an absolute perfection in nature . Wherefore putting together so many excellent lights , wonderfull in brightnesse , and delightfull in aspect , what may we conceive of the glory of the Celestiall habitation ? especially when the refulgent rayes , proceeding from the blessed countenance of every Saint and Angell , can reflect upon nothing ( as I said before ) but upon a certaine Chrystaline matter , transparent without all comparison beyond all the Diamonds of the world , reverberating in that manner backe againe with more Charity through the whole . And as the period and Crown of this admirable lustre remaines eternally the continuall presence of the Sonne of God , in whom all things are transparently beheld without obstacle , whose Majesty outshines these created and lesser lights , a million of times more then doth the great Candle of the Element darken the smallest twinkling Starre that can be perceived by any eye ; whose aspect is of such an infinite brightnesse , that the blessed Spirits themselves were not able to behold his own and fathers Divinity ▪ unlesse they were impowered by their goodnesse to such a perfection , which renders them not onely capable of that happinesse ; but also of the understanding and perfect knowledge of what they are permitted to see : so that there can be no doubt at all made but that the Clarity of Heaven doth equall every way the capacity thereof ; and the rather so to be believed , for that by most expressions in holy Scripture the joyes of Paradise are figured by that denomination of light and brightnesse . In the third place we may reflect upon those infinite and innumerable beauties that adorne this mentioned splendour , the least of which is not onely capable to ravish all our worldly senses , if our natures were capaable to entertaine such divine happinesse , but also would be able to create in the very understanding a true tast and fruition of their excellencies , which our mortall frailty now doth not suffer us to possess in those earthly things we have though they are farre from containing the least perfection whatsoever . If the spacious Ovall room in Neroes Palace , wherein were placed bright looking-glasses in every Angle that represented some humane varieties of flourishing gardens , bedeckt with beautifully Flowers and magnificent fountaines ; at whose cleare streams many sorts of creatures seemed to take refreshment , could attract every spectators eye to wonder and amazement , which onely was contrived by earthly art and industry : what may we conceive this heavenly place to be ; that had not onely a divine Majesty , but omnipotency for its founder ? Besides that , it is designed for a perpetuall habitation of his own glory . Certainly if Tempe in Greece afforded such plentifull matter for poeticall fictions , which was onely a small valley of naturall delights , in so much as it almost gave opinion to the rude multitude , of the station of blessed and happy soules after this life , why should not the least consideration of these eternall beauties transport our thoughts and desires beyond all rest and quiet , untill we had purchased the possession to our selves , though bought at never so deare a rate by the crucifying of all inordinate passions and affections . I must confesse it is more then difficulty to represent however but to the imagination onely beauties , when neither the matter hath been seen , or the form is to be comprehended ; neverthelesse we are to conceive by faith , that Heaven being God Almighties perfectest building , is in all parts furnished with infinities of pleasant and delightfull objects to the view ; especially if we consider that an Angell is more glorious in his own proper nature , then all the beauties of the world put together ; and those being in a manner innumerable , and distinct in forme and excellencies , ( though all to be beheld at one instant ) what a representation must that be to a capacity , that is not onely divinely enabled to distinguish of varieties , but to judge of perfection ; which properties certainly we shall fully enjoy , being there happily placed ; but above all , if we enter into the consideration of God himselfe , who is the great maker of every beauty sitting in his Throne of honour , with all his glorious Courtiers about him , cloathed with a ravishing splendour . O what a sight of satisfaction will that be , to the cleare faculty of our soules , neither dull'd by obstructions , nor hindered by interpositions ; and more infinitely taking shall it be , for that , as through a transparent and admirable glasse , in him we shall evidently see not onely our own happinesse to the best advantage , but all other beauties that are made by himselfe , both with a perfect science and absolute fruition .

Again , if we conceive varieties to be another perfection , we may consider what a multitude of severall degrees of glories there are in that bright and blessed Palace , when every order of Angels , and each Angell in his own particular seat and place , is distinguished both in office and lustre , though all united in their wils and obedience , that makes the greater harmony ; which number , for ought I know may be above a million of millions ; whom , as I say we shall all know and see without corruption or impediment , not as we doe now people of this world subject to inconstancy and imperfections , but alwaies united with sweet countenances and pleasind dispositions , producing variety of new delights to our imaginations , that cannot be deceived with any false objects . Besides , we shall behold all the Patriarchs , Prophets , Apostles , and Martyrs that ever have been in the world , bearing about with them the honourable Ensignes of their sufferings and vertues , to our most unspeakable delight in every particular ; but above all , we shall be more then transported with a heavenly satisfaction to contemplate the diversity of favours bestowed upon the blessed and incomparable Virgin , by the love and power of the holy Trinity , who is placed as we may suppose upon a Throne of one intire Carbuncle , clothed in a garment wrought all over with such heavenly varieties , that nature never knew , or Angels can imitate , bearing also upon her head a Crown of stars , enterwoven with rich stones of all colours and beauties , in comparison of which , Diamonds and Rubies are more base then the roughest pibles are , to the most rarest Jewels that were ever yet worn by Princes upon earth , with a thousand other excellencies , no more to be numbred then to be described . Truly , if the severall and variable fancies of this world have so much power to intoxicate our brains , towards a perpetuall confusion and eternall damnation ; I see no reason why these excessive and satisfactory varieties of Heaven well considered should not oftentimes , if not continually settle our judgements to more profitable and more necessary considerations ; for certainly it is no other thing then diversity of earthly Chymeras that couzen our appetites to so disorderly and extreame prejudice , & suggests to our imagination strange and impossible frutions , both against reason , and contrary to faith . But as certainly these varieties of Paradise are more then numerous ; so may we conceive the society to be answerably excellent thereunto in every respect : in regard there is none can be thither admitted , but those who have been extraordinary , and I may say in some sort admirable for their vertues and goodnesse in this world ; and being there glorified and refined , their excellencies of nature and dispositions appeare as through a transparent glasse , not onely to themselves but to each one of the blessed in particular , to an infinity of satisfaction in society and conversation ; though it be not exercised by the tongue or senses according to humane practises , but rather in a concordancy of wils and affections , wherein charity and love principally predominates ; by which means every soule is induced to desire and covet the good & prosperity of each other equall with his own ; so that not onely every appetite of envy is absolutely banished from that glorious and heavenly society , but the least repining is taken away at any others preferment and advancement ; however it is not to be doubted , but that there are severall degrees of happinesse in that blessed mansion ; which must needs render the conversation admirably sweet and delightfull , by reason of so absolute an unity in affections . For as none shall be lead away with any manner of passion of self-love , and as little will he conceive that he wanteth an absolute perfection in his own state and condition ; so the chiefe felicity any soule shall possesse in that heavenly habitation , is to see God , and by that consequence must accompany her fellows in the honour and worship which is not onely due to his divinity , but shall be thought the greatest increase of her own glory can possibly be enjoyed , since from that infinite Majesty each blessed Spirit doth extract all pleasure , content , and satisfaction , as from a vast Ocean of blessednesse , resembling our naturall Sea here upon earth , that bestows benefits and vertues upon every great River and little Brook , according to its property and capacity : whilst in the interim our blessed and all powerfull Saviour , resembling also in some sort the resplendent Sunne , that hath the domination of every earthly thing , by his influence exhales from his fathers goodnesse and lustre a convenient proportion of all heavenly graces , to bestow what quantity he pleaseth of consolations in every respect , upon those of his perpetuall Kingdome , united as I may say in so harmonious a society , as can never be severed in the least kinde , either by distance or disaffection .

Last of all , we may reflect upon the absolute security of this happy Assembly ; not onely so in effect , but also assured in their owne knowledges , which renders any condition satisfied beyond measure ; for it seems to be a triumphant Crown , that makes all endeavours majesticall by reason of the confidence in the conclusion , since without such an opinion new perturbations will continually arise , to disquiet the possession of any felicity and delight enjoyed ; which , as I say , is so absolutely purchased in this celestiall Paradise , that God Almighty neither will nor can loose his subjects and friends . And as little is it possible he should be deficient in his own mercies and goodnesse ; so that being once placed in his sight , we shall not need to feare either circumvention or inconstancy ; for all actions will be the same , and every thought free from variation . In like manner as our State will be intirely perfect , so cannot our wils be any way perverted , since those sensuall imperfections of surfeit and desire , must be all taken from our natures , as dependant only upon earthly & transitory possessions ; for that however there will appeare in that glorious station severall degrees of beatitudes , all disposed to nothing but to God Almighties will and pleasure , though with a reference to each particular desert ; yet none of any degree but will be fully contented with his own proportion abundantly , without coveting more , or doubting what he hath , since in beholding God , he enjoyes what he can wish , in whom is contained all knowledge , happinesse , and security .

Now if all these particulars be well considered with competent understanding , not onely concerning this celestiall being of the blessed , but of the miserable condition of the damned , sice the principles cannot be denied by any Christian faith , certainly the thoughts thereof cannot chuse but stirre up in people either some sparkles of devotion , or at leastwise procure much abatement of vice ; especially if it be also remembred with any manner of contemplation , that perpetuity infallibly appertains to both these places .

Certain consideration of Eternity .

A Vast Sea of amazement may eternity be esteemed , that neither can be bounded for its extent , or fathomed in its depth . For if a man were enjoyned but to drive a Snaile to the furthest part of the Indies , over a thousand interposing Rocks and Mountaines ; or should be obliged to drie all the waters upon earth onely by one drop after another , giving to each a yeeres space ; yet might there be some hope in time to accomplish those stupendious labours . But this never to be ended season carries with it such an incomprehensible extent , that all the art and knowledge of the world can procure no other definition thereof , but onely to give it a name , whilst the consideration may be said to stupifie all memories and capacities . So that , I say , miserable man may be the subject of all compassion , and the very object of every wonder , that to purchase the possession of some few trifles here upon earth , which in truth are rather nothing at all , onely for one minuts space , or breath of time in consideration of Eternity , doth not onely lose the fruition of these excellent and everlasting benefits so largely mentioned , but also most inconsiderately and desperately doth cast himselfe headlong into a darke and deepe Dungeon , where there is nothing to be expected but everlasting sorrow , and not any thing to be felt and endured but infinite torments ; and that not for a yeere or an age , but for ever and ever , without end . Since the walke of eternity may be said to resemble a person going round about continually in a circle , wherein is to be found no termination or hope at any time to finish the journey ; for if we could number every sand of the Sea , and reduce them distinctly by way of Arithmetick severally into so many ages , yet altogether being computed with Eternity , they will not admit of so neere a comparison as the least graine of mustard-seed in magnitude with the huge circumference of the whole world : Much lesse are twenty or forty yeare of mans life to be valued in consideration of that infinity of time , or rather that time that is not at all finite , either in effect or apprehension . Besides , if we had our own wishes , to sit alwaies proudly upon a commanding Throne , beyond either the reach of envy , or the hazard of accidents in the interim , pulling down this man , and exalting whom we please , with each single word ; as also accompanied entirely with all other worldly felicities could be devised : yet a little sleepe when it were necessary , ( which is no other then a figure of death ) must again retire us into our solitary chamber , there to converse with privacy ; which certainly in that necessity would give us more content and satisfaction , then the apprehension of our excessive greatnesse and power . Wherefore , I say , if all that we can desire will not prove constantly pleasing upon earth , what may we think of the small time we have to enjoy any thing here ; our lives being but as a flash of Lightning , that appeares for a moment , and afterwards goes out for ever . Certainly if that great Egyptian Monarch were mortified in his thoughts , by the turning only of his Chariot wheele , reflecting by that motion upon the inconstancy of fortune ; there is no doubt but much more he did consider the shortnesse of the space , any thing could be enjoyed in this world . T is true however time shall never be finished , yet our selves must be quickly at an end , our lives continually wasting like a Candle , though with a seeming kinde of security we take our rest and never thinke upon it ; for every day , if we would but seriously consult our looking-glasse to that purpose , we should to our griefe no doubt perceive new gray haires and wrinkles to encrease , both without our privity , and against our wils . When we look back to our yeares past , we think them nothing , yet are we so foolishly transported with the vanity of present possessions , that although we have not neere so many behinde to come , yet for that short time onely to enjoy a few painted pleasures , though in our decrepit age , we are perswaded to hazard , or rather to leave in desperation our eternall condition hereafter . Nay put case it might be something doubtfull , whether there be any Hell or Heaven , or no : yet certainly it cannot be but an extraordinary madnesse , to venture upon such an experience in the future ; especially when in the present we gaine so small a benefit to our selves , as are the possessions of all these worldly vanities we ayme at , that have in them neither reality nor continuance ; neither doe they so much as assure us here , what part of them we shall be able quietly to enjoy ; for oftentimes we finde our state so miserable by reason of some accidents or other , that not seldome we are provoked to wish our selves dead as being weary of life ; and yet all this while we have not so much wise foresight as to consider , that probably we are in danger , to enter into such a condition presently after the breath is out of our body , that is intolerable to be indured , being alike lasting as violent . Another kind of preposterous and deplorable vanity I must speake of , which is to see , how many people will venture through raging flames , with almost no possibility of escaping death , onely to gaine a little idle fame in the future , or some small breath of praise in the present ; and yet when they should offer themselves to any manner of austerity or hardnesse , for the gaining of eternity , they seeme to be either without courage or motion . O insensible stupidity and weake faith , wholly directed by sensuality and ignorance , to the greatest confusion and folly can be imagined ; when as after one minute , that the last gaspe is past , we shall be no more mindefull of what fame we purchased in this world , then if we had never been born at all , unlesse it be to our further punishment ; for that in our life-time we did not rightly make use of those naturall faculties , that God Almighty had bestowed upon us for our own good and his service , which being discreetly employed might have been beneficiall both to our selves and posterity : what shall we thinke also of some men reputed Philosophers , that have pretended to a certaine kinde of eternity in shew , however they thought of nothing lesse in effect : which appetite appeared apparently in the disposition of Murcus Aurelius , that great and esteemed wise Emperour , who in his life time and prosperity , seemed to contemne all earthly concernments , as most vaine and idle considerations , and to that purpose often wished for death , as he said to free him from the accidentall miseries of this world , though when he was really arrested by that unwelcome messenger , his faithfull & trusty secretary , had much labour to perswade him to any convenient fortitude at all : which plainely shewes , he was more vain-gloriously taken with his professed opinion before men , conceiving it belike for his greater honour to seeme to contemne death , then that either his heart was free from naturall affections of living longer here , or that his thoughts were any way transported with a desire of any other being at all , as either perhaps not believing any such thing , or else was most desperately loth to foregoe the possession of what he enjoyed already : In like manner , there was another Philosopher , who being in a ship ready to be cast away by a sudden storme , notwithstanding he had preached most violently to the Marriners , not onely of the contempt of death , but of the vanity of life ; did neverthelesse expresse by his countenance an extreame feare and terrour : whereupon after the tempest was past he was reproved with scorne by some for his hypocrisie and cowardlinesse , in pretending to despise that , which as it should seeme he most desired : to which he quickly made this reply , as having no other way in part to save his reputation ; that however he seemed something troubled , at the apprehension of his own losse for the present , yet it was not because he did not in his thoughts really contemne death according to his profession , but that he considered how much the world should be damnified by his destruction ; when as if a thousand such as themselves had perished , the matter had not been of any moment at all , in regard of the little commodity was to be made of their preservation . But however this jest served in some sort to save his reputation for the present , yet it was plaine his professions were contrary to his thoughts : for that people being out of the right way of desiring eternity , they cannot possibly reflect upon the consequence of such a happinesse whereby to esteeme of life and death indifferently enough ; since their chiefe end , let them say what they will , is but to purchase some worldly consideration , notwithstanding all their hypocriticall pretensions . T is true many great Philosophers in former times appeared to adore no other God but future and eternall fame ; yet give me leave to say , that although they might have those appetites living and being in prosperity , yet it was chiefly , if not wholly upon the matter , to reap the benefit of such an opinion here during their naturall lives . As for example , we see many raise stately mountaines , endeavouring thereby to continue and eternize their memories upon earth ; yet the neerer they draw to their deaths , those ambitions become cooler , untill at last perhaps in the perclose , they absolutely quit and forgoe all those vaine cogitations , and betake themselves onely ( if they be not religious ) to things belonging to flesh and blood , which is ease , rest , sleep , and the like , leaving apparently those hot vanities of fame and ambition to younger people , that have ability of body to make use of such mentall delights , as having longer time to enjoy them . Which shews evidently , it is not alone eternity they seek , either in fame , remembrance , or what you will else to that purpose , but rather present and humane content inwardly , as long as they live in this world , imagining they shall be thought brave persons hereafter . Which , however it seems to have reference to the future , yet well considered , it is nothing but a naturall satisfaction , they propose to their own apprehension , how much they shall be honored after their deaths , supposing also those that converse with them doe believe absolutly the same ; which opinion , as I say , they violently desire to enjoy , as long as they live here . For we finde by experience , that such people as make their last wils and testaments , being in perfect health and strength of body , designe huge matters for their funerals ; but those that dispose of their affaires , being ready to yield up the Ghost , onely take care for a convenient place without much pompe , where they may be buried . All which are but further testimonies of demonstration , that onely the sensualities of this world , whether they be in meere opinion , or belong to other naturall appetites , take mens desires more then any manner of eternity whatsoever . In so much as all may be reduced onely to the violent coveting of possession , however it be of never so smal a continuance , beyond all future considerations whatsoever . Which appeared plainly in the actions of Alexander the great , who seemed most ambitiously to court fame and opinion , with an extraordinary aime to settle his conquered Empire to perpetuity in all magnificency , whilst he was living in prosperity ; but being upon his death-bed , and askt who should be King after him , he was so farre from any thoughts of future establishment , that as he designed no Governour at all over his vast Dominions , so did he leave every thing in a most miserable confusion , notwithstanding he had both probability of issue and his own kindred to have nominated : insomuch as all his eminent Captains and Commanders went presently together by the eares amongst themselves ; so that within a very few yeeres there was not one of them remained alive , or scarce any part of this conquest continued entire : Which humour had been well represented to this young Princes ambition by the rude Scythians , when their Embassadours told him , that however he seemed so violently transported with victorios land successe , yet at last he must be contented with onely ten foot of ground to containe his person , and circumscribe his glory . As much to say , when his life should be ended , he would be little the better for his prosperity . And truly , if the carcass of any Prince should be asked , what felicity it now enjoyes in regard of those past honours ; if it could speak , without doubt it would make answer , none at all . For certainly , men lying upon their death-beds , are either not capable of any thoughts whatsoever , or are busied with more serious considerations , then to trouble themselves to think or desire what may be the opinion of them and their actions amongst people after they are gone . However I doe not maintaine the contrary , but that it is most necessary , or at leastwise convenient in our humane condition , to endeavour a lawfull reputation , as also a fitting memory to be continued concerning our comportments in this life , provided a right end thereof be annexed thereunto . And chiefly for these three respects : In the first place it may be supposed , that by our noble actions and endeavours we bequeath a lasting legacy of honour and reputation to our surviving friends and posterity , whereby they may be benefited in the world after us by the deserved fame of our atchievements . Secondly , by the demonstration of such vertues and perfections , we leave patterns and examples to all in generall , who may the sooner be enduced thereby to imitate our actions , represented to them as a most worthy object . And lastly our deservings by that means comming to be known to others , and rewarded with praise and commendation , they cannot but give encouragement to worthy persons , to continue in their own designes to that purpose , since themselves may expect the like benefits , which probably will prove a means to root out wickednesse and basenesse out of the world by reason of contrary effects : for without such principles it is unpossible that any Commonwealth can long remaine prosperous . So that in a word , to sum up all this whole discourse ; whosoever seeks any thing but Heaven for his utmost and eternall period , is either a foole or a mad man , since as I said before , not onely all other things are defective , but the very time it selfe when they can be enjoyed in regard of eternity , is not so much as the least moment compared with a million of ages . Besides I may affirm , that all worldly actions at the best must be buried in obscurity , and at the worst they end in misery and confusion : for though honour , fame , riches , and the like , are convenient benefits to be sought by noble dispositions , as well for examples to encourage vertue and goodnesse , as to avoid sloth and idlenesse ; yet must they notwithstanding be joyned with absolute intentions , to procure something more then either earthly satisfaction during this life , or a bare hope of a fantasticall opinion afterwards ; since eternity will reach beyond the worlds dissolution , when all things of flesh and blood must end , being so ordained by an omnipotend decree , before either nature or time was created . But now that we haue , as I suppose , spoke sufficiently of Hell , Heaven , and Eternity ; Let us a little take a view of this earthly life of ours , that we seem so exceedingly much to value and esteem in this world , since for it we hazzard all these before-mentioned good and evils .

Considerations upon the shortnesse of mans life upon earth , with many other inconveniencies thereunto belonging .

IN the first place we may consider the shortnesse of our time here upon earth , according to the computation of the best knowing judgements ; since by way of purchase in any estate , there is no Lawyer that reckons another persons life at above ten yeeres , let his complexion and constitution be never so strong and healthfull , considering the diversity of accidents , that belong to our humane condition so ; that dividing this ten yeares space into three parts , we must confesse one of them is wholly taken up in sleepe , wherein we possesse no pleasure at all ; however some necessary satisfaction may be reaped thereby to our tyred and wearied nature ; for we remaine as I may say all that while both uselesse to our selves and to others . Another third part of this time we may give to the crostes and vexations of the world , with other imployments that must be personned , though perhaps we receive neither delight or content by actions of that nature . All which being indifferently calculated , there will remaine to our own proper share and commodity entirely , but a very few yeares , wherein can be fully and totally enjoyed these violent desired felicities of the earth , that so much contrary to all reason bewitch our soules and senses ; as onely for the fruition and possession of them , we in a manner cast away the very thought of this great and infinite eternity , already so largly described , accompanied by all those incomprehensible pleasures of heaven ; and runne desperatly into the danger of enduring such horrid torments , as no Pen can write or tongue can utter . But put case notwithstanding we have allotted but ten yeares to mans life , considering all casualties as I said before of this world , either by plague , famine , warre , feavours , sicknesse , or the like , we could enjoy a hundred yeares of durance , which I will be bold to say , not one man in an hundred thousand , doth arrive unto , by any Physicke and temperance can be practised ; yet dividing this terme also into three parts , as we have done the former , we shall finde that very little of it will bring us that satisfaction we may suppose . As for example , the first season of our infancy , is wholly spent in ignorance and instruction , wherein for the most part we live ( according to our apprehension ) under such subjections , that we receive no contented satisfaction in our present condition ; however I may affirme it to be the best time of our delight . If we consider the middle of our age , we shall finde it perpetually accompanied with such care , vexations , and troubles , that they prove continually interruptions and impediments to any content or satisfaction our soules can entertaine ; since at the best we are alwayes in feare to be deprived of what we have , or too much solicitous to gaine what we have not . And for the latter part of our time , we have enough to doe instead of expecting delights , to thinke of curing our infirmities , and patching up the breaches and decayes of nature , that are daily made in our bodies by age ; like old leaking vessels , who however they may for sometime be preserved with much care and paynes , yet can never be made for any use of long continuance . Truly , if we well observe our concernments after fifty ( which is the age allotted by that wise Philosopher , Marcus Aurelius the Emperour , for man chiefly to begin his misery ) we shall finde it wholly debarred from any manner of constant felicity ; as for example , if we have no children to succeed us in those worldly fortunes and honour , which we so much labour for in this humane life , certainly it cannot but be esteemed no small defect to our condition ; neither are those apprehensions to be blamed in us , when as we have for a patterne the example of that holy man Abraham , who complained , being extreamly sensible of such a crosse , that the steward of his house was to be his heire , for want of naturall posterity I ; for if this good person apprehended it as a cause of affliction to his thoughts , much more must our exceeding weake frailty be moved with the consideration : of the other side , if we have children given us by God Almighty , according to our wishes , yet want we not daily perturbations in our minds , left they might miscarry at one time or other by reason of worldly accidents ; considering the many chances that hourely happen to all manner of conditions ; and of the contrary , if they prove untoward and disobedient , answerable to the customes of the age ; what greater crosse can possibly afflict our thoughts or torment our rest ; which perpetuall vexation at last , may constraine us perhaps a thousand times to wish they had never beene borne to their own destruction and our griefe . Of the other side , if our delights be chiefly in friendship and conversation , how soone may that esteemed felicity be taken from our possession , either by suddain jealousies or froward accidents , when we least expect the unhappinesse ; if the gaining of riches best please our appetites , though we have imployed many yeares in the acquisition of golden mountaines , either warre , oppression , or some law-suite or other may soone deprive us of all we have , and cast us into an unrecoverable and desperate poverty , since our affaires depend upon the will and intentions of men , wicked and uncertaine . For truly either our owne servants may betray us corrupt judges undoe us , or our debtors prove banckrupt , all which often happen , and then quickly vanisheth away all our esteem . Besides a hundred other casualties that cannot be mentioned at present , because not thought upon . Now , I say , if these perturbations and casualties be incident to the best and most solid time of our humane condition , when as our bodies and understandings are most in vigour , to enjoy earthly felicities and content , what may we thinke of our decaying and criped age : when as we shall see our teeth dayly , to drop one by one from our hollow jawes and dryed gums , untill at last we have none at all left , for our necessary use and commodity . Our eyes in like manner by degrees to grow dim , having onely their faculties preserved a while by spectacles and other meanes , untill at the length we become starke blind , leaving us in a posture uncomfortable , since we are sure never more to behold the glorious Sunne or the cheerfull dayes light ; and for our legs they will appeare rather like small stalkes of withered plants , then convenient or substantiall supporters of our weake bodies , which must necessarily be assisted by crutches or some other artifice , to helpe us in our motion from place to place , whereby the best to give us a little ease and recreation , whilst we are able in any sort to crawle upon the face of the earth ; and however this helpe may serve for a while to supply the defects of decaying nature , yet in the end our beds or some solitary couch being overburthened with Catars and Rhumes must be the onely receptacle of our age and infirmity , where perhaps we shall converse with nothing but excessive pain and melancholy thoughts , as a neere preparation for our graves , to which station it may be doubted scarce a tear shal accompany us from the eyes of any of our friends , imagining we have had a sufficient time , of being in the world , whereupon I must here remember the custome of the Indians , who used to put to death such people amongst them , that by reason of their extraordinary age , were thought past action and imployment , which testifies that even Barbarians themselves , apprehend nothing but unhappinesses in our last continuance . Now I say if this condition appertaine , to those that have been the greatest darling of fortune , and prosperity in this world ; what may we judge of such , that during their lives have had nothing but troublesome passage , concerning their affaires in the whole course of their time , as it were still conversing either with want , imprisonment , diseases , or some other apparent afflictions of this life . Alas if we consider but the poore husbandman , that doth not onely continually toyle , for a contemptible subsistence , in heat and cold , in wet and dry , but is oftentimes in danger to be plundered of all he hath , and not seldom loseth his own life in defence of his small family , by the violent oppressions of mercilesse souldiers ; we may imagine his trouble and vexations give him no great cause of felicity . In what a miserable and horrid condition is a Galleyslave , however he be endued with the same nobility of soule , as the greatest and mightiest Prince upon earth . Certainly the beggers that goe from doore to doore spin out a life in outward appearance of sufficient misery and vexation , notwithstanding they neither hope nor expect any other . And truly , however some few persons may seem to be in a more prosperous condition , yet considering the uncertainty of what they possesse , and the impossibility of coutinuance without change and alteration , they are not to be esteemed very far from them in unhappinesse . For although perchance we may look with eyes of envy upon many glorious Potentates in the world , yet if their thoughts perhaps were truly examined , we shall finde multitudes of vexations depending upon their condition , to the destroying of all certaine content : for what Prince was there ever yet , that commanded so intirely prosperity , that hath not often been troubled with naturall infirmities , as the stone , gout , and the like ; to free himselfe from which paine , perhaps he would willingly have parted with much of his Dominion , if it had been possible , to have procured such a redemption at any price . How many people againe are born blinde , dumbe , and deafe , with other notorious imperfections of nature , that render them contemptible in the world , and yet are as greedy after the appetite of living long , as those which enjoy most felicity ; which shews , that it is not the reall fruition of any earthly delight , that gives us occasion to value our being here , but meerly a senselesse stupidity of flesh and blood , that makes us covet we know not what , without the soules consideration . Withall , if we but look at the chances , accidents , and misfortunes of many glorious Monarches , we shall have cause little enough to depend upon the certaine happinesse of any condition whatsoever . As for example , the Emperour Morisius , being in possession of as much prosperity as could be devised , of a sudden in his greatest Majesty was surprized , by the conspiracy of a base and barbarous fellow of his Army , and presently brought bound before his insulting prefence , where on his knees he was constrained to behold the cruell slaughter of his deare wife and all his young children one after another , untill at last himself made up the doleful Catastrophy , as a period to his affliction and misery , whilst his worst enemy in the interim was proclamed before his eyes . Again Bagazat King of the Turkes that brought three hundred thousand souldiers into the field against Tamberlin , was that very day taken prisoner with all his glory , and presently shut up in an Iron-cage , to be made a spectacle of wonder and contempt to all the world , where not long after he ended his dayes violently by his own hands . We may also in this place remember , the sudden misfortunes of the late Queene of Scots , that was a young brave and beautifull Princesse married to the King of France , yet notwithstanding , within a few yeares returning into Scotland , to take possession of her native Kingdome , she was brought to such confusion , by the treason of her owne naturall subjects , that Flying into England for assistance against their rebellions , she was betrayed and cast into prison , where she remained untill she lost her head upon a Scaffold , in the view of all the people , without having so much as one sword drawne in her revenge , though she was allyed to most of all the powerfull Princes of Christendome .

If we looke also at the glories of Herod the great , who seemed fortunate and prosperous beyond measure in this world , yet we finde his life so mixt with such intolerable crosses and vexations , that he was not onely induced to the slaugher of his most beloved wife and naturall children , to maintaine his Crown in safety against his suspicions , but towards his last end was in that fearfull manner tormented with paine and griefe , that one time in a certaine desperate humour calling for a knife to paire an apple , he would have killed himselfe , if he had not beene suddenly prevented , by some of his friends and servants . We read also of a Duke of Vrben , who was esteemed by all that knew him a Paragon of nature , for his excellent abilities of minde , and composure of body , and run on a long space with a most fortunate successe in all his actions , both in war and peace ; yet almost in an instant no man knew how , he was so exceedingly cast down with diseases and infirmities , that he became a subject of pitty and compassion , not being able to stir one foot , but as he was carryed from place to place in a Chair , but for a more ancient and authentical testimony of the uncertainty of worldly honours and happinesse , we may cast our eyes upon the fate of wicked Haman in the holy Scripture , who notwithstanding he had the absolute command of a hundred and twenty Provinces , was so tormented in his thoughts , because a poor Jew would not adore him , that he not onely procured thereby his own shameful death upon a pair of Gallowes , but also was an eye or an ear witness of his childrens slaughter , though himself was forced to worship in person , that very man whom he most hated and despised .

Last of all , I will mention Charles our late King , who for some yeers appeared to be the envy of Europe , not onely for his prosperous glory , and happinesse , but in regard also of the numerousnesse of his private family , yet the wheel of fortune suddainly turning upon him , he was , as I may say , in an instant thrown from his Throne , separated from his wife , deprived of his children ( being the chief comforts of humanity ) and forced to undergo a long , tedious , and harsh imprisonment , until in the end he lost his life like his Grand-Mother , before his own Palace gate , as a greater testimony of the ignominy that was intended his person and dignity . Which in my opinion , are testimonies with many others , sufficient to shew the little certainty of all temporary felicities ; however , for the most part we are preposterously carryed away beyond wisdom , and with too violent passion , to sacrifice for this brittle possession , not onely all our hopes of eternal happinesse , but even as it were desperately , as I said before , induced to run into those black and terrible flames of fire , that can never be quenched . Which truly is a stupidity ( if rightly considered ) of so transcendent a nature , that nothing but the infinite malice and subtility of the devil is able to create in peoples desires and understandings . But however these considerations might perswade man , to some kinde of diligent care of vertue , for his benefit and preservation , yet I finde a certain insensibility ingraffed by these times in many persons imaginations , though in outward moral conversation , they seem to be competently honest , that they have so laid asleep their Faith and confidence concerning God Almighty , that they cannot be confirmed in his goodnesse , mercy , and justice , so far as to expect with any manner of patience the end and successe of things , for no other reason then because they see oftentimes many Athiestical people , to prosper a long season in all worldly honours and glory ; whilst of the contrary , those that are religious and good , undergo nothing but afflictions and miseries , apprehending as if Gods indignation were against his professed servants in all the course of their lives : but though to this Argument , I might make a convincing Reply both from Scripture and other unanswerable reasons grounded upon true piety , by which principles , all our actions and thoughts should be governed , yet for that I intend a greater brevity to rectifie in some sort such persons beliefs and settle their judgements ; I shall onely relate a short story ( as I conceive ) something to the purpose , but whether true or figurative makes no matter , since the application is very proper to shew , that Almightie Gods wayes and determinations are not to be understood by us upon all occasions ; onely I must aver by this example , it is our duties to observe his Injunctions , notwithstanding all humane obstacles ; in every thing leaving the issue to his inscrutable decrees , which for the most part , however will be accompanyed with his mercies , if we have humility and patience enough to attend upon his pleasure that must be performed do what we can .

A most full , though figurative story to shew that God Almighties wayes and inscrutable decrees are not to be comprehended by humane fancies .

IT was as we may probably imagine , in the primitive times , that a religious person living in the Desert , being something unsatisfied concerning the wayes and the judgements of Almighty God , as I said before , in this world , seeing many wicked men prosper in their affairs , with a certain kinde of smiling felicity , whilst other people of a vertuous life and conformity in their manners , underwent nothing but crosses ( for the most part ) in all their actions and designes , desired in his prayers by reason of these considerations to be made more particularly acquainted with the mysteries of Heaven concerning these things that trouble his thoughts . Wherefore , upon a day being at his devotions , it was revealed unto him , that however he seemed too presumptuous in thus tempting God , and not resting satisfied with prosecuting the duty of his own condition , with lesse curiosity , yet his request notwithstanding was heard and he should be shortly fully cleered in his doubt , commanding him in the interim to be patient in his expectation , resting as I may say , in some sort satisfied with this Revelation and injunction . After some few weeks he became saluted of a suddain by a beautiful yong man , to his no small amazement , who told him he was come as a divine Messenger to inform his knowledge , and instruct his belief , wherefore bid him without delay to prepare himself for a journey , that he was to make in his company and under his conduct ; the sequel of which as he said would fully content his expectation . The aged Father without either any manner of resistance or much more circumstance , then onely taking a staffe in his hand the better to support his weak steps , followed him out of his Cell ; and in this posture they prosecuted a journey , that continued them travelling the whole day , till at last the shutting in of the evening bringing them into a small Village , they were entertained in a house for their nights repose , where they found both kinde and competent entertainment , which conveniency gave them satisfaction , until the early Sun the next morning warned them to provide for a new voyage ; so taking leave of the Master of this habitation , they went out of doores ; However , in the interim the young man took up a silver Goblet and put it up in his Satchel , to the wonder of the old Hermit , since it appeared to him to be a strange example of justice and gratitude . But neverthelesse , for that he had resigned his will to his conductors discretion , he took no notice outwardly of the seeming theft . And in this manner again prosecuted their course for the length of another Summers day . But the night at last as the former approaching , and they seeming both weary of their tedious march , they entered into another lodging , wherein their treatment appeared far different in every respect from their past entertainment , not onely in that they wanted the like accommodation , but were also reviled with harsh and barbarous language , to their no small vexation and discontent ; and yet the young man at his departure with many kinde words bestowed upon the owner of the house the silver Goblet , that before he had taken from the other party ; which probably did not a little increase the admiration of his aged companion , though he was resolved not to question any of his proceedings , until a further issue might be had of the businesse . And so proceeded on both to a new journey and more experiments , however these deportments , as I said before , seemed strange examples of justice and goodnesse for edification . Which contemplations gave entertainment and employment to the old mans thoughts , until they found that another retirement was necessary both for their bodies and mindes ; and to this purpose entring into a fair Town , they were soon met by a most courteous Gentleman in the streets , who perceiving them to be religious persons told them , no place but his own house should give them reception and welcom , and to this purpose , accompanied by many of his servants ( for he was a person of great quality ) he conducted them to his Palace , where they found such welcom and reception , as might have befitted Princes of extraordinary dignity and extraction , which continued them with wonderfull satisfaction till the next morning , that their occasions called them again , to the perfecting of other adventures ; wherefore taking their leaves with many thanks and a great deal of humility , the Nobleman seemed to commit them to Gods protection and their own intentions , however when he was parted from them , they continuing still in the Hall , pretending some other necessary accommodation belonging to their own private affairs , the young man of a suddain perceiving a child lying in the Cradle asleep , who was the onely son and heir of that noble family , presently stept to the infant , and violently strangled him with his hands , and winking upon his fellow traveller as a testimony of desired silence , he secretly stole out of the house . Which cruelty raised such stormes and feares in the old mans bosom , that he appeared half distracted with the seeming wickednesse of the fact . But though he was transported with an amazed grief , yet he followed his bloody conductor , something doubtful of those Revelations he had received from Heaven ; neverthelesse , upon better recollection , he resolved neither to question his guide nor flie from his protection , for that his faith proved stronger then his passions . Which once again put them into their usual posture of travail , until going over a narrow Bridge and meeting another passenger in the way , with a kinde of rude and harsh encounter the young man that went a little before , instead of giving the traveller friendly and courteous passage , tumbled him into the water , who after some fruitlesse striving with the waves , at last in their sight yeelded up his life as a testimony of the worst oppression , whereat the young man onely laughed heartily , as if he had beheld some object of pleasure , when as he had performed an act of most barbarous cruelty , and thus carelesly went on still his journey to the almost confounding of the old mans thoughts , notwithstanding his former resolutions . But long they had not journied in this manner , before they met another person violently prosecuting his voyage , who desired them for the love of God to direct him towards the readiest and neerest way to the next Town , for that , as he said , most of all his worldly fortunes consisted in his safe and speedy arrival before night , siince the Sunne now seemed almost set ; yet the young man according to the appearing effects of his wonted charity , instead of fullfilling the poor mans pittiful request , directed him a clean contrary way to that he desired , by which means he was probably endangered never to come to the place he so earnestly coveted ; at which ill-natured falshood the old father another time cast up his amazed eyes to Heaven , though without reproof or contradiction , and followed still his leader , which ere long brought them to another Inne for their nights repose , though entring the house , they could scarse finde out any lodging at all , by reason the rooms were taken up and filled by multitudes of debauched rude and barbarous thieves , neverthelesse the young man was so far from having any more care of the aged father , rather seeming weary of his longer conversation , that he presently addressed himself unto them , and at last strook into a most intimate acquaintance with those robbers and murtherers , where he continued roaring and drinking all night without intermission or having , as I said before , the least seeming care of his welfare and consolation , whilst he poor man was forced to continue in the Chimney-corner , onely comforted with a few Prayers of his own , which earnestly he offered unto God Almighty to appease his wrath , hearing such blasphemies uttered against his holy name . However these exercises endured untill the next daies light summoned them to a new journey ; as also invited , or rather provoked the villanous thieves , each to seek out some corner or other whereby to take their necessary rest , although the night before they had all determined to quit the habitation , for feare of some sudden surprise by the Officers of the Countrey , in regard of many wicked robberies they had lately committed , with other murthers . And thus again the old man and his companion fell anew to their travels , having quitted that hellish habitation , which lasted untill they arrived at the walls of a great and mighty City ; where they found , to their amazement , one Divell asleepe at the gate , which proved an object of consideration to the eyes of the old man , who rather expected a multitude , if any at all , to guard the passage and entrance of such a proud Town , that seemed to ring with nothing but noise and confusion the practices being onely intollerable luxury . But passing further , leaving the Divell at his rest , with an intention to finde out some convenient lodging for their repose ; at last they came to a most poore and needy Monastary , where notwithstanding entring , although they could perceive nothing there professed , but Fasting , Prayers , Mortifications , and the like ; yet they found in every corner multitudes of divels , all extream wakefull and vigilant , insomuch as Lucifer seemed there to keepe his chiefe and royall Court , as if not to be delighted with any other habitation ; which truly did again exceedingly amaze the consideration of the old Hermit beyond beliefe and imagination , by reason the sight appeared so wonderfully to outgoe his expectation .

But however with these extravagant and distracted thoughts , the aged father was conducted to his Cell , there to be necessarily reposed untill the next day , since his body seemed in a manner to be tyred out with his hard and tedious journey , and his mind no what lesse wearied by the strange visions he had beheld in his travaile ; which may be conceived , gave him not that rest that was accustomed to refresh his Spirits in the wildernesse , being free from such diversity of imaginations . However after a very little sleep , waking very early in the morning , he was suddenly saluted by the young man , that had been his companion with this unexpected language , when his thoughts were preparing for a new journey : You must know , said he , I am an Angel sent by Almighty God , not onely to shew you these mysteries that passed in our travels , but according to your desires and supplications , to let you see more plainly his divine waies and inscrutable judgements , sometimes hapning against all appearance of humane sense and reason , though alwaies tending to good and profitable purposes , if mans unhappy condition could make use of the benefit ; which often times he doth not doe by reason of the corruption of his depraved nature , and the want of that competent grace his diligence and religious industry should have purchased at Gods hands for his advantage . To which effect therefore be advertised , that this figurative story is thus meant for your better confirmation : The first man at whose house we hapned to lodge , that gave us seeming kind entertainment with all humanity ( from whose possession however I took a Silver Goblet at our departure ) onely signifieth men competently good in this world ; upon whose condition notwithstanding God Almighty is pleased to lay earthly affliction , by may considerable losses , whereby the better to retaine their actions and desires in a moderate temper : And therefore not seldome bestows their goods upon people lesse deserving , which is plainly demonstrated by the other rough and harsh personage , unto whom I gave the Goblet , though he could no way claime any just or deserved right thereunto ; it being all the benefit such shall receive either in this world or the next , by reason of the small portion of grace their covetous and ill-natured actions have purchased at Gods hands ; notwithstanding they may not be esteemed the wickedst sort of men . Next concerning the Nobleman , who appeared to our apprehension both rich , religious , and courteous ; by him may be figured those persons , who joyn devotion with the glory of this life , without any intention in their minds either to offend God , or prejudice their neighbours ; however lest they may be too much transported by degrees , with any over-violent desires and objects of this world , as children , honour , or the like , God Almighty is pleased oftentimes to take away the occasion , by depriving them of something they most esteem , which is signified by my private destroying the life of that good mans onely sonne and heire , in regard he seemed to have placed too much passionate appetite in the contemplation of his earthly succession ; which considerations oftentimes distracted his thoughts , from the necessary cogitatious belonging to his salvation . Again , the Traveller we met upon the narrow bridge , that I seemed so uncharitably and inhumanly to overthrow was at that time going to perform a wicked action , that would indubitably have cast away his soule , unlesse it had been prevented in the interim by his sudden death : wherefore the intention being foreseen by the providence and mercy of God , I was by his goodnesse commanded to that office and execution . And for the other party that so passionately begged our direction in his journey , I was constrained to turne him out of his right way , to avoyd his falling upon many bloody thieves that would not onely have robbed him of his money , but also have taken away his life ; which onely that happy diversion changed into prevention and safety . And now concerning the mystery of those blasphemous Bandits we met in our last Inne , in whose company I appeared to take so much complacency and delight , I did that onely to retaine their persons the longer in that place ( who else would have quickly departed ) as foreseeing the next morning they should be apprehended by Officers of justice , which else they would avoyd , and so consequently followed their deserved and condigne punishment , not onely in recompence of their many hainous wickednesses , but for the more entire preservation of the honest Countrey people , that would have suffered by their escape infinite dammage , and many injuries , in regard of their violence and oppression . But now last of all , to come to the explanation of this great , riotous and vicious City , confused with noise , and replenished with extraordinary glory and splendour , at whose gate we found onely one Divell asleep , though the manners & comportment of the inhabitants seemed to be governed by the directions and instigations of millions of infernall spirits . You must know that however their multitudes of wickednesses may pretend to all Hellish conversation , yet Lucifer finding there is so little need of diligence , to corrupt their conversations , already sufficiently depraved to his purpose , being drowned also in security , imployeth his chiefe care and industry for the perverting of this poore Monasterie , which he very well knows is imployed night and day in nothing but Prayers , Fastings , and other extraordinary mortifications ; wherefore , and by reason of which , it continually warres against the power and deceipt of his infernall Kingdom ; so that necessarily it behooveth him to that purpose , to imploy all the instruments and subjects he can possibly to undermine the thoughts and actions of these godly and painfull people , being the onely cause that so many Divels in every corner are to be found in this simple habitation to your wonder and admiration .

And thus according to my duty , since I am commanded thereunto by the will of Almighty God , have I not onely shewed you these mysteries in our journey , but thereby explained and proposed to your condition , henceforth to rest absolutely satisfied with the Decrees of Heaven concerning his proceedings in humane affaires , notwithstanding how contrary soever they may appeare to your appetite or conception ; for having sufficiently revealed principles of religion , whereon to ground your faith , and to direct your actions , you need no more for your salvation and morall conversation . To which purpose I must again tell you , and conclude with this saying , that as the intention of Almighty God is one thing , and the waies of man oftentimes another ; so are you obliged to leave off your curiosities in that behalfe ; and with these words presently vanished from his sight .

As I suppose this relation well considered may be of sufficient force to perswade any persons reason , to the conformity with Gods will in all things , without examining the mysteries of his secret judgements ; so of the other side , however sometimes they appeare strange to our apprehensions , yet is he alwaies mercifull and just in the execution of his intentions ; which for the most part are very good and profitable for our condition , if we have grace and confidence enough to make use of the benefits of such determinations ; since he is accustomed to turne those things that seem most against our desires and naturall appetites , into the greatest blessings that can possibly be imagined . As of the contrary , the very delights that most please our fancies in this fraile life , though they may seem lawfull of themselves if they were not prevented , not seldome become obstacles to our greatest felicity , or entertained by overmuch passion prove destructive to our humane and eternall affaires . But for the better confirmation of these points of duty , and because examples are the best inducements to instruct any mans beliefe , and so by consequence to invite his actions and endeavours , I shall in this place make a relation of a short story , which however it it may be thought but plain and simple , yet in my opinion is extreamly convincing to our purpose , which I have read to be after this manner .

There was a principall and wealthy Citizen , having but one sonne in the world , Another story much to the same purpose . had occasion to send him with his onely brother by sea , into a farre Countrey , to make good some necessary traffique . But this Gentleman in the interim apprehended , as he had good cause , the danger and hazzard of the journey , wherefore presently after his sonnes departure , he went to the Bishop of the Town ( being a very holy man ) and earnestly desired him he would be pleased in his daily devotions to remember his friends voyage and prosperity ; and to this effect , to render his wishes more pleasing to God , bestowed upon the reverend father , a very vast summe of Gold , to be imployed to what uses he would thinke fit concerning charitable deeds , towards the obtaining of his request . The good Bishop interpreting his inward intentions by his outward bounty , not believing such a liberality could proceed but from a religious confidence in God Almighty , not onely promised him his best assistance , in his holy exercises , as he should have occasion continually to perform them , but at that very instant fell down upon his knees , and earnestly besought God to favour the Gentlemans request ; after which he dismist him full of assurance and joy . However this encounter being past , it was not long before the pious Citizen , not onely heard newes of his sonnes death , but also of casting away of the ship , wherein was contained in a manner all his wealth and subsistence . When these unfortunate tidings came to the sorrowfull eares of the religious Patriarch , who had received the Gentlemans money , he knew not which way to turne himselfe both for shame and griefe : Neverthelesse putting his chiefe trust in God Almighty , after he had continued a long time at his prayers , he resolved again to visit his benefactor , to try what consolation it was possible for his presence and perswasions to afford him after so great a losse , which had probably brought upon his present condition a most wonderfull affliction , but notwithstanding he used what admonitions and other pious instructions were necessary for the season , yet were they all too little seemingly to ease a heart so much overwhelmed with despaire and sadnesse , insomuch as the Bishop was forced to return without that wished satisfaction he desired , being also in a manner confounded in his own thoughts , considering the unfortunate successe of his endeavours , so little answering the others intentions of piety and goodnesse . However he never left soliciting God Almighty daily , according to his custom , in his behalfe ; untill it fortuned one night , after the distressed Gentleman had wrought himselfe into some slumber by the tossing over of many troublesome and vexatious thoughts in his unquiet bosome , he imagined to see the holy Bishop to stand before him , uttering these words in distinct tearms : Know , said he , that thy charity and afflictions have not been forgotten in the sight of God , whose property is alwaies one way or other to look upon his servants in griefe and anguish of mind ; to which purpose I am to tell thee , that although thy sonne be really dead , yet his miscarriage proved so happy to his condition , that if he had again returned safe into thy protection , he had been certainly and eternally damned , whereas now he is placed in heaven amongst the blessed with all joy and security . But for thy ship , with thy brother , plentifully laden with aboundance of rich commodities , they are so farre from being cast away , that thou shalt shortly receive them into thy wished possession , without any manner of losse or detriment . Whereupon Phelochristus ( for so was he called ) waking out of his sleepe , found himselfe not onely exceedingly comforted , but almost cleared of all his griefe , and with these thoughts and cogitations went instantly to the holy Patriarch , and there throwing himselfe at his feet , declared his vision in every particular ; as also gave infinite thanks , that God Almighty , who ( as he said ) had more shewed his mercy in his chastizement and punishment by this very accident , then formerly he had done in bestowing upon him so many worldly blessings and prosperities , and from that time forward remained most contentedly satisfied . By which discourse may be gathered , not onely the determination and purposes of Almighty God , though often kept from our knowledge in a hidden and mysterious way , but sheweth in like manner to a confident soule , that it is still in his power when he pleaseth to give our hearts content after never so many desperate crosses and afflictions ; for however he doth not alwaies grant our desires , since they may not be convenient oftentimes either for our present or future condition ; yet most commonly if we have sufficient beliefe and assurance in his goodnesse , he doth use to change even the nature of our appetites themselves , making that appeare delightfull to our apprehensions , that before was terrible and distastfull : And so by a contrary consequence , in easing the mind he diverteth the griefe , never laying upon our fraile natures a greater burthen then we are able to beare , unlesse we destroy our own strength by over much impatiency , and respecting against his will and commandements , too violently worldly things , which in truth is onely the occasion of all our misery and inward vexation : Since it is not the accidents themselves that procure the smart , but onely the want of bearing them rightly , which certainly cannot be well effected but by an absolute resignation of our wils in every thing , into the hands of Almighty God , who can and will dispose of our persons and actions to the greatest advantage for our own good , if we resolve to comply in this manner with his pleasure , as it fared with holy Tobias , after the end of all his crosses and miseries ; to which purpose we shall make in this place as a most excellent pattern and example , some relation of his life , sufferings , and patience , accompanied by his extraordinary confidence in Gods mercies and protection .

The wonderfull confidence of old Tobias in the mercies of Almighty God .

AS it is recorded in Scripture , that from his very childhood he served God with all his heart , not onely when he was in freedom and prosperity , but also when he suffered poverty and oppression , so is it in like manner mentioned , that he was so far from contaminating himselfe , when others worshipped Idols , that in the interim he went to Ierusalem to adore in the Temple ; besides in his captivity he alwaies relieved the necessity of his brethren , and notwithstanding the fury and violence of the persecution under the King of Assyria , he could not be induced by any threats , to abstaine from burying those slaughtered persons that lay dead in the streets ; in so much as one day being ready to sit down at a Feast with other company , of a sudden understanding there was yet one Jew that wanted a Sepulchre , he presently flew from his dinner with extraordinary zeale , and performed that charitable office , not onely to the wonder of all those that were with him , but even being reproved by his neerest friends , who apprehended exceedingly the danger of the action , in regard it was so strictly forbidden by the Kings speciall command . Though these testimonies were exemplar , yet afterward when this good man fell into his excessive poverty , then did his admirable vertue more clearly appeare ; for not having wherewithall to relieve his necessity otherwise then by the labour of his wives hands , and his own industry , becomming also by a most lamentable accident deprived of his sight . Neverthelesse one day when his wife brought him home a young Kid , which she had procured by that onely means for their provision and sustenance ; he hearing it bleate , desired her that if it belonged to any other , she would again restore it , lest it might bring a curse upon their poore family , wishing and resolving rather they might put their trust in God Almighty , concerning their necessities , then any way seeke to be relieved by fraudulent and unlawfull waies . Againe , being upbrayded by his wife , and other friends , for his overmuch confidence in God , as they pretended , since his Almes and Prayers had procured him no more favour , then a world of present miseries ; He returned them only answer of rebuke for their impiety , in regard they had not more trust and assurance in Gods power and goodnesse , who as he said , ever would protect his servants . But now at last being come , as I may say , to the insupportable period of his crosses and afflictions ; and as it were tyred by the upbraidings of his own friends , he made his humble supplications to heaven to be taken out of this life ; whereupon after he had ended his prayers , imagining his suit was granted , he called unto him his young sonne , unto whom he had not onely given most pious instructions , wherein he wished him above all things , and in every difficulty to serve God with his whole heart , putting his onely confidence in his divine mercies , but sent him into a far Countrey to seeke his fortune , delivering him at the same time a bill in writing , whereby to require a certaine summe of money that had been a long time owing him by a friend for his better support and subsistence , not being wel able to maintain him at home . And notwithstanding his wife seemed desperately afflicted at this unexpected resolution and sudden departure of their only child , he still wished her to put her confidence in heaven , not onely for the assurance of his journey and returne , but also for his future prosperity ; wherein may be noted , his faith and suppression of his own passions : for as indubitably he more trusted in Gods assistance , then in any other probability whatsoever , so was he willing of the other side , to lay aside his present comforts for the succeeding good of his child , which was not as he thought to be obtained , if he had kept him at home , wherein he should have more pleased his own humane nature , then any way have provided for his sonnes welfare . Having declared thus much concerning this holy man , it is now full time to come to his reward according to his merit , which no doubt was resolved on by a hidden and an inserutable decree . For God Almighty was so well satisfied with this good persons actions and intentions , that instantly he designed an Angell to accompany his sonne , who not onely conducted him safely in his journey , but at last brought him where was concluded a most happy marriage between him and his own kinswoman after they had both conquered the divell by their prayers and other vertues : which being finished , they repaired with much joy and gladnesse to the house of old Tobias , where they were received with such expressions of gladnesse , as became the nature of so great a happinesse . Neither was this all their felicity , for presently the father by miracle obtained his long lost sight , in the presence of his family and friends ; and after the end of forty yeeres continued prosperity , the old father having seen a numerous posterity , between his sonne and daughter in law , he finished his happy daies in the spirit of Prophesie and vertue , leaving behind him young Tobias to performe his funerall .

These relations certainly , may give a taste to every good Christian , of God Almighties mercies intended in one manner or other to those that have a sufficient trust in his goodnesse and power . But however , as I say , all our happinesse consists in this absolute resignation of our will , in regard it doth not onely assure us of a future benefit , but promiseth a present content by quieting our thoughts and passions ; though it is unpossible to procure this necessary confidence , without a lively and intire faith , which is a kind of an invisible seeing of God , and in some sort knowing his divine goodnesse in a particular manner through the darke clouds of our humane nature , that for the most part whilst we live upon earth , hinders the cleare appearance of his Divinity from the eyes of our soule ; however when our bodies are once glorified , such obstacles shall vanish and disperse , without difficulty by reason of our happy condition . Our blessed Saviour himselfe hath declared , that if we had but faith as a grain of a mustard-seed , we might be able even to remove mountaines ; By which figure may be conceived , the excellent nature and property of an entire beliefe , towards all joy and happinesse ; which neverthelesse is more or lesse purchased , according to that proportion and measure of grace , we have obtained by our devotions , and practise of vertuous actions , most apparently demonstrative in the sayings of that glorious King Lewis of France , who professed he would not goe out of his doores , to be a really eye-witnesse of any miracle whatsoever ; his faith having so absolutely confirmed him in all principles of religion , and the believing entirely every thing belonging to Gods omnipotency and goodness , that he had no need of such motives and inducements to strengthen his faith , or render it more certain and efficacious . However we may boldly affirme , that this want in the generall , is the main occasion of all mens disorders and excesses in this world . For if people did sufficiently enough ( without any wavering apprehension ) rest upon Gods revealed will and pleasure , and by that means could absolutely apprehend his promised mercies and judgements , it were unpossible to be so much transported with the vanities of this life .

As for example , how could it be imagined , that men would be so extreamly senselesse , as for the onely enjoying and delight of a little meat and drinke , with other sensualities of this world , for a very few yeeres should violently cast away those eternall and abundantly satisfactory happinesses of Heaven , unlesse there were some stupid defect in their beliefe , concerning either the certainty of their being , or in the waies and means whereby they were to be compassed . In like manner , what person would be so sottish in his resolution , as not rather to undergoe all the austerities could be undergone during this life , then hazzard the danger of those terrible torments so often mentioned , as I must say , to be endured to all eternity , if he were absolutely convinced in his thoughts and apprehension , that they particularly belonged to his condition in each circumstance ; since it is more then evident , that we forbeare no paines , or scarce omit any care in this world , either to obtaine humane honours , or prevent eminent ( though earthly ) inconveniencies , though we know they are but to endure for a moment in comparison of eternity ; when as perhaps a farre lesse industry and travell would assure us in the other condition of a perpetuall happinesse ; and yet we see it so supinely neglected by most , as if it were not at all worth any manner of consideration . Wherefore I must conclude , that mans miseries and insensibilitie for the most part proceed from this defect in this onely particular , for that he hath not purchased a competency of grace sufficient to enlighten his understanding , whereby he becommeth overwhelmed , as it were , with nothing but grosse sensualities and tickling imaginations that make him wholy uncapable to converse in a higher Region , which by consequence renders him altogether unwilling to resigne himselfe entirely into the hands of Almighty God , as blessed Tobias did in all his actions and adversities . For that holy mans stedfast and undoubted beliefe of all the principles of Religion , made him most confident of the promises thereupon depending , which is unpossible to be effectually compassed or put in execution but by the same means he used , in the whole course of his life ; whereby , as I say , he obtained such a proportion of supernaturall grace , as not onely comforted him in all his extraordinary difficulties , but infused so much love into his happy soule , as he was able to contend against every temptation of the Divell , the world , and the flesh , and by that means got such a victory over all his passions , that he onely delighted in every thing that was Gods will ; and of the contrary never seemed distasted with any crosse that was sent him . As for example , it may be supposed when he at any time found an inclination in his fraile nature to rebell against this determination , he used the power of Prayers , Fasting , and Almes-deeds , to beat down and conquer all his humane appetites , in so much as God Almighty not onely gaue him assurance of a heavenly reward , but crowned his latter daies with all the prosperity could be imagined of earthly happinesse , as appeared by the sequell of the story , though ( as it may be conceived ) not more for the acts of mercy , which he had used upon all occasions to his distressed brethren , then for the absolute resignation of his own will to Gods onely pleasure and direction ; in which he enjoyed no doubt a wonderfull felicity in his thoughts , notwithstanding his desperate afflictions : Which agrees very well with the sayings of divine Thomas a Kempis , who affirmeth in his booke of the imitation of Christ , that it is unpossible to purchase any manner of reall freedom , either humane or spirituall , without an absolute negation of a mans own selfe . So that , when a body hath brought his resolutions into this quiet state and condition , he may truly be said to be happy , and never before ; being thereby freed from all occasions of temptation , that use to swell mens minds into a thousand storms and perplexities ; like as streames that goe along with the wind , passe smoothly without any perturbation : so of the contrary , others that strive by a naturall current , with those blasts have much difficulty to keep their course , being alwaies tossed , thwarted , and interrupted in their passage . Besides , we see the greatest Monarchs of the world are oftentimes so wearied with their own wils and command , that notwithstanding they seem exceedingly to affect glory and ambition , are perswaded in the interim not onely to put the whole government of their Dominions sometimes into the hands and power of their favourites and Subjects ; but also not seldome will contradict their own very wils , to give their intrusted Officers more absolute jurisdiction , as conceiving therein a satisfactory content to themselves , being thereby freed , as they suppose , of many contentions and troublesome thoughts , that else would happen to their more disquiet . Wherefore , I say , it may be esteemed a most preposterous inconsideration in us , not to be willing to abandon our own wils to him , that we are most certaine shall alwaies be not onely constant and true to us in all our affaires , but at last can and will infinitely reward us for that voluntary resignation . And this no doubt will be the easier effected , if we seriously adde this apprehension to our judgements : That let us doe what we can , and possesse what we may , either in ambition of sensuality , as we shall never be free from contention and trouble in our minds , if not in our persons , so in the end of necessity we must yield to death , the common plunderer of all these things ; which taking us unprovided , will force us to interchange all our past , and so much esteemed prerogatives , into a miserable and confused damnation to all eternity . And although it should take us a little more in order , and in something a better posture , yet at the best our gone and ended delights , which we enjoyed according to our opinions with so much felicity , will be so farre from benefitting our present condition , that the very remembrance of those enticements shall render us more sorrowfull and unwilling to quit the world , however there be an absolute necessity of this separation ; and at the worst they leave us burthened , and almost distracted with many terrible feares , what accompt may be required of us towards a full satisfaction , in regard of the severe justice of Almighty God , who placed us not here to have the fruition of so many pleasures we once enjoyed above other men , notwithstanding all the delight and benefit will appeare then vanished into smoke and ayre . Insomuch as we may say , what hath it availed us , to have possessed the whole world , and foolishly to have neglected the saving of our own soules , when we had the means and opportunity to have effected it ? Wherefore to summe up this discourse in a word : That man that will be wise , must first purpose well , then prosecute his resolution with constancy & diligence , which without doubt will procure him grace , and that grace shall enlighten and strengthen his faith , untill in the end he come to such a perfection of love , that may make him ( with an assured confidence ) rely entirely upon God Almighties goodnesse , by which means he may never be distasted to make a resignation of himselfe and actions into his hands , according to the example of holy Tobias , and other religious persons ; in which determination , I say , and no other , doth consist not onely all future happinesse , but every present content in the world . But perhaps it may be here said , that the cause of most mens insensibility doth not proceed so much from any deficiency of faith , as from a certain naturall inclination , to covet and desire present possession of lesse happinesse , rather then future expectations of far greater consequence . Unto which I answer , that however in part I am of the same opinion , since this stupidity is incident to humane frailty , having not obtained a sufficient portion of grace ; yet again when I consider how much affliction people would , and doe undergoe for many yeeres together , onely to purchase the reversion of some earthly Kingdomes and honours in the world , I cannot but return to my old beliefe . As for example , put case a man were promised after seven yeeres extreme labour , the possession of some great Countrey , with other delights that might content his appetites ; I make no question at all , but that he would most readily imbrace the offer , and conceive he had gained exceedingly by his bargain . Though yet we see for the fruition of Heaven to all eternity , we are hardly drawn by any perswasions whatsoever either morall or divine , to spend many houres in true consideration of that unconceivable joy and happinesse promised , with so much assurance by God Almighty himselfe . And therefore certainly it can be nothing but a meere want of necessary faith , that renders people so carelesse of their salvation .

But to conclude this part of my discourse , however we ought not , ( as hath been alledged ) to be directed concerning our duties in God Almighties service , by worldly events , but onely by those heavenly principles we have received ; yet I shall hereafter make some historicall relation of many remarkable passages , perhaps more satisfactory then may be well conceived , wherein have appeared Gods apparent judgements in these latter times ; though , as I say , they must not be taken for generall rules ; notwithstanding they may serve for inducements to move peoples apprehensions . For indubitably it is our duties without any curiosity whatsoever , as hath been already declared , to cast our selves wholy upon the will and pleasure of Almighty God , with an entire patience in expectation of what may happen unto us , since we have sufficient principles given us to follow proceeding from divine authority ; but because patience is not onely a heavenly duty , but a morall vertue necessary to be observed , I shall in the next and last Chapter discourse a little of the nature and benefit of such an excellent property appertaining to our humane condition , and then make an end of the first part of my book .

The necessity of this noble vertue which was practised by our Saviour himselfe in a most particular manner during his abode upon earth .

AS this Heroicall vertue of Patience is little lesse necessary then faith to perfect our condition , at least wise to be used in some convenient measure and proportion , for that humane frailty cannot easily arrive to the highest perfections of this nature ; so is it more then evident by the sacred writings and testimony of holy Scripture , that our Saviour Jesus Christ in a most exact way during his being in this world , did offer himselfe as a divine pattern for example to instruct our endeavours concerning what we ought to doe in this particular ; for when it was his blessed pleasure to joyn his eternall Divinity with the mortall substance of our flesh and blood , he tooke upon him almost the lowest of all conditions , as I may say , being born of no other then of a simple Virgin , however extracted from the loyns of Kings , because it was determined that David his beloved servant should have the honour of his birth ; and this holy mayd was onely married to a poore Carpenter , that got his necessitous living meerly by the sweat of his owne browes , though he might have chosen for his mother the greatest Queen or Empresse in the world ; which certainly he did for no other reason , but by this penurious condition to have occasion thereby the better to exercise visibly his own designed patience for our example and instruction . Neither did he designe his miraculous birth to be in any other place then in a base and contemptible stable , not furnished with any kind of commodity , either for himselfe or company . Again , if we reflect upon his many persecutions , both under Herod , and by his unnaturall Countreymen , we shall finde that he underwent them with a most singular patience , both of minde and body ; never expressing the least passion in his words , notwithhandling all the injuries and affronts offered unto him ; or shewed want of courage in enduring what vexations or tortures soever could be inflicted upon him ; insomuch as he suffered himselfe to be stroke , spit upon , and used with other unparaleld indignities , by most base and contemptible creatures ; not onely without any manner of opposition , but scarce reproving them in what kinde of fashion soever , either by word or action , untill being with these and the like sufferings brought to the last period of his miseries to endure a most cruel and ignominious death upon the Crosse ; he was so farre from not expressing an entire and absolute patience in his extreamest agony , that instead of shewing forth any signes of passion or perturbation , he took care for his mothers future welfare , as a morall obligation belonging to his humanity ; he gave pardon to the Thiefe that was crucified with him , as an essential property appertaining to his Divinity ; and last of all , as evident testimonies of his admirable and heavenly charity , he most earnestly prayed for those barbarous enemies that so earnestly did persecute him at that very instant , as pretending in their behalfe to his Father , they did not understand what they did concerning his particuler . Of the other side , if we cast our thoughts upon those instructions he gave his Apostles and other followers , they were alwaies either to perswade humility , or command patience , which are two vertues that cannot well be separated . As for example , he bid them , when they were persecuted in one City , to fly to another ; without contention , although they had his heavenly Commission for their better authority . As also , in his frequent Sermons , for their particular instructions and effectuall edifications , he commanded them as an absolute duty belonging to their vocation , being his Disciples , to suffer those that used violence to their persons , notwithstanding to expresse so much patience , that if they did take away their cloaks from them , they should permit them to bereave them also of their coates without resistance . In like manner he told them , that whoever should injuriously give them a blow upon the ear , rather then return a requital in the same nature , after the custom of the world , they must offer the other part of their face , to be abused by their injustice . 'T is true as I cannot affirm , we are obliged to these strict and severe rules of patience in all our actions , especially since such suffering would probably incourage Tyranny in wicked dispositions , yet certainly these very examples are sufficient demonstrations , of God Almighties intentions in the general , concerning this necessary vertue , to be practised upon all convenient occasions , in our ordinary conversation amongst men , as well as to be put in practise in those afflictions , which accidentally at any time shall be cast upon our condition ; and the rather for that it is evident , that the sinnes and disorders of the world , for the most part , proceed from a certain intemperancy or impatiency of nature , not sufficiently rectified by Grace or wisdome . As for the purpose ; Pride is nothing but an over swelling humour of self esteem , not governed by Reason , or bounded by Charity ; which causeth such an unruly and passionate inflammation in the soul , as we neither know rightly our own state , or willingly would endure what we should from another . Also envy is a passionate and malevolent spight against our neighbours prosperity ; as fearing left it might prejudice our estimation . Revenge is a bloody and impatient passion , because our nature is not passive enough in bearing of injuries ; Vainglory may be termed a lunatick indiscretion , proceeding from too much abundancy of self-love . Disobediency in like manner , a presumptuous Pride that allowes us not sufficient temper to be under subjection , although it be never so necessary for our condition . Ingratitude , an unjust intemperancy that renders us unwilling to acknowledge an others vertues , in regard we doubt too much thereby to be disvalued our selves ; or else to be put to more requitals then seems convenient for our own interest . Ambition a mad overflowing of the minde towards those honours , that we conceive might give us lustre and esteem in the eye of the world . Covetousness a certain raging desire without end , to be possessors of we know not what ; since we never enjoy the half of what we cover , when best obtained . Of the other side , if we turn our consideration upon the sensuality of the body , we shall finde it generally to proceed for want of sufficient temperance in the suffering part , as the other concerning the minde , proceeds from the defect of not being able competently to expect the event of things to come ; for when we drown our selves in a vast sea of luxury , against Reason , Religion , and morality , it is because the consideration of honour or vertuous actions , carries not our thoughts and resolutions high enough to contemn such poore and base pleasures , that neither secure our condition or benefit our persons . As for example , what is gluttony , but an inordinate striving by the instinct of nature , to satisfie the senses in eating and drinking ? Lust in the same kinde an impatient itching after unlawful novelties , however consisting most in opinion , for that oftentimes our deceived fancy , makes choice of the far unworthier subject , as I have already instanced in a part of my Book . Again , Idlenesse is nothing else but a certain kinde of impatiency , proceeding from a loathnesse to enter upon action and employment . Sloth in like manner is but a heavy increase of the same humour , towards a more earthly period , engendred by custome and continuance . Inconstancy another palpable effect of impatiency , in regard it varies from one fancy to another , with a restlesse longing to be yet satisfied in something , that the judgement cannot reach unto for want of temperance to consider .

For however I am not of the opinion of those fantastical Philosophers , that esteemed pain little more then imagination , yet when I consider the wonderful strange lives of many holy people in the primitive times , I may easily be induced to believe , that a perfect and absolute patience being procured , which can no otherwise be obtained then by a religious morality , it will not be very difficult to run through the rough passages of this world , in a manner in an absolute calm and tranquility ; especially when I reflect upon the actions of many Heathens , who onely out of the spirit of vain-glory , seemed in outward view so to have conquered all their passions , that they appeared carelesse of life or death , honour or riches , eating , drinking , or any other earthly pleasure or pain whatsoever . However I will leave these reports to the uncertainty of History , or at least wise believe they might proceed from enchantments of pride and the devils elusions ; since we know their Religion could not procure simply such effects , not being justified either by divine Revelation or assured principles . Wherefore , for a conclusion , I shall make some brief mention of a few admirable people in those times , whose courages never failed in adversity , or any vain-glory laid the least hold of their actions in suffering : To which purpose , we may begin with the consideration of Paul the Hermite , that lived almost a hundred yeers without seeing or conversing with any humane person , in an obscure Cave incompassed with Rocks and Mountains , his employment being Prayers , his recreation Meditation , and his practise fasting . Again , we may call to mind the wonderful and admirable austerities of Simeon Stilitto , that lived in a small piller of stone many Cubits from the ground , for thirty seven yeers together , scarce in all that time reposing his body , according to the custom of other people ; insomuch as it is written , that multitudes of wormes , proceeding from the natural corruption of the place , bred and ingendred under his feet , for want of motion and agitation ; and yet his humility notwithstanding was so great , that when he was commanded to descend , by the Bishop of Antioch to try his obedience , without any manner of delay , he yeelded himself ready to perform the injunction ; as it were adding the vertue of subjecting his own will to that of patience , which he so exactly practised . We read that Mary of Egypt , continued in the wild Desarts of Syria for seven and twenty yeers , without any clothing at all , or other sustenance , then what she could gather from the Sands and Rocks of that extraordinary solitude , where perchance she found now and then some green herbs for her necessary food . Last of all , if we reflect upon the horrid torments , which Lawrence the Deacon endured under Decius the Emperour , we shall finde matter enough to contemplate with admiration , both his patience and courage ; for whilst his body in the night time , for the greater terrour to his youth , was laid upon an Iron Gridiron , over a hot and scorching fire , he cryed out to the Tyrant , being more then half dead , that now he was rosted sufficiently of one side , he might if he pleased also turn the other to participate in like manner of his cruelty ; which words gained so absolute a victory over all his persecutors , that the Emperour confounded both with shame and amazement , quitted the place of his execution . All which I may boldly affirm , were no other then wonderful effects of a constant and couragious patience . Since of the other side , many esteemed gallant persons of this world failing in this vertue , have disgraced their last ends by apparant dejection of their souls . As for example , Philotus , who was famed in Alexanders Army for one of his prime Commanders , that followed his fortune and successe ; yet being by accident brought upon the torture , notwithstanding his intemperate vainglory , had made him promise to himself , and pretend to others , that his courage maintained the Kings greatnesse in most of his conquests , and victories in Asia , he was brought to such a lownesse of Spirit , by the violence of torments , that he not onely revealed his own intentions , but accused his old Father , to be released of his punishment , for want of fortitude and patience in his sufferings ; insomuch , as Alexander himself being concealedly present at his Tryal , delivered this opinion of his carriage , that he wondred how such a man had so much boldnesse to attempt his life , that had not a heart great enough to expresse more courage at his own death . Nero , however he had a nature inflamed with impatiency , pride and vain-glory ; joyned also with the condition of an Emperour , that probably , should have raised his soul to an eminency of courage and magnanimity , yet when the Senate of Rome by reason of his own wickednesse , and his enemies prevailing power , had designed him a most shameful and ignominious execution , could not by any perswasion be brought to kill himself to avoid that disgraceful fare , until one of his followers and intimate friends , shewed him the way by acting the like upon his own person before his face ; which shewes that intemperate prosperity is rather an impediment to same and reputation , then a mild and quiet patience ; that for the most part enableth people to suffer any thing can well be inflicted upon their condition , when either their Religion or honour calleth them to such a combate . Also Marshal Byron of France , being not onely one of the great favourites to Harry the fourth , by reason of his supposed courage , but esteemed of an extraordinary passionate valour in the wars ; yet after his accusation , when he was brought upon the Scaffold to die by the hands of the common Executioner , he exprest so much unwillingnesse to leave his life , by a wild and preposterous rage , that the Hang-man was constrained to perform his office when he least thought of the businesse , onely to avoid a greater indignity to be done to his person in the last end ; whereas if he had put on a mild temperance in his suffering , he would not onely probably have better secured his future condition , but in a far higher nature have preserved his honour and reputation . Last of all , we have an example of this kinde , in the death and suffering of a noble man of our Country , who in his life was passionately vain-glorious and active beyond measure , yet at his execution he appeared so passively fearful , that he seemed more then half dead , before the executioners stroke arrived at his neck . All which I say , may be brought for testimonies , against those dispositions that neither resolve or practise patience , seeing that noble property for the most part renders men absolutely victorious in most things of this world ; for who can stile themselves Masters in this beneficial and heavenly vertue , shall smile at Tyranny , overcome cruelty , suppresse passions , contemn accidents , purchase friends , perswade enemies , live contentedly , and die happily ; And in truth may be said to have made a wise and generous preparation , against all disasters whatsoever , which either the devil or the world can raise against our humane condition ; for however it be true , that the sensualities of nature cannot easily be overcome , but by the dominion of Grace , yet since the very heathens , meerly by the instinct and provation of honour , have in many conflicts obtained wonderful victories by their constant and patient resolutions , it cannot be but a shame and ignominy to us Christians , not to be able by the addition of heavenly Grace ( which certainly we may compasse by our religious endeavours if we will ) to beat down , and suppresse both in our thoughts and actions , those violent passions that deprive us of all reputation and goodnesse . Since in doing the contrary , we do participate of the nature of those unreasonable creatures , that have no other rule for their subsistence but meerly sense , which without doubt , being in us cherished extraordinarily , totally destroyes the nobility of the soul , that ought onely , or at leastwise chiefly to contemplate and be in love with supernatural and divine things , and by consequence to leave dull cogitations and grosse actions , for supplements of necessity or conveniency ; which being considered and put in practice , with a constant and noble resolution , we shall finde such a beneficial patience daily to encrease in our natures and dispositions , that will easily gain a signal victory over all obstacles and difficulties , and render us not onely temperate in expectation , but invincible in suffering . In fine , I am of opinion , that as want of patience is a deficiency of courage , so was there never yet an excellent Saint lived in the world , but that he was endued with a great Spirit by nature , for whosoever is altogether carelesse in his ▪ thoughts of honour and reputation , for my part , I shall have no extraordinary confidence either of his devotion or Religion . In conclusion , a noble patience in to be esteemed exceedingly ; for by it we do not onely affront every adversity , but by the discreet practice of that excellent vertue , we make our selves more capable upon all occasions of prosperity , since we are not apt at any time to fall from that temper and understanding that should both warrant and instruct us in our most beneficial affairs , either belonging to this life or to eternity . Which certainly is no way so well to be purchased , as by a constant and resolved activity ; for however patience may seem onely a passive quality , in regard it belongs most to suffering , yet if the imagination be too much setled for want of industry and imployment , probably it will ingender those thoughts and desires that tast most of natural sensuality , and so by consequence draw people to a kinde of a bodily indulgency , which of necessity either destroyes or lessens the magnanimity of the soul , and by that means cannot but procure an impatiency , and irksomenesse in all accidental sufferings whatsoever . But here perhaps it may be thought too hard a condition imposed upon humane nature to be to suffer , whereas God Almighty out of his infinite mercy , might have created man in in such a state , as he should have had no need at all of the use of patience ; unto which I shall onely say , that as it doth not stand with Gods heavenly justice , that any creature should eyjoy that perfect happinesse belonging to the blessed , without having first given some testimony of endeavour in this world . So of the other side , though we had not injunctions and commands to this purpose , yet it is most evident that a certain kind of Tryal belongs to all manner of creatures , before they can arrive at the uttermost period of their designed happinesse . As for example , the blessed Angels were constrained to encounter with Lucifer and his adherents , ere they could be perfectly established in a perpetual Throne of glory with full security . Also Adam was placed in Paradise , ( however in an innocent condition ) to contend with his passions and appetites before he was to have enjoyed Heaven , who fayling in this combat appointed him by the inserutable decrees of Almighty God , he determined to send his son into the world to expiate the offence by suffering also ; And yet man again was ordered to new Trials in this pilgrimage of life , ere he could compasse the accomplishments of eternal rest and quietnesse , constituted for his benefit and felicity . So that we may indubitably conclude , without a resolved and practised patience , it is unpossible either to please God , or almost to satisfie a mans self . For as long as we live in this habitation of misery , we must alwayes either suffer or expect . But being so prepared , we may without overmuch difficulty , undergo persecutions , long Prayers , sharp Fastings continual watchings , with the losse of what prosperity soever upon earth ; since it is onely our natural impatiency , that makes all austerities and afflictions be entertained with so much horrour in our imagination , in regard ( as I have said before ) they consist chiefly , though not totally in opinion . For as the apprehension of honour , is no other , well considered , then an indulgency , created in our natures for want of judgement ; and so consequently we cannot without perturbation in our mindes , bear the deprivation thereof , so may we be confident , that all pain and suffering whatsoever , is much abated by a constant resolution of patience , besides the benefit it affords us in judiciously considering wayes , either for the short continuance of our misfortunes , in temporal things , or the happy use may be made of our afflictions in spiritual matters . Which patience in fine , I call a discreet and noble fortitude , either in expecting or sustaining .

FINIS .