Christian Chemistry, EXTRACTING The Honey of instruction from variety of OBJECTS.  
BEING An handful of Observations Historical, Occasional, and out of Scripture.  
With Applications Theological and Moral.  
By CALEB TRENCHFIELD, sometime Minister of the Church at Chipsted in Surrey.  
Go to the Ant, thou sluggard, consider her ways and be wise,  Pro. 6.6. 
I went by the field of the slothful, and by the Vineyard of the man void of understanding.  
Then I saw, and considered it well; I looked upon it, and received instruction,  Pro. 24.30, 32. 
London; Printed by M. S. for H. Crips, at his shop in Popes-head Alley next Lombard Street. 1662.   

To my ever Honoured Uncle Daniel Shetterden Esq;  
SIR.  
Why I should dedicate this small piece to you, will not be asked by those to whom we are both known; why I should not, would. Your great respect to a godly faithful Ministry, hath merited to be in this kind confessed by much abler pens: but your particular favour to me, challenged the first fruits of mine. You gave out your hand when I first began to go; and your encouragement and assistancy then (besides what since) requires to be first acknowledged now. My capacity extends not to a fatted Calf, out of the stall; I here present you with a Bunch of Grapes, like those of our Country, comparatively sour; nay positively so, for 'tis out of mine own Vine yard, and I dwell in a cold air, and churlish soil, that would abase even a generous Vine, being fit for perry and cider. If you can pick out hence any Grape meet for your palate, that may be for food or physic; if not like Wine to cheer the heart, yet as vinegar to whet your stomach to what's better, I shall be glad if I may be but in this kind serviceable to your better thoughts, and intent your heat though per antiperistasin. I know you have candour enough favourably to interpret what admits it, and charity enough to cover what's faulty, and goodness enough to accept of, and patronise what is (if any such here be) worthy of it; in confidence whereof I lay these before you, in testimony of my desires to serve you, and on purpose to show that I would do some thing to approve myself somewhat worthy to be  
Your so much obliged Nephew, Caleb Trenchfield.   

CHRISTIAN Chemistry  

(1)  
SCypio Africanus being showed a very rich shield, answered, that it was the manner of the Romans to trust more in their right hands, than their left: But most of those Champions set down in the Lord's book of Worthies, are memorised rather for the defensive then offensive; and there is usually more honour got in that field by suffering, then doing.   

(2)  
Agesilaus playing with his young son, and riding upon a reed to make him sport, was dirided by one of his familiars, as being too vain; to whom he answered, hold thy peace till thou thyself art a father, and then we will hear thy advice. When we meet with infirmities which have befallen some of the servants of God in their exigencies, we are ready to deride their weakness, or suspect their sincerity; but let us suspend our Judgements, till our souls be in their soul's stead.   

(3)  
The Miuturnians changing their purpose of slaying Caius Marius, into purposes of conveying him to the Sea side, were in their passage thither, either to go a great way about, which his danger would not allow, or to go through a wood which they accounted sacred, and the highest sacrilege to carry any thing out of it, that had been once brought into it: In this exigency, an old man among them steps out, and resolves the doubt, saying, no way was to be scrupled whereby Marius might be saved. Our days have shown us many of that opinion, that nothing should be accounted holy which stood in the way of their ambition; but Lord, make me always willing rather to go about for the obtaining of my purposes, then to tread over where thou hast set bounds.   

(4)  
Cardinal Poole being chosen Pope by a free and fair Election; yet either out of an high conceit of his own worth, or too much desiring to show his moderation and integrity, would not then be confirmed; but willed the Conclave to consider of it till the next morning; in which time another of the Cardinals had so prevailed with the rest, that they rejected Poole, and chose him Pope. Those things which we apprehend ourselves to be excellent in, we commonly desire so much to make a show of, that (like Physicians who willing to appear richly clad, swelter in Plush in hot summer) by our ostentation we render that ridiculous and offensive, which might otherwise prove greatly to our reputation and advantage.   

(5)  
Philip King of Macedon being importuned by a poor widow to do her justice, answered, that he was not at leisure; to whom she replied, then cease to be a King; for to do justice is that you are a King for: which he hearing, apprehended himself so homely spoken to, that he took care of her cause incontinently. Lord, thou requirest of us that we should do thee service, but we are ready to say we cannot intent it: but it may well be replied to us, then cease to live, for therefore gavest thou us our lives, that we might lay them out in thy service.   

(6)  
Hipponicus intending to dedicate a costly statue, was advised by a friend to employ Policletus a famous workman in the making of it; but he said, That he would not make use of such an one in that business, whose Art should be rather regarded then his cost. When in preaching the great truths of Gospel's Salvation, the enticing words which man's wit teacheth art sought out, the art is so much looked upon by the auditors, that the matter is for the most part lost.   

(7)  
A Limner being desired by a certain person to draw for him an Horse tumbling, which he mistaking, drew one running; which when he had brought home, the person employing him grew angry, that, according as he had apppointed, he had not represented him tumbling; to whom he answered, Turn the piece, and your running Horse is a tumbling one. Many differences have been among us, wherein we have been very angry that others have not concurred with our apprehensions, when the difference hath been only the different way of representing.   

(8)  
Diogenes seeing some Rhodians gorgeously apparelled, while others admired them, said, Tush, That's nothing but pride; and seeing some Spartans' by, in their threadbare Caps, said, That's but another sort of pride. When the vain men of the world apply to a fantastic gallantry, 'tis manifest that it is nothing but pride: Oh would that when religious persons appear to deny the world, they did not give cause to say, that theirs is pride too.   

(9)  
Scypio the Conqueror of Hannibal and scourge of Carthage, though by many triumphs he had replenished the common treasury, yet in all his life never bought one acre of ground for himself, nor left money enough in his Coffers to bury him. How many men have damned their souls that they might die rich, and to that end, like overflowing Rivers, have grown great by the ruins of their Country, upon this account chief, that they may go out of the world wealthy; when Scypio's moderation and abstinence, have reared him up a more glorious Monument then his Conquests.   

(10)  
Philostratus being employed by Ptolemy in building that famous Pharos near Alexandria, engraved in the solid and durable Marble his own name, and in plaster over it, the Kings; that his in time being worn off, his own might be seen to perpetuity. Sin imprinteth in my fancy favourable and specious conceits of it, but there are characters in my conscience of another tenor, which will abide there, when the other are vanished, and no more to be remembered.   

(11)  
William Wickham being apppointed by King Edward in building a stately Church, wrote in in the windows, This work made William Wickham; for which being charged by the King, as assuming the honour of that work to himself, as the author being only overseet, he answered, that, He meant not he made the work, but that the work made him, being before but beggarly, and then in great credit. Lord, when we read in thy Word that we must work out our own Salvation, thy meaning is not, that our Salvation should be the effect of our work, but our work the evidence of thy Salvation.   

(12)  
The Empress Maud being closely beset by her enemies near Winchester, caused herself to be put into a Coffin, and as one dead, was safely conveyed through their Troops. Evil concupiscences beset my soul with an almost impossibility of escaping, but the way to avoid them, is, by becoming dead to sin, not to live any longer therein.   

(13)  
They tell of a Tree in Japan, that flourisheth, and is fruitful, if kept in a dry earth; but with moisture (which causeth other trees to flourish) withereth. Such is the sincere Christian, to whom the cross is a crutch, affliction raiseth up his affection, and the heat of persecution makes his grace's flourish, and fruitful; but the gentle showers of prosperity decayeth his greenness, and usually makes his grace's torpid, if not liveless.   

(14)  
Among the Turks, every one is of some Trade, the Grand Signior himself (though Lord of so many Countries, yet) daily employs himself in some chosen Occupation: because even Adam in Paradise was by divine appointment not left idle: An huge condemnation to those of our times; who think it a disgrace to be engaged in any profitable employment, whereby they may promote the common good, and their own; being almost all only of the trade of that Assyrian, whose Motto was, Ede, bibe, lude.   

(15)  
Herbert in his travels tells of Fowl, which if you shoot some, the rest fly not away, but render themselves an easy prey to him that will kill them. How many such foolish men are there, whom others harms make not wary, but are entangled in the same fetters of lust and misery, wherein they have seen others, and themselves have been formerly ensnared?   

(16)  
The River Tigris passing through the Lake Arethusa, mingleth not his waters with it, but retains its taste and colour different from that of the Lake. Such should the Christian be, though conversing in the world, yet reserving the savour of Godliness, and colour of religious profession unallayed.   

(17)  
The Virgins of Miletus through an unkind Melancholy being their own executioners, and that mischief much increasing, there was a Law made, that those so dying should be carried naked, & exposed to view through the City, upon which that evil ceased; modesty and the shame of being so laid open, though after death, prevailing more, than all other considerations could. How sad is it, that among us professing Christianity, there should be of the shamefacer sex straining healths through their Smocks, etc. and prostituting that virtue, which by the heathen was estimated at so high a rate?   

(18)  
The Hyrcanians do use to banquet under the falls of their Rivers, as in the shade, which are so steep, that they shoot over their heads. It often is, that wretched sinner's riot it under the guilt of those sins, that a tender conscienced person would tremble to think of.   

(19)  
They have Trunks in India called Sampatans', through which they shoot arrows so invenomed, that if they prick the skin, it is very dangerous, but if they draw blood, it is irrecoverably deadly. The first motions to sin, arising from that root of bitterness, appear never without sad effects; but Lord, let them never draw blood by consent from my will, that their deadly venom should seize my vitals.   

(20)  
Demetrius' King of Syria, being taken prisoner by the King of Parthia, and by him married to his own sister, and with all desirable things entertained, oft attempted, and at haft effected an escape into his own Country. Lord, with what enjoyments soever I am derained from thee, yet let the desire of my soul be to thy name, and to the remembrance of thee, and at last let me obtain an happy escape to thee.   

(21)  
Maud the Empress being besieged by the forces of King Stephen in Oxford, when the snow covered the ground, made her escape thence, by arraying herself and followers in white sheets. Lord, I am besieged by thy justice, and the guilt of sin compasseth me about on every side; but Oh cloth me with the white Robe of thy Son's Righteousness, that I may escape the execution of thy vengeance.   

(22)  
Sixtus Quintus being a great abettor of the Spanish Faction when a Cardinal, was the greatest enemy of it when chosen Pope, the Papal dignity not being compatible with the Spanish greatness in Italy. Lord, how far soever I abetted the reign of sin in my heart, before I received thy Spirit of adoption; yet now let me ever be a zealous opposer of it, the Kingdom of sin being so inconsistent with the dignity of a son.   

(23)  
The Papists say, that their pictures of the Virgin Mary are exactly like her, being begun by Angels, and finished by Saint Luke; though 'tis to be seen, that in them the Painters have used their wont liberty, not two of them being in all things alike, and one of them of no small fame, representing a blackmore: Nay there was a fellow of them, that (like Apelles with his Helen) from the beauties of several courtesans before him, drew the picture of this Virgin. How safe, and to our credit is it, to continue in the truth, for the children of the father of lies at one time or other, will show their cloven feet, and to our shame discover their breed.   

(24)  
Though the Northern people have made many irresistible eruptions into the South, like a torrent bearing all before them; yet 'tis observed, that they never obtained any durable Empire, the Southern wit being an overmatch for the Northern strength. If concupiscence break forth, and hurry into sin, exercising some sudden acts of tyranny, yet let it not get any stable dominion: let the efficacy of thy grace every day wear out the strength of sin.   

(25)  
William Wickham begging of King Edward the Bishopric of Winchester, was told by him, It was not fit for him, he being no learned man; to which he answered, That in recompense thereof, if his Majesty pleased to bestow it, he would make many learned men; which he effected by erecting Winchester College. How many of those goods dedicated to the encouragement of the learned, have since the days of Henry the Eighth, fallen into illiterate men's hands? 'twere well if they had so much of Wickhams' conscience, as to reimburse some of them at least, to those primitive pious ends.   

(26)  
A certain person of that Parliament, wherein the Statute for the relief of the poor passed, and a great indeavourer for the procuring of that Act, coming down into the Country, asked his Steward what the people said of that Statute? who answered, that he heard a labouring man say, that whereas formerly he was wont to work six days in the week, now he would work but four; which abuse of that good provision, so affected that pious Patriot, that it drew tears from his eyes in abundance. Lord, thou hast made many provisions in thy Word for my supportation and comfort, and hast promised in my necessities thy supply and protection; but let not my presumption of help from thee, cause my neglect of any of those means, for my Spiritual or temporal preservation, which thou hast enjoined.   

(27)  
The Sea called Sargasso, though four hundred miles from any land, and so deep as no ground is to be found by sounding, yet abounds with an herb called Sargasso like Samper, so thick that a Ship without a strong Gale can hardly make her way. Lord, if temptation from without be never so far removed, yet the corruption of my heart doth continually send forth the bitter fruits of evil thoughts, so that good purposes find very difficult passage; but blow thou with the fresh gales of thy Spirit, that my resolutions to serve thee may have a free course notwithstanding.   

(28)  
A certain person pretending himself borne blind, and cured of that defect by visiting the shrine of Saint Albon, with great concourse of people admiring the Saint, and praising his faith, was brought before Humphrey called the good Duke of Gloucester, being at that place the very day of the cure; who seeming to desire satisfaction on the perfectness of the cure, asked the man What colour his gown was of? he answered, Purple, and in that rightly, and so of the colour of any other thing of which he was asked; where by he discovered his own hypocrisy: for said the Duke, If the Saint hath given you your sight, he hath not withal given you the knowledge of colours, which is not attained but by experience. Lord, thou hast wrought a cure upon the eyes of my mind, by enlightening them with thy truth; but let me not render thy cure suspected, by undertaking to discern those Mysteries, which are only to be known by experience in heaven.   

(29)  
Sir Edwin Sandys reporteth upon his own knowledge of devout Papists, who have dared to perjure themselves in judgement, presuming upon the present and easy remedy of confession. Lord, thou hast in thy Word discovered repentance and faith in the Blood of thy Son, as the means of blotting out of the sins of my soul: and how apt is my heart to take liberty to sin, with purpose of applying this remedy against the evil consequences of it? but let me not so trample under my feet the Blood of thy Covenant as an unholy thing, but keep me that such presumption may not prevail over me.   

(30)  
Upon the Coast of Norway the air is so subtly piercing, that it insensibly benumbs the members, chills the blood, and brings certain death, if not with speed prevented; as our King James had experience, when there he was a Royal Suitor to Queen Anne. The air of ill company with a pestilent contagion doth seize the heart, if not with a diligent and constant resistancy repelled. Lord, I would not willingly be where such a breath rageth, lest like Joseph I learn to swear by the Life of Pharaoh; but if by thy providence I am cast into such company, let me be like Salt to season them, and not be leavened by them.   

(31)  
In the King of Persia's Court, there was an allowance of several Countries for the maintenance of his wife's apparel, one Country for the tire of their heads, another for their necks, and other for other parts of their bodies. The English nation wants little now of being at that pass; for if a Gentleman have twenty Farms, how many of them must be parceled out for his wife? one of them, unless of good revenue, not sufficing to furnish her with laced shoes, and other tingling ornaments belonging to them: And truly this vanity hath so far prevailed on both sexes, that it starved the poor, and driven all good hospitality out of doors.   

(32)  
Malhamut the King of Cambaia, accustomed himself so to the eating of poison, that his breath was venomous to those that spoke with him; and those women which he used for his lust, were never the subjects of a second dalliance, but died in the congression. Those that accustom themselves to sin, their very company is contagious, but a strict familiarity with them cannot be had, without the greatest danger.   

(33)  
Bajazet the great Turk, being in his March against Tamerlane overheard a Shepherd sweetly tuning his Oaten pipe; to whom he said, Happy thou that art not distracted with these solicitous, and weighty cares. We oft admire the peace and contentedness of the mean estate, but are more in love with the pomps and vanities of the wealthier; like Alexander, who said, Vellem Diogenes esse, si Alexander non essem.   

(34)  
Apelles coming to the house of Protogenes, and not finding him at home, was by the servant required his name, that he might tell his Master who was there to speak with him; in answer to whom, he asked for a pencil, and therewith drew a line on a tablet there standing, and bid him show that to his Master when he came home, at sight whereof by the Art expressed therein, Protogenes knew none but Apelles' hand did it. Lord, the impulses of thy Spirit, of Satan, and my own corruption, make their accesses to my heart, but without a name, by which they may be known whose they be; but if the lines drawn on the tablet of my heart, be holy, regular, and conformable to the rules of thy Word, I know then 'tis thy hand that did it: but if they impress other Characters, let them be disdained as none of thine, and the door shut against them, as those that are minded to destroy.   

(35)  
The Roman State never met with such disastrous fortune, as when assailed at their own doors; The Gauls and Hannibal afterward Warring upon them in Italy, bringing their Commonwealth almost to an utter expiration; because in foreign Wars they fought much with auxiliary strength, beside their own: In the Italian they were left to rest upon their own legs. Lord, I find myself indifferently able to resist temptation from without, thy grace being assisted with shame, fear, and other helps which reason bringeth; But the difficulty is, then to stand when assailed by unruly passions, of which no eye is witness but thine own: therefore assist thou that insused principle, with such fresh supplies from thyself, that though the combat be more arduous, yet the victory may be certain.   

(36)  
There being a great mutiny among the Soldiers of Alexander the Great, he bespoke them with the most pacifying language that he might; but observing that rather to exasperate then allay their fury, he leapt from his Throne, and with his own hands ran his sword through some of the most mutinous; upon which the rest relented, and begging his pardon, complied with his commands. When my affections prove mutinous, and rebel against grace, there's no arguing of the case with them, for they gather strength by treaty: but the way is, to fly in the face of them by an immediate detestation, there being no expedient in this case, like a speedy resolution.   

(37)  
A Grecian Ambassador being at the Persian Court, where 'tis expected that reverence be done to the King, by prostrating the body upon the ground, (a thing so abhorred by the Grecians that they executed some of their Ambassadors at their return for so doing) he purposely let fall his Ring at his entrance, that by stooping down to take it up, he might seem to do that reverence which they expected, and yet preserve his own thoughts, by directing his intention to another purpose. Lord, how many have found out bolder and balder inventions, wherewith to cheat their consciences, for the accomplishing of their ends, acting, though more plausibly, yet no less certainly contrary to their principles? but do thou assist me, that I may exercise myself always to have a conscience void of offence, first towards thyself, and then towards men.   

(38)  
The Lacedæmonians had two staves exactly like, one of which the General had to the Wars, the other remained with the Ephori: messages of importance and secrecy, were written upon slips of Parchment, rolled upon one of these staves; which being taken off, could not be read, (the lines answering unequally) till rolled upon the other staff of the same size. Lord, the book of thy eternal decrees is the staff kept by thee, that of thy Word, the staff delivered to me; if the characters of thy Election written upon my heart are legible applied to thy Word, I am certain they are such as will be acknowledged by thee, when at that day, they shall be applied to thy eternal decrees.   

(39)  
Under the Papacy, any sins find easy absolution, if the person be not suspected of Protestanisme; and any opinions have tolerable favour, if not derogatory from Papal authority. How often (besides by Jehu) hath that question been put, who is on my side, who? and if the party have been right for that cause, if his religion be that of Mahomet, or his life like that of Apicius, he need not doubt but he shall find fair entertainment.   

(40)  
The Persian being invaded by the Great Turk, burns up all which may be of any use to sustain man or beast; that those who could not be overcome by force, might be weakened with famine. Sine cerere & Bacchofriget Venus, and not to make provision for the flesh, is not the least help to abate the strength of lust.   

(41)  
Philonides Alexander's Currier passing from Scition to Elis, accomplished his journey thither in much more daylight, than he could return back again; because in his passage Westward, he accompanied the Sun, in his return Eastward, contrarily: Lord, in seeking after the things that are spiritual I find the comfort long abiding after those pursuits, because in such actions thy Spirit the Comforter bears me company; but the pleasure of the things of this life is quickly benighted, because thy Spirit leads another course.   

(42)  
At that memorable battle between the Carthaginians and Romans at the Thrasimene Lake, a very great earthquake (at the same time happening) was not apprehended by either Army. The most important and shaking considerations, never so earnestly pressed, seldom obtain audience from hearts taken up with the immoderate cares after things of this life.   

(43)  
'Tis a tradition that the elder Church used the recitation of two Creeds, that called the Apostles, and the Nicene, the one with a low, the other with a loud voice; because the first was composed in the times of persecution, when the Church durst but as it were whisper its Confession; the other in the time of peace, when it might make a bolder profession. Lord, if it be thy will, give us peace, that thy Truth may be spoken loud, and professed publicly; if otherwise, give us that 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 not to whisper it, but profess it boldly.   

(44)  
There was a Beugalan not long since, who is said to live three hundred and thirty years, but in that time had his hoary head changed to its original blackness, and his decayed teeth supplied with new ones. There's none shall live that life which never endeth, but are first new borne, and restored, as to those decays which Adam's fall brought, putting off the old man which is corrupt, with his deeds, and putting on the new, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.   

(45)  
I have hugely wondered, that Bishop should be censured by the Pope as an Heretic, for affirming Antipodes; the assertion being so rational, and Pliny long before having with so much evidence of reason, discoursed of it. But, Lord, this is thy just Judgement, that if we shut our eyes against supernatural light, we should be fools in that which is humane.   

(46)  
The Great Mogul for his recreation, is said, to cause his Huntsmen to ride forth on a tame Elephant, till they find a wild one; with whom the tame committing fight, and both engaged fast by their trunks, men (to that purpose attending) bind the hinder feet of the wild one, and so secure him. In like manner Harts are taken, by fastening a net to the horns of a tame one, who fight with the wild, so surely entangleth his craggy horns, that he easily becomes a prey to them that wait that opportunity. How often is it, that the dissensions of Christian Brethren, have not only made them serviceable to the lusts and passions of wicked men, but a prey also to their cruelty?   

(47)  
In a skirmish between the Protestants and Papists in those civil Wars in France, a soldier of the Protestants party gained an horse, much esteemed of by the enemy; for the redemption of which, they offered three prisoners (that day taken) in exchange; but that offer being rejected, they enraged slew the men immediately before his eyes: a few days after, the same soldier being engaged on that very horse, was by his fiery headstrongness carried so far into the enemy's Troops, that he could not be brought off, but was there slain, and the horse recovered. Lord, in that valuation which my heart sets upon the things here, let me observe that due subordination, lest while I too much prise the things I love much, those very things procure the loss of those things I love more.   

(48)  
At Boghar a City of the Zagaethaian Tartars, there is a River which causeth to them that drink thereof a worm in the leg, which if not pulled out, or partially, proves certainly deadly. Such is sin if entertained in the soul, begetting a guilt, and fearful expectation of God's vengeance, and surely damnable, if not cleansed out by faith in the Blood of Jesus.   

(49)  
The Germans knowing themselves no matches for the Italian, in respect of their craft and subtlety, make amends for that want, by a peremptory sticking to those resolutions which they had before considerately taken up. I find myself no ways able to deal with that old Serpent, who hath so many methods of deceit; but let him say what he will, or can, Lord, do thou fix me irremovably on this resolution, I have said I will keep thy Commandments always, even to the end.   

(50)  
The Inns of Poland give no entertainment to the traveller, but bare walls, without bed, or board, or other accommodation whatsoever: Alas how oft is my heart such a guest-chamber to good thoughts and pious designs, where they find such welcome, as decayed persons have from their wealthier friends.   

(51)  
In Peru a man may pass from Summer to Winter in a few hours, there being in the plains a louring sky, continually storms, and everdropping clouds; when at the same time, the mountains have a serene heaven, and a verdure in all respects suitable to a Summer season. Such variety doth my heart afford, where the old man rageth with unruly passions, and disorderly affections, and irregular concupiscences; But blessed be God, within a little space a better face of things is to be seen, the regenerate part bringing in that calmness, meekness, and regularity agreeable to a Gospel Sunshine: yea, even than the spirit is willing, when the flesh is weak.   

(52)  
When Cyrus besieged the City of Babylon, the River Euphrates was the greatest obstruction to his design, till he cut out many channels, and diverted the stream into them; which before, when united, was deeply Navigable, but now divided, became in every place fordable. The diffusion of the mind into variety of thoughts and subjects, renders it uncapable of any deep search; but he is like to be profound, that sums his thoughts to one purpose till obtained: Unite my heart to the fear of thy Name.   

(53)  
There is a Plant in Sumbrero (an Island of India) which is locomotive, the root being a worm, like an house snail; if this Plant be taken up, it drieth into a solid stone: by how much it had exceeded other Plants in sense, and motion, by so much more (degenerating into a stone) it exceeded in hardness. Thus it is with those who being once enlightened, and by a taste of the powers of the world to come, transported beyond the common sort of inconsiderate souls; if they apostatise, they become the worst, and most stony hearted of men, bitter scoffers, or cruel persecutors.   

(54)  
The City Weinspurg of the Guelphian Faction, being besieged by the Emperor, and cruelly threatened, the women of the City besought him they might have leave to departed, taking with them only what they could carry on their backs; to which he consenting, they each past forth, bearing on their backs their husbands. If love could procure a compliance between married couples, in those things not so easily, nor (in some respects) possibly so seemly, yet for general advantage, it would be found an expedient oftentimes conducing, not to the comfort only, but safety of both.   

(55)  
Peter Walde a rich Merchant in Lions, walking the streets with some of his friends, one of them fell suddenly down dead: with which spectacle he was so affected, that he immediately reform his life, & became the beginner of the Waldenses, which for so many ages have stood forth courageous Confessors of the Truth. Lord, how suddenly and unexpectedly mayest thou call for this breath that is in these nostrils, and time to me shall be no more: let me therefore improve the present time to do thee service, and secure my soul, being the time to come depends upon so much uncertainty.   

(56)  
There is a tree in Mindanao, the half of which Easterly sited, is a great Antipoison; but that part respecting the West, the greatest poison in the world. So is it in the regenerate, where the fleshly part perpetually brings forth the venomous offspring of vile lusts, but the spiritual part is in a constant resistancy against those poisonful effects.   

(57)  
There are a sort of fishes in the Southern Ocean, which when pursued by other fishes in the Sea, fly into the air, but are then made a prey to a Sea fowl, which continually watcheth that opportunity. Lord, if I am in private, my own unruly passions disquiet me; if in public, temptations from without assault me: but Oh, let thy grace be sufficient for me; that though I be Concussus, I may not be Excussus, though on every side and ever assailed, yet never overcome.   

(58)  
There is an Idol in Madure (a part of the East-Indies) called Chocanada, which (they say) in a vision willed a Priest to signify to the King of Madure, that one of they two must abide in his house: upon which he (unwilling there should be any competition between him and his Idol) resigned his Palace to him. How is it that we are less complying with our God, not expelling that worst part of ourselves, our lusts, that he may be intempled in our hearts.   

(59)  
A certain Noble man of France was wont, when his Armour was buckled on, and approaches made to battle, to be taken with such a trembling, that it loosed the retentive faculty of his body; yet valorous in the face of his enemy, and with much courage lost his life at the battle of Pavye. Lord, the very thought of what persecutions may befall because of thy truth, makes my heart tremble; but if thou engage me in that combat, supply me with thy assisting grace, that like that Saunders, my present weakness, may be succeeded with a most stout contestation against thy most inveterate, and bitterest enemies.   

(60)  
The Egyptians were wont with great cost and enquiry to search out a Bull to be their Apis; whom having worshipped for a time, after their superstition they drowned in a fountain, and then with great lamentation for his loss, they employed the like cost, and quest for the finding of another. Oh the hazards, and hardships, wherewith the things of this world are sought by us, which being had, we as foolishly spend, as if indeed Satius esset quaerere, quam quaesisse, when like the Hawk we leave the killed Quarry, and pursue that which flies away.   

(61)  
The people of Numidia are said, not to wash their hands in some years, an excusable fault, for they have not water in those Deserts wherewith to do it. If the poor Indian be an irreligious, profane, unmortified sinner, he will be in some respect, or comparatively excusable, the Fountain opened for sin and for uncleanness, being set far off from him; but what Apology will be found for such in our Western world, where that fountain is Prae manibus.   

(62)  
There is a Pool in Comogena, that sends forth a mud that burneth, and is not to be quenched, but with earth. Lord, my heart emits burning desires after worldly things, which will be quenched in the grave at last; Oh that the consideration of my latter end might do it now.   

(63)  
The same year that Saguntum was destroyed by Hannibal, a child was borne there, which forthwith returned back again into his mother's womb. Lord, the miseries undergone by us in this vale of tears, might make us of his mind, who said, that they were happiest who were never borne, and they next which died soon; but if it be thy will that they shall be suffered by us, yet let them by thy grace be sanctified to us, that what is necessary may yet be profitable, and what cannot be avoided, may yet be the better by patience endured.   

(64)  
They tell of an huge golden Idol among the East-Indians borne in a massy chariot, drawn by four Elephants in procession, under the wheels of which many persons (sometimes to the number of five hundred at once) put themselves, and are so squeezed to death: at which times also, many cut off gobbets of their flesh, and offer them to the Idol, slaying themselves at length in like devotion. hay me, that such should be the effects of a blind zeal to a blinder Deity, and that we should shrink from the service of the living God for fear of the loss of profit, or credit; yea, that those our lusts so peremptorily required, should not be cut off in devotion to him.   

(65)  
You may behold the Egyptian temples on the outside glorious with all possible magnificence, but within no other Deity than some vile Cat, or other such contemptible creature. So is it with the outward pomp of Papistical devotion, yea, and with the hypocritical formalities of an only ourside Religion, wherein nothing is more solemn, than the furniture of ceremonies, nothing less than the devotion of hearts.   

(66)  
At Segelmesse a City in Numidia they have no Fleas, (a privilege they much boast of) but are miserably infested with scorpions. Wicked men think they are greatly happy in being free from the preciseness, and troublesome limitations which the godly comply with, a poor privilege, if compared with those scorpions, assured guilt, and terror of conscience which every act of sin brings along with it.   

(67)  
Captain Saris sailing to Japan, divers of the Japanenses by a Religion the Jesuits had taught them, fell down on their knees to the pictures of Venus and Cupid, in the Captain's , supposing them to be the Images of Jesus and his Mother: this the Jesuits will excuse and say, though the object be erroneous, yet the worship was good, the intention being aright directed. Lord, if my charity have been mistaken, thinking I have relieved the truly necessitous, when I have given to a sturdy wag bond; yet accept I pray thee the sincerity of my intentions to do good to thy distressed members, and for the time to come, let my mistakes be on the right hand, like those who instead of being Hosts to strangers, entertained Angels unawares.   

(68)  
There is a Well formerly dedicated to Jupiter Ammon, which is very warm in the dawning of the day, but cooleth as the Sun gets to his height, and after recovers its warmth as the Sun beams decline from it. So is it with the heat of spiritual zeal of pious souls, which the Sunshine of prosperity usually makes languid, and well were it, if it could be again recovered as that declineth.   

(69)  
A certain Merchant travelling through the Lybian Deserts, being oppressed with thirst, gave ten thousand Ducats for a Cup of water. How sensible are men of their bodily wants? and how expensive in supplying them? but how many would die eternally, through the spiritual thirst of water of life, before they would be at the thousandth part of that cost for supply?   

(70)  
The Indian King of Mexico, in his Coronation was clothed with a garment painted with Skulls, and dead men's bones; those rude people intending to admonish him in his new Sovereignty, of his own mortality. And how well were it, if with us of more knowledge, there would be more remembrance of those chambers of death, where the pomps and vanities of this world shall pass, but a long reckoning shall remain to be accounted for.   

(71)  
The Isle of Saint Thomas upon the coast of afric, is so excessively hot, that European bodies are not able to walk there, and the earth perpetually dry, there being neither Rivers nor reins; but in the midst of the Isle, there is a mountain, stored with Wood, over which a cloud continually hangeth, that distilleth so large a dew upon these trees, as runneth down thence so plenrifully as supplieth the thirst of men, and beasts, and plants. Lord, this heart of mine is as a barren and thirsty land, where no water is, and the heat of inordinate desires so rageth, that resolutions of well doing are languid, and the exercises of thy grace faint: But Oh, let the cloud of thy presence be upon the mount of my retirement, that from thence may flow plentiful distillations of thy grace, for the remedying this barrenness, and relieving this faintness: I will run the way of thy Commandments, when thou shalt enlarge my heart.   

(72)  
A certain person falling into the hands of the Indian Cannibals, being sick and faint, was by them dismissed without farther harm, as being judged by them unwholesome food. How often is it that those very things which we lament, and trouble us, by God wise and gracious dispensation become preservations to us.   

(73)  
The Commons of England being very importunate with Edward the Fourth, to make War in France, he consented to satisfy their importunity; though willing rather to enjoy the fruit of his Wars, and toils, and spend the rest of his days in peace: Therefore he rakes with him a dozen of far Capon-earing Burgesses, who had been the most zealous for that expedition, these he employs in all Military services, to lie in the open fields, stand whole nights upon the Guards, & causes their Quarters to be beaten up with frequent Alarms; which was so intolerable to those fat paunches, accustomed to lie on their soft Downs, and that could hardly sit on a Session's Bench without their nods, that a treaty being motioned by King Lewis, none were so forward to press the acceptance of his offers, and hasten their return into England, as they; and when there, to excuse so little done by the King, with so great preparations. Lord, how shall I be able to keep way with the Horsemen, if I cannot hold out with the Foot? how shall I be able to stand in the day of battle, when in the cause of thy truth there must be a resisting to blood, if I am nothing active in resisting of sin now? am I like to abide in the Watchtower whole nights, that like the Disciples cannot watch one hour to prevent temptation? Oh let me be therefore much in spiritual exercises now, and in cutting off the right hands and plucking out of the right eyes of corrupt desires, that I may be ready to deny the conveniences and preciousnesses of life, when the emergences of thy interest shall call me to it.   

(74)  
In the Province of Dariene in South America, the men's heads are so hard, that they will break a sword smitten on them. Alas, how many are there of such darkened understandings and seared consciences, that those piercing discourses which have deeply penetrated others, make on them no impressions, but are returned back with scorns and scoffs, or dashed in pieces without effect.   

(75)  
Cardinal Campeius being sent by the Pope Legate into England, about the divorce of Henry the eighth from the Lady Katherine; Landing at Dover not in such equipage as was by Cardinal Woolsey thought meet for his dignity, he sent him divers Mules and Muleteers richly habited, to furnish his train more pompously; these passing with the said Cardinal through the City of London, where all the Citizens arranged to express their devotion and his welcome; being disturbed by some accident, fell a kicking and flinging so, as down fell their Coffers broken upon the stones, which were thought to contain precious treasures, and rich apparel; but instead thereof, out flew old Boötes and Shoes, broken Bridles, and Girts, to the solemn derision of the red Hats. Lord, to what purpose will it be to make a show, and but a show of a long train of graces, when my emptiness shall be manifested at that general assembly of men and Angels, and my hypocrisy will make me but the more abundantly ashamed.   

(77)  
There is a ground in some part of Italy, into which what is driven is so fast detained, as not to be pulled out. Lord, make my heart of such soil, that the impressions of thy Word, which alas have so often been like untimely fruit, shaken off with every wind, may be fixed past possibility of removal.   

(78)  
The Ocean continually floweth into the Mediterranean Sea, by the Straits of Gibraltar; and the Euxine always floweth into the same Sea by the Proponticke; yet is there no appearance that the Mediterranean is more filled, though no passage whereby it sends forth its waters is discovered; nor seemeth the Euxine Sea any thing lessened, though there appear no supply of waters to it, but by some small Rivers. Many there be of large revenues but bare purses, who yet are straight handed to acts of charity, while others free to good works, and of much meaner incomes, are yet well stored with that, which to those good ends they daily spend; vain expenses by a private consumption wasteth the one, while God's blessing by a secret retribution, returns with interest what was laid out upon his account.   

(79)  
Near Assos' there are stones which in few days, not only consume the flesh of dead bodies, but the very bones too; and there is an earth in Palestine of the same operation. Lord, let the mortification of this body of death in me, be of the like speedy execution; that those lusts which are more confirmed and seem more durable, may through the power of thy grace have a quick consumption.   

(80)  
Julius Caesar having taken at Pharsalia and Thapsus the Cabinets of Pompey and Scypio his utter enemies, wherein were many Letters from their partakers, whereby the men and their designs against Caesar would have been discovered; by a rarer example than our days have yielded, without once reading the enclosed Epistles, caused them all to be immediately burned. Lord, that book wherein all, even my most secret iniquities are written, will by the accuser at that day be brought before thee; but let thy mercy blot out that hand-writing with the blood of thy Son, that no charge may be framed there, either to confound or shame me.   

(80)  
'Tis said of Agesilaus King of Sparto, that He ruled his Country by obeying it, gaining so far upon the Sphori and Senate by complying with what they desired, that he might do what himself would. Lord, what freedom is it to be thy servant? for I may then do what I will, if I will do but what thou commandest; in doing thy will, I cannot do amiss, but in serving thee, serve myself.   

(81)  
King Pyrrhus being asked, Wither Python or Cephesias were the best Fluteplayers, answered, that in his Judgement Polyperchan was the best Captain; intimating that it was not worth the enquiry, who were best skilled in those Arts, which were so little pertinent. Lord, let me be offertedly ignorant of those things that are wicked and vain; well may the children of this world be wiser in those things of their generation, than the children of Light. The posterity of Cain are storied to be the first inventors of Arts; they might be witty in that upon which they were wholly intent: the pious seed had their aims above; they might well overlook what others saw, whose eyes were fixed below; but when God comes to reckon up the wits of the world, those only will be accounted witty, that are so for heaven.   

(82)  
Summers, Henry the Eights Jester, kept a Catalogue of the indiscretions of the Court, which the King desiring to see, found his own name there, for intrusting an Italian with some thousands of Crowns to buy Barbary Horses; but saith the King, How if he do return, and bring the Horses I gave him money for? 'tis then (saith Summers') only the blotting out of your name, and putting his in. How often are we guilty of such improvidences, wherein our success is to be ascribed, not to our wisdoms, but others folly? such successes are like wellfavoured children of an uncomely venture, when though we dandle the babe, yet we are ashamed of the mother: whereas what is done uprightly, and done prudently, may like nature produce a monstrous birth, but hath ever its excuse made for it; though it may be blamed, it can never be shamed.   

(83)  
Polienclus (a very fat man, in an hot day) persuading the Athenians in an Oration, to make War with King Philip, Phocian told the people, they should do well to undertake it upon such a man's motion, who was likely to do much with his Armour on his back, that was in such a sweat with delivering an Oration. We are ready to think we shall appear much for God, if we are concerned to resist unto blood; but how unlikely, when we come so poorly off in our contention against any poor lust?   

(84)  
Agesilaus being lame of one of his feet, was wont to prevent the mocks of others, by merrily jesting himself at his own infirmity. Lord, we are Mephibosheths lame in both our feet, when we are to run the ways of thy Commandments; but our lameness is least subject to thy censure, when it is most under our own.   

(85)  
The Elephant though of the greatest bulk, and vastest strength, yet above any other creature is plagued with flies, and least able to remedy that inconvenience, not having so much as an hair on his tail wherewith to drive them away. Lord, with how many incommodities hast thou allayed the great things of this world, so, that it is questionable (even to carnal reason) whether great matters with their many evils, are more eligible than less with fewer troubles. Oh therefore, let me not be discontented with my mean estate, being a greater cannot be had without discontent.   

(86)  
L. Domitius having drunk poison with intention to rid himself out of this world, for fear of being Caesar's Captive, afterwards would by all means have hindered the operation of it. Lord, in our exigences and straits we are free to make large promises of what we will do for thee, and give unto thee, but when the storm is over, and the present passion down, we wish that the obligation had never been made, and devise shifts how the penalty may be avoided: But let us be a shamed of this inconstancy, and be established in the first resolution, not only because thou wilt not cancel the bond, but because the debt is most just without it.   

(87)  
That famous Cato was forty four times called into Judgement, yet every time acquitted. Oh how happy is it if we have envious and malicious accusers, yet to have impartial and upright Judges? Lord, how often doth Satan accuse me before the Throne of thy justice? yet while thy Son is my Advocate with thee, I shall be acquitted; not because I am not guilty, but because he is Righteous.   

(88)  
Alexander the Great being presented from the spoils of Darius, with a most rich Cabiner, beset with Gold and what else might make it more precious; and his friends each of them giving his thoughts, what use it should be for; said, that the Books of Homer should be kept in it, as judging them fittest to be reserved in so precious a receptacle. Lord, thou hast given us thy Scriptures, better Books than those of Homer, and my heart is my most precious Cabinet: Let other things be rejected as less valuable, but let these be not only laid up, but written in my heart, yea let them like Aaron's Almond Rod blossom and bear fruit also.   

(89)  
Agesilaus in his travels was wont to lodge in the holiest places of the Temples of the Gods, that they themselves might be witnesses of his private do. Lord, there is no place but hath thee for a spectator, and we have called thee 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 from our apprehensions of thy alseeing presence; let me therefore be sahamed to do that when thou only art conscious, which I would not should be laid open to the view of men and Angels.   

(90)  
Alexander the Great sending to the Athenians, that they should deliver up the Thebans which had fled to them, unless they would have him War upon them: Phocian being desired to speak his opinion, said, That truly he lamented much the case of those Thebans: but it were better for one City to mourn, than two. Lord, thou requirest of us the delivery up of the concernments of flesh and blood, if we would have thee our friend; though we are loath report from them, yet it is better that the body lament the loss of those dear conveniences, than that soul and body both lament eternally in Hell.   

(91)  
At the battle of Crefcy where Edward the black Prince led the Van, (being then but eighteen years of Age) the King his Father drawing up a strong party to a rising ground, there beheld the conflict, in a readiness to send relief where it should be wanted: The young Prince being sharply charged and in some danger, sends to his Father for succour, who delays to send any; so that another messenger comes to crave it, to whom he answers, Go tell my son, that I am not so unexperienced a Commander, as not to know when succour is wanted, nor so careless a Father as not then to send it: but he intended the honour of the day should be his sons, and therefore let him with courage stand to it, and be assured that help should then be had, when it might conduce most to his renown. God draws forth his servants to fight in the spiritual warfare, where they are engaged not only against the strong holds of carnal reason, and the exalted imaginations of their own hearts, but also in the pitched field against Satan, and his wicked instruments; but they (poor hearts) when the charge is sharp are ready to despond, and cry with Peter, Save Lord, we perish, but God is too knowing to oversee their exigences, and too much a father to neglect their succour, but if help be delayed, it is that the victory may be more glorious, by the difficulty of overcoming.   

(92)  
'Tis said of Crassus, that though he were the most avaricious man then living, yet above all men he hated those that were so. Strange it is, that though likeness be the true cause of love, yet proud and covetous men admit no fellow: a manifest conviction of the disorder of sin, that agrees not with its self; whereas grace never is, but is loved where grace is.   

(93)  
A Getulian shepherd being assaulted by a Lion, and otherwise unprovided of resistance, cast his lose coat upon the Lion's head, whereby the beast not only lost his fierceness, but, as if his strength had lain all in his eyes, was by the man easily taken and bound. When I have considered what the Lions of England have suffered from the Roman Bishops, I have even admired how so great strength and courage could be so amated: but I observed the veil of ignorance was thrown over their eyes, which made them so rame and submissive to that See: a policy so often proved of great advantage, that to this day they are in doubt whether that, or Divide & impera be the surer Trump. Thus have we seen whole herds of stronger cattles subject to the discipline of a little Boy, because they poor creatures know not their own strength; and it is easy to take him at all advantage, that to prevent his own calamities is without eyes.   

(94)  
A certain person, at a game among the Athenians called Casting of the Dart, slew accidentally with his Dart one of his companions: Piricles spent an whole day with some Sophisters his familiars, in dispute, Whether the Dart, or he that threw the Dart, or he that instituted the sport, were guilty of the man's death. 'Tis a Proverb, The greatest Clarks are not always the wisest men; and certainly this is not the least part of their folly, that they delight to canvasse frivolous questions, which engender strife, rather than edifying; and are wittily vain, more than profitably learned, either to others or themselves: how many are there accurately seen in the difference between esse and existere, that yet are to seek in that great question, what they shall do to be saved?   

(95)  
Marcus Livius Governor of Tarentum, for the Romans, when Hannibal took it, kept the Castle till the City was recovered again by Fabius; who then envying the honour done to Fabius for that exploit, said in open Senate, that It was not Fabius, but himself that was the cause Tarentum was taken again: Truth, saith Fabius, for if thou hadst not lost it, I had not won it. When man was at first created, Liberum arbitrium was made Governor of that estate of innocency, but Freewill quickly lost it, only some inconsiderable remnants of natural light reserved: now, when glory is given to Christ for man's restoration, Freewill steps up, and boasts its self the cause of man's recovery; but no otherwise certainly, than that man had not needed to be restored, if Freewill had not undone him first.   

(96)  
Arostotle being sick, & his Physicians intending applications to him, said, That he desired to be cured, not as a Farrier doth an Horse, but as a man capable of an account of the way of the cure: that apprehending the reason of those receipts, he might the better comply with the distastfullness of those potions which should be received. Well were it, if in those cures which State Physicians have applied in Religious causes, they would not have dealt altogether by Club Law, as if only bruits had been their Patients; but have done us the favour, to let us see the reason of the cure, that what we could not take as toothsome we might yet as wholesome.   

(97)  
A certain wealthy Matron having promised a young man to make him her Heir, died, leaving him inscribed in her Testament; who providing a sumptuous funeral for her interment, she in the very time of the solemnity (being the seaventh day) revived, and lived divers years after, to the tedious prorogation of his hopes: whence arose that Proverb, Mulieri ne credas, ne mortuae quidem. Lord, how often have I been persuaded that this old man had been mortified, but yet, to the sadding of my heart, I find it contrary to expectation revived. Lord, let not my hopes be disappointed, though they be thus delayed, and if this body of death do not die suddenly, yet let it at last die utterly.   

(98)  
Vraba in Peru is of so rich a soil, that the seed of Cucumbers and Melons sown, will bear ripe fruits in twenty eight days after. How happy were it, if such were the soil of my heart, wherein the immoral feed of the Word might produce its fruits with the like earliness, fertility, and plenty. But alas, how hinderly do all good purposes appear? how short of expectation, of the time? how long shall I be with you, how long suffer you?   

(99)  
Those Countries which are seated under the Line, have then their Winter when the Suu is nearest them, being then continually vexed with reins and storms. When the Sun of prosperity shines on men most, 'tis usually Winter in their hearts, and the tempests of temptation rage most there then.   

(100)  
The women in Brazill after their travel soon apply themselves to household affairs, the husbands in their stead, keeping their beds, visited, and comforted up with restorative broths. So fareth it with those vagabond beggars who are well supplied from door to door, till they have full cheeks, and toating Noses: while the poor housekeeper who is ashamed to beg, looks thin, and faint; the sweat of his brows being the bread of his family, yet without our provision, or pity.   

(101)  
The Emperor Sigismunds' Army in his expedition against the Turk, were so elevated with confidence of their own number, that they said, if Heaven should fall, they should be able to keep it off with their Halberds; who yet were most of them miserably slain by the Turks: and 'tis observed that very few Armies have come off with victory, that entered battle fledge upon the wings of selfe-confidence. The Frech at Poitiers and Agincourt, sold the prisoners before the day, but found to their cost, the Beare-skine was not to be divided before 'twas taken. Those that fight in that spiritual combat against sin, Satan, and his instruments, are then strongest against their enemies, when they are weakest in themselves. A faint hearted Saunders stands to his tackling in the fire, when a confident Pendleton quits the field before any encounter. In this warfare we are more than Conquerors, but through him that hath loved us.   

(102)  
William Gardiner who struck the Host out of the Cardinal's hand in Portugal; when he had his right hand cut off, took it up with his left, and kissed it: having his left cut off, stooped down and kissed that also: and being burnt afterwards by degrees, rather roasted to death then burnt, showed such magnanimity as was exceedingly admirable. Thomas Benbridge suffering for the Gospel in Queen Mary's days, when the fire seized on him, (not being able to endure the smart thereof) cried, I recant, and so was taken out of the fire; but afterward repenting his fact, was the seaventh day after burned with much Christian constancy, enduring the torment, which through the ill making of the fire was very great. God glorifies himself, not only in the courage, but in the infirmity of his servants. Gardiner's resolution gave not more evidence to the truth, than Benbridg's weakness, questionably whether so much: for Benbridg's soft nature showed that it abhorred torment, and would feign have escaped the violence of fire; but the evidence of truth was so much upon his spirit, that seeing the dear things of the flesh, and the concernments of the soul could not be joined, the flesh was necessitated (though unwillingly) to the terribleness of torment, rather than the soul should deny the clearness of that light which shined into it.   

(103)  
Galba lived in the Reign of five Emperors in credit, and fortunate under all of them; but when Emperor himself quickly ruined, and slain, happier under others Government then his own. There is nothing to which the heart of man (even in infancy) shows more disgust, than subjection to another's Government: That natural jurisdiction that one man hath over another to advise and reprove, is not without much reluctancy submitted to by any; even then, when the conscience witnesseth the debt of obedience to God, the heart secretly wisheth the cancelling of that Bond, and that there were no such superiority in God. Yet what creature needeth so much Government as man? other creatures conform to those rules nature hath enjoined: Man is (above all other) exorbitant, and never more happy than when most confined.   

(104)  
The Chariot Horses of Claudius Caesar, which he sent to the Circensan Games, at the first starting threw their driver, yet performed their course, and won the Prize. Those that are of mean parts, and much exercise; are able to do more when engaged, than they of greater abilities, and least use.   

(105)  
The Earl of Wiltshire sent Ambassador with some others by Henry the Eighth to the Pope, being admitted to have Audience, the Pope held out his Toe to him to kiss, which a Spaniel of the Eaths seeing, catcht in his mouth, but the Earl (not liking to take his dogs leave) left the kiss which he had first hanselled. Satan offereth filthy & stinking lusts under the pretence of pleasure or honour to us, which vile and unclean sinners greedily catch at, and well were it, if we were too curious to taste of that Cup, wherein those swine have dabbled.   

(106)  
The War between the Duke of Burgudy and the Swissers, began but for a load of Sheepskins, wherein the Drake (refusing all offers of accord) lost in three battles his honour, wealth, and life. Of how great advantage to us while we are in this world, is moderation; whereby, even easily, those differences are accommodated, and mischiefs avoided, which our frowardness and obstinacy widen unmeasurably, and many times involve us in utter ruin, past recovery.   

(107)  
Doctor Harvy reporteth of a Wench living in the Country, which went to London, there in that Forest of people to conceal her shame, and lay down her great belly; of which being delivered in the Month of September, and a few days after recovering strength went home, where in December following she was brought to bed of another child, to the manifest evidence of her dishonesty. Lord, this is not the least of my infelicities, that this heart doth superfoetare: a suggestion of Satan is no sooner brought forth, but eftsoons my heart is delivered of another; nay as Pliny reports of Pontic Mice, even the young ones yet unborn, are with young. Therefore, Lord, as to these conceptions, give my heart: what wilt thou give it? even a barren womb, and dry breasts.   

(108)  
A Citizen of Megalopolis being on his deathbed, and his friends lamenting by him, said to them, To die is not grievous to me, hoping in the other world to meet with such good company, as Pythagoras, Homer, & Hecatoeus. If there be such an association of affections between those where Learning only hath knit the knot, as to make death itself to be desired for company; let the Apostles Cupio dissolvi be no more wondered at, when the company to be enjoyed, are God the Judge of all, and Jesus the Mediator of the new Testament, and the Spirits of just men made Perfect, and the bond of Union even the same Spirit.   

(109)  
Henry the Eighth being an hunting, an expected rain fell, whereupon one of his Noblemen came to him, saying, It raines hard my Leig, and hath spoiled your sport; to whom he said, And so let it rain. When those things befall us, which are above our power, by our patiented sufferance we bring them under our Command.   

(110)  
At the battle of Montlhrey, a Nobleman of the King of France his side, fled without stay to Luzignan, and an other of the Earl of Charolois side to Quesnay le Court, which are above three hundred miles asunder: 'twere well if in all Wars the contest were who should flee farthest. Certainly in the battle against sin, he is surest of the victory, that least comes near it.   

(111)  
Policletus being to make two Statues, contrived one of them according to the exact rules of his Art, the other according to the fancy of every one that came by; which when he had exposed to public view, the first was applauded by all, the other laughed at by those that had themselves given direction for its fashion. What itching fingers hath every mean person to be meddling with those in public employments; and they who cannot ken their A. B. C. will yet take upon them to censure their Teachers, and direct for the management of their function. Yea, Lord, we are ready to say, Why is it thus? and to think if we had the disposing of worldly affairs, those things should never have been which have happened; but we would more compendiously effect those ends which we think God proposeth to himself: But were it so, how would unruly passions and unbridled affections distort us, and lead us into factions and fooleries, to the vexation of others, and disquieting of ourselves, and perverting those ends, which culminantly should have been in our eyes?   

(112)  
On an Island on the North of Scotland, there is a Fowl which layeth but one egg, and that fastened by the slime which accompanies its production at the small end on some stone, which she hatcheth by holding it in her foot; but if it be removed from the place where it was fastened no Art can fix it there again. Lord, thy Spirit suggesteth an holy motion, and fasteneth on the stone of my heart, with that evidence of the holiness, justness, and goodness of it which accompanieth it; which if attended to by a careful hand, may be brought forth to an happy perfection; but if it be let fall from my heart, by suffering that evidence to cool by negligence, or be disturbed by worldliness, 'tis almost impossible in the like manner to resettle it.   

(113)  
There is an Hill upon the Coast of America, where such plenty of Sea Fowl roost, that they cover it thick with their dung, so as no Plant grows there, which the husbandmen carry thence for the manuring of their grounds, which makes them bear with incredible fertility. Lord, to that end doth Satan bespread my heart with the abominable filth of unclean suggestions, that a good thought might have no abiding there: But let that wicked one be disappointed of his end, that what he intended should kill, may become useful to me, that thy grace may be actuated, and exercised by what he designed should decay it; and the abhorrency of his pest, may make me delight in, and be more laborious in thy service.   

(114)  
Alexander the Tyrant of Pherens seeing a Tragedy acted, and being moved to tears by a lamentable passage in it, rose up, and said to one of his familiars, that He was ashamed to show himself commiserating the feigned sufferings of others, and not to take pity of the miseries by himself brought upon his own Citizens. Lord, thou hast disposed the heart of man to compassion; no heart so stony but admits of some degrees: distressed orphans and diseased Lazars we cannot but relent to, though not relieve: our greatest cruelty is to ourselves, to that best part of ourselves, our souls, which may so justly lament, and cry, these are the wounds which I received in the house of my friends.   

(115)  
Wrought having been at the Martyrdom of Austoo, returning home was met by a friend, and asked, Where he had been? who answered, To learn the way; which he went afterwards in a fiery Chariot. 'Tis better to go to the house of mourning, than the house of feasting: Sadness contracting the soul, Mirth dilating it. But 'tis excellent to be present at the departure of the servants of God, many rare experiences are to be learned there: Those so travelling in the very Thorniest part of the way to heaven, give both choice direction and confirmation: The Devil then exercising them most, and with greatest variety of temptations, and those dying Swans never singing so sweetly, as at their expiration.   

(116)  
Charles the Seaventh King of France having a jealousy that those about him (by the instigation of his son) did intent to poison him, abstained from meat so long, that when he would have eaten he could not, his passages being shrunk up with too much abstinence, and so died miserably of famine. There is a time when God's Spirit strives with man, motions to good are frequent and vehement upon the soul, when with a certain violence we are drawn to good; the fear of God is before our faces, as with Balaam, that we dare not rush into sin; but if these strive be still resisted, these motions slighted, and this fear repelled, the time will be, when God will say my Spirit shall not always strive.   

(117)  
In the conspiracy of Otho against Galba; when Otho had invaded the Army, and was acknowledged by it, there was a strong report that Otho was slain; which very many of the Senators and Knights of Rome hearing, presented themselves to Galba, professing their sorrow, that the occasion to show how much they would have done for his security was taken away, of which yet (when the truth proved otherwise) not a man did once appear in his defence. Lord, when thy justice seems to be suspended, and because thou punishest not speedily, therefore thou wilt not at all; how daring and presumptuous is this heart? what promises of pleasure and security in sin doth it make? but when conscience is awakened, and the expectations of thy vengeance received, it is not less ready to despond, than it was before presumptuous and daring: Therefore Lord, though I desire to serve thee out of a principle of oneness with thee, and affection to thee, yet no bonds are too many to restrain rebellious corruptions, and I had rather the Rod should be ever held over me, than I should grow wanton, through the want of it.   

(118)  
Mount Taurus hath his head continually covered with snow, though elevated far toward the Sun, when the much more low lying valleys are parched with excessive fervour, because the beams of the Sun passing upon those Hills obliquely, affect them with little heat, whereas below the heat is doubled by reverberation. Those that are (as I may call them) single-guilt Auditors, that give the word an hearing, and but an hearing, are left with cold and snowy affections; but those have their hearts (like the Disciples journeying to Emaus) burning within them, that reflect the word back again by meditation.   

(119)  
Philip Duke of Burgundy was wont to say, That the Citizens of Gaunt love their Prince's Son well, but their Princes never. Such is the fond heart of man, disliking and weary of what is in present, & reaching after what is to come, which when obtained we as much disgust and loath, as we before fond pursued.   

(120)  
Grinoeus lying upon his death bed, said, That he was going to that place, where now Luther and Calvin agreed well together. The differences of Judgement that are between good men, will be composed, or at least qualified in this life, when persecution cometh; but they will be extinguished in the other world, when we shall see no more in aenigmate, but face to face: but the animosities that are between evil men, arising from corrupt hearts, and cursed lusts, shall be exasperated in Hell, (where like the Army of Midian) every man's sword shall be against his brother; the Devils shall torment men, and men one another, and there shall be consent in nothing, but weeping and wailing and gnashing of teeth.   

(121)  
Lewis the Eleventh King of France, having been a great oppressor of his subjects by excessive Taxes, when he grew old resolved to redress that and other mischiefs, whereby they had been oppressed; but was in a short time after this purpose prevented by death. There are twelve hours in the day, wherein men may work, but we are bad accomptants, and reckon for the most part, that but five, which is past Eleven, and therefore as to all good purposes begin too late; but happy is he that always makes use of the present, for he is sure not to be disappointed, nor misreckoned.   

(122)  
Three Martyrs being bound to one stake, one of them finding his heart sadded, and fainting through the apprehension of the danger, went from under the chain and fell down and prayed, and therein finding that comfort he wanted, risen up joyfully, and going to his fellows, together with them courageously suffered. Lord, we can sail no further in this troublous Sea, than the gales of thy Spirit drive us; if those fail, we are presently becalmed, even then when our course is most vigorous; 'tis thou that not only winds up our souls, but art the spring that moves them, if that be down their motion to thee-ward ceaseth, for 'tis thou that gives us to will and to do, of thy good pleasure.   

(123)  
Agesilaus hearing news of the overthrow of Pisander, at the very time of his joining battle with the Thebans, caused the contrary tidings to be reported in his Camp, lest his Soldiers should be discouraged; and came out himself with a Garland of flowers on his head, and publicly sacrificed to the Gods, giving them thanks for the goodnews. We have seen much such politic Religion in our days, when there hath been praying, and fasting, and giving of thanks, not according to the truth of our concernments, but men's ambitious ends: But, Lord, though thou hast been thus mocked, and Religion made a stalking Horse to Policy, yet be thou found nevertheless of those that seek thee in truth, and thy services not less used, because they have been thus abused.   

(124)  
Theramenes coming out of an house, was no sooner abroad, but the house fell down, and crushed them that were in it; which good fortune the Athenians congratulating, he said, O Jupiter! what is it, for which thou hast farther reserved me? And not long after engaging for the Commonwealth against the thirty Tyants, was by them put to death. Lord, when thy goodness succoureth us in our dangers, and giveth us those deliverances which thou deniest to others, let us take care not so much to enjoy ourselves in that safety thou hast vouchsafed us, as to answer those ends wherefore thou hast preserved us.   

(125)  
I read of the sister of Edward the third, married to David King of Scots, that she was called Jane Make-peace. How fortunate were it, if not every Kingdom, but every Family had one deserving that name? For what animosities are bandied between kindred and kindred, neighbour and neighbour, man and wife, which an indifferent skill piously affected might easily compose?   

(126)  
'Tis said of the Army of Vitellius, that in their march from Germany against Otho, were vigorous and full of courage in enduring the troubles and hardships of the War, and ready to execute the commands of their Captains; but in their march out of the City against Vespasian, they were faint for War, but prompt to all sedition. Lord, we are then ready to dispute thy Commands, when we are unwilling to do them; and we are then ready to charge thy ways as full of difficulty, when we are full of sloth: We think this will excuse our neglect, to say, That we do what we can, when indeed we do but what we will, measuring our ability not by our strength, but laziness: yea, we quarrel with discipline, and find many faults with the rigour, or equity of it; 'tis not because the rule is not strait, but we are crooked, and it is irksome to comply with it.   

(127)  
'Tis said of Galba, that He could not so well be accounted virtuous, as without vices. 'Tis not seldom that civility is mistaken for grace, and we please ourselves that we are not as others are, then that we are what we should be. Peter speaking of those that may apostatise, expresseth them, not by their actings of grace, but Their escaping of the pollutions of the world: The sinfulness of some sins may be discovered, and through the light of conscience there may be an abhorring against them, where yet there is no hearty closing with good, not affectionate application to the ways of Righteousness. Lord, let therefore the new creature be form in me, whereby I may not only Be purged from dead works, but purified to serve the living God.   

(128)  
Thomas Hawks going to the fire, was requested to give them a sign, whether the pain of burning were such as might be with patience endured, which he promised to do by lifting his hands over his head; so being in the fire, and now to all men's apprehensions past moving, the holy man remembered his promise, and lifting his arms aloft, clapped his  stumps together three times, and then sunk down without any further appearance of life. That the torment of fire should be tolerable to the body, is past imagination, unless it had first lost the sense of feeling; but God that made the Bush burn, but not burn up, and torments bodies in Hell with fire without consumption, can make fire consume the body, but not torment. Yea if men can make their consciences (naturally tender) past feeling by custom in sin, is it much that God should make the body past feeling that is dedicated to his service, and so cause a bed of fire, to become a bed of down? Lord, if such an exigence by thy Providence befall me, let me not be solicitous what the suffering is, but for thy assistance to bear it.   

(129)  
In the contest between Vitellius and Vespatiau for the Empire of Rome, there were overtures made to Vitellius of agreement, to which he (enervated by sloth and luxury) was willing to hearken, consulting what place of preferment to Condition for; being contented himself to forge he had been Emperor, if others would not have remembered it. It often falleth out, that they who have led the foremost ranks in Religious designs, while godliness hath been prosperous; when it hath met with smart opposition, have so far degenerated, as by a shameful apostasy to side with the adversary, glad of any poor advantages that may be had thence, not ashamed to forget they were professors, but when they observe others remember their former profession.   

(130)  
A Schoolmaster walking with one of his Scholars by a neighbour's Orchard, the Lad plucked a Fig that hung over the Pale, which the Master seeing, rebuked him sharply, and took it from him; but presently eat it up himself. Oh the very many who have greedily devoured those things, which they counted a crime for others to look upon, and have declaimed that as sacrilege, wherewith they have filled their own Purses, having weathercock judgements, turned about with the wind of their own conveniences, and can tell you (as Ployden by the Hogs) That the case is altered.   

(131)  
Protogenes that famous Limner was seven years in drawing the Picture of Jalisus, which when Apelles saw, he said, That the grace of the work was much, but allayed by the length of the time. I have heard such Sermons as have been Elephantis partus, the works of those who have thought a Sermon cannot well be conceived under a year, or some months at least: But I could never meet with any answering the expectations of so tedious a birth, but they have been outdone (as to the ends of a Sermon, which is to inform the judgement, and stir the affections) by those, who have brought forth such issues two or three times in a week at least.   

(132)  
Pyrrus being admitted by the Athenians into their Castle, Pyrra at his departure advised them Never more to admit any Prince upon the like account again; for it was too great a temptation for an ordinary fidelity to avoid. Time was when I gave my soul that liberty to discourse with temptation, that it was not my strength but thy mercy, Lord, brought me off; let not that success make me more adventurous, but the sense of my danger, for the time to come more circumspect and wary.   

(133)  
In the fields about the City Narvi in Italy, drought causeth dirt, and rainy weather makes it dusty. How strangely contrary are the effects of the means of grace on the disobedient? the bright rays of divine truth giving occasion to corrupt reason to resist it more strongly, and the gentle showers of the word raise the dust of vile affections and passions, (by a certain Antiperistasis, like Salt in a Pot of Snow, conducing to their farther obduration) that of their own nature would mollify and soften.   

(134)  
Some travellers in Ethiopia finding some trees in a valley convenient for their repose, alighted there to ease themselves ad cattles; which while they were doing, one among them observing a black cloud behind him, advised them to a speedy departure from that place; which they had scarcely done, but so great a torrent of waters came down there, where before was nothing but dry ground, driving all before it, so as had certainly been their ruin if they had not complied with that advice. I observe by those clouds of unruly passions arising in my heart upon the presentation of some objects, that my soul will he mightily endangered, if those occasions of sin be not avoided: Oh that my retreat may be therefore as speedy, as my danger is certain.   

(135)  
A motion being made in the Senate for the restoring of some Achaians to their country, ☜ who had been long banished thence; which being much argued too and fro in the Senate, Cato stands up, and tells them, It seems they were not busy, that could attend so long dispute, whether Rome or Greece should bury those decrepit Achaians. If we compare our ambitious thoughts, and emulous animosities, with our haftning to our graves, we shall find our funerals deserve our care, more than our designs; for while we contrive how to supplant one another, death plays the Jacob with us, and supplants us all.   

(136)  
The Ambassadors of the late King or Sweden, having been over with us, our Gallants had soon taken up their fashion of wearing Muffs: a mode unagreeing with our temperate Climate, so as the weaker Sex, embrace it more for ostentation, then need; and unbecoming the masculine Sex, who should be men of action, and ready primed to execution; which made me wonder that we being so extremely self-lovers, and self-conceited, should so far value others inventions, as so unbecomingly to be their Apes, and that the fashions of every Country should have so many followers, those only of the Kingdom of Heaven excepted.   

(137)  
There is a fountain in Dodone which extinguisheth lighted firebrands put into it, but lighteth those that are extinct. Lord, if I come to thy word fraught with carnal wisdom, I go blinder away than I came: Therefore let my mind be dark as to the consultations of flesh and blood, without fire as to worldly desires, that it may be enlightened by thy counsels, and enkindled with an holy zeal to thy service.   

(138)  
They say that a great part of the Land of Egypt was Sea, but by the earth which Nilus brings down with it, and sends abroad in its overflowings; is now become firm land, and exceeding fruitful. Lord, this heart of mine was all Sea, estuating with raging passions, and productive of innumerable monstrous desires; but by thy grace it is now in some part good soil: Oh let this Sea diminish daily, and this good ground grow every day more and more fruitful.   

(139)  
Our Countryman saith, That he observed in his travels in Italy, that where our Lord Christ hath one votary, the Virgin Mary hath twenty, much more frequent Altars, and enriched Temples, and services more abundantly repeated. So taking is superstition, that whereas true Religion being of divine appointment hath but rare, and calmly affected applycants, humane inventions hath Tritum atrium, many and zealous devotoes, Bring thy son (say the Abiezrites to Joash) that he may die, because he hath thrown down the Altar of Baal. We heard no such thing before spoken of, when God's Altars were said desolate.   

(140)  
There is a tree called Pacovere in Brazil, which beareth fruit at a certain time very plentifully, but never save that once. How many such are there, who at some fit have appeared gallantly upon a Religious account, but have been never after heard of as engaged in any godly design; that like Hushai have stepped in to play their part, but are never mentioned more. But Lord, let my soul be like the Orange tree full of successive fruit, and let not the tree fall, but so as that it may beat down some of the Devil's buildings with it.   

(141)  
There is a people in the South of Africa, which though they have twenty wives a piece, or more, yet bury their children assoon as borne, not being willing to be cumbered with their education. Our teeming hearts are Instar viginti, incredibly fruitful of corrupt thoughts; but though they will conceive and bring forth, 'tis our prudence to stifle them in the birth, for they cannot be brought up without, not our trouble only, but our ruin.   

(142)  
The Tiger (they say) when hungrey is a very valiant creature, not dreading any enemy; but when full, will flee from a dog. Many have there been very daring and undaunted in the engaging in, and patrocination of good works, when their estates were mean; but when they have been warm with wealth, and well furred with large revenues, any feeble opposition hath quelled their courages.   

(143)  
In the time of Dionysius that Sicilian Tyrant, the Sea was fresh for an whole day in the Bay of Siracusa. Lord, my heart hath a natural saltness, not one drop is to be fetched thence, but hath an original unsavouriness: But Oh, thou that art able, wouldst cure that otherwise incurable disease; speak the word, and thy servant shall be made whole; smite thou the Rock of my heart, with the Rod of thy word, that thence may flow the living spring of divine charity.   

(144)  
Isocrates is said to sell one Oration of his for twenty Talents. Surely Learning is not so much degenerated as the price is fallen; but if the enticing words which man's wisdom teacheth be at so dear a rate, how precious should those volumes be, of which Lord thy holy Spirit is the inditer?   

(145)  
A certain Samian named Elpis, on the African shore met a Lion; ☞ from whom flying, and recovering the next tree, the beast draws near, making shows that he had a bone in his throat, with many supplicant postures requires his help; who at length persuaded to descend, and performing the office desired, had thanks returned him by the Lion, with a constant tribute of the beasts he caught, during all the time of his abode in that coast. 'Tis not rare to find high flown persons, like this Lion submissive to, and supplicating the help of those of meaner consideration in their necessities; but it is rare to find such imitating this Lion in their gratitude.   

(146)  
There is a beast called Catoblepas, whose eyes whosoever sees dies immediately; but yet (according to its name) having an heavy head, looks always downward, and so being seldom seen is less pernicious. How virulent and rageful are those instruments of Satan, and whither would not their malice extend its self, but that the divine Providence hath so ordered it, that those cursed Cows, should have short horns?   

(147)  
The Sea-Tortoises being delighted with the morning Sun, so long please themselves in that enjoyment, that their shell being dried with the heat of the Sun, they cannot merg themselves when they would, but floating above the water, become an easy prey to them that design the carching them. The soul that too long, and unretiringly beslows its self on the pleasures of this world, will find its self in no capacity to engage in spiritual affairs, but at hand to be taken captive by the Devil at his will, and in a promptness to be debauched by every temptation.   

(148)  
'Tis observed, the Storks which in great numbers come in Summer, and departed in Winter, are never perceived when they come, though that they are come be apparent. The infusions of grace in those piously educated, though the time when may many times not be discovered, yet the being of it (if it be) will be manifest, and by the effects of it evident.   

(149)  
Histories tell us, and myself have known, that where Wood hath been grubbed, Fountains have sprung up, where before there were none, If we would but pluck up those inordinate desires, which waste our estates in vain superfluities, what abundance would there be of profitable conveniences to supply others?   

(150)  
Agesilausbeing desired by one, to hear a man that exactly counterfeited the Nightingale, answered, it would not need, for he had often heard the Nightingale herself. When we are called upon to hear the determinations of Counsels and Fathers, and to observe the practice of Antiquity (which it were well if we did exactly imitate the truth) it might be replied, It were not amifse, but that we have God himself speaking to us in the Scriptures, which is better.   

(151)  
The Ambassadors of the French King charging the Earl of Charalois in bitter terms, with a confederacy with the Duke of Britain; the Earl many times entreating his Fathr Philip that he would give him leave to speak for himself, the old Duke in the end said, I have already answered for thee, as me-thinketh a Father should answer for his Son; but if thou hast a mind to speak thyself, bethink thyself to day, and speak to morrow, and spare not. The words which we are to speak to captious greatness, need much premeditation, that they may admit of no exception; But Lord, there is not a word in our mouths, which is not written in thy Book, for which we must nor give an account to thy justice: But Oh that therefore I were so wary as to set a watch before the door of my mouth, that I offend not with my tongue.   

(152)  
Two brothers travelling upon the road, fell in discourse of a woman known to them both, which one of them praised as very handsome, the other thought her fair, but not so fair; which difference in Judgement (though nothing pertinent to either) yet grew to that pass, as that they fell together by the ears, and had slain one the other, if not accidentally parted. How many different opinions are there among us (Brethren of the same Religion as to fundamentals) so far from being necessary to Salvation, that it is questionable whether they be any thing pertinent, which yet we are so hot about, that nothing but blood will part us, when the things for which we have quarrelled, would pose a good invention to tell you, what tendency they have to the edifying of the Body of Christ.   

(153)  
The Leigeors having broken the peace made with the Duke of Burgundy, for performance of which, they had given 300 Hostages; it was debated in the Duke's Counsel what should be done with the Hostages: The Lord of Contay advised to kill them all; a person of great wisdom and moderation, and never before observed to speak so cruelly. How uncharitable is it to censure any man, for one Act committed? when a sudden passion or acrimonious humour, may bias the mind quite beyond its accustomed tenor.   

(154)  
Of those Hostages which they of Liege had given to the Duke of Burgundy, for the performance of their Covenants with him, upon their breach of which he sent home unharmed; the greatest number proved unthankful, and took Arms against the Duke: but five or six of them were so mindful of the benefit they had received, that by their means he entered Liege, an enterprise so eminent, that a servant of the Duke said, he durst hardly have craved of God's hands so great success. Excellent is it to do good, and to communicate; for though the subjects of our benefaction may many (as in a Lottery) prove blanks, yet we may many times meet such a prize, as may make ample amends.   

(155)  
The City of Venice begetteth wonder in the beholders, in this chief, to see so many stately and magnificent structures, lifting up their towering heads, as if, like the Poets Venus, they had been begotten of the Seas foam, and in that place ejected; or else seated there by as great a miracle, as that Faith should work, which should say to that mountain, be thou removed, and set in the midst of the Sea. The excellent and glorious virtues of the servants of God deserve our view and imitation; but this makes them works of wonder, that they have their seat in such hearts, as are not unlikely only, but having in some respe4ct an impossibility to such productions.   

(156)  
Ericthonius' being lame in his feet, first invented the Chariot to hid that imperfection, and Pericles being long headed, was therefore always represented with an Helmet; and our Queen Anne covered the Wen in her neck with a Ruff, which she first brought in fashion. How do we wish that the deformities of our bodies never were, or might ever be hid, a crooked leg, or gibbous shoulder, how it troubles us; which yet if concealed, can never be rectified: but happy we if we were as sensible of the deformities of our souls, for the remedying of which crookednesses, the holy Spirit hath given us such straight rules to comply with.   

(157)  
Ravillak that murdered Henry the fourth of France, ☞ though in his execution he suffered most exquisite torments, yet was observed never so much as once to name the name of God, or any other way make show of repentance. Who would put off repentance to a dying bed, in confidence to have it then at our call? when sickness with the very presentations of death its self, leaves that heart unmollified, which custom in sin hath hardened.   

(158)  
Alibiades went to one of his friends houses, that had a great feast, and bad one of his servants take away half the Plate that stood on the Cupboard, wherewith the guests incensed, said, It was a bold and injurious part; nay, saith the Master, very favourable hath he dealt with us, that he hath left us any, when he might have taken all. Lord, when thou cuttest off our suprfluities, we are ready to repine that thou dealest hardly with us; but what cause have we rather to acknowledge thy clemency and goodness, that mayest take all, and yet leavest us any thing, that can claim nought.   

(159)  
Fabius Maximus road on horseback to his Son being Consul, then disparching affairs of State in the Market place; which the Son seeing, senr an officer to command his Father to alight, and come on foot, if he had any thing to say to the Consul: While all wonder at the unhandsomeness of this Command, the Father alights, and hasting to his Son, embracing him; applauds his magnanimity, that he had preferred the honour and interest of the Commonwealth, before that of a Father. Lord, thine is the Sovereign interest of the world, and happy we, if the sense of that lie so much upon our hearts, as that whatsoever is dear, and precious to us else, be made to veil Bonnet to thy concernments.   

(160)  
A Lacedaemonian having lost his Son, and being reproved as indulging his sorrow, in that he wept for him, answered, I am not so much to be reprehended, Natura enim me flebilem fecit. Lord, if we much lament the loss of our dear relations, let it not be the effect of our impatience, but the issue of our affection.   

(161)  
Dionysius being expelled Sicilia, and banished to Corinth, was asked, What good the doctrine of Plate had done him; who replied, To bear this adversity patiently. Lord, if the times any when should prove so disastrous, as to prevent the more favourable effects of thy truth, as instead of that love and veneration it should beget, to render the professors of it the subjects of persecution, yet let us never be disappointed of this fruit, that we know how in patience to possess our souls.   

(162)  
Alexander being at Troy, one offers to show him Paris his Harp; I marry (said he) I should like it well, if thou couldst show me that of Achilles. When the Papists show their store of relics to their credulous votaries, methinks 'tis a sad story, they should conceal the Key of Heaven so, as they neither enter in themselves, nor suffer those that would.   

(163)  
When the Duke De Birois was beheaded, he demeaned himself more like a Lion in a toil, than a Lamb on the block, and was by the executioner rather trapan'd to death, then fairly submitting to that present necessity; So that while we admire the courage of his life, we abhor his unchristianlike death: Whereas our Earl of Essex, though rather beyond him in high magnanimity, yet manifested abundance of Christian meekness on the Scaffold. Certainly 'tis an unsound maxim of our Duelists, that a man cannot be valiant and religious; or, that joseph's answer to his mistress, How shall I do this, and sin against God? would not do well in a challenge. But surely Lord, we are then most courageous, when we are least bold to sin, and most obedient to thy word and Providence.   

(164)  
Alcibiades being accused by the Athenians, and hiding himself, when found, was asked, if he mistrusted the justice of his Country, no saith he, not in another matter; but my life being concerned, I will not trust my own mother lest she should mistake, and put in a black bean instead of a white. In the concernments of this life, we are desirous to be most secured, and will not leave important affairs upon any uncertainty: but the Salvation of our souls which it might be thought we would not trust our dearest relations with, we suffer to rely only on the Collier's faith, and are willing should depend upon the most improbable persuasions that can be imagined.   

(165)  
Agrippina being accused by Syllana for imagining treason against her Son Nero, made this her defence, That Syllana being barren, might think it as easy to be rid of Sons as adulterers, but had she known the power of maternal affection, there would have been no probability to accuse of that for which nature itself had provided a defence. Lord, if others who never tasted how good the Lord is, sin against thee, though the crime be manifest, yet it is less unnatural; but if thy Sons be accused, if that relation prove not their innocency, 'twill aggravate their guilt.   

(166)  
Charles Duke of Burgundy being discomfited at the battle of Naucy, passing over a River, was overthrown by his Horse, and in that estate was assaulted by a Gentleman, of whom he craved quarter; but the Gentleman being deaf, slew him incontinently: Yet afterwards, when he knew whom he had slain, he died within few days of mere melancholy. When God intendeth to bring judgements on us, he not only finds executioners to effect his purposes, but sends such as are as deaf to our entreaties, as we have been to his counsels.   

(167)  
Subonis Flavius being one of the conspirators against Nero, and asked by him, why he regarded the military Sacrament so little, as to conspire his death? answered him; That he was faithful to him while he deserved to be loved, but he could not but hate him; since he was his Mothers, Brothers, and Wives murderer, a Waggoner, Stage-Player, and Incendiary of the City: than which speech (saith the Historian) nothing happened to Nero more vexatious; for though he were prompt to do wickedly, yet impatient to bear the wickedness he did. It is not the least part of our conviction, and vanity, that we are not ashamed to be what we are ashamed to be thought; when to be evil is a real defection, to be thought so, but imaginary, and rather to them that think so then to us, being an evil conception existing in their minds, not otherwise applicable to us then as we are guilty.   

(168)  
The Courtiers of Galba, though under a severe Prince, were yet as injurious to the Commonwealth as those of Nero; because Galba being old, and their time not likely to last long, they made use of it while it endured; like the Dragon which laid about him, because he knew he had but a short time. How much doth the consideration of the shortness of time, conduce to the expedition of humane affairs? what odds between our haste in a Winters, and in a Summer's day? Yet alas, how little doth the brevity of our lives, enforce our endeavours to be spiritually rich; we loiter away our precious opportunities in doing nothing, or that which is worse than nothing.   

(169)  
'Tis said of Charles the Ninth, King of France, that accustoming himself to rip open the bellies, and pluck out the bowels of those Beasts he took in hunting, grew very cruel, being not only the Author of that unparalled Parisian Massacre, but also many times furious to those near about him, and beloved by him, often to their very great danger. 'Tis safe not to have to do with the very introductions to iniquity: a wise man would not come near that precipice, the very beholding of which will make a man giddy: 'tis common prudence to avoid that place, where we judge the Air infectious. Our hearts are so fruitful of cursed lusts, that they generate not by coition only, but by imagination: Happy he therefore that is taught to fly the very appearance of evil, and to hate, not the leprous body only, but the very Garment spotted with the flesh.   

(170)  
When William the Conqueror had taken sure footing in England, having seized the greatest part of it, and intending an expedition into Kent, to take that in also, the Kentlshmen under the conduct of their Bishop well appointed met him not far from Smauscombe, having every one a green bough in his hand, and behind them a vast tract of Woodland. The men with boughs thus appearing like a Wood, and the Wood behind being thought by the Conqueror to be men with boughs, he was unwilling to hazard his present Conquests, by engaging with so considerable a force as he judged them to be, and therefore chose rather to condescend to those Conditions, which they presented to him: the ground of that saying, Kent was never conquered; and the cause that that County hath those immunities the other have not. When times turn, and persecutions threaten the godly, they poor hearts, think that there is a vast Army of opposition against them, and that their deliverance is far off; like those Jews who said the time of this captivity is long; therefore are ready to capitulate with the enemy, and comply with those things which are neither safe, nor honourable: when alas the Lion is not so fierce as he is painted, nor opposition so strange, but the breath of the Lord can blast it; nor persecution so tedious, but yet a little while, and he that shall come, will come, and will not tarry.   

(171)  
Margaret Meering being excommunicated by Wrought, out of that Congregation of Protestants whereof he was Pastor, wherein she seemed to have hard dealing; yet when Wrought was imprisoned for the truth, she above all others affectionately ministered to him, and suffered Martyrdom for the truth with him. 'Tis an huge argument of a gracious heart, to submit to reproof; many that have been active for Christ, have yet fallen off upon such an account. Abner that more than once, and more than any, ventured his life for the house of Saul, yet deserted it, being check● by Ishbosheth concerning Rispah.   

(172)  
Vitellius in his passage to Rome, after the victory obtained by Caecinua and Valens against the Othonians, would needs see the place where the battle was fought, which if but newly stricken, yet would have rendered an horrid Spectacle, so many mangled bodies, and divided joints, and carcases of men and horses, which careless death had there promiscuously scattered, giving a sad representation; but it being the fourtieth day after, the corrupted gore, and putrefaction of so many unburied bodies made the sight beyond imagination horrible, which yet Vitellius with delight beheld, rejoicing in the slaughter of so many Citizens, without the least discountenance, or show of miseration. To how great hardness of heart, and height of inhumanity doth custom in sin bring the soul! what would be trembled at by those that are but beginners in iniquity, is accounted sport by those flesh in ungodliness; Let the young men arise, and play before us, said Joab: Rare sport where the play-mates run their swords in each others side, and fell down dead together.   

(173)  
A certain person of our Country, having a suit with another a long time for a small plot of ground not worth 40 pounds, left by Will 500 pounds per annum for the maintenance of the suit after his death. Oh the imperfection of our Laws, or corruption of our Lawyers, that any suit can admit of so tedious and costly a decision; but alas, did he look for peace in Heaven, that would have a Civil war thus survive him?   

(174)  
Alcibiades having done huge exploits, for which the Athenians called him from banishment and made him their General, sending him out with a Fleet of an 100 sail; they were so highflown in their expectations from him, that they looked to hear soon after his departure of the subduing of no small Countries by him, beyond all possibility of accomplishing, which he not effecting, but yet as much as in reason could be expected, they change their former conceit of his sufficiency, into suspicion of his fidelity, and without more evidence condemned him. Lord, we are high in our expectations of great things from thee, and are ready to murmur, as if too straight dealt with by thee, not because thou givest us not what we have cause to expect, but because we expect that which there is no cause thou shouldst give us.   

(175)  
Harvey affirms the heart (though the fountain of life) yet to be without feeling; which he proves by a Gentleman he had seen, who by an Imposthume had an hole in his side, through which not only the Systole and Diastole of the heart might be discerned, but the heart itself touched with the finger, which yet the Gentleman affirmed that he felt not. 'Tis an argument that such a soul is of eminent and public conducement, useful to derive good to others, that is less sensible of private injuries; when those peevish spirits that are intent upon their particular affronts, are taken up with their own to the neglecting of what they might benefit the public by.   

(176)  
In the reign of Nero, there were very many undone, not by their enemies only, but by their friends, who too solicitously intending their safety, that very means rendered them suspected, and became their ruin. If Satan cannot destroy us as an enemy, he endeavours it as a friend; if he cannot fasten his remptations upon us under the notion of sin, and the ugly hue of a direct opposition against God, he altars his method, and transformeth himself into an Angel of Light: if he cannot persuade to a neglect of God's service, then to a superstitious worship of him; he is like an enemy when he fawns and frowns, and is ever not to be suspected only, but resisted always, for he is ever the father of lies.   

(177)  
King Edward the second being taken by the Queen's forces, was committed to some persons to convey him to a place of safety, who going about to shave him that he might not be known, took cold water out of a ditch to wash him with, saying, That should serve his turn now; to whom he answered, That he would have warm water whether they would or no, even his own tears. Though the cruelty of enemies, and calamity of persecuting times, may deny us the many conveniences, and deprive us of the advantages of this life, yet do what they can, they cannot deprive us of God's favour, if we deprive not ourselves of it by a simple compliance.   

(178)  
'Tis siad of the Lion, that being proveked, he beats himself with his own tail, to raise his anger, and incense himself, that his spirits being stirred, he might lay out himself more forcibly. Those that are of melancholy and froward spirits, when disasters befall them, either by their too much poring on their present sufferings, or misboding worse, make those burdens heavier, and (like wind in rainy weather) set them close, and tie knots upon their Whipcord, and pin their Rods to make them yerk the more severely.   

(179)  
Richard the first, being reproved by a Friar, and told, That he had three Daughters, which if he did not dispose of, would undo him, Pride, Covetousness and Lechery; he answered, If the were the business, he would bestow them presently; Pride to the Knights & Tempplars, Covetousness to the Cistercian Monks, and Lechery to the Friars. When good advice is given us, we enervate the strength thereof, or pervert the use by quarrelling with, or recriminating the person that gives it; whereas if good counsel come from a Balaams Ass, or the Devil himself reprove sin, if the Conscience plead guilty, reformation is a due debt.   

(180)  
Demosthenes' coming to Corinth, with design to enjoy the famous Courtesan Lais, she asked him so great a sum, that he returned, saying, He would not buy repentance at so dear a rate. Sinful pleasure is never to be purchased at easy terms, sin being so full of iniquity, that it never demands an equal compensation, no less than a precious immortal soul will serve the turn in lieu of those pleasures which perish in the using, and are no sooner found then lost.   

(181)  
Edward the first, before the death of his father, with other Confederates undertaking a voyage to the Holy Land, by the way they invaded Tunis, where having taken a very great spoil, the rest purposed with their booty to return home, which design the Prince withstanding, but in vain, said, That as he had vowed a journey for the recovery of the Holy land, so thither he would go, though none but Fowen his Horsekeeper accompanied him. It is good to have the heart in such tune, as to join in concord with others in a religious design, to be glad when it is said tous, Let us go up to the house of the Lord; but it is better to lead in such company, to be Captains of the Lords Host; but then we show what spirit we are of, when like Elijah, we are very jealous for the Lord in such general defections, that we seem only left, that we can tread the winepress alone, though of the people there be none with us; can say as Joshua, I and my house will serve the Lord, though all Israel beside desert his interest.   

(182)  
Lewis then Duke of Orleans, rebelling against Charles the eighth, King of France, and joining in confederacy with the Duke of Britain, was taken prisoner in battle by the Earl of Trimovil, being afterward King of France, and moved by some about him to be revenged of the Earl, said, That the Earl had done nothing but his duty, and wished, That he might never find a worse Subject in time of need, than the Earl in that action had approved himself. Such preaching as doth search the heart, awaken conscience, and hedge about the soul with thorns that it cannot find its paths, and takes it captive in the Lords bonds, is under the censure of men as unreasonably austere and rigorous; but when their eyes are opened to discern the true interests of their souls, they then find that that's the preaching fit for the recovery of souls, and that they had never been cured, if they had not been cauterised.   

(183)  
Richard the first, being in his Palace at Westminster, had news brought him, That the French King besieged [one of his Towns beyond the Seas; whereupon he vowed, That he would not turn his back till he had raised the siege; and] immediately caused the walls to be digged down before him, and without farther delay, hasted over, and relieved the place. How many good purposes are lost for want of present execution; while we pretend to consult for the fittest opportunity, we lose the present opportunity; and while we are determining what time to repent in, we leave ourselves no time wherein to repent.   

(184)  
A certain Priest in France being converted to the truth, and imprisoned for it, being brought to examination recanted, upon which recantation being delivered out of prison, was in the very passage out slain by two Gentlemen that bore an old grudge to him. Lord, they that will not lose their lives upon that excellent accoutn of thy glory, how just is it that it should be lost to them upon the unprofitable account of humane frailty or others malice? what rare husbandry is ti then to lose the life for thy sake, when that Rose is offered up a sweet savour to thee, and shall be richly rewarded by thee, which otherwise would have faded of itself, or have been clipped off with the rest of the Bush.   

(185)  
One claiming Justice of Aristides for injuries that another had done him, told him, That the same person had spoken very unhandsome and vile words of Aristides himself; to whom he said, Friend, if he have wronged thee aught, prithee make it appear, for upon the account of righting thee am I at this time here, not to vindicate my own wrongs. When will it be that judgement shall not be perverted, that the equity of the cause, and not the affection of the party accused, shall be considered? for how often hath it been sufficient to put and keep those sheep in the Pound, not because they have trespassed, but have not our mark upon them; and have dispatched those Doves, not because they have not been innocent, but not of our colour.   

(186)  
A Bishop being charged with an heinous offence, and condemned to die for it, had grace given in to him before his execution, so that with floods of tears he lamented his sins, & with an heart abundantly poured out he besought the Lord for pardon, saying, That he had said prayers before, but never prayed till now. What odds is there between the tongue when it is the tuned instrument of others invention, and when it is the tuneable instrument of the heart's affection; when the breath that moves it is not out of the bellows of a formal devotion, but the breathe of the soul to God and pant after him? how differently is the Lord affected? the languid oscitancy, and distracted perfunctoriness of prayer not dictated from the heart, like an arrow shot from a broken bow, falling short of the Throne of Grace, but it is the inditings of that spirit of prayer and supplication, that lays bands upon the Divine Majesty, and will not let him go until it hath a blessing.   

(187)  
Philip King of Spain being minded by one of his Courtiers, That that was the day of his father the Emperor's resignation, answered, and of his repentance too; intimating that that resignation was no sooner done, than wished undone. With what unresolvedness do we resolve to desert the world, our hearts having secret practice with it, even then when our understandings are convinced of the vanity of it, and we profess most against it? our repentance though as to the matter of it, not to be repent of, yet to be repent of as to the manner.   

(188)  
Pliny reports of a Maid in his time, On her marriage day changed into a man; and others tell of the same metamorphosis so real, that some afterward have had wife and children. Those that are espoused to Christ in the bond of the New Covenant, are truly changed from the effeminacies of lust, and of a vain conversation, and become masculine, ennobled to generous and heroic designs, pressed to quit themselves like men.   

(189)  
Archimedes being intent upon a Mathematical demonstration, at the time when Syracuse was taken, a Soldier breaks into his study upon him, with his sword directed at him, to whom he turned about and said, Prithee friend let me alone till I have finished my Demonstration; with which the rude fellow incensed, run him through, without more ado. With what content have those refined souls bestowed themselves in the search of humane Science, when with high satisfaction to themselves they have hunted forth out of the rude mass some more sublimed notion; with what exultation have they clapped their hands at, and applauded their own 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, when as yet their wisdom was but of the earth earthy; with what rare delight than may we be employed in the search of those divine mysteries which the very Angels themselves desire to pry into.   

(190)  
The very suspicion of Protestanisme is almost Capital where the Inquisition is established; but the Jews are by public allowance suffered in Rome itself, under the Pope's Nose; though the Protestant agree very much with the Papist in his belief as a Christian, the Jew not at all. In Turkey the Christians have free exercise of their Religion, but the Persian Sect is so hated, that a Zelez slew an Ambassador of theirs, only upon the account of that difference, though the Christian wholly disavow their Mahomet, the Persian only dissents about his Successor. Thus we daily see a greater disgust because of some petty differences in circumstantials, where yet there is agreement in the vital part of fundamental truth, and holy living, then because of those notorious profanesses which unchristian a man, and make him as an Heathen man, and a Publican.   

(191)  
A Crocodile out of the River Niger drew in with ihs' tail nine slaves chained together, and devoured them, but the Chain not being digestible, proved his destruction, being found in him dead. Lord, at how great sins dare this heart of mine venture, and at how long a train? as the Ox drinketh down water in huge quantity, and with great delight; but there is a Chain of guilt with it, surely deadly, that can neither be vomited, nor vented; this makes me cry, My bowels, my bowels, I am pained at my very heart; but the comfort is, there is Balm in Gilead, and a Physician there.   

(192)  
At the siege of Rochel a certain Soldier from the walls observing the Duke of Anjou, (afterwards Henry the 3d.) to stand viewing the Fortifications, fired at him, which one of the Esquires of his body perceiving in the very moment stepped before him, and saved the life of his Lord, by the loss of his own Lord, the arrows of thy vengeance are leveled at the Caul of my heart, and it is justice that they should smite me under the fifth rib; but let that Jesus who saves his people from their sins, called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 a middle person, step between, Let the chastisement of my peace be upon him, and by his stripes let me be healed.   

(193)  
Marcellus at the taking of Syracuse, being greatly desirous to save the life of Archimedes, gave straight charge through his army, That every person should endeavour his safety; but a Soldier breaking in upon him at his study, (not knowing him) slew him. How much better is it to be one of those marked out by him with the writer's Ink-horn by his side? how much greater security in being one of those who sigh and cry for the abominations done in the midst of the City? how much more certain safety had Jeremiah, Baruch, and Ebedmelech, when Jerusalem was stormed by Nabuchadnezzar, being those to whom God had promised their lives for a prey.   

(194)  
Fabius Maximus dying suddenly the day before the end of his Consulship, Rebius sued to be Consul for the few hours of that year which remained. Lord, how short hast thou made our lives if compared with the Crow or Stag? and how much shorter are they made by many cross accidents? and how much shorter do we make them by our many intemperances'? and how much shorter yet are they made by thy just judgement, when for our presumption and carelessness in thy worship we are sick and weak, and some fall asleep, and yet how fond are we of this little remnant, that we often hazard an immortal soul for it; But Oh, do thou direct my aims to that which admits of no termination as to extent of time, or enjoyment.   

(195)  
Some Roman Soldiers flying from Amida, when taken by the Persians, wandered in the deserts almost choked with thirst, till they came to a deep well, whence yet they had nothing to draw the water with, till necessity found out this invention, They pulled off their shirts, and cut them out into long slips, which they tied together, making a bunch at the end, by which through a manifold repetition squeezing the hunch, they drew up water enough to quench their thirst. When we come to the word to draw water out of the wells of salvation, we are unfurnished of Pitchers for that purpose, our ears are dull of hearing, our hearts fat, and hard to understand here a little, and there a little; a frequent repetition must be often applicatious, for of much we carry away but a very little, our judgements but a little informed, our affections but a little rectified or elevated. Alas, alas, they that think rare attendances will serve the turn, or that they shall be told but what they know, manifest that they are not sensible of their own dullness, nor consider that the Apostle Peter thought it meet to put those often in remembrance who knew those things, and were established in the present truth.   

(199)  
A certain person that had sold a street of houses, and laid out the money in costly apparel, came to Court, and being in a press there, cried to them, To make way for one that had an hundred Tenements on his back. Lord thou hast said, That thou art pressed under our sins as a Cart is pressed under sheaves; and the burden of our iniquity brings down from thee a burden of punishment; yet is the weight of sin foe far from being grievous, that instead of lamenting the pressure, we boast of the number; but if we are not weary and heavy laden with the sense of our transgressions now, they will at that day press us down into the lowest hell.   

(200)  
Near the Lake Agnano there is a Cave, into which (for the experience of Travellers) the neighbouring Inhabitants are wont to put their Dogs, which are no sooner in, but they are as dead immediately, with eyes set, and tongues hanging out; but taken thence presently, and thrown into the Lake, they recover; for which cause those Dogs no sooner see a stranger coming, but if not timely prevented away they get them packing to the adjoining mountains, not to be got again to make a new experiment. Lord thou saidst, In the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt die the death; and we never descend into acts of iniquity, but we are afresh dead in trespasses and sins, and that irrecoverably, if not washed by faith and repentance in the fountain opened for sin and for uncleanness; but if we have so escaped, when temptation again presents itself, shall we not get us packing, by no means to be brought to another trial?   

(200)  
Cleopatra the wife of Cyricoenus, having taken Sanctuary at Antioch after her husband's overthrow, her Sister Gryphina, the wife of Gryphus most importunately solicited her death, and though Gryphus much persuaded her desivery, yet she herself commanded the Soldiers in to dispatch her, but a few days after, the same Gryphina falling into the hands of Cyricoenus, was by him made a sacrifice to his Wife's Ghost. They are not our times alone, that by their mutability have taught men that great lesson of moderation; all ages have witnessed, That the Lord is at hand, a just Judge to execute vengeance on those who have not by their miseration to others shown their sense, that they also are in the body, even those whom God sent out to be his Executioners, he hath afterward plagued because they did their work without pity.    

OCCASIONAL Observations.  

(1)  
IN that emendation (as 'tis thought to be) of the English Tongue, by the addition of foreign words of divers Languages, though possibly we may speak more finely, yet not (which is the end of speech) more significantly, but always more laborioufly, few English words being more than dissillables, the other generally having their antepenultimaes. A competent estate, and that which is far greater, are not differenced as to the content of the enjoyer; for though this may ruffle more, and the pomp may be greater, yet it signifies the same to the owner: He that hath an horse to ease his insirmity, is as well supplied in that for which an horse is useful, as he that must stay till four or five servants be ready to accompany him; and he as well stored that hath an honest entertainment wherewith to bid his friend welcome, and can shake hands with him in token 'tis hearty, as he that with a numerous service and solicitous ceremony, must compliment his Guest to a Nonplus.   

(2)  
They say, That he who will find an Hare sitting, or Partridge lying, must always keep in his mind the Idea of those creatures as they are in that posture, which the fancy being prepossessed with, will presently apprehend them, or any like them. When the mind is forestalled with prejudice, either against persons or things, it soon believeth what it pre-conceiveth, and will either find crimes, or make them.   

(3)  
I had a Bullock so swollen with wind, that it break his Diaphragma, and the poor creature died in great torture; yet I considered it fared better with it then with a man afflicted with the Gout or Stone, because wanting reason its miseries were not aggravated by a reflection of the mind upon the pains suffered. It is not the least of the happinesses of a man having grace, that he is able to discern those gifts, and to behold himself like the King's Daughter, all glorious within; so shall it be no small addition to the infelicities of the damned that they shall have the exercises of their reason which they have so much abused, to consider the goodness of that God of whom they are deprived, and the greatness of those miseries by which they are punished.   

(4)  
Two Goats meeting together on a long narrow Bridge, the straightness of which was such, that neither could go by other, nor turn about to go back, one of them lay down flat, while the other went over him, and so there became easy passage for both. When the interest of dissenting parties meet in such narrownesses as are hard to be accommodated, how much would the submission of one part to the present necessity, conduce to the advantage of both?   

(5)  
Being to confer the going of my Watch with a San-Diall, which was to be set by the Compass, and finding it not to agree therewith, my unwillingness to have my Watch convicted of error, made me ready rather to set the Dial by my Watch, than my Watch by the Dial. Lord, how many times hath my self-love induced me by false interpretations and glosses to bring the straight rules of thy Word, to a compliance with my irregular affections? then by an holy submission to make my affections comply with the rules of thy Word.   

(6)  
I saw a Kitling practising the way to mouse, with active motions and ingenuous turns, gaining an aptness to prey in all postures; and I observe other creatures by a natural instinct are prompt to those functions which are proper to their species; but man knows nothing, except to cry, but what he is taught. Lord, as my great desire is, that those whom thou hast given me may not be as they were, born fools, so give me to care chief, that they may be spiritually wise.   

(7)  
Being abroad one day my Horse got lose, and run away from me, and would not be recovered till he came to the Stable Door; I followed after him full of anger, and purposes of punishing, till I thus considered, Lord, am I thus angry that a creature by thee subjected to my Dominion, doth thus shake off the yoke and retract his serviceableness, when I a Subject to thy Sovereignty by an original and every way unlimited right, so often have with drawn my service from thee; Oh let me with more diligence, and universality approve my obedience to thee, and with more patience suffer neglect from them.   

(8)  
The motion of the Primum mobile, not only hurries about the inferior Orbs, but even the Comets also seated in the air, are whirled about with the same Circulation. Not only those of the same gang are turned about by the vertigo of Faction, but many times also well meaning souls of different Principles and designs are transported by their vicinity with the same passions.   

(9)  
Thunder is rare with us in the winter, and prodigious in that season, according to that saying, Winter's thunder is England's wonder, because those hot and dry vapours of which Thunder is generated, are not exhaled from a rigid and congealed earth, as ours then for the most part is. Lord, when my heart was frozen in that Winter of impenitency and unbelief, the thunder of conscience was not frequent, that inconsiderate estate seldom producing any such apprehensions, but since my soul hath been brought out of that Prison, conscience hath been londer, and its checks are more often. O let conscience every day have less cause to speak, but let it every day be more quick of speech.   

(10)  
The return of the Sun is no less certainly expected in Green-land, where the night is of some months, then with us in the Summer Solstice, when day is never quite shut in. Lord, that eternal glory which thou hast promised, and I by faith have apprehended, how far off so ever, is no less certainly expected, than that daily bread wherewith I am by thee so frequently supplied; nor let me more despair of the Sunshine of thy favour in the long night of trouble, then in those perplexities which endure but for a very little season.   

(11)  
Passing with a Candle from one room to another, I saw they were only enlightened as I brought the Candle in successively one after another, but as soon as the Sun arose, they were altogether and at once enlightened. Lord, the knowledge which I have of my heart is only by degrees, as I view the affections and actions of it one after another, but thou beholdest them at one view, those that are past, present, and to come. Oh do thou who art so perfect an Anatomist, and so exactly knowest my frame what it is, straiten what is irregular, cure what is corrupt, and supply what ever defect thou findest there.   

(12)  
I took a Plumbstone, and would have cracked it, but could not, I would have cleft it with a knife, but it was not penetrable, I set it in the ground, and after a few days I found the kernel had shot out a tender sprout which had split the shell, and ●ade its passage through. Lord, the hamnser of assliction breaks not this stony heart, the sharp sword of thy threaten pierce it not, but let the sweet efficacies of thy mercies quicken the infused principle of thy grace, that it may cleave all obstacles, and send forth sh●●ts bearing fruit to thee abundantly.   

(13)  
Being in London, and desirous to know the time of the day, I viewed the Clocks, and by the first I saw it was passed eleven, by the next but half an hour after ten, the third was as much in the other extreme, and the fourth dissented from the other three; then I applied myself to the Dial's, but I found them (as the Clocks) only agreeing in disagreeing from one another; hence I concluded, there could be no dependence on them, who concurred so little with themselves; I therefore turned myself to observe the setting of the Sun, which though not always the same, yet hath a motion ever regular and agreeable to itself, and to dispose of my affairs by that. The variety of opinions among learned men manifesteth, That there can be no certainty where there is so much descent; therefore in the conduct of my life, Lord, give me Nullius jurare in verba Magistri, and to respect not so much what men say, who can and do err, as what thy Word saith, which is always consonant to its self, and erreth not, but as misapprehended, or misreported by us.   

(14)  
Two persons being in competition for a place of honour, a third engageth vigorously for one of them against the other, the obliged person soon forgetteth those civilities done him, having obtained his ends, and grows shy of his Benefactor, being confident that his merits called for that requital which he meant not; but the dis-obliged person graves the opposition of that third person on his mind with the pen of a Diamond, and catcheth at the next opportunity to show his animosity by a smart Animadversion: Vespasian's Captains relieved not the Citizen of Taracene in the miseries which for their interest they suffered, when they of Capua are by them severely punished for the injuries which they had offered. Lord, who would displease thee to please men; when our services are rewarded by thee, not according to their merit, but thy goodness, and our disservices through thy Son are both forgiven and forgotten: The business of Vriah is then passed over with silence, when David's uprightness after many Generations hath a frequent and honourable memorial.   

(15)  
Being abroad one day, and without a Dinner, a Comrade who had forethought the worm would by't, had provided a piece of powdered Beef, of which he was willing to communicate, which though it were dry of itself, and not a drop of drink to wash it down, yet I eat it up very savourily, and (as Darius by his puddle-water) gave it great commendation. Lord, how many of thy mercies through our fullness are nauseated by us? which want would make more relishing, and our necessities render precious.   

(16)  
Having a design to plant a nursery with Crab-stocks. I found many in Hedgrows and other places, which I had many times before past by, and not observed. Lord, fix the aim of my soul on thy glory, and my affections on things above, than those opportunities tending to spiritual advantage, will be with promptness embraced, which before were neglected, or not observed.   

(17)  
Upon the Road to London I met a Team at a stand, and neither skill of the Driver, nor strength of the Horses could move the Cart out of the slough till another Team came, which joined with the former, drew it out presently. The cries of particular Christians have not removed those evils wherewith they have been pressed, when the united supplications of the Church have been heard; so well pleased is the Lord with the unity of his people, that what they agree of on earth, he hath promised shall be done for them in Heaven.   

(18)  
I fell one time into company, where he was counted of the best wit, that could devise the shortest Grace, and most stomaches there were too squeamish to digest a Thanksgiving that did descend to express particulars. But surely, such wit will be of no use in the Kingdom of Heaven, and those affections will no wise agree with that place, where praise shall be the only employment of glorified spirits.   

(19)  
Walking in the streets, I met a Cart that came near the wall, so I stepped aside to avoid it, into a place where I was secure enough, but being desirous to be out of all possibility of danger, I got off further. Lord, sin is that great evil of which thou complainest, that thou art pressed as a Cart is pressed; how can it then but bruise me to powder? Oh let me therefore think myself never sufficiently secured from its danger, nor the occasions of it far enough avoided.   

(20)  
I met a Coffin made of such sweet wood, & adorned with such curious hinges, & decked with such stately appurtenances, as seemed to give ornament to death itself, and make a grave , which yet in a few hours was to be covered with dust. How is the life of man employed about, and intent upon matter of ostentation? and how much of a vain show is used in death itself, that so fully discovers that all is but a vain show.   

(21)  
Being in company with some persons, one among them undertook to relate a story, which he had but begun, as the rest fell to other discourse among themselves, so as that he was fain to beg their attention by many Parenthesis of commendation that it was a very pretty story. How vain is it to prostitute words to those, that either think they have too much wit of their own to value the conceits of others, or that have too little to apprehend them?   

(22)  
Horsemen say, that illbred Mares usually bring the fattest and well-favouredst Colts, which yet afterwards prove unhandsome Jades, whereas those of a good strain are meager and unsightly for the first year, but after are of rare shapes and proof. The freest and fattest promises are usually of the leanest performances, whereas they that engage slowly, perform surely.   

(23)  
On the Road to Guildford, I passed by a Chalk-pit near the way, the top of which was railed about, I observed it was not for fence, but caution, for the avoiding the stupendious precipice, whereby the unwary traveller might be endangered. Lord, if thou hast set us bounds in thy word, 'tis not out of envy or ill will unto us, as the Devil suggested to our first parents, but wherever we are by thee limited, it is for our advantage and security, not our detriment.   

(24)  
Viewing one night a bonfire made upon an hill a great way off, and comparing it with the evening star, it seemed bigger & brighter then that, but after I had looked upon it a while, I perceived it to decay in greatness, and light, till at last it was not to be discerned, but the star retained still the same quantity & beauty, though now and then a Cloud for a time did obscure it. Many have appeared like burning and shining lights while the fuel of worldly advantages hath lasted, but when that faileth, they disappear; when those Lamps lighted with the Celestial fire of divine grace, though the clouds of cross occurrences, or missed of temptation, may sometimes hinder their appearing so glorious, yet they are always the same by a regular and unchangeable brightness.   

(25)  
A neighbour of mine had a little child, which with a fall put its arm out of joint, which the father by its unquietness perceiving was going to a Chirurgeon for remedy; but while he was in consultation about it, the Child got another fall, and thereby had his arm set right again, so that it found ease, and grew cheerful upon it immediately. Lord, why are we out of heart when cross occurrences befall us, and think ourselves undone when the great ones frown on us, and are ala mort when our expectations are disappointed; thou art he who by thy all-disposing providence canst make the very same things (as the thrust of the Spear the impostumed person) harm and heal us.   

(26)  
A Rose-bush clipped in May, and so disappointed of bearing fruit in June, yet gave forth a plentiful crop of Roses in November. Lord, if the Spring and Summer of my life hath been (like One●imus) unprofitable, and without that truit which might well be expected; 'tis of thy mercy that I was not eradicated, when as the fruitless figtree was accursed, though the time of figs was not yet come. Oh therefore let my former barrenness be recompensed with such a fruitfulness, as may outgo the usual account of a November season.   

(27)  
I passed by an Aunt's Nest set upon so steep a bank, that their provision as fast as they brought it thither tumbled down again to the bottom, which they (as Sisyphus with his stone) with continual labour setcht up again, yet for divers years changed not the situation of the Nest, though a much more convenient place was hard by. How many inconveniences do foolish and absurd customs beget us, while like the Irish who tie the Blow to the Horse tail, we pertinaciously stick to those practices which reason condemneth as inconvenient or erroneous, when a more sober advice would easily present us with that which would be more useful, though less used.   

(28)  
I saw a sheep in a very rainy day, whose well-grown fleece as it kept him warm, so it drank in the wet, and thereby made the inconveniency of the rain much greater. As the grace of God makes a man able with patience to bear his sufferings, so it makes his sufferings more, for beside his particular griefs, he hath a fellow-feeling of all the concernments of God's people too.   

(29)  
I overtook a friend travelling to his house, which though it were a Mile out of my way, yet for his good company sake, I went along with him. Lord, if thy providence effect thy glory, though out of the way of my temporal advantage, yet let me not be unwilling to comply with thy providence, though with the loss of my present accommodations.   

(30)  
A box wherein was some quantity of Civet, being opened the scent thereof diffused itself to all the bystanders, but was not alike resented by all; not that the odour had not an equal diffusion, but because their senses were not alike good, or prepared to the reception of it. If there shall be different enjoyments of the glory which shall be hereafter revealed, 'tis probable the odds will be not in the different manner of revelation, but measure of apprehension. Lord, let therefore my heart be enlarged with the love of thee now, that it may be filled with the more enjoyment of thee then.   

(31)  
I saw an Orchard planted with choice of, and the choicest of fruits, but no good husbandry bestowed upon it afterwards, but suffered to lie undigged and overgrown with Nettles, and cropped by , so that the Trees were hinderly and shrubbed, having nothing near attained that growth which otherwise they would. I heard a Sermon the other day, wherein I heard such smart and seasonable exhortations as possessed my soul with many pious purposes, which yet alas wanted that good husbandry which should have caused those thoughts to flourish into good works. I am sensible I have lost a precious advantage, I will therefore bestir me to recollect them out of the rubbish of impertinencies which lie in my heart, and will take care of them that they be fenced with circumspection, staked with resolution, digged about with religious exercise, wed with caution, and watered with prayer.   

(32)  
An Hog was wallowing in his mire, while the neat Cat sat licking herself and washing her face, not willing to wet her foot, though for fish so much desired; I praised her cleanliness, and would have done more, but that I considered it was not out of election, but disposition, that she was so cleanly. Lord, some sins are escaped me, not because I have chosen thy precepts, but I have a natural disinclination to them; if thou hadst never forbidden it, I should never have been a drunkard, that cloud in the brain, and fretting heat in the stomach, which but one draught between meals always occasioneth, is a sufficient bridle against that intempenance; But Oh that all the considerations which Divine or Humane Light afford, were sufficient to check those sins to which my constitution violently prompteth.   

(33)  
Going by water, the waterman was very curious of my sitting, if I turned about, he said It hindered his Boats going; every motion was to him a fault, and my tongue could hardly be removed from side to side, but 'twas complained of, and this that our passage might be more speedy. How nice a thing is peace of conscience, how small a more offends it, not acts of sin only, but purposes to sin, nor those only, but abortive motions, yea, concupiscences not consented to, the pure eyes of an infinitely holy God, are something paralled by the quick sense of a tender conscience.   

(34)  
The blood in the Arteries is full of spirits and pulse which it looseth in the veins, and therefore is returned again into the heart to receive there new heat and refection. Every institution, though in its first instruments it were lively and profitable, yet in its after traductions, it generally grows languid and corrupt, and had need of a review. Religion in the Primitive times was like blood in the Arteries, but now as in the Veins, and sure it had need be often returned to the heart, again rectified by the Word.   

(35)  
I saw a Tree which grew by a too potent neighbour that over-grew it, and dript it shrewdly, but yet it thrust forth its boughs, endeavouring to gain the open Heavens, and the Sun's uninterrupted aspect, Lord, thou knowest those inordinate desires which grow so near my heart, how much my soul is dript by them, and how weak all my actings of grace are because of them; if it be thy will let them be grubbed up by the roots; if otherwise, let my soul be averse and turn away from it, endeavouring after a free acting to thee, that I may partake of the dews of thy grace, and the shining of thy favour.   

(36)  
In a field of Oats, I observed there were some taller than the rest, and of a much fairer show, which when I had examined, I fund were light and husky, and no wise comparable for substance with the rest, for these were wild ones. In the worship of God those things which are of humane invention seem much more plausible, and carry before them a much greater show of devotion than those which are of divine institution: what a glorious appearance to the eyes of flesh and blood hath a curiously engraved Crucifix, or a Popish Procession compared with the simplicity of the Sacramental preparation; how laudable seems the Salt and Spittle, and those other knacks of Papistical Ceremony in respect of the Baptismal Lotion, but you will find that as these are fair, so they are wild, not being of divine appointment and empty, not having the divine promise to make them virtual for the nourishment of souls.   

(37)  
In a street of London, as I passed by, I observed over an Entry written, This is Court, which when I considered to make true English of, I observed between is and Court a Flower de luce fairly carved, whereby I understood that superscription intended to tell you, That there was Flower de luce Court. God hath discovered his truth to us 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, sometimes signifying his mind to us in figures, and not in words at length, sometimes by things done, as when Torquatus cut off the heads of the highest Poppyes; sometimes by very omissions, as Melchisedeches Genealogy; sometimes by half words, as that important truth of Christ's Divinity, where a piece of a word 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in opposition to 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, differenceth the Messiah from the whole Creation; therefore 'tis unsafe to conclude any thing from the word, till with much caution we consider how, and what is concluded.   

(38)  
A person accustomed to walk with a fine staff neatly painted, met with his adversary, with whom words grew to that height that they came to blows, whereupon he threw away the fine staff then in his hand, and catcht up a rough Crabtree Cudgel, fit to give such unkind embraces as he intended. When men look upon their concernments as but indifferent, they like well to make use of those fine persons, who think they get so much repute and reverence by the polished sentences that man's with teacheth, but when they apprehend their souls lying under pressing exigences, they then desire to apply themselves to those whose holiness and zeal, and soul-searching Ministry have begotten an expectation of soul-good from them, and who by their being an example of good works have made their very youth venerable.   

(39)  
I saw a Picture of the King on horseback, and though I had no skill in limning, yet I misliked one of the horses legs because it held not a Symmetry with the rest of the Horse, nor agreed with that posture wherein the horse was represented. There is no better way for a less discerning judgement to judge of the motions of the heart, whether they be of the Spirit of God, then to observe their agreement with the mind of the Spirit, discovered in the Word, with which if they are not harmonions and analogical, 'tis certain they are not indicted by that Spirit which is always like itself, and in whom is no variableness, nor shadow of changing.   

(40)  
Being to speak with a person whose Chamber was four pair of Stairs high, I was almost tired with climbing up to it, having been well traveled before hand; which made me to think that if there were a jacob's ladder whose top should reach to Heaven, and that were to be ascended by bodily action, it would be a matter of no small time & labour to get thither, an age would hardly suffice for its accomplishment. Can it then be that those cold wish and woulding should ever bring a man thither, or that it will be so easy at the last gasp to leap out of the Devil's lap into Akrahams' bosom.   

(41)  
Ointment made as hot as can be, applied to an horse outwardly, will not scald him, but a drench given him inwardly little more than blood warm, will kill him. Employ an hypocrite about any thing of outward action, let it be never so eminent, and he will keep pace with your expectation, there is no foiling him upon that account, but engage him on that which shall necessarily require self-deny-all, or the mortification of his secret lust, in that you shall find him more jadish than could be imagined.   

(42)  
A person that went naked neckt, was reprehended by a friend, as using a garb immodest and unlawful; which she gainsaying, they agreed to put their different judgements to the decision of a grave Divine of their acquaintance, to whom the Lady presenting herself, demanded his opinion whether it were lawful for her to use that mode? to whom he answered, That he conceived that guise unlawful for those whose azure veins meandring in their soft and pearly bosoms, might be a temptation to lust, but he thought it lawful for her whose swarthy skin and course grain afforded no such temptation. How great and manifest is our pride and vanity, that to follow the fashion we not only subject ourselves to those garbs which are inconvenient and troublesome, but also discover those imperfections that cause others to deride and scorn us.   

(43)  
I went to hear a Sermon, and intending to join with the Minister in his prayer before it, he began with so low a voice that I might guess what he said, hear I could not, yet was I in the posture of a Supplicant, and my mind directed thereto, but my time was merely lost, being unfit for a private devotion with the expectation of that which was public, and not in a capacity to join in public devotion, because I heard not what was said. Miserable Papists, how are they abused with their Latin Service, wherein they cannot pray by themselves being disturbed by a noise of words, nor with others being ignorant of the Tongue, for which blind devotion yet our Country men took arms in Edward the sixth days; yea, indeed how heartless is that devotion, that understands not what it doth, or minds not what it understands?   

(44)  
A Gentleman of quality, but no good qualities, professed a great deal of good liking to me, and affection for me; I begun to consider what I had done that might oblige such a person whom all good would disoblige; I began to suspect I had not walked uprightly, and that he had misconstrued my civility for approbation; thus I parted from him with much distrust of myself; but the next time I came into his company, his countenance was altered, and I had such an aspect from him as was usual from such as he. Surely things and men receive much of discovery from the men that like them, there being an eternal opposition between the bad and good; and from their love we may judge much of the quality of the object; whence I ever suspected that those ways in worship or otherwise were not good, which your profane, swearing, wicked persons contend and stickle for. Phocian making an Oration to the people of Athens, which was generally by them applauded, said to a friend that stood by, What unhandsomess hath slipped from me, that this evil people so much approve of.   

(45)  
Reading of a Book which treated of horsemanship, I found this Tetrastick.  
If a Colt have four white feet keep him not a day;  
If he have three white feet put him soon away;  
If he have two white feet send him to thy friend;  
If he have one white foot keep him to his lives end.  
I could not devise the reason why the odds of white should be so great odds in the choice, or what a black or white foot should conduce to the goodness of the horse; but sometime after I had a gelding, an able horse indeed, but for that cause only not approved, because he had three white feet, for the white foot before, was much more brittle and hoof-bound, and far less than the other that was black, so that he was never hard traveled, but he complained of it; whence I concluded, that whiteness in the hoof did either cause, or argue brittleness and other faults besides. There is no such Doctor as experience; how much is the doctrine of Assurance inveighed against as an inlet to licentiousness, as if that soul must be bold to sin, that had certainty to be saved, whereas to the soul that hath had experience of this affair, there is nothing then the contrary more manifest; for that Spirit which seals the soul to the day of redemption, seals it by the impression of its own holiness upon it, begetting thereby in it an opposition to sin, so as that if there were no hell to fear, yet sin would be resisted, as that which is contrary to that holy principle, and destructive to this new creature; yea, this Spirit acts the soul to God as its highest and chiefest good; for which cause it presseth after him with all acts of duty and serviceableness, whereby it may more enjoy him, and dreads sin more than death, as being that which separates it from his God, whom he loves and prizeth above life itself.   

(46)  
The heart of Oak grows from the top to the bottom of the Tree, as appears when if the upper part of a young Oak be cut off, there will be heart to be seen, but at the lower end not any. Our zeal for ways of worship, or aught else should have its original upwards, beginning in conviction of the judgement from clear and apparent evidence of truth, whereas that which is not according to knowledge, is like a metalled horse, but headstrong; or like strong purges in unskilful hands, rather likely to kill, than cure.   

(47)  
When I observe how many sparks of fire may be stricken out of a little shiver of a Flint, I have been ready to think that a Paradoxical expression, as cold as a stone, and have wondered it should not burn one's fingers; but I considered that fire is generated or manifested but by contrition, by which yet other is extinguished. There are many persons of such meek and calm tempers, that you would think they had no fire, for you shall not discover any heat; but let them be opposed in matters of Religion or otherwise, 'tis like the rubbing of a dry stick till it inflame, by that opposition they gather heat, and show more sire than could possibly be imagined.   

(48)  
At a Sermon I saw a person so earnest to write it that he left his devotion before the prayer was done to provide tackling ready for the purpose; but as though he had been a Clock wound up for one hour, assoon as the glass was out, his fit was over, though the discourse were continued a little longer, and more pertinent and useful than the former part. The Apostle saith, The Spirit of the Prophets is subject to the Prophets, so as that they are not impulst into disorder and confusion; and as that is a preposterous worship wherein one service leaps over the back of another, so is that a pursy devotion, the pulses whereof are numbered exactly with the sands of the glass; and they have a carnal Religion, who think not days and nights too tedious at Cards, or a Tavern, but would have been sadly put to it, had they been Paul's Auditors, when he preached till midnight.   

(49)  
Two Merchant ships met at Sea with 16 sail of Turks men of war, against whom, though it were impossible to make such resistance as to come off, yet they were resolved to sell their lives at a dear rate; therefore with utmost height of courage they fought them for a while, which the enemy seeing, and observing their resolution such, as that their prize would not equal their loss, they drew off and left them. In that contest which our souls have with our spiritual enemies, he that fights most resolved comes off best; weak resistance encourageth the assault, and he that parlyes is like Eve in Paradise more than half lost; the surest way to overcome is to resist steadfastly in the faith.   

(50)  
Some English Merchants being in afric, and hunting there the wild Boar, they had one in chase, and almost tired him, so that he manifestly gave out; when a lesser, but a fresh one, was difloged from the adjoining thickets and joined himself with the former, by whose company he was so animated, that he assumed new courage and strength, so that he escaped the hunter's hands. We read in Acts 2.42. That the new Converts continued in the Apostles Doctrine and Fellowship, not so much to show their compliance to Christian discipline, as to be fortified with that consociation. Mal. 3.16. Then they that feared the Lord spoke often one to another. The People of God in their troubles, are not a little animated by the assistancy of fellow-sufferers: Paul, when he saw the Brethren, took courage, Acts 28.18.   

(51)  
I was in a place where a story was painted in the windows, it was very rare and curious, but me-thought the workmanship did not make amends for the harm it did in darkening the windows, whose principal use is to give light. There are many Ceremonies which have a fine appearance when they are used in divine worship, but methinks they make not amends for the harm they do in distracting the mind from that inward intention so principally required in divine adoration, having a tendency rather () as a Noble person said of a great Ladies singing Matins, that it heightened or destroyed, he knew not whether, all the hearers devotion) to delight the carnal, then raise the affections of the inward man.   

(52)  
Looking upon a Spinster, I observed that if the Flax be drawn out too fine, it breaks and is useless, if too grossly it is gouty and unhandsome, but the mean as the strength of the Flax will bear, is best to the sight and for use. The handling of any subject too finely is seldom profitably, and too rudely is tedious and disgustful, but as the strength of the subject will bear (like Birdlime at a due rate) takes most, and holds best.   

(53)  
I observed then too, that 'tis not the pulling out the Flax alone that makes a thread, but the twisting of it, and rendering it upon the quill. 'Tis not a crew of words or sentences poured on us like hail, that benefits the mind, or makes a cord to draw it forth to action, but our considerate observation, and prudent application to our particular use.   

(54)  
And then I saw a broken end is not thrown away, but applied to the Flax, and with gentle handling made an useful thread with the rest. A dissenting brother is often rendered unprofitable, not so much by his own peevishness, as our slighting, who if complyingly dealt with, might in time wind on the same bottom with the rest.   

(55)  
A Wood-pecker by a job of her bill against a Tree, knows by the sound whether it be hollow, and then pierceth an hole through the outward solid part, and lays up its brood in the hollowness. If by the vanity of our discourse Satan discover that our hearts are hollow and empty of good thoughts, he will with temptation soon pierce our best defences, and lay up a brood of vile lusts there.   

(56)  
When wild beasts get into Corn or good Pastures, they are more eyefull and circumspect then at other times, always harkening after the least intimations of danger. When affairs succeed prosperously with us, our cautions should be greatest, for our dangers are. David took more harm upon the roof of the house, then in the Cave.   

(57)  
A parcel of fat sheep are designed by their owner to the slaughter, this to day, that the next, and another the day following, while they rejoice in their ease and full feeding, and neither forethink, nor foreknow the evil hour. How often fareth it thus with the sons of men, who pride it in their enjoyments, and rejoice in their plenty, not considering that God above hath appointed death to seize on them, they know not how soon, nor caring to provide for the day of visitation.   

(58)  
If any danger threaten the Coneys, they send presently to their holes; so the Doves fly to their windows. When troubles are abroad, the Saints security is in their Rock Christ.   

(59)  
The hunting Spaniel beats the fields with much labour and sagacity to find his game, which when he hath found, they spring and flee away, and his sport is to run with an antery after them; and thus, when the day is spent, he comes weary, and faint, and hungry home, for what he hath got all day will not fill one of his teeth at night. thus is it with foolish worldlings, who with much labour and heat of desire, hunt after the things of this world, which when found, flee away, and their delight is in pursuing, not enjoying; and when the day of life is spent in these endeavours, the night of death finds him weary and faint, without one crumb of comfort to refresh a departing soul with.   

(60)  
Milk will pierce through those wooden vessels through which water finds no passage, though seemingly much thinner. Curious and polished discourse, though it may seem more taking, yet penetrates less than that which is plain and more solid.   

(61)  
I had a Spaniel, which having hunted indesatigably after his game, and happily caught eat it not, nor afterward when it was roasted would touch a bone of it. I have seen such covetous worldlings who would not enjoy those goods which with much care and pains they sought to get, but have gone with tattered backs and pinched bellies, not because they had not full, but would have fuller Coffers.   

(62)  
Partridges that have lain fast when the net hath been run over them have escaped the danger, when those which have thought to escape by flying away have flown into the Net, and lost their lives. Those lawful means which God hath afforded and allowed us, would have secured us, when unlawful means which we have thought better, have been our ruin.   

(63)  
The Partridge that hath been once entangled in a Net, and hath escaped, will be sure to flee away if the Net be but shown the second time. Surely, he is more than brutishly unwise, that hath been snared in a temptation, and recovered by repentance, that will not be shy afterwards.   

(64)  
The Spaniel sets at a distance from the Partridges, as if he meant not to meddle with them, nor intended their death or danger, but thereby points them out, and betrays them to destruction. Temptation at the first assault usually speaks us fair, as if it designed not our harm, but if not then resisted or avoided, into how deadly precipices are we hurried by it?   

(65)  
The best Setter if disused from the sport, and hunted like a common Spaniel, though there may remain some principles of his art in him, yet he will soon lose the practice of it, and become like one of them, and it will require no small time and pains to restore him to his former excellency. The most sanctified person if he forbear the exercises of Religion, and engage in the pursuit of the world with the worldly, though the seed of God may remain in him, yet he will find himself much degenerated, and no small ado to restore in him those lost habits of virtue.   

(66)  
The most punctual Setter if not kept straight to his rules, will soon get a trick of running in, or contract some other evil habitsd. 'Twas the Apostles counsel to Christians, to walk accurately, and not without great reason, for if we walk not close by rule, we shall soon grow unruly.   

(67)  
'Tis the Setters excellency to hunt for his game with the highest metal, but when he hath found it, to observe his distance, else he incurs his Master's anger, and lash. In seekking after the things of this world, 'tis Solomon's advice, What thou takest in hand to do, do it with all thy might; Yet when they are obtained, to keep the soul from too near a conjunction by immoderate love, lest God be angry, and thou plagued.   

(68)  
The experienced Setter ranging the fields, takes no notice of the Larks, and other small Birds, that foolish Curs run at; but let him cross upon the scent of Partridges, he points at them presently, and sets down there. The religious soul while he is conversant in this world, though he meet with many fair appearances of pleasure and profit, which worldlings with hue and cry pursue, yet he baulks them as not being for his purpose, but let him cross upon an expedient that conduceth Heavenward, he takes to it presently, as being that which he had in his design.   

(69)  
A Net hath many holes, therefore seems not dangerous, but in that is the cozenage, for there is none passable. Sin seems to present us with many fair hopes of evading, but if once entered in, is like a grated prison whence no coming out till the payment of the utmost farthing.   

(70)  
Close a Woodpecker in her hollow tree with a wedg driven in never so forcibly, yet, if you kill her not, she will make her way through again. If vile and revengeful thoughts get room once in our hearts, unless they be mortified with much contrition and holy sorrow, they will show themselves in sad effects, notwithstanding all the bars that nature or reasn can lay upon them.   

(71)  
I saw a Landscape having Mountains and Trees, and Castles, and Groves, which though particularly expressing that variety in a Landscape requisite, yet those several things were so jointly placed, that together they represented a man's head. God's deal with his people have such various aspects, that they seem nothing less than to promote their benefit, and appear nothing different from the distractions and confusions which befall other men, yet are they by the divine providence so disposed, that according to the Apostle they do cooperate to effect their good.   

(72)  
I road by a field which was very good ground, but yet bear a pitiful crop, not but that the Land was in very good heart, and fit for an ample production, but the husbandman presuming upon its strength, had been wanting to give it that tillage as was requisite. How many by too much confidence have miscarried through presumption of their abilities, engaging in divine affairs with so cold preparation, that they have come off poorly, without that answer upon their spirits, that might have been otherwise expected.   

(73)  
I saw a vessel of water upon the ground, and I observed it spread its self to every part, to the searching of every cranny, and filling of every crevice. The new-birth is said to be by the water and the spirit, the spirit in that birth being as water, not only that it cleanseth the soul, but that it diffuseth itself universally, leaving not any part unsearched, not any lust unmortified, but engaging the soul to cleanse from all filthiness of flesh and spirit, and perfecting holiness in the fear of God.   

(74)  
I had a Lamb whose Dam forsook it assoon as it was yeaned, they brought it home and suckled it upon one of the Cows, which in a few days grew as fond of it, as of her own Calf; the Lamb grew up, and applied herself wholly to the Kine, bleating after them (if at any time she missed them) and by no means associating herself with the sheep, her natural companions. When God made a Covenant with Abraham and his Seed, he gives this as a reason, Because he knew Abraham that he would teach his children, and his household after him to keep the Commandments of the Lord: Good education having so great an influence, that it generally engageth men to a profession, sometimes so introduceth grace, that the time when conversion hath been wrought is not discovered, and we may impute it somewhat to this cause, that we find a series of religious persons in David's family and some others. Good cause to be persuaded that the faith which dwelled in the Grandmother Lais, and Mother Eunice, would be in the son Timothy also, when from a child he had known the holy Scriptures.   

(75)  
The beams of the Sun as they are scattered at large do not much heat, when at the same time contracted in a burning-glasse, they inflame combustible matter fitly placed. The beams of Gospel light as they are diffused in public preaching, much affect not, but if gathered together by recollection, and applied by serious consideration, then is the soul like to take the holy fire of divine grace at them.   

(76)  
I road by a Garden where I saw store of grass growing in the walks, and other plants heaped one upon another in disorder, which had a most ungrateful sight in that place, which yet did not much amiss in the adjoining field. Those that have given their names to God, they are his Garden, and disorderly lusts raging there, are much more provoking the eyes of divine glory then in those who are professedly profane; the man without a wedding garment might have 'scaped, (at least without so severe an Animadversion) if he had not intruded to that nuptial feast.   

(77)  
I had a Clovegilliflower of a very good sort, which being set in a cold ground, and not that care had of it that should have been, the first and second years it bear Cloves, but the third year only single white ones. If the heart be planted with the generous purposes, and the most noble resolutions, yet will there be a forsaking of the first love, and a degenerating into low and carnal compliances; where there is not a constant culturage exercised, and care had to keep up the bent of the soul, and actuate grace, for if the last things be not better than the first, the latter end will be worse than the beginning.   

(78)  
I saw two parcels of  turned into one Close of ground, where at their first meeting they shown their distinction by their separation and hostility, but after they had so entered common for a few days, their opposition ceased, and they mingled one with another, without any difference. There is nothing preserveth Faction, like Separation; a community in privileges and preferments, dissolves those distinctions and animosities which would have been still kept a foot by a divers aspect. The Pope in that great defection from him, renewed in the days of Queen Elizabeth, when he saw there was no likelihood of a present return, yet kept his faction on foot, by that Bull forbidding them any community with the Protestants in worship, whereby that party was kept visible and entire, which otherwise would have mouldered away, and have been swallowed up of that which was more prevalent, and they were preserved as Recusants, that would have been lost as Papists.   

(79)  
A Landscape having the particulars so disposed of, as that together they represented a man's head; being showed to many, none apprehended it other than a Landscape (as it seemed to be) but being told that it was a man's head, and seeing the reason of the representation, and their fancy possessed with it, they could not apprehend it as any other. When men unacquainted with the mystery of Godliness, are conversant in the external worship of God, they are intent only upon the opus operatum, and are taken up merely with the outward performance; but when the vail is taken off their hearts, they then perceive there is a further design, ordinances being so disposed by the divine grace, that the result of them may be the inward man, and the dedication of the affections of the heart to God.   

(80)  
Being engaged in a long and difficult employment, and considering how much was yet to do, I grew faint, and half resolved to desert it, but looking back and finding how many leaves were dispatched, I took courage, and resolved not to end, till I had ended. In my progress heavenward, when I look forward and view those Legions of lusts from within to be fought with, beside those oppositions from without which emerg daily, and the many difficulties which on every side make that way straight, I am even at a stand; but when I turn mine eyes, and behold how much the grace of God hath already conquered, I resolve through divine assistance not to sit down till there be not a Canaanite left, for though the difficulties are many and great, yet ipso opere poscitur animus, and every fight leaves me stronger and more expert.    

SCRIPTURE Observations.  

(1)  
IT is recorded of Solomon, that he was seven years a building of the Temple, but thirteen years in building his own house, (1 Kings 6. ult.) not that he bestowed more cost or curiosity upon his own, but he had more industry and expedition in that of God. 'Tis a Proverb with us, of that which goes slowly on, that it is Church work; men act carelessly and coldly in things that concern the interest of God, but are active and affectionate in their own affairs; The zeal of thy House haeth eaten me up, was the speech of him whose heart mis-gave him in that he dwelled in an house of Cedars, and the Ark of God under Curtains.   

(2)  
When Pharaoh sought to slay Moses upon the slaughter of the Egyptian, Exod: 2.15. We read that Moses fled from the face of Pharaoh, and dwelled in the Land of Midian; and yet Heb: 11.27. it's said, By faith he left Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the King. Though Moses' flying out of Egypt was an act of present necessity, yet it was an act of former election, he had made choice to suffer affliction with God's people, before ever he slew the Egyptian; so that though Pharoahs' wrath was the proximate cause, yet it was not the remote and more principal one, but his faith in closing with God's interest, to which therefore his leaving of Egypt is worthily attributed. How differently doth God deal with us, to what men use to do? in our eminentest acts of kindness for them, if there be any probability of an imputation that we aim at our own interest, the thanks is wholly lost, & we are reckoned not as their friends, but our own: But God hath very much of charity for us, and reckons those things done only upon the account of his glory, wherein yet we had much of respect to our own safety.   

(3)  
We read 2 Sam: 13. ult. That David was comforted concerning Amnon, seeing he was dead, when as the reason why he mourned for his son every day, was because he was dead; a Paradox indeed: but that the divine providence hath so ordered it, that as our joys are allayed with their griefs, so our griefs are counterpoised with their comforts, our very poisons having their Antidotes, and the sting of Scorpions never so readily and so surely cured as with the oil of Scorpions. David ceaseth to lament Amnon being dead, because being dead he was past recovery; this very thing bringing ease to our sorrows that they cannot be eased.   

(4)  
We find John Baptist with most apparent evidence pointing out Jesus to be the Christ, (John 1.29.) yet afterwards sends his Disciples to him with this doubtful question, Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another? (Matth: 11.13.) Though Jesus had given by his many miracles greater evidence that he was the Messiah, adding the witness of his works to the divine revelation, yet John's faith is weaker. With what favourable allowances must even the excellencies of the people of God be laid in the balances? this very man set apart by God to bear witness to Christ, and doing that office of preparing the way of the Lord so fully, and with so much integrity, is here found pitifully halting; what great reason is there that our obedience should be sincere, for it is never full, and that our hearts should be upright, for they are never perfect. But what abatement was this to John's testimony? could the people rely on his witness who himself questioned it? but saith our Saviour, I have greater witness than that of John. God never lays the stress of his designs upon men's shoulders, so as that they should miscarry through their frailty, he ever takes care to secure the issue of his own purposes though instruments show themselves to be men and not God.   

(5)  
When Joseph brought his father before Pharaoh, the Text saith, (Gen: 47.7.) That Jacob blessed Pharaoh. Yet the Apostle saith, Heb: 7.7. That without controversy the less is blessed of the better. Better in that place is taken for the more honourable; yet Pharaoh was the King of a potent Realm, Jacob the Head of no great Family; though Pharaoh was more honourable with men, yet Jacob was more honourable with God; his interest was greater in Heaven, often reckoned as one of the first three Worthies in that Court. As to the business of blessing, greatness can be content goodness should take place. A wicked King of Israel can call Elisha Father, and style him The Chariots of Israel, and the Horsemen thereof. Goodness makes itself honourable, even among those that hate it, and such as dislike the practice of it, yet like well the blessings that come by it.   

(6)  
When Abraham was to offer up Isaac, He bond him, and laid him upon the Altar. (Gen. 22.9.) We read not of any reluctancy in Isaac, yet to make sure work he is bound. Abraham knew not how flesh & blood might strive at the very pinch, and disturb the service. 'Tis good to be sure, and not to allow that any Latitude, which is sometimes refractory, always weak; it's an happy providence that prevents the hazard of a shameful retreat, by taking away the means of flight. Though Ridley came with all willingness to the stake, yet he said to the Smith that fastened the Chain about him, Good fellow, knock it in fast, for the flesh will have its course. The good man knew how much ado he had to persuade it to that encounter, and he knew not how it might start at the push.   

(7)  
When Peter had an express command from the Lord to follow him, yet he asketh, And what shall this man do? (John 21.21.) When there is no show for us to dispute God's Commands, and argue about our duty, instead of doing it, than we needlessly interpose in the concernments of others, and mind their business, not our own, making a stand in our way to Heaven, and delay our following Christ, while we turn about to look on others and are unconcernedly inquisitive after their affairs.   

(8)  
We have some expressions in Scripture wherein we may suppose an hyperbole, as that of the lefthanded Benjamites slinging stones to an hairs breadth; some wherein an hyperbole is manifest, as John ult. ult. But doth God that cannot lie allow himself a Latitude to speak beside the truth? or doth he comply with the exorbitant modes of men? neither; but God speaking to men, speaks after the manner of men; who because they cannot just hit the white, and describe the thing exactly, do when the thing is eminent, rather shoot beyond it, then beneath it, allowing the hearer to make such abatement as the necessity of the thing requireth, sometimes as the conveniency; as in those (we may call them complemental) expressions; 1 Sam: 24.14. As when David calls himself A Dog, a Flea. Abigail will be a servant to wash the feet of the servants of David, vers. 25.41. Ziba may take all, seeing the King was come again in peace.   

(9)  
When I read the condition of the oath which the Spies made to Rahab, (Joshua 2.19.) that they would be quit of their oath, if at the taking of Jericho that Scarlet thread were not tied in the window. I thought the tying of it there, would be let alone till Jericho were besieged, especially to avoid suspicion, that the Spies were conveyed that way; but the first thing I read of after the Spies departure, is The binding of the Scarlet thrend in the window: She thought that Cord whereon her life hanged, could not be hanged out too soon, might have been too late. Oh the irrationality of a late repentance! Must the body be besieged with sickness before that work be done upon which eternal life dependeth? How often is it that that is never done, because we think to do it late; and what we intent to do anon, we therefore do never? And surely that work is fittest to be done to day, concerning which it is so unsafe to boast of to morrow?   

(10)  
When the brethren of Joseph met with trouble in Egypt, they said one to another, (Gen: 42.21.) We are verily guilty concerning our brother. There were many years had passed since they had sold him, and we hear not any thing of it till now, and yet we find no prompter but their own consciences. There is this advantage by affliction, that it gives the soul a stand, and makes it look about it, begets that observation which before it had not; those threshing instruments discover that chaff before not seen; and when we are emptied from vessel to vessel, we see those Lees not till then apprehended; Art thou come to call my sin to remembrance, and slay my son? (saith that woman) Not to call her sin into God's remembrance, that it might be punished with the death of her son, as by the death of her son to call her sin into her remembrance; what it was appears not, probably the unlawful generation of that son forgotten long since, & put in the wallet behind, but exposed to view upon this occasion.   

(11)  
When I read jacob's dream, and his words upon it, (Gen: 28.17.) I wondered at the coherence between them; the dream representing nothing but mercy, words of grace, promises of benefaction in the most abundant manner; and yet when he awakes, he cries, How dreadful is this place? who would not have expected other inference from such words as those? But God's countenance though clear with smiles, yet strikes awe in the beholder; the evidences of God's love are so far from begetting presumption, that they leave the soul in an holy trembling, and fear to offend. When God gives into the soul the Charter of its spiritual privileges, and richly jades it with the freight of divine promises, then is it most sensible of its distance, and ballasted with the apprehension of its own unworthiness: When God makes Abraham of his counsel, and tells him what he would do, then cries Abraham, That he is but dust and ashes.   

(12)  
When Lot parted from Abraham, and had his choice given him, whither he would go, he chooseth the plain of Jordan, having respect to the fruitfulness of the place, and its being watered every where, but without consideration of the wickedness of the inhabitants, which yet the Spirit of God intimates should have been thought of, for 'tis immediately added, (Gen: 13.13.) But the men of Sodom were sinners before the Lord exceedingly. But how ill this carnal project succeeded, besides the grieving his righteous soul from day to day, with the unrighteous conversation of the wicked, being carried captive by the Kings, and after despoiled of all his substance in the ruin of Sodom. It being just with God, that when we prise the wealth of this world, before that of a better, and the health of the body, before that of the soul, so to dispose of it, that we fail of our design, and that proves to our loss in that very way wherein we intended it for our gain.   

(13)  
A Promise being made to Abraham of a son, we read (Gen. 17.17.) He fell upon his face and laughed, saying, Shall a child be born unto him that is an hundred years old? and shall Sarah that is ninety years old bear? The like promise being made to Sarah, we read (Gen: 18.12.) she laughed too, saying, After I am waxed old shall I have pleasure? my Lord being old also. Surely, there appears no such difference, either in the words or laughter, as there was in God's sense of it, for Sarah is reproved, Abraham applauded. What odds doth the heart make in humane actions, God discerning a vast difference in the very same works; those services which are performed by heartless Formalists, having a rank favour in God's nostrils, the same services acted by a truly religious Votary, being a most acceptable Spectacle in the eyes of divine glory.   

(14)  
I observe a strange ambition in Sarah and Rachel, that rather than they would be wholly childless, they would have them by their maids, and that which 'tis like they would have stormed at upon another account, yet they themselves upon the score of satisfying their fancies, are the Authors of; and if their husbands get children to be born upon their knees, it shall qualify the apprehensions of their own Sterility. Lord, I am sensible of my barrenness, that I have been to thee very fruitless; the immortal seed of thy Word, how often hath it been cast upon my heart without any productions? but let my desire to fructify be such, that I may endeavour others may bear upon my knees, that that seed through my means may be diffused to others also.   

(15)  
We are told Heb: 9.4. That in the Ark there was the pot of Manna, Aaron's rod that budded, and the Tables of the Covenant. Yet (1 Kings 8.9.) 'tis said, There was nothing in the Ark but the Tables of the Covenant. When I observed the diversity of those Texts, I thought (and I suppose truly) that the Relative 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 had for its Correlative 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 not 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, so that the pot of Manna, and Aaron's rod, are noted as the Contents of the Holiest of Holyes, not of the Ark, to which agree that Scripture, Exod: 16.33. where there is mention made of laying them before the Testimony, not in the Ark, that being reserved as a peculiar Bibliotheca for the Tables of the Law, there being by divine appointment, a more solemn and peculiar custody allotted to them, then to any thing else in the world beside, not only to keep them for observation, as to preserve them from violence, neither abstraction nor addition being allowed there, but exact and punctual compliance; the most prudential consultations of humane reason always meeting with unhappy success. saul's providence in preserving the best of the spoils of Amaleck for sacrifice, because beside the rule, find a curse instead of acceptance, and is told, Obedience is better than the fat of Rams.   

(16)  
When God sent Gideon to deliver Israel, (Judg. 6.12.) he bespeaks him, The Lord is with thee, Thou mighty man of valour. What needed there mention of gideon's valour, when the weapons of that warfare were to be spiritual, rather than carnal, a strong faith rather than a strong arm; to blow with the Trumpets, and cry, The sword of the Lord, and of Gideon, required rather good Lungs, than a valorous heart; besides 'twas God's purpose to glorify himself immediately in this delivery, therefore chose the three hundred that lapped, rather than the other thousands, so that the veriest Coward had been rather for Gods turn, than a man of courage. But though the work was the Lords, the enterprise was daring, and required a well fortified mind to undertake it; the exposing of three hundred in such a posture to an army that covered the earth like Grasshoppers, could not but stagger him who desired a sign that God would save Israel by his hand, when he had thirty two thousand men following him; therefore the Lord thus be speaks him, questionably whether Indicatively or Imparatively, to show him so, or make him so, or at least more so, therefore the Commission is, Go in this thy might, or thus, Wade mighty; but however if Gideon were high in valour, he was low in humility, though cried up by the testimony of an Angel, and so hard a matter to be a good Soldier, and not a Braggart too, yet not a word of his boasting through the whole story. God can well allow us our portion, when thereby we intrude not on his interest.   

(17)  
In the 2 Same 13.5. we find Jonadab of counsel to Amnon in the ravishment of his sister Tamar, and in the 32. verse either of counsel or conscious to his murder; we read him indeed advising in the execution of the wickedness, but not admonishing of the punishment. Those Decoys are frequent, who cog us into danger, but there leave us. I have read of an evil spirit that was wont to entice men into mischief, and then make himself sport with their troubles; 'tis the Devil's play to laugh at those miseries, whereinto those things brought us to which he advised us.   

(18)  
A charge is given by David to Ziba to till the Land for Mephibosheth, and to bring him the fruits, that his master's son might have food to eat; and yet at the same time there is a promise made, That he should eat bread continually at the King's Table. Surely david's provision was not so short, as that there needed a supply from Ziba; there might have been mention made of Rent to his Coffers, but it seems impertinent to provide food to eat, where to talk of a supply had been a disparagement: But Mephibosheth had a son, and 'tis probable store of Attendants, and for these is the food intended, reckoned as his, because for his Dependants; besides, under the name of food other necessaries are understood, though less necessary; as bread, promised to Mephibosheth at David's Table, because the staff of man's life, and therefore principally mentioned, though only so, excludes not the other delicacies which at the King's Table were to be had. When we pray to God for our daily bread, we intent also the other conveniencies of life, and that for us and ours; and when God promiseth to give us food, so that we need not take thought what we shall cat, yet than he intends we should be provident for our own diet: David's court sie must be accompanied with Ziba's industry.   

(19)  
In the History of the Kings of Israel, the Scripture refers us to the Books of Nathan, Gad, Jasher, and others; if these books were not 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, as 'tis probable they were not, yet being thus referred to, they were of Divine Authority, though not a priore, by Divine Inspiration, yet a posteriore, by Divine approbation, and like Leather money, though no silver, was yet currant being stamped; even those words of the Heathen Poet, being quoted by the Spirit, are (being so) of like Authority; but why are we referred to them for our confirmation or information? Indeed God to establish our weakness, repeats his Command that we be strengthened, Be strong, yea, be strong; we have the same things reiterated: God thinks not much to shoot two Arrows out of his Quiver, to strike the mark dead, that like a Partridge killed by a Merlin, it may not so much as quiver a wing, though the first did mortally would it. By two immutable things whereby it was impossible for God to lie, could God have lied, had there been only a single asseveration; and did that impossibility arise from the Duplication? surely not to God who cannot deny himself, and changeth not, but as to us, in condescension to whose weakness God makes that Bond double, which before was so strong that Heaven and Earth should be dissolved first; but why are these books then lost? Even miracles that swaddled the infant-truths of the Gospel were left off, when by time they had gathered strength to stand alone; yea, God expects we should not be always Babes, and therefore reckons upon the time, whereas for the time, ye ought: I have many things to say unto you, but you cannot bear them now; which yet were said when they could bear them; all things are not fit for all times; those Books might be meet for the present Generations, that were not so for those that followed. John points with the finger, Behold the Lamb of God that takes away the sins of the world; yet the Disciples are charged To tell no man that he was the Christ. Besides, as God will sometimes help our weakness, so at other times try our faith: Hence that universal silence, or perversion in profane story, of what the Divine makes mention; how short a touch doth Josephus give of the Lord Christ, who yet copiously handleth things (even to common judgement) far less memorable; yet of those Books that were written and lost, or Traditions, hath God taken care to insert so much in the Scriptures as was pertinent for his Church; for which cause those words of Enoch are recited by Judas, whereas what was written or said by him besides, is perished.   

(20)  
Though God be often attested to be no respecter of persons, yet we find him dealing differently with divers persons in divers cases. Gideon requires a sign more than once, and is favourably complied with; Zachary doth so but once, and hath his own dumbness given him for an evidence; But 'tis no wonder, if God who knows the thoughts, deal diversely to our thoughts. gideon's faith like a child newly come to its feet, desires that it may be upheld by a sign, and pity it should not be led, that was willing to go. Zachary stands at a gaze, and seems not so much to desire confirmation, as to dispute the possibility of the thing from the improbability, arguing that such a thing would not be, because naturally it could not be, withal tacitly suspecting the Messenger; therefore the Angel tells his name, and gives a sign, not only to confirm the truth, but chastise his unbelief: They were good men both, and well beloved, but their different tempers required a different dispensation. God is not partial though he use variety of threshing instruments, for the good corn in all is not discovered otherwise; the wheel must be turned over some, when the rod will suffice for another.   

(21)  
We read Gen: 3. ult. that when Adam was expulsed Paradise, That was a flaming sword turning this way and that way to preserve the Tree of Life. 'Tis to be wondered at, that that place then should need a Guard to defend it, which now needs a finger to point at it, the judgements of learned men varying about nothing more, than the scite of it; no peculiar Tree, no particular beauty, distinguishing that Garden, nor yet those Rivers issuing thence, so punctually described, giving other than a guess at it. Did that Garden which Adam in innocency was to Till, afterwards when the ground was cursed, degenerate with the rest, and more hastily into a wilderness? and as Corruptio opes-morum est pessima; So here it should be Citissima too; like Apostates that grow worse, more and more speedily, than other wicked ones. But well might it be, that that Guard should be remitted; for though Adam at his first removal from Paradise, might have desires of returning, the present sense of so great a loss being then upon him, yet this sense every day abated, as the strength of sin got ground and prevailed; so than that was at first desired, was afterwards less, & at last forgotten; besides, habits of sin gathered strength daily, and were confirmed by repeated acts, and that depravation of nature whereinto Adam's fall brought minkind, was more and more enhanced, and by custom in sin man was daily farther debauched, so that as God's judgements increased continually, so the means of like were farther removed, and man's thoughts for it, and possibility to attain it, every day decayed.   

(22)  
After the death of Jacob, when the sons of Israel feared Joseph would remember against them what they had done to him, they make this their plea, Forgive the trespass of the servants of the God of thy father. There is no greater argument to prevail for a mutual compliance, than unity of Religion; for what should keep those at a distance, that are joined together by that straitest obligation, that are one in that most superlative one thing?   

(23)  
When the mother of James and John requested the Lord, (Mat: 20.21.) That her sons might sit, one on the right hand, the other on the left; our Lord replies to them (as it seems at the first view) quite besides the purpose, ask them a question little pertinent to that they treated him about; for what appertained their drinking of the cup he should drink of, & being baptised with the same baptism, to the sitting at his right hand and left, in his Kingdom? but if we consider it, it will appear very much, for these young men were solicitous about what was to be had, not what was to be done; their eyes were upon the end, more than the way; the reward, than the work; thought more of reaping, than sowing, yea, before they had sown; therefore our Lord remembers them of the Teary seedtime, puts them in mind of the bitter cup and baptism, wherein the deep waters should go over their soul; 'twas time to tell them of the Stony, Thorny Rode, that talked of setting down, before they had well set out. What store of Suitors would Heaven have, if there were no more to do, but go in and possess the Land, if there were never an Anakim to be fought with first; beside, the way to glory is through the place of a skull: Christ must suffer these things, and enter into his glory, to the Throne over the Thorn; If we suffer with him, we shall be glorified together; they that are before the Throne of God are such as came out of great tribulation, and have washed their Robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.   

(24)  
I find no sort of men more frequent than the Pharisees in their disputes with Christ, of none fewer that believed; we find these captious hearers, curious questionists, censorious observators, but have any of the Pharisees believed on him? these had Cats eyes that saw best in the dark, knowing men in the impertinencies of the Traditions of the Elders, and therefore witty to dispute against the truth; no men farther removed from conversion, than the carnally wise, and superstiriously religious. But beside, to talk of Religion seems to be the business of these men, they ask what is the great Commandment in the Law, rather than take care to do it; Religion should have its rice in the head, and flow thence to the heart; but when 'tis a standing Pool there, when men are ricketty, great heads but unproportionable hearts, are all for disputation, nothing for observation: like those who study the Philosopher's stone, while they would be rationally rich, they become really poor.   

(25)  
The Apostle Peter puts a strange question. (1 Pet. 3.13.) Who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good? Who will? Nay, Who will not? What a Cloud of sufferers upon that very account might be here called in to confute the Apostle; nay Paul might be set against Peter, he says, (2 Tim. 3.12.) All that will live Godly in this life must suffer tribulation; yea, Peter against himself, (1 Pet: 2.19.) where he speaks of a man for conscience toward God enduring grief, suffering wrongfully; but the Apostle speaks de jure, not the facto, and verily innocency is not a little consolation to the sufferer; a good conscience carrying always Balm along with it to anoint the stripes, and Sugar to sweeten the bitter Cup, that tyranny or cruelty may enforce upon us; beside, the confidence (uprightness having holdness) makes the forehead as an iron wall, serenes the front, so that it retorts the shame, brings the oil of gladness instead of the confusion of face, which clouds the guilty: An huge satisfaction too ariseth from the reflex act of the soul, when it looks into its self, and finds fair weather there, whereas guilt hath an ugly hue, and terrible look, and always brings terror and affrights with it.   

(26)  
When the Herodians came to Christ with design to betray him, though the Lord had power to have avoided their cruelty, as he did that of the Jews, yet he chooseth rather by a prudent reply to evade their Trap; Caesar's image upon their Coin being an argument either of his right or power, so that they must pay Tribute out of justice or necessity, yet with such a limitation as would surely keep them within bounds, reserving to God his due, that that Sovereign Lord be not deprived of his right, while the petty ones be complied with. Our Saviour would not run himself into the Lion's jaws, when he might go out of his way with a good conscience: Religion doth not entangle a man in unnecessary and impertinent snares; God allows we should stand aside when the immediate concernments of his glory do not call us out; precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his Saints, and therefore to be exposed, but upon a very eminent account, not squandered away: Those that would not accept deliverance, did so, not because they were prodigal of their lives, but could not have equal conditions; for the simplicity of the Gospel, and Dovelike innocency, may well shake hands with the Serpentine prudence, and an honest policy.   

(27)  
When our Saviour sent out the seventy Disciples to preach, he charged them not to go from house to house, Luke 10.7. yet Paul herein witnesseth his integrity to the Elders of the Church of Ephesus, that he had taught them publicly, and from house to house, (Acts 20.20.) Paul's practice did not clash with the Lords precept; our Lord forbids such a going from house to house, as was upon the account, not of teaching, but of entertainment. He would not that his servants should (like beggars) go from door to door; low and unworthy way for livelihood, agree not with the profession of those whose maintenance is called double honour; They are sent out without a scrip, yet must make no base shift for their provision; but observe a comely gravity in the same house, remain eating and drinking such things as they give, not by an unhandsome crouching to beg that hire, which a true labourer may challenge as his due.   

(28)  
In the charge which Paul gives Timothy, to bring the things he left at Troas, he takes especial care for his Books and Parchments. The chiefest furniture of a Minister is his Library, and that which men reckon much as his commendation, that he is a good Scholar, there being nothing more contemptible than a dull headed illiterate Preacher; but here's the mischief of it, that while they require Brick of us, they give us no Straw, their maintenance being such, that if it hold out to buy a Cloak, there is nothing left for Books and Parchments.   

(29)  
When our Lord was invited to the Pharisees house, he sets down with unwashen hands, (Luke 11.38.) 'twas not unknown to him what was the Tradition of the Elders, or the Pharisees judgement in that respect, neither may we think him uncomplying with such things of decency and cleanliness, as humanity required; and though he might with a good conscience, and would 'tis probable have washed afore dinner, yet we see him therefore refusing it, because they would make that necessary which was indifferent. The very Esse of external worship being divine appointment; while men go about to make that Religious which God left as indifferent, they actually destroy what they intent to establish; for which cause the Lord doth not only reprove such injunctions of theirs as were contrary to God's Law, but such as were beside it, arguing hereby that they worshipped God in vain, because they taught for Doctrine the Commandments of men; and this very thing emphatically sets a Character upon Jeroboams time, appointed by him for worship, that it was the month which he had devised of his own heart.   

(30)  
He that should have read that prophecy in Hosea, (Hos. 12.1.) would little have thought of such an interpretation as the Spirit giveth; for who would have imagined that those words, Out of Egypt have I called my son, should foretell joseph's bringing up Jesus out of Egypt. 'Tis hard to deduce certain conclusions from passages merely prophetical, and as dangerous to engage in things of practice, only upon the conduct of such light as those places afford, they being intended rather for confirmation than narration: for which cause we find those predictions of our Saviour concerning his sufferings and resurrection; hid from the Apostles; but after they were effected, than they remembered that he had said these things unto them, and they believed the Scriptures, and the word which Jesus had spoken.   

(31)  
When I heard Herod's promise and oath to the daughter of Herodias, That he would give her what soever she should ask, to the half of his Kingdom, (Mark 6.22.) I expected she should have come in and requested some lusty boon, a Duchy at the least, but behold she desires John Baptists head in a Charger; there could be no such satisfaction in the Heremites' head, that the impotent soul should thus desire it, if malice had not set so great a price upon it: But whither will not the spirit of revenge transport us? the good man had reproved an incestuous marriage, and no less than his head must pay for it, though purchased at so dear a rate, as half a Kingdom; but it seldom is, that the purchases revenge maketh, are not like Copyhold Land, paid for twice, as this woman in a short time after dearly found; for what the Prophet reproved, Caesar disallows and punisheth.   

(32)  
When Mary Magdalen stood weeping at the Sepulchre, she turns about and seethe Jesus, but knew him not, Joh. 20.14. It doth not appear that the body of Jesus was changed after his resurrection, as to what it might be known from another by; for he shows Thomas the print of his nails, and 'tis said of the Disciples travelling to Emaus, That their eyes were withholden that they should not know him, implying that otherwise they would; but we find no such cause here, yet she mistakes him for the Gardener. The good woman was intent upon her sorrow, and was suprized with so sudden and unexpected a discovery: It is most dark at day break, and God's way of revealing himself is usually by contraries, as Abraham believed in hope, against hope; God steps in with such unlooked for mercies, that his people doth not believe their own enjoyments; Psal. 126.1. When God turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like those that dream, Thought they dreamt, not crediting that deliverance real, but imaginary; when we think comforts are farthest off, 'tis but turn about, and they are before us, for God delighteth that his mighty arm be made apparent, and then to save when his people have no power, and there is none shut up nor left.   

(33)  
Our Lord says to Mary (John 20.15.) Woman why weepest thou? whom seekest thou? and yet she knows him not; but when he says Mary, she cries Rabboni; when he bespeaks her with the general name of Woman, he is undiscovered to her, but when by the peculiar name of Mary, he is owned by her as Master; So great a difference there is between general and particular calling; how many have unprofitably heard Christ speaking to them in is word, till he hath called them by name, and that word by a particular application hath been laid upon their hearts? Yea, what odds is there between public preaching, and particular speaking? how many have received more instruction and edification by one hours private discourse, than by multiplied hours spent in public Sermons; and much were it to be wished, that there were care had, as to teach publicly, so also from house to house.   

(34)  
When the man asketh our Lord whether there were many that should be saved, Luke 13.23. instead of answering his curiosity he replieth by a profitable admonition; he diverteth his thoughts from the useless speculation of an abstracted general, into the useful consideration of his particular interest, that instead of knowing the number of those that should be saved, he should strive to be one of the number; well were it, if those little-edifying questions between Calvin and Arminius about Calling and Election, were converted into serious endeavours to make our calling and election sure, and there were more care to advance Christ's Kingdom in our hearts, then to dispute when and where his personal Reign shall be upon the earth.   

(35)  
If that controversy had been proposed to one of our Rabbis, which the woman of Samaria did to Jesus, (John 4.10.) Whether Mount Gerizim, or Jerusalem, were the place where men ought to worship, they would have told you a story out of antiquity, wherein possibly they would have reached no higher than the age after Sanballat, and so have missed of the true stream, by not ascending to the true Primitive fountain; but our Lord reduceth this controversy about worship to the proper consideration of the true object of worship, not disputing how, or where, or when, but what was to be worshipped, and directing the mind to such worship as was suitable, (and therefore likely to be acceptable) viz: spiritual, like the Spirit we worship; and therefore we shall find God calling men off from Ceremony, as he hath called them on to further discovery; as he revealed himself more clearly in Gospel light, so the shadows fled away, and Ceremonies were reduced to be much more simple in furniture, and fewer in number.   

(36)  
The Apostle James lays a necessity upon us to make our faith public by good works, (James 2. ult.) saying, Faith without works is dead; yet the Apostle Paul enjoins us to keep our faith private, saying, Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God, Rom: 14. 22. Not that the Apostle Paul ho had so manifoldly evinced the excellency of faith, and its efficacy to justification, was unwilling it should be manifested by its fruits, or were not as much for good works as the other, but the difference between them is in the different faith spoken of; St James speaking of that general faith, St Paul of a particular; the object of the first being all Gods will revealed; the object of the latter being something concerning which Gods will hath not been particularly revealed; the first is that for which there must be a contending by the Saints; but not contending for the latter, no imposing of that upon others, no censuring, no judging for not observance; to be zealous in the first is faithfulness, in the latter is factionsness; of that there must be a public profession, of this such a private observation as may agree with the generals we allow, and with our particular persuasion; no dissolving of the golden Chain of Christian Charity for any difference of judgement in this, wherein a thing and its contrary, eating and not eating, a day and not a day, may be alike laudably observed.   

(37)  
We find the reason why God brought variety of judgements upon the Jews, till he had removed them out of his sight, and destroyed their City by Nabuchadnezzar, to be the sins of Manasseh, and the innocent blood which he shed, which the Lord would not pardon 2 Kings 24.3, 4. yet we read those sins were pardoned to Manesseh, upon his faith and repentance; and the present judgement under which he suffered, removed; yea Manasseh departed this life long before the destruction of Jerusalem, so that the calamities then suffered, little pertained unto him, whom the grave had secured against such after-claps; but though Manasseh were dead, and his iniquities forgiven to him, yet his posterity did approve his do: That reformation begun by himself, and carried on to much perfection by his son Josiah, was quickly interrupted by the wicked posterity that followed, they by their assent subscribed to the long Beadroll of those sins which the Father had disclaimed, and added a new score of their own iniquities; therefore it was just with God to reckon to them, and make them pay that account which they themselves had approved; and this is the way whereby a wicked generation may entail themselves heirs to the iniquities, and consequently to the plagues of all precedent ages; thus all the blood from that of righteous Abel, to that of Zacharias the son of Barachias, is reckoned to the unbelieving Jews, and therefore wrath brought upon them to the uttermost: Wherefore no wonder if we see estates gotten by bribery, or oppression, melting away like the untimely fruit of a woman, while the succeeding heirs instead of making due restitution, justify the rapines of their progenitors, and spend that by riot and prodigality which they got by extortion and cruelty.   

(38)  
When our Lord commanded the Legion out of the possessed that haunted the Tombs, (Mark 5.10.) we read That he besought him much, that he would not send them out of the Country; I began to think why the Devils should desire to abide in those parts, but I found the people of the place came to Christ, and desired him to departed out of their Country; no wonder the Devils desire there to abide, where the people pray the Lord to be gone; 'tis a sweet content to the Devils to have their Mansion there, where the inhabitants love their Hogs more than their souls, and give Christ not so much entertainment as they would do a Swineherd. 'Tis like these were Countrey-farmers', who knew no more Religion than a Collect for rain and fair weather in its season. God hath promised his presence where two or three are gathered together about the affairs of his worship, and the Lord saith, His Father and He will come and sup, and make their abode with him who loveth him & keepeth his Commandments; so contrarily, the Devils delight to possess those houses from whence all acts of Religion are banished, and God is not named, unless, as by the damned in hell, that he may be blasphemed.  
But whereas one Evangelist says, not out of the Country, another says not into the deep; though verily, there be not much difference between Hell and some houses, as to the sins and blasphemies committed there, yet is there odds to the torments. Hell is God's house of Correction, from whence those spirits are sometimes sent to be the Executioners of God's displeasure, and it is their terror to be remitted thither, therefore we hear them crying out to our Lord, Not to torment them, not to send them into the place of torment. Till the consummation there is use of the Ministry of those evil Angels, and till then (I think 'tis probable) their sufferings are not always alike grievous, nor yet their sins till then at the highest; for though their executions be according to command, yet their malice in the execution increaseth their transgression; and though they are now reserved in everlasting Chains under darkness, yet it is to the judgement of the last day, when that everlasting fire prepared for the Devil and his Angels, shall be ready for them.   

(39)  
The Disciples might well marvel at that question of our Saviour, (Matth. 9.20.) when he asketh, Who touched me? The people pressed upon him, and thronged him, and he might rather ask, Who touched him not? than who did? Alas, those many thronged without consideration, without design; and as they pressed without any purpose, so to no purpose; as without intention to be benefited, so without benefit; but the touching of Christ was a plot of the woman's, a project to be healed, an act directed to that end; for which cause the Scripture reports her healing not as casual, but the result of her design, and therefore records the discourse which she had with her own heart about it; such touching of Christ, had power to extract virtue from him, and attract it, to bring it out from him, and bring it in to her, whereas the other left him as it found him, no diffusing of efficacy to those, who were not prepared by any thought for it; so great a difference is there between doing what we mind, and not minding what we do; the means of grace are seldom applied to with design, and desire of benefit, that men are dismissed altogether without what they came for; but never marvel if those are sent away without any spiritual profit, that came without any other design then to see and be seen.   

(40)  
When our Lord in the storm is awaked by his Disciples, (Mark 4.38.) they propose such a question as doth tacitly charge him with a neglect of their lives, Master, carest thou not that we perish? I expected rather they would have minded him of his own danger, than have complained that he minded not theirs: for his jeopardy was greater being asleep, and at least the same, being embarked with them in the same bottom. But thus it often is with the servants of God in their distresses, that they are apt to charge God foolishly, and say of their sufferings as the wicked of their sins, The Lord doth not see, neither doth the holy One of Israel regard; when as in all their afflictions, he is afflicted, and their griefs are his: He hath entwisted their good with his interest, and he that toucheth them, toucheth the Apple of his eye; then will the Lord be wanting to secure his own cause, when he is careless whether those perish who uprightly serve him.   

(41)  
When I read of the simplicity of John the Baptist, I admire to hear that Herod feared him, such a simple Fellow in such mean array, with a Leather Girdle, and Raiment of Camel's hair, poorly clad, and meanly fed, to be a terror to so great a Potentate; if he had been in his Pontificalibus, with his Cross-Keyes and Triple-Crown, and the Thunderbolt of Excommunication in his hand, he might have scared a Prince; but saith the Text, He knew him to be a just man, and an holy. What an honourable impression doth holiness fix upon the foreheads of the righteous? what an awe it begets in the greatest, in the vilest; even the very Rabshakehs while they scoff, they tremble. That Image of God to which the Lion crouched, when Adam was in innocency, and the fierce Tiger did his homage, where 'tis renewed it makes the meanest honourable, and brings to remembrance that God, to whom the proudest must give up their accounts.   

(42)  
John in the Revelation declareth his error in worshipping the Angel that shown unto him those things, (Rev: 19.10.) We find him an impartial reporter against himself, so great a fault set down without any the least extenuation, not so much as a mistake pleaded; the Angel indeed in his answer seems to imply, that John thought him other than one of his fellow-servants, but John himself calls him one of the seven Angels with the vials. So free are the servants of God to take shame to themselves, while others ransack far and near to find out excuses to palliate their crimes, or post them to others, (as Saul chargeth his sparing the spoils of Amaleck upon the people, whose voice he obeyed) they are full and open in their confessions, and ready to take that blame from which all would acquit them, besides themselves; they cry like David, Lord, I have sinned, and I have done wickedly, but these sheep, what have they done? But which is yet more, we find John not long after faulty upon the very same account, (Rev: 22.8.) and it seems very probable if you compare Cap. 19 vers. 10. with Cap. 21. vers. 9 to the very same Angel; he that had so clearly before discovered himself to be a fellow-servant, and so seriously admonished him not to do it, and so fairly directed him to the proper object of worship; surely, there is something in it, that so holy a person as John, so informed before hand, and at the time of such divine Revelations, should be set forth to us, thus the second time failing; but verily God foresaw what great idolatry there would be committed in the world by the worshipping of Saints, and therefore by this action of John's either fore-shewed it, or presented a Caution against it; a Caution indeed, for how great an argument is it, That Saints are not to be worshipped, seeing they are but fellow-servants? for can that Sovereign Lord endure that servants should be made his fellows, or that fellow-servants should have such worship from their equals, if not in present, yet at least in future enjoyments?   

(43)  
The Apostle Paul in that his reasoning the ease with his Corinthians, (2 Cor 12.18.) useth much of argument to excuse his not putting them to charges; we might have expected rather something of Apology that he had been burdensome, than that he had not; but it is an ordinary Craft to charge the not requiring of those courtesies (when the opportunity to do them are passed) as an unkindness, which if requested when in their season, would have been grumbled at; but what cannot be reckoned as a downright injury, is yet imputed as a design; this not being burdensome as a crafty fetch to draw them in, that they might be more securely and fully preyed upon afterwards by those whom he sent to gather his harvest after him; as if Titus and the brother that came with him, were appointed to do that which Paul would not; so impossible is it for a Minister of the Gospel not to have been his good evil spoken of; these very men that quarrelled with Paul because he put them not to charges, were contented the false Apostles should bring them into bondage, devour them, take of them, buffet them on the face. The vile exorbitants of lewd Teachers, are more favourably suffered than the pious endeavours of religious Pastors, wherein the edification of their flock is merely intended.   

(44)  
In that Treatment which our Saviour gives the multitudes that followed him, he seems very impolitic in drawing Disciples after him, to profess, That who will be his Disciple, must hate father and mother, wife and children, houses and Lands, must take up the Cross and follow him. To give such hard Almonds to such soft Teeth; was this the way? a Country person would have taken another course, he would have feasted his neighbours with good cheer, and have soaked their hearts with strong liquor to have mollified their affections, & have made their minds pliable, this had been a likely way to have done good, to have brought them fairly on; but our Lord likes no Cupboard Suitors, not those who follow him for the Loaves, his servants must meet with storms, therefore he is for such as will stand to their tackling; 'tis seldom therefore but the Lord quickly tries what metal they are of: Those that draw Disciples after them, they number their followers by the poll, but our Lord (as Gideon with his Army) sends thousands away that are base and faint-hearted, wherefore they are often alarmed, and it never is that Godliness is long prosperous, that those who are approved may be made manifest, and they that are otherwise may not be hid.   

(45)  
We do not read that the men which owned the Colt were any of the followers of Jesus; yet assoon as they were told by the Disciples which were sent, That the Lord had need of him, without further dispute they let him go (an invincible argument with considerate men) what could there be replied in such a case? had it been equal to have denied? Might not that Sovereign Lord require for his own use, who supplies so much for ours? may he not justly take any thing that gives all? What a ready compliance is there in particular natures, to that which is more universal? The heavy water will shift its Region, and from the low valleys, spout over the lofty mountains to avoid a Vacuum; and the massy Iron forgot its weight, and swum like Cork at the command of the Prophet; and shall not every creature deny its private interest to serve him, upon whose influence the whole world depends? and it were better ten thousand worlds should perish, than he should be in the least a sufferer: And shall we boggle to part from those vile lusts upon his account, concerning which it may be asked, What profit had yet in those things? Well may those generous Heroes be memorised now, and to eternity, who were willing to be blotted out of God's Book, and be accursed from Christ, rather than the eminent concernments of divine glory should be impaired; could these thus freely sacrifice their Hecatombs, when we make so dainty of our Turtle Doves, and young Pigeons?  
FINIS.