IN/IPROVEA/LKNX

OF

THK

MIND

ISAAC

BY

EDITED

STEPHEN
OF

PROFESSOR

N.
AND

MENTAI^
STATE

'"Whoever

deficiency

in

lias
his

the

BY

D.D.

FELLOWS,

MORAT^

OF

of
instructing
is not
if tliis book

DIDACTICS,

AND

SCIENCE,

UNlVEltSITY

care

duty,

D.D.

WATTS,

be

otliers, may

A.

S. BARNES
NEW

YORK

A.

"
AND

charged

recommended."
"

Co]"yrighl,ISSr,,by

IN

THE

lUWA

S. Barnes

"

COMPANY
CHICAGO

Co.

Du.

Johnson

with

PREFACE.

T^ HE

Imjyi'ovcnirnt
Misdom.

practical
iu

History

Lini

twenty

estimation,

has

'

the

on

person,

so

far

iiini

ennoble

to

Chair

the

nicst
is

It

below

it,

induces

in

my

young

carefully,

all

in

co^^t

kind.

"Watts"

read

life to

active

still
its

Wlioever

of
of

Mind

iKz

is
of

is full

fi^llows

as

of

best

incomparal)U'

much,

very

writes

and

and

the

of

Parlvcr,
Iowa,

competitors.
of

verge

much,

done

its

Watts

Lnprovcmrnt

suggestive,
but

all

are

F.
of

eajjital thinking,

unequaled

only

not

on

of

most

comprehensive,

L.

the

Doctor

by

University

volume

years

Mind

Prof.

State

the

little

"Watts'

the

of

and

thouglit

living."
It

is

made

almost

being

theological

which

Third

or

but

brief

"

pared,

changes

work

to

adapt

have

been

is

and

truest

]S'ormaI

some

in

been

it seemed
the

its

form

and

as

try
coun-

and

while

in

tlie

desirable

it

also

pre-

essential
and

explanatory

over

in

are

of
it is
as

other

than

work

was

substantial

to

first

and

harmony
It

to-day.

text-book

unique

hundred

one

adapted

those

the

preserve

original

is

doetrines
dress

been

more

text

to

Tiie

teachings

has

type.

made

although

circles, and

Schools.

smaller

author.

the

of

large type,
in

pedagogical

present

reading

to

of

old, yet

its

given

as

1727, and

in

years

the

style

contents.

given

have

above,

forcible

in

is

changes

few

])ublished
lifty

age

analj-sis

of

them

stating
matter

mentioned
and

tlie

to

table

as

appears

by

illustrative
But

eliminated,

been

related

closely

too

has

comprehensive

Prominence

"

doctrines

and

book,

present

the

endeavoring

In

book

the

of

tliat

of
that

author.

the

Second

M'ilh

the

youth

following

the

present,

one-third

Nearly

"

too

of

^j

forgotten

attempted.

been
the

the

to

I'irst

\'

of

needs

the

it to

recovering

but

has

it

recasting

of

of

hope

excellent

this

age,

the

in

is believed

])rivate
in

ing,
read-

Secondary
S.

X.

F.

Sketch

Isaac

Watts,

poet,

London,

in

in

London.

spending

for

books

devoting

his

time
to

exercise

mark

all

others
the

boys

of

Mark

the

Chauncey,

his

at

Doctor

of
His
of

from

Improvement
Of

his

provided

has

first lessons

His

character,
single

any
his

Of

region

tens
and

prayer

century

Doctor

five

feet

erected

read

Watts

his

to

or

of

various

and
his

who

his
prose

"H^

ing
lisp-

are

Locke

of

; he

unexamined.
the

be

must

memory

was

native
voices

God

He

science

of

the

from

judged

rather

attainments,

said

no

the
than

in

the

which
the

Sabbath,
thousands

sacrifices
he

language

of

prepared
has

been

i)rized.

warmly

never

in

Everj'

spoken,

sending

strains

poetry

"

is

tongue
are

the

in

snuill

was

high, and
to

his

Probably

ago.

and

in

naid

readers

reasoning

^Montgomery

Avhere

praise

widely

more

James

thousands

of

ity.
Divin-

of

those

nature

his

readers,

and

X07/V;

Johnson

spiritual

of

of

performance.

Hijmns,

every

and

1702, and

in

known

from

ages,

therefore,

diversity

and

multiplicity
from

of

science

best

enlightened

nor

Congregation

His

Doctor

all

the

to

corporal

the

taught

stars.

literary merits
for

to
in

i)ublished

been

the

are

instruction

left neither

has

Mind

minister

Pwtry

volumes.

nine

to

the

of

writings.
their

six

used

annotate

all classes

Literature,

have

works

no

He

and

pastor

almost

for

Science,

in

himself

some,

became

of

death.

his

largely

complete

editions

has

ages,

wliich

until

wrote

all

he

and

instead

sleep.

Independent

an

an

Btudious,

assistant

chosen

was

of

of

post

Watts

students

he

1698

I^ane, London,

remained

in

In

Isaac

father,

presents,

as

little for

in

then

very

allowed

abridge

his

reading,

he

very

read

he

was

and

died

and

received

school

At

play, and

books

lie

boy

study

to

by

Southampton

money

])lay.

in

and

them.

Rev.

hours

edueated

"wa.s

little

the

ing ("lf'rpr"'manand

17, 1()74, and

July

in

When

leisure

other

for

Bohool

Author.

the

dissent

He

2o, 174.S.

academy

joining

English

tm

boarding

of

.Southampton,

November

kept

Life

the

D.D.,

born

wa8

who

of

in

stature,

being

marrie"l.

Abney

Park

little

]Mo!iuments
ami

Westminster

more

have

than
lieen

Abbey.

Table

Contents.

of

Prkface
.......

Sketch

op

Life

the

of

the

author

Introduction
.

CHAPTER
Generate
I.
II.
III.

IV.
V.
VI.
VII.

Rules

Importance
Mistakes
A

of

slight

Survey

2.

Numberless

Thoughts

4.

Read

Presume

not

Ready
A

XT.

into

the
of

dogmatical

1.

It

forbids

2.

It

leads

willing

further
to

of

discoveries

24
24
25

gained

2(5
of

knowledge

mind

of

arrogance

man

matters

spirit.
improvement

2(i
2(5

27

mistakes

retract

to

of

21
22
23

liope

i(h;as

21

ease

by

depth

knowledge
genius

learned

of

one

new

of

bright

animatod

account

Avoid

Be

not

20

inquiries

on

20

treasures

constitute

not

industry

Daily

X.

too

19
20

questions

vast

mueh

learning

of

Penetrate

IX.

of

does

wit

life

of

puzzling

on

aeeounts

19

learning

of

regions

vast

variety

3.

19

things

momentous

the

Knowled;

general

in

nature

of

of

iudjjjiiieut

good

of

Improvement

the

human

view

1.

Dally

VIII.

for

of

I.

XII.

of

Danger

XIII.

Reware

of

XIV.

Virtue

leads

indulging
of

sj)irit

liumor

27

ridicule

28

and

fancy
jest

and

2H

truth

to

.....

Vain

XV.
XVI.

Ask

conceit
Di\inc

personal
guidance.
of

29

powers

"2'.}
....

CHAPTER
Five

Eminent

1.

(Observation

2.

Reading

3.

Lectures

4.

Conversation

5.

Meditation.

II.

Methods

ok

(jJaininc*

Knowleixji:.
:;i

.....

......

......

3.-;
......

33
.....

I.

Oliservation

Its

"

1.

It

lays

2.

It

gives

3.

It

makes

the

advantages:

foundation

clear

of

concci)tions

learnini^

all
of

knowledge
things

34
.34
3a

continuous
.

CONTENTS.

II.

Its

Koadiiipc"
Wo

1.

ndvaiitjinos:

(load
2. Wo

with

acquainted

bocoiiio

tho

and

living

the
35

.......

acciiiirotho

learning

of

tho

and

wisest

best
."yi

men
.......

Wo

3.

AVo
LeetTires"
4.

III.

1.
-.

IV.

V.

gain

their

niav

review

thonghls

best

what

Instruction

is

Instnu'tion

ciin

3.

Sensil)le

4.

The

teach
of

means

Conversation

()|)i)ortunity

for

2.

Doul)ts

ho

3.

Advantages

4.

Hidden

5.

Conversation

6.

Wo

7.

It fui-nislies

of

Meditation
It makes

3.

It

and

truth

vahie

of

Rri-Es

V.
VI.
VII.

VIII.

Keep

.39
.

40
.

knowledge

own

and

afl'airs

40

life

of

41

.42
.

42
...

the

themes

the

.43

curiosity
and

knowledge

of
in

the

45
.

young

review

.4/3
.

prejudices

and

passions

45

47
.

.48

Observe

Do

not

Do

not

T. Wise
IT. Rooks

IX.
X.

Ouservatiox.

to

curiosity
for i)ersonal good
faults
publish observed
geueraivtheories

erect

Of

VII.
VIII.

39
.

III.

selection
should

Form

Form

circle

Make
If

of

to

whether

faults
an

or

circle
read

Improvement
Thoughtful

prepare
of

48

48
.

observation

an

49

read
to

tho

in
read

general

the

are

book

same

treatises

.50

way

on

51

subject

one

right

or

not

51

5.3

53

....

secures

51
52

book

index

reasoning

reading

49

Reading.

axd

distinct

of

IV.

the sentimeiUs
in the book
defects

analysis

needed,

others.
limited

hooks
first

be

reading

Consider
Note

Books

in

from

CHAPTER

III.
IV.
V,
VI.

38
.

.40

into

impertinent

an

38

enlargement

is uncommon,
free from

mind

Avoid

be the
laudable

...

our

Relating

should

what

may

.37

of men
knowledge
Its advantages:
forms
])ersonal judgment

CHAPTER

Note

37

Ijo used

thought

knowledge
personal
secures
deeper penetration
of knowledge

Encourage

neeessary

oljscnrities
explaining
and
solved
pro["ose(l
ideas
of
comparison
of knowledge
revealed

stimulates

the

"

2.

most

treasures

test

.37

is

rjuestit)n.s

III.
IV.

advantiiges:

1.

may

what

instruction

ask

Its

"

impressive

more

pui)il may

I. Its aim

3("
.

'^lieiradvantages:

1. It alone

II.

30

read

have

we

ehiltorated

careliiUy

powers
correct

judgment

54
55

CONTENTS.

Read

XI.

the

with

mind

truth

to

open

56

...

Caution.

XII.

56

.......

How

XIII.
XIV.
XV.

books

read

to

sliould

boolvs

Some

siiould

Otliers

morality

on

he

57

...

biit once

read

.58

l)e reviewed

59
....

dictionaries

Fre(|uently consult
Study subjects rather

XVI.
XVII.

.60
.

than

Careful
a

Gl

V.

.TUDGMKNT

I. Examination

CHAPTER

II.

authors

RoOKS.

OF

title-page and pref;i('0

few
a
chapters determines

of

.61

book.

of

reading

value

of
62

.......

with

III.

Agreement

IV.

Overestiniation

principles
book, because

our

own

of

test

no

of value
.

it

contains

trullis

63

........

V.

Undervaluation
ncsw

VI.

of

of

because

Do

not

merely

VIII.

Do

not

condemn

Seek

based
the

judgment

book,

because

echo
a

Ijeauties

pretended

on

rather

than

nothing

knowledge

65
.

of

Be

the

in

cautious

Living

of

parts
receiving

Instructors

mistakfis

few

66

.68
.

.Justly estimate

65

of others

hlomishes
the

book

69
...

of others

judgment

CHAPTER
Of

it contains

49

judgment

VII.

IX.
X.
XI.

book,

........

Rcware

G'-l

new

70
.

VI.
of

Teachers

most

persons

Lectuuks,

and

and

IjEARNEUS.

T. Teachers
II.

absolutely

Dillerenl

instructors

III.

Teachers

should

IV.

Teachers

should

for

U(M-pssary
necessary
skill in

have

have

the

diligence,

70
.

7i

of teaching
patience, and
art

72

.......

Tiic

learner

should

attend

VI.

Tlu^

learner

siiould

seelv

Vil.

The

learner

should

maintain

V.

with

an"l eai-o
constancy
ask
to
(|ues!if)iis
()])p()i'tunit^lujiiorable

IX,
X.

The

of

youth

should

learner

cient

7t
.....

maintain

slioulil

freedom

accept

Inqttirtno

71
.

siilli-

without

.71

into

Writer

or

of

the

language

expressed
Examine

the

Meaning

and

and

of

Especiat^lv

any

the

Writings.

Sacred

wherein

the

mind

author's

is
75

...

words

VTI.

Sense

the

Speaker,

Sense

II.

tliought

opinion

no

(!HAPTER

I. Learn

of

e\idence
.

Of

...

and

phrases

employed

by

poraneous
contem-

authors
.

II.

Comi)are

7-"

7.3

........

Arrogance
The
i"upil

7'{

(jf his

opinion

tutor

\III.

71

ability
adapt-

words

and

[)hrases

in different

places

76
.

75
.

CONTKNT.S.

Consider

IV.

Observe

VI.

subject

same

author

scope

and

tlic

by
V.

tho

persons
of an
author

Sense

from

his

own

IX.
X.

Objections

XI,

Lay

Let

aside

Rules

reveal

the

In

mixed

Be

not

A'll.
"VIII.
IX.
X.
XI.
XII.
XllI,

Plain

with

Agree
Bo

not

Be

not

XVI.

Be

his

of

others

fond

XXI.

XXII.

is

show

great

sense

of

manner

far

as

Avoid

XXIV.
XXV.
XXVI.

fool

XXIX.
XXX,
XXXI,

be

may

Cultivate

candid

nntit

Beware

of

Review

in

and

84
,

84
,

universally

1, When

Objects

.87

88
,

,88
,

to

88

language
.88

provoke

pas.sion

89
80

....

and

obliging

associates
such

the

an

90

manner

in tho

as

Disputes

an

90
.

inquiry

associate

highest

desired

dispute occurs
disputes

of

87

powers

another's

simplify

CHAPTER
Of

85

according

answered

good comi)anions

for

being

make

to

R3
83

can

for

facts learned
solitude
in others
for personal
defects

Notice

II.

82

others

contradiction
thing that tends

self-control
Avise

above

shine

Cultivate

How

86,

to

bear

everv

Choose
Persons

XXVII,
XXVIII,

,82

speaking

inquiry

you

81

one

when

as

conversation

modestly

may

Patiently

XXIII.

81

.81

of

aflect

not

You

subjects

on

80

.80

displaying your logical

warm
party spirit
others
by apt questioning

not

Do

parties

all

XX.

.70

and

countries

inferiors

views

"A

79
cation
vo-

folly''

Instruct

XIX,

of their

matters

tiering opinions

attention

when

Avoid

XVIII.

70

afraid
to confess
ignorance
your
in the presence
of elders
too forward

time
to

ourselves

trilles

di

at

may
modest

78

of

cultivate

language

Cultivate

than

diligent

78

candor

with

in

time

no

from

variety of
basis
a
Reading

XIV.
XV.

XVII.

learn

sense

read

ofvarions

men

Seek
Give

tho

wiser

discourse

company,

to

those

with

provoked

Seek

Conversation.

ry

of

V.
VI,

77
.77

sense

waste

company,
into
others

drawn

...

VIIL

in

Converse

76
.77

tiie inferenr-es

known
by
i)roi)ositions

I.mprovrment

of

jdain

are

prejudices warp
carping spirit,and

.76

that

those
.

acfiuaintanco

IV.

by

terms

CHAPTER

I. Seek
II. When
III. Lead

76

of writer

design
addressed

may
latent

not

places

....

K.\i"lain mystical
Consider

VII.
VIII.

(lifTeront

in

treated

as

for truth

91

02

others

,92
.

93

improvement
and

improvement

be

associate

94
.

IX.
and

Debates.
."4
.

94
.....

CONTENTS.

III.

They

IV.
V.
VI.

of

Clear
Fix

without
rules

general

Points

VII.
VIII.

often

are

few

the
the

Seek

forms

should

order
observed

of
be

agrei-ment

rather

than

vietorv

95

terms
question of doubtful
points of inquiry
i)rei-ise

truth

r"5

.5)5

90

.97

97

...
"^

Yield

IX.
X.

to

reason

Beware

XI.
XII.

such

Utilize

fatal

makiutr

of

concessions

98
.

of

concessions

XIII.
XIV.

These

Learn
Be

not
ent

distinguish

to

hasty

too

in all debates

words

between
know

to

above

things

.101

and

things
your

lUl

jn-es.102

powers

difliculties
Be
not
frightened at apparent
unknown
the known
A'. Proceed
to the
slowly from
too
not
at
VI.
once
Study
things
many
VII.
Keep the end always in view
Exercise
in proportion to the
VIII.
care
importance
IV.

102

the
Give

Despise

XI.

(iive

XII.

not

due

XIII.
\'.

XV.

study undue
learning than

other

time

to

study

each

mind

the

Overtaxing

Utility

end

of

Fine

5.

Be

own

3'our

107

107

....

of

I08

difficulties.
.

108
.

100
.

Attention.

the

110
.....

facility
knowledge

of
1. Likin'j; the study
sensil)le things for
2. Use
authors

106
.

XI.

I. Necessity of attention
II. Rules
for gaining
greater

4.

of

importance

impossible
speculative study

Fixing

3. Read

108

CHAPTER
Op

104

....

TMi[)aiicn"-e for solution

study
Certainty in every
the

lO'i

......

favorite

not

103

104

subject

IX.
X.

XI

liJU

Meditation.

Study, or
necessity of study

I. The

99

X.

Of

II.
III.

.5)9
.

necessary

CHAPTER

99
.

ilirections

opponent

an

ad homiuem"
"argumentum
all
Repress
passion

Use

general

.98

of

110
.

pursueil

1 10
.

illustration

Ill
.

connected
to

not

i)rospects

of attention

reasonings
inlluence
a
jilace

.Ill

for

study
6.

U2

hasty in determining
important
points 11:^
Do
the
sensual
not
more
indulge
passions and
.11:5
appetites
not

7. Fix

and

the

engage
.

CHAPTER

I.

II.

Enlakgino

the

pursuit

to receive

Ability

to

receive

of

XII.
Capacity

the

Ability

surprise

in

.113

study

On

mind

of

ideas

sublime
and

new

Mind.

the

without

strange

Ill

pain

ideas

without
114

CONTEXTS.

III.

Ability

rocoive

to

i(U!:iH ;it

many

without

once

fon-

fiision
How

IV

bo

f"r tlioii^rht may

capafity

1. Labor

lin

K'.iiuan

to

itiiTCiiHr'd
.

ami

attentive

I'M

i"atieiit
temper

mind

of

120
......

Accustom

2.

yourself

form

to

and

clear

distinct

ideas
.

3. Use
4.

.").Observe

and

Peruse

6.

iaeas

ret^nlar

acfiuirea

diligence to
Lay up ilaily new
solve

intricate

I. Our

memory

inif what
II.

All
nnd

III.

12.'5
12t

questions

retaining and

of

power

recall124

.....

mind

of the
from

perfection

useful

is

122
.

MkMORV.

THK

our

abilities

Memory

121
.

learn

we

other

ideas

XIII.

iMPROVINfJ
is

method

jirogressive

CHAPTER
Of

.121

larjfo stf)re of
in refjuiar order

their

beauty
125

memory
the

to

borrow
.

si)eaker

well

as

the

as

learner

12.""
.......

IV.
V.

VI.

Good
A

How

some

good memory

foundation

good

for

wise
12(i

.....

good

have

without

judgment

.127
.

often

genius
the
Crowding

ent
differ-

very

126
is

memory

tine

are

.....

persons

happy

VII.
VIII.

and

judgment

cjualitications
hapijy memory
and
just judgment

has

feeble

memory

memory
and

prevent

may

r28

cramp

invention

128
......

IX.
X.

Lay

One's
How
of

XII.

make

The

XIV.

The

has

just
129

and a happy
are
judgments

and
more
stronger
great
advantages
of

mind

with

together

others

retentive
of

those

129
.

lost

well

as

want

129
.

the

one's

as

for

memory

remembering
the

itself is immaterial;

l)or-

mind

wealthy

excellent

sentiments

XIII.

what

.......

many

Tlie

but

memory

improvements

own

rowed

XI.

the

in

nothing

up
value

noble
130

own

brain

is its instrument
130

......

XV.

memory

grows

Memory

the

from

cultivation

the

requires

of

period

infancy
of

habits

of

131
.

tention
at-

.131
.

XVI.
XVII.

XVIII.

The
Excess

injure
good

XX.

the

wine

well

as

by

excess

131
132

memory

.....

has

several

qualifications

memory
It is ready

2.

It is

3.

durable
It is strong
and
and
It is faithful
active

to

large and

receive

and

132
.

admit

132
.

132

copious

....

133
.

13:J
....

Every
One

bodily diseases
of
study may

various

as

1.

4.

XIX.

memory
of

is affected

one

great

memory

of these
and

proper

qualifications

general
and

direction

sufficient

be

may

is

to

improved
give the

133
133

exercise
.

"

11

CONTENTS.

XXI.

Ovir

memories

XXII.

Tlie

improved

are

their

to

.....

of

memory

injured according

or

133

exercise

should

child

dened
overbur-

l)e

not

134
.......

Particular

XXIII.

rules:

1. Due

2.

We

order

fix

to

Clear

and

this

take

of

art

Teach

fix

Pleasure

of

we

mit
com-

establish

130
.

137

use

own

your

in

fluence
in-

great

.138

the things
the
towards

learn,

we

brance
remem-

138

....

of

useful

aid

things

if

they

time,

receive

may

into

thrown

are

imprint
by joining

the

lias

memor^'^.

13ti
.

excellent

better
of

method

is of

them.

verse

may

135

things

the

to

delight

memory
considerable

memory

necessary.
do
not

you

things

things

in

assistance

great

6. The

7. We

them

and

give

of

the

proper

of

order

knowledge
5.

short-hand

in

that

things

13rt
in

review

to

the

.....

disjjosed

frequent

The

in

regularity

memory

TiCt it be

is

memory
lieed

instead

words

with
and

to

to

take

reason,

up

^lethod

4.

commit

we

For

in
134

ai)i)reiiension of

distinct

know

delight

our

engage

att(;nlion

the

and

learn

to

diligence

should

things.

which

3.

and

attention

any
with

it

.139

idea

new

the

upon

stance
circum-

some

jilace, coinpanj',

140

etc.
.
"

8.

Seek

9.

Every

after

local

divided
The
memory

into

i^eriods
hy having
learning drawn

and

written

distinctly

142

....

our

schemes

into

out

jects
ob-

several

the

gains

of
and

141

memory
be

should

thing

tables

143
......

Once

than
10.

will

writing
reading

Sometimes,
taking
a

tix

live

we

I. Consider
II. Consider

word

of

of

III.

whether

by

sentences

word

every

and

ing
mak-

them

144

XIV.

DETERMININa

it be

QUKSTION.

knowable

at

all
.

again

whether

inquiry

your
Consider

143

remember

can

letters

CHAPTER
Of

more

times
....

first
new

thing

mind

in

the

be

matter

worthy

145

.....

whether

the

subject

143

of

of

inquiry

your

bo

'

easy
IV.

or

difiicult
.

Consider

whether

the

subject be

anv

145

useful

wavs
'

fT

not
"

V.

Consider
and

what
better

tendency
......

it has

to

make

you

14(5

wiser
14"i

12

CONTENTS.

\'l.

in

VII.

winds

nioro

(lr(".sso(l up

it bo

wliollicr

(Jonsidor

und

r'litanj^led

is lu'iiilful

tluui

146
.

Bo

ciirrful

To

sl.ilo

(lio

keep

to

inquiry tlio
fully resolves

of'tentinios

cjuestion,

of

point

140

Huine

the

"

.147

"li"ulil
.

VIII.
IX.

If

XI.

such

only

Keep
up
question

Do

proof

no

147

either

the

of

side

148
...

people

part,

horn

are

their

to

148
......

witii

uo

partial

show

to

examination.

what

Take

tion
i)artialexamina-

When

1.

requires

as*

to

instanees
is

147
.

proposition

take

these

reeeivtMl

indillerence

most

not

he

not

....

just

the

"or

it should

axiom

an

axiom,

an

or

opinions
XII.

to

question
admitted
Buddeidy

Call

relate

tlio

whatevoi',
X.

examine

you

object

an

at

too

great

distance

140

......

2.

Wlien

3.

When

you

turn

the

question

you

ask

tlie

report

eye

or

were

not

tlioso

who

and

saw

only
of

To

try

5.

To

examine

neglect

heartl

determine

to

149
.

natural

by

14U

who

only

and

4.

liiiht

one

tiiosc

witnesses,

ear

in

only

reason

I.j0
.

'

XIII.

lieed

Take

lest

truth

of

Be

watchful

XV.

Be

careful

of

use

150

reason

be

notion

darling

some

made

test

1.50
.....

far

as

lest

must

possible against

as

zeal

your

and

liuence,

the

falseliood

or

XTV.

Zeal

witiiout

stop

all

\ip

reign

not

luive

any

powerful

too

the

l)ias

of

powers

151

in-

an

further

of

avenues

over

false

light.
our

derstanding
un-

151
......

XVI.

Do

not

of

most

These

of

XVIII.

It

whit

wise

as

of

be

may

sort

of

and
in

set

152

assent

fori-e
or

generally
(juestion may

are
a

injustice

and

jest

to

is enouirh

154

all

be
to

of

be

determined
incline

ditlicullies

to

to

of

ai)i"earance
Let

their

such
to

])retenses

l-Vt
....

or

argument

dissent.
the

insolence

laughter.

philosophical, moi"al,

your

ri"licule

profane

rational

or

religion

as

let the

fewest

and

asiile

lay

well

reading

and

writers
as

parties
So large

banter

as

contempt

tolerable
any
revelation
with

such

it

sense

is silly

test

who

men

piece

reason

XX.

best

light Ijy this grinning

faculty
ridicule,
emjiloy jest and
cry
louclly against all penalties aud
jjersecutions
Penal
and
mctln"ils
state.
the
are
smarting

every
is a

On

.Such

doctrines

to any

unreast)nal)le

treat

XIX.

The

very

out

ridicule

revelation.

professed

unreasonable.

XVII.

and

banter

oppose

religious
alone

troversies,
con-

ence
influ-

The

bigots of
positive
as
proposed
ought

all
U"o

most

at

that

once.

In

side

which

the

not

nuun,

has

the
156

.....

13

CONTENTS.

XXI.

Take

full

question,
In

XXII.

of

matters

eonclusive

his

nian

own

XXV.
XXVI,

without

reasonable
truth

Three

in

juduing

which

agrees
carries

rules

158

2. That

which

We

XXVITI.

We

ought

is

to

of

thing

any

159
.

is the

reason

most

with

the

greatest

the

100

same

constitution

conformable

the

to

is

men,

in it

probability

probability

and

wise

likely

most

to

honest

the

well

established

men

in

firm

from

tion
attesta-

such

101

102
there

therefore

change

to

never

is

need

no

of

mind

our

102
.

XV.

Causes

into

into

inquiring

the

Effects.

and

of

cause

particular

anj-

consider
.

What

effects

have

j-ou

shown

of

]()3

......

the

What
4. Whether
3.

one

cause

be

causes,

be

several

possible
tilings jjrecedcd the event
are

in

the

or

moral

When
cause

or

causes

1. Consider
2.
3.
4.

into

iiKiuiring

Consider

Consider
150

the

nature

the

causes

what

tlie

is

in

effects

fy. Observe

you

carefully

and

'

of

101

particular

any
.

apart

cause

together
.

such

tlesire

105
105

work

at

causes

lOo
105

is

subject

setting

to

course

i)hilosophy

every

united

of several

of

the

frecpient

whose

10-1

concurrence

effects

the

II.

]()4

causes

This
sutticiont.
in natural
both
world.

followed

103

kindred

nature

2. What

101

stant
con-

......

Ixquirino

1.

to

probabilities:

CHAPTER

elfect

every
direct

to

evidence

the

of

l)ut follible:

I. When

assent

diUies

most

stand

to

resolving

Of

and

158

161

principles
our

cording
ac.

......

may

are

given

judge

sullicient

or

derive
of

XXVII,

has

the

be

observations
true

We

regarded

he

always

us

and

of nature,

3.

and

159

Concerning

be

of nature

require

not

That

1.57

it

certain

after

......

will

1.

any
ni^ainst
Ibr

....

to

reason

his assent
God

seek

God

The

faith?

strong

objections

arguments

different
degrees of evidence
commend
much
Saviour
so
our

does

then

Why

as

moment,

the

to

XXIY.

the

arfjuments
should
assent

of

Degrees

XXIII.

the

of

survey
well
as

tt) know

KiS
,

when

you

see

happy

any
'

eflect.
6. Take
In

the

this

Treasure

Just

survey

manner

preacher

it up
of all

1()5
.

the

physicians

circumstances.

practice;

so

also
lO*!

.....

1 1

CONTENTS.

XVI.

CHArTKU
Mrn'irons
I.
II.
HI.

slioiiM

tutor

The

and

ailvaiitageaof

3.

ami

use

KiS

every
lt"8

....

methfid

tlio Soc-ratieal

dialo"^no
oblitrinf? in i;
very

Somethiiii^
Draw

most

most

The

tutor

pupil

Th(!

of

disi)U-

who

reasonini;

by
explain

!*"!"
ll)9

should

be

iiptheir

171

the

use

170

itous
solic-

very

meaning;

should

others,

diffleult
.join jirolit and

to

They

l"i!J

and

is dark

endeavor

instructs

mistakes

own

....

what

take

KW

readini^ lecturers

learners

that

(liHi-over his

to

on

together.

pleasure

1"W

easy
is

useful
should
should

Teachers

He

Ii7

words

H58

4. The

YIII.

)^en-

.......

foriii f)f

1. The
2.

iiiii'li candor

havo

("ii";a;^in^method

tatioii

V.
VI.
YII.

Uiint? thorou^^lily, is

to t(;;i!-li
("rally liiist i)ri;|)ar(!(l
1I(! miisl.
also
with
111)aiMiiiaiiilc.Ml

TiKOTiTRKS.

JIkadino

and

lliiit )ias loiiriioil any

Hr

mild

IV.

TiCAciiiNf*

ok

most

the
run
over
Ibrei^oiui;
style. He should
lecture
in questions
propose"l to the learners
himself
I^et the teacher
to the
always accommodate
ijenius, temper, and capacity of his disciples
Turiosity is a useful
sjirini;of knowledge
lad
is |"ert, let the
take
When
tutor
a
just
every
j)roper

IX.

X.
XI.

The

show

to

him

should

tutor

tender

hiai

Let

buddings
into

exercise

Let

the

tutor

make

it

and

seeks

and

I. The

most

style
perspicuous,

II.

The

of

errors

1. The

be

it

of

plain,
.

]7t)
.....

foreign
style
that

style
mysterious

and

17t)
.

176

vulgar

are

words

....

words

obscure

character

that

...

3. Affected
An

is

4. A
5.

17')

175

easy

many
fantastic

mean,

teem
es-

character.

useful

most

instruction,

style

degree

and

person

of

Style.

and

and

crease
in-

XVIL

of

use

2. Avoid

for

his

their

as

good

some

his

for

necessary
tit

loves

174

Instructive

an

he

much

so

that

.....

have

CIIAPTICR
Of

174

nothing

him

respect

of

encourage

hear

frrowth

and

guard

appear

knowledge

that

174

reason

Those

learner's

.....

the

of

173

error

the

Call

pupils,
XV.

his

watch

iinderstandins;.
the

XIII.
XIV

172
173

occasion

XII.

171

used

only

]7t)

at court

17ii

....

manner

of exprcs-

177

sion

177
......

fi. A
III.

Some

long

and

tedious

think

177

....

methods

may
1. Accustom

style
a
style

a\

be

hereby

obtained
yourself

and

write

proper

for

tion
instruc178

....

to

with

read

those
authors
clearness
great

who
178
.

l".

CONTENTS.

and
2. Get a distinct
comprohensivo
of tlie subject
in the language
skilled
3. Bo well
of words
4. Acquire
a variety
.

5. Learn
6. Talk

the

of

art

shortening

frequently

to

Them

ING

I. We

inlo

and

of

178
.

179
,

II.

TnuxH,

desirous

Dkliver-

oil

of

bringing

bo

useful

all

the
ISO

may

1^0
.

place,

proper

fittest

180

persons

Mistakks.

and

directions

following
the

179

sentiments

our

1. Ciioose

sentences

The

ignorant

any

Kuuors

tkom

naturally

are

world

XVIII..

Persons

Otiiku

Convincing

.178
.

your

young

CHAPTKR
Or

knowledge

and

hour,

hai"py

ISl

circumstance

concurrent

2.

Make

3.

The

it appear
and
softest

gentlest

\hv.

best

and

difference

fatal
as

appear

nature

Ije

must

.181

little
.

You

dispute.

lest

must

oftentimes

attempt

penal

in

warm

grow

you

treat

Truth

friend.

is

great

very

Human

yourself,

over

idress

tlie

possible.

loi
.

It is

make

to

wide
as
nattered

him

mean

you

convince.

to
way
mistake

4. Watch

that

well

like

opponent

an

in

perishes

the
182

fray
5.

Xeillier

suited

best

are

in

8.

0.

severe

Allow
of

your

in

an

Make

that

understanding

and

the

truth

184
onward

and

liglit

time

obliging

to

manner

j)ersou

184
.

the

into

enter

him

Address

arguments.

the

perceive

to

agreeable

reasonable

arguments

.....

mind

clear

tliose

his

to

capacity
the

of

choice

make

Always

7. Load

or

.183

usage
6.

any

methods

force

therefore
181

....

would

you

liis

teach

own

instructf"r

185
......

10.

Bo

solicitous

not

which
11.

Yon

very
it shall

may

writes
To

liave

Jiiin

lirsL make

as

teiligent

and

Ok

AuTHoniTY.

tiik

Phopkr

I. The

is

by

success

who

autlior

fanuly

sure

as

wo

can

community,

or

of

the

in-

most

learned

1^7
....

XIX.

Ariose

Use
which

influence

opinions,

L-^

CHAPTKIl
Oi'

happy

whole

nicety
.

weak

it

against

convince

read

to

with
180

expressed

sometimes

setting
12.

Ijo

the

about

of

it:

and

and

Service.

other

persons

usually called

of

its

have

authoritj-

Kkal

and

our

upon

1S3
.

"

IG

rOXTKNTS.

II.

Tlii-fd

Mini

ciriiiHiit

rniTiarkiililo

duturmine

will

uiitliorily

-wherein

cusea

and

lliujudgiiionl

jirao
189

mankind.

ticuof

.....

1.

I'arcnits

appointed

aiu

Tliix

cliiidrfn.
Tlio

is

of

dictate

will

Judge

iJ^ronl

jiidjro

to

189

itnre

l)cyon"l just

punish

not

tlieir

for

.190

demerit
.

It

hjird

is

child

to

is

say

what

at

exoniptod

from

time

exaet
the

of

the

life

of

wover(;i":nty

dictates

parental

]!"1
....

2.

Another

is

case

of

when

Yet,

what

dictated

III.

Some

1.

We

have

make

us

tiio
been

wisely

oufrht

to

Persons

authority

oujrht
and

to

jiay

sentiment

of

193

jrreat

others

deference

i"ay
very
of
onr
i)arents

and

have

faculty
Authority

our

divine

jrreat

years
affairs

liuman

if

enoufrh

we

of

in"i)iration

the

wherein

llio

to

is

discover

can

sentiments
2.

there

under

It

ns.

cases

deference

persons

to

reason

other

sway
in

191

Believe

of

to

concur

tliat

thority
au-

'

3.

oufrht

men

should

falselioods,

so
many
eautious

The

fact.

multitudes

testimony.

same

of

matters

testimony

or

assent,

our

in

193

the

to

194
.

experience

long

in
194

.....

3.

Persons

4.

Men

5.

The

of

standing

long

and

virtue

in

piety

194

'

in

their

several

narratives

of

jirofossions

Treating
I.

Mankind

stands

trenched

II.

expressly

3.

Men

yield
use

of

but

196
.

and

the

be

or(ier
of

those

jireju-

conquered
.

under
convince

larger

at

197

present
to

196

197

him

the

prejudices
in

it

upon

indulge

When

for

very

children

upon
and

the

observe

silently

makes

can

of

attack

direct

not

inliuence

then

season.

them

labors,

person
are

to

en-

allow
a

the

and

errors,

practiced

Srejuclices
of
mankind
ices
once,
Make

in

this

for

Men.

195

impression
mav

of

....

avoiding
power
without
prejudice
any
at
a
Begin
distance,
We

Prejudices

round

the

what

2.

bo

to

By

195
.

the

wrapped
prejudices

methods

Sevci-al
1.

in

sober

XX.

Managing

axd

195

arts

and

wise

persons

CHAPTER
Of

and

which
him

199

size

2o0
.

THE

I.

PAET

DIRECTIONS

USEFUL

OF

ATTAINMENT

THE

FOR

MIND.

THE

OF

IMPROVEMENT

KNOWLEDGE.

INTRODUCTION.

No
this

bo

neitlier

can

impossible
barren

sought

Universal

OAcrspread

the

the

in

of

but

others

of

with

and

to

even

and

weeds

will

errors

lies

and

every

beautify

callings

just degree

man

native

of skill

living,
and

as

necessary

life, wherein

we

are

to

they

about

society,

social

relations

their

is not

this

; and

as

orders

lower

the

of

benefits

world,

enrich

and

i-easoniug

(hinkiugaud
and

in

numy

opportunities

large

Even

are

the

in

rank

and
to

there

; but

sion
profes-

and

business

the

exalted

and

duties

our

an

particular

common

belong

be

utterly neglected

knowledge.

without

bedoneAvell,
The

it will

infinite

or

mankind

leisure

various

acquire

to

of

such

reason,

have

men

ought

in

their

cultivate

is

to

with

overgrown

is indeed

part

much

them

minds

sciences

small

placed

allows

which

obligation

; otherwise

ignorance

mind

some

utterly

it is

for

cultivation.

any

"Skill

forest

or

brambles.

witlunit

under

are

thing

every

required,

nor

understanding

own

desert,

know

and

learn

to

yet all persons

their

inij)roYe
a

obliged

is

man

to

them.
which

creatures,
to

family,

IS

INTIiODUCnON.

whatsoever,
thousand

to

occasions;
and

persons

of

it is

the

in the

time

in

day

for

it with

half

the trifles and

at

time

be

Thus

some

the

of

the

this,if

Adam

"which

learne"l.

has

life to come,

highest

of

zeal

be

to

fur

moment,

as

furnish

and

his

as

with

him

in

judgment

in

practice. By

we

creatures,

may

the

dishonor
we

kindred,

often
or

but

apply

diligence

of this

life,and

the

inform

to

far

world,

and

necessary

living,

person

knowledge,

reasoning,

and

right
to

say,

cient
suffi-

allow

themselves

they

as

it would

do

to

turn

account.

every

understanding,
useful

would

most

daily intervals of
labor, together with

Christian

the

amusements

it appears

interest

The

it.

necessary

men

much

so

for

in

seven

infinitelybetter

guilt

that

affairs

from

vacancies

time

up

Isow

of

of

i)lunged

bt;

conduct.

daughter

matter

leisure

no

and

one

and

son

discreet

understand, to judge, and to reason

things of religion. It is vain for any

the

have

time,

our

things,

and

shall

wo

us,

some

to

one

about

to

in

concern

therefore

we

before

for

i)ru(lcnt and

upon

calls

lime

to

as

persons,

powers

life

of

always be practiced must

important

to

without

in matters

Besides, every

every

hour

judgment,

our

pi-rpetual errors

should

reasoning

every

actions:

(Ictcrniinatioii
into

their

use

regular exorcise

all

oblige
^'ovcriiiiK'iit,

ricigliborliood,or

:i

his

to

duty and
improve

judgment,

to

acquire the skill

station, capacity, and
to

x"i'oper

idunge
acting
God

become

friends,and

for it.

means
us

into

without

that

made

injurious
we

bring

of

good

stances
circumtakes
mis-

folly and

thought
us

his

tieasure

Our

nuich

the

or

son,
rea-

reiusonable

to

our

bors,
neigh-

sin

and

misery

accountable
to
God,
are
our
ourselves; for we
mistaken
irregular and
j^art of our
Judge, for every
He
hath
given us sufficient advantages
conduct, where
to guard against those mistakes.

upon

I.

CHAPTER

GENERA.L

RULES

FOE

OF

IMPROVE:\rEXT

THE

KNOWLEDGE.

Rule

T,

Deeply

"

importance
tiinahle

of

and

escaped,

if

l)ains

to

for

that

of

constitution

the

infinite

and

that

of

possible,

to

of

all

on

be

slight

fc-.ome

methods

ignorance,

and

of

to

from

to

error,

to

acquaint
vour

whence

arises

an

are

exposed

prejudices,

none

sessions,
prepos-

make

to

itself, as
of

is
and

contrive

yourself
mind

your
far

as

them.

momentous

so

in

those

greediness

suffer

by

therefore

impress

the

puri^ose

it

things

of

and

we

of

that

sider
Con-

truths,

with

on

body

animal

an

thereby.

which

upon

should

to

arise

many

doctrine

sides,

view

You

of

Read

the

imposed

sufficient.
proper

vantage
ad-

which

falsehood,

dangers

springs

watchful

and

takes
mis-

united

difficulty

things.

treat

and

rea-

your

and

inconveniences

of

of

variety

authors

to

frailties,

general,

soul

many

appearances

judgment

and

vigor

opportunity

every

in

of

to

depth

flattering

improving

weaknesses,

nature

subjected

III.

seizing

the

human

very

of

work

due

times,

lively

with

vented,
pre-

taken

but

persons,

you

the

to

had

end.

Consider

II.

soul

awaken

and

powers,

concerning

aright
will

you

years

had

you
you

had

stances
in-

seriously

sorrows

misery

and

guilt

early

yourselves

Koning

our

much

judge

and

follies

many

your

This

address

and

how

from

things.

the

how

yourselves

iuesthe

life ; think

in

vast

and

Review

right reasoning.

nusconduct

own

yonr

the

rich

the

and

judgment,

of

advantage
of

with

good

with

mind

your

possess

with

with

i)r:K'(ice
your

not

(Wo\)
111

own

and,

20

KUEES

GENERAL

painful

low

the

of

s;-uso

j)reseiit kuowh

that
(li^e,

and

pursue

activity to

others, you
Take

1.

unlimited

the

of

will

learned

mortals

had

what

conquered
of

for want

wept

of science

what

arrived

at

only those

final and

theorems

whose

; and

doubt

been

to

Great,

the

ea.stern

arc

you

The

the

in

are

undoubted

most

act

that

over

"when
he

world,

worlds

The

greatest progress,
which

have

you

certainty ; excepting
and

pure

in the

yet, even

of them

occasion

the

simple mathematics,
leave

and

demonstrable,

are

liave

mankind

there

in the

questions

themes

particular

conquer.

made

have

them

of

few

how

belonging

you

their

witli

variety of questions and

to that
even
particular

numberless

are

in which

to

and

vd-st

endless.

and

there
difficulties

called

was

worlds

more

immense

are

Think

science

of Alexander

is fabled

what

again

cessful.
suc-

meditations

degree.

tiud

never

the

of

few

tolerable

any

these

sciences,

reflect how

then

lal)or

Among

your

the

all

of

knowledge ; and
acquainted with in

and

Let

your

with

as

then

and

noiv

of

measures.

methods

such

learning.

names

l)o iiicilcd

greater

some

of

of

2.

may

branchings, and innumerable

numerous

he

you

survey

region

over

run

wide

inii)erlVctdc^rrccs

after

find

may

and

pursuit

of

scarce

few

some

any

of

these,

bewildered.

strangely

the puzzling inquiries

on
S])end a few thoughtssometimes
of infinites,
and
atoms, the doctrine
concerning vacuums
3.

indivisibles,and
there

appear
to

poverty
of your

thing
will

some

give
of

you

your

insolvable
a

attainments,

you
when

sensible

more

to

and

Avill

tcaeli

that

you

know

every

modestly

dust

of

do

this

impression

This

think

geometry,

difiiculties

understanding

knowledge.
it is to
fancy

instruct

in

incommensurables

the

the
you
all

of
earth

wherein
on

pose
pur-

of

the

imperfection
what

vain

things,
your
and

and

present
every

TO

inch

OBTAIN

of

surinoimts

empty space
triumphs over
your

and

had

Arithmo

himself
tli")Ufj:ht
hard

pushed

was

the

give

to

all

accounts

to
up
master

complete

understanding

your

presumption.

bred

been

21

KNOWLEDGE.

of numbers.

of
root
sciuare
millesimal
in

his

life

But

when

and
he

iJ,he

number

the

he
fractions,
he
learned
end of the
there was
no
yet
much
modesty
Ijy this i)erplexing (juestion, that he was
so
it was
afraid
to say
good
an
impossible thing. It is some
be
afraid
to
when
we
are
positive.
degree of improvement,

tried at
confessed

and

it

which

long

the

of

accounts

dead

the

of

some

science.

learning, that by converse

yourself with them, you
your

own

with

new
:

let

laudable

and
with

met

himself

to

this,

acquirements

and

rest

shameful
illuc

most

will

yourself

Presume

has

and

been

good
make
an

of

opinion
animated

be

by

had

philosophy,

had

If Yanillus
he

to

or

never
nor

ever

few

some

upon

and

swell

superficial
yourself, as

learning already, you are

impassable barrier
against all
lie down
and
indulge in idleness,
of

in

3fuUi

ad

the

midst

of

deep

and

pervenissent si

scientiam

se

putasscnt.
not

never

in

earnest.

contented

ignorance.

ready wit,
study, will
This

if

man

; you

non
jicrvejiisse

IV.

that

thereby building
improvement

good

made

quickened

be

in

value, exalt,

you
were

5"ou

in

the

possible,

as

Palydes,

novice

mere

study

Remember

though

and

at

comparing

mean

emulation.

Scitorio

himself

imagined

far

diligence

your

and

thereby

may
tliem as

the

of great

persons

them

and

zeal,to equal
thus

some

acquire

may

been

have

which
with

of

some

astonished

be

among

attainments

generous

set

and

yourself

Acquaint

of knowledge

treasures

possessed, and

have

Read
possess.
advances
incredible

almost

never

those vast

do

living

exceed

till

incjuiry ; and

Bead

4.

labored

much

too

parts;
a

man

unhappy

upon
for
of

bright genius,

this, without
knowledge

temptation

to

labor
and

and

wisdom.

persons

of

22

KULES

GENERAL

viijorouR and

iuboi-,and
became

and
Scintillo
LiU'idus
conversation
sliine ill
;
the

images
but
think

this

native

of

tlicy
i)resence
I would
them
advise
of
re:isoning; and
forward
ii
a
contemptible
little,what
in

make

they

stamp

l)efore

Uvcly

own

learned

and

wise
tlic

ridicule.

riches

their

in

tliemselves

the

avoid

best

of

their

tliey had
youth, they

and

contempt
men

young

imagine

and

fancy,
had

test

arc

they spread
tliey j)ride themselves

ignorant;
of

to

even

when
and

nature

thence

readinj^ and

ignorance; but

sottish

and

stupid

assembly,

an

abandon

to

animal

of

vivacity

stndy.

topics,and

common

on

in

old

in

shine

to

lieads

their

grow

their

lost

discourse

it into

took

dcspiso Irarninpj and

to

acknowledged

liavc been
'I'licy
and
sparkle in

they

fancy,

ji^ay

and

skillful

the

a
once
day to
figure they will

age.

their
enough to know
attacks
of
the
therefore
foible ; and
they craftily shun
own
and
to
renounce
them,
despise
argunaent, or boldly pretend
of
and
their
conscious
because
ignorance
own
they are
of acquaintance
the skill of
with
their want
inwardly confess
The

witty

have

sometimes

men

sense

reasoning.
As

Y.

because
must
a

are

you

imagine

you

strong

niemorj",

the

decided

x^oet,may

to

not

jou

wit

nee

to

Altera

English

made

Concerning
Whether

No
And
But
Or

vena,

sic

art

llor.

de

poets there
they're made

has

by
in

been
art

this

presume
rest my
judgment
will
without
a genius

or

Poet.

contest,
nature

best ;

affair,
to declare,
avail.

lu'lp of art will fail

parts
both
ingredients jointly nuist unite,
sliiue with a transcendent
will never
verse
without

Art.

if I may
the
Among

l^ut

the

learning :

alterius
quid prosit,video, ingenium:
amice.
et
conjurat
poscit opem
res,
"

Thus

makes
of

sort

divite

the

he

when

rude

Nee

and

wise.

study

every

sine

studium

reading,

truly

or

man

neither

so

determined

has

question, wliether
well bo applied
Ego

laborious

denominate

critic

learned

wit

ready

large and

that
can

fancj" yourself
with

blessed

excellent

that

What

best

arc

you

lisht.
"OU/hanu

OBTAIN

TO

and

It is meditation
of your

good

gives

that

affords

and

sense

it is the

thought,

Jndjiincnt upon
the

truest

and

improvement.

of

indeed
mind

choice

Though

morals

theology,
other

every

and

of

that

with

Be

VI.

not

is

learning

resolved

are

delight
of

our

the

the

joy

of

idle

addicted

much

thing
to

to

be

luxury

his

closet,among

his

character

that
dare

ease;

but

life

not

of

give

pretend

books

scholar

and

these

all

ing
reason-

your

pleasure.)

that

taste

is the

ipse voluptas.

his soul

can

of

imagine

King

never
pastime, should
to the sciences, unless

he

judicious

professions,unless you
it your
study, and can make
life,according to the motto

(Labor, itself,is
no

due

memory

higher

and

your

Labor

is

in

no

to

at

....

It

read

mere

learned

Chancellor

Lord

the

the sciences.

as

hard

labor

true

neglect

claim

laziness

of

any

to

and
late

life of

of

sentiments, I do
learning,above
i)hilosophy and
abundance, and

if your

the

of

weak

so

upj'ouiself to

justly

historian

good

have

science, yet

can

you

powers,

to

metaphysics

only faculty employed,

else but

without
own

has

you

and

art

and

your

head

title your

what
shelves.

your

of

able

are

written, without

meaning,

determination

and

see

the

into

penetration

have

others

be

capacious memory
the improvement

learning be nothing

of what

of

towai'd

use

if all your

amassment

and

library

singular

; but

not

book

well-furnished

read,

genius

repeat a A\'hole
strong memory
may
not
Eadid, yet be no georaetrieian ; for he may
one
single theorem.
perhaps to demonstrate

boy

cise
exer-

all you

best

the

to

even

understanding

your

of

studious

reason

own

23

KNOWLEDGE.

indeed.

man

plea.sure,recreation
to

be

devote
so

reformed

entertainments
and

himself

papers.

and

and

entirely
refined,

eminently

iu

24

GKXKRAI-

is

Rl'LKS

ami
and
he fufds
a
pliilosrjjdicr,
toinpcnite inun
and
and
ra"?")Uts, and
pheasant, venison
every
iilH)ii jKirtrid'-Co
and
understandin"r, and a sereiM"
delicacy, in a ;!:r")win"^
liealthy

Hobrino

ji

dines

fsoul,liioiii^iilie
his
{Xuinos loved
cared

never

for

the

satisfaction

and

he

arrived

tiierefore

has

Do

and

K'"wn

the

name.

well

as

tliink

his

in

as

truths, animate

of known

not

temper;
contempt

he

us

universal
Init the

ii

up

an"l

discoveries,

new

ph^asure

to

his

Lan-

turnips.
i"e brou^^ht

or

chose
in

nothin;^
of

hope

daily industry.

sprouts

lu; falls under

study,

Let

VII.

of

indolence

much

profession, because

disli

and

ease,

had

he

scholar;

on

tlie

your

general is

Icarnin;^ in

perfection, or that the knowledj^e of any

be improved,
not
particular subject in any science can
lain five hundred
thousand
it has
or
a
merely because
its

at

without

years

of
blessin,";

has

God

brought

and

such

seemed

be

reach

of

VIII.

take

faculties.

Do

not

the

depth

of

and

habit
As

of

which

and

far

as

as

has
in the

above

of
; but

appearances

of matters,

those

your

application,

Do

of them

first

the

things,
trate
pene-

time

your

thQ

and

and

or

those

profession,

or

search

glimpse,

uuich

incapacity, forbid
to

not

give it

make

sciences,

your

late
rethings which
indulge yourselves

; for this will

prejudices, and

either
or

mere

which

surface

the

on

should

something

it unsearchable

always

things by

thinking,

for

You

as

there

may

that

out
see

you

profession.

own

superficial view
errors

But

earth,

allow, especially in those

your

judge

hover

the

science?

finding

unless

suddenly with

up

circumstances
to

of

men,

philosophy,

and

man.

in every

renders

our

into

to

found,

of

l)y the

of

diligence

heavens

reach

therefore

of it which

nature

the

Xewtons

yet been

never

the

aj^e,

in natural

truths

in

present
and

ingenuity

such

beyond

despair

never

nor

light

to

Sir Isaac

be

not

the

on

discoveries

to

The

improvement.

your
you

or

short

fill the

mind

turn

wrong

and
with

and

ill

work

for

retraction.

parts

of

knowledge,

tion,
inclinaleisure, your
with much
to pursue

far into them,

you

must

be

con-

OBTAIX

TO

with

tentetl

and

them,

pretend

not

form

to

of

superficial knowledge

subjects which

those

on

own

and

historical

an

'lo

KNOWLEDGE.

understand

you

of

jud^^ment

any

your
im-

very

l)eriectly.
Once

day, especially in the early years of life

what
and
account
new
study, call yourselves to an
new
i^roposilion or truth you have gained,
ideas, what
vances
of known
what
further confirmation
truths, and what adhave
made
in any
part of knowledge
you
; and
tual
intellecwithout
let no day, if possible, pass away
some
well
a
gain : such
pursued, must
certainly
course,
in useful
advance
It is a wise proverb
us
knowledge.
the learned, borrowed
from
the lips and practice
among
of a celebrated
painter, Xulla dies sine linea, Let no day
without
line at least;" and
it was
one
a sacred
pass
IX.

"

rule

the

among

evening
day, and
they had

thrice

assured

their

make

examine

done,

Nor

what

they
that

let soft slumber

of action

train

have

What

have

I've

learu'd,
heard,

From

all

What

know

What

have

I done

Wliat

liave

method

from

the
out

tliat

they

they
would

virtue.

day
their

worth

been,

seen?

the
the

1 sliould

way.

I've

all I've

tliaf 's wortli

souglit

; and

eyes,

wliere'er

that's

more

this

your

the

been, what

had

neglected
of

every
of

thrice

through

feet chose

my
I

close

affairs

had

path

recollected

you've

Where

by

in the

progress

Before
The

their

pupils,

noble

conduct

what
or

and

actions

the

over

run

they should

That

Pythagoreans,

knowing?
doing?

shun?

I h-ft undone?
duty have
Or into wiiat new
folHes
run?
the road
These
are
self-itKjuiries

What

That

I would
find

young

this heathen

leads

bo
men

to

virtue, and

to God.

to
nation
of Christians,
a
glad, among
heartily engaged in the practice of what

writer

teaches.

26
X.

Mainlain

in

lirui

limi

and

matter

And

in

all

through,
you

be not

in too

assurance

mistake

in this

dogmatical spirit ha"s

too

human

taken.
misfull

fre"iuent,
and

tive
posiways
is al-

feeble

inconveniences

many

the

nature

and

corrupt

have

have

you

peremptory

that

rived
ar-

be

not

can

you

early, nor

too

have

searched

think

may

some

; till you

and

that

have

till you

sides

so

remembering

to

it,and

i)ropo.silion

till you

evidence

sure

on

where

this

manner,

liable
A

and

even

expressing
a

and

of assurance,

grounds

for

against

to any

manner,

proposition

throuj^h

all times

at

yourasseul

ground

clear

some

the

ijoi

nnalterable

unalterable

at

turned

spirit: fix
and

watch

constanl

dogmatical

it

inrj:s

GKXERAT-

state.

attending

as

It

1.

that

stops the
and

subject,

of

all further

against

ear

shuts

up

reasoning

the mind

from

If you

have

knowledge.

all

upon

provement
im-

further

resolutely fixed

too
opinion, though it be upon
slight and insufiiwill stand
cient grounds, yet you
determined
to renounce
the
brought for the contrary opinion,
strongest reason

your

and

Positive

Is

assurance

further

light

philosophy
conlident

this character
Cartesian
of the
his
in upon
broke

force, by

uncontrollable
;

lie is

tempted
prevaricate in his

truth, or to
conviction, he
by admitting
of
necessity
confessing his former

the

k"st

has

not

2. A

of

are

and
too

gives

haughty

learning, and

assurance

lunv

renders

; and

very
his

clearest

has

vortexes

to

wink

diseourse
should

often
; last

gument.
ar-

nounced
proyear
witli

little against

that

upon

sul"ject,

himself

expose

folly and

mistake

to
:

and

the
he

that.

dogmatical spirit naturally

of mind,
which

for

enough

humility

of the

understanding,
of mathematical
something
his former
opinions in a most

reading
asserted

yet having

manner,

force

of

man

his
some

against the

obstinate

grow

man

and

good

some

leads

ns

airs

in

carriage

sometimes

arrogance

conversation

Audeus

assuming.
company

to

but

his

insu

is

man

infallible

importable.

OBTAIN

TO

dogmatical spirit inclines

of
his neiglibors. Eveiy one
A

written

him

to

it

as

27

KNOAVLEDGE.

his

with

Averc

to be

man

opinions

own

; and

sunbeams

of

censorious

appears

he

grows

neiglibor does not see it in the same

light. He is tempted to disdain his correspondents, as
of a low and dark
men
understanding, because
they will
his

that

angiy

wild

track

with

willful

and

Furio

does.

-svliat he

believe

not

those

charges

vile

obstinacy and
they resist the

boldly, that

refuse

Avho

in this

farther

goes

his

notions

; he tells them
sin against their

hypocrisy

truth

and

consciences.
and

XI.

caution
Though
against frequent mistakes
get humility and courage

slow

and

will

assent

guard

you

should

retractions; yet you

mistake,
enough to retract
any
of
and
confess
an
error:
fre(iuent changes are tokens
should
lirst determinations; yet you
never
levity in our
be too proud to change your opinion, nor
frightened at the
to scorn
those vulgar bugof changeling. Learn
name
bears,
which

fear

of

better

foolish

confii-m

with

being charged
judge,

to

not

than

in his old

man

I confess

inconstancy.

judge falsely; it

to

it is

is wiser

to

; but

evidence

withhold

our

if

suddenly given up our assent, as the wisest

find
professed what we
sometimes, if we have

have

we

does

man

which

assent

to be

to

recommend

among

world

should

false,we

renounce

is found

the

complete

see

too

afterwards
afraid

till we

for

mistakes,

to

it to

That

mistake.

Occasional

the

be

never

is

ashamed

nor

noble

essay

"

I^ajjcrs,to

and
]"iacticeretractations";
scholar
the perusal of every

age
encour-

and

would
every

Christian.

XII.

He

rank
on

that
of

])(Msons

temper

of

Fancy

and

expect

an

would

mankind,
and
mind

raise
and

things,
and

his
learn

must

humorous

huuu^r, early and

old

a;^c

overrun

judgment

with

to

take

pass

just

heed

of

conduct

iu

constantly
follius.

the

above

gar
vul-

sentence

fanciful

hisaifairs.

inchilged,may

28

GENERAL

The

notion

of

RULES

liumorist

is

j^reatlydispleased,witli

or

niucli
his

will

of

matteis

upon

determined

Where

is

lay

to

you

great weight

For

the

same

and

awful

ridicuTe,
as

will

side, and

other

valuable

as

objects.

practice,it

will

insensibly

and
Jocander
he

is

liears ; he

gotten

the

does

tliis

betray

ready with
reads
of

art

How

luerrimeut.
man

to be

Whatsoever

grave
into
is formed

his

books

habit

obtain

spirit ;

for

temper,

the
Whoredom

and

reason

of the

ofaman.

mind;

an

over

our

derstanding
un-

and

tliat

thing
and

haa
into

sentence

irregular judgments
when

and

mirth

he

designs

humor
laughing
liis understanding

leads

in pursuit of
wandering
of
sort
a
by
ijni^iJ'atuus
of

his

^"irtuous

new

in

indulge

jovial humor,

suhjeots,even

and

t he most

on

every

life.

inclinations

perverts

wine, take
Sensuality

indulgence

frame

pious

and

of vicious

understanding
and wine, and

soul, and

faculties

the

on

'

answer

and

jects.
sub-

erroi-s.

and

solemn
upon
His
earnest!

and

we

power

thought

indul^nce

an

every

maintain

Ever

habit

same

You
will see
him
shamefully astray.
is
and
lie
drawn
a gay
flying feather,
into bogs and
almost
mire
day
every

XIV.

esteem

into many

jests to

spirit of

judgment

low

awkward

turning

and

the

in this

triflingwith
sporting with

all occasions

evil

the

in

many

pass
and
in

us

take

indulge

bias

almost

on

of
of

or

on

to pass

you

shoil, this

value

care

not

do

men

unhappily

incline

momentous,

witty

lemi)t

wisdom.

to

do

his

warp

and

In

step you

have

insensibly

unjust

an

way

reason

little moment.

them.

every

the

sacred

some

This

of

and

things impoi'tant
things

; and

of

things great,

upon

to pass

you

everything that occurs

path is just so far out
XIII.

little

dom
sel-

actions

and
thin'^s,

it will

allowed,

has

of

natnre

by thinj^s

to pronounce

will incline

temper

raised

practice

judi;inent

and

heart

inijiorlance; who

his
day by trifles,

reason

the

small

very

by the
passions frequently
this

jj^reatly
pleaded,

little t liin,i;s
; 'svho setsliis

every

directed

that is

one

to

the

bases
de-

judgment.
the

away
ruins

of

the

appetite

and

heart
better
pas-

TO

sion

enfeebles

of

KNOWLEDGE.

powers

of reason;

suscei^tibleof

and

weak

meut

the

mistakes

such

gratilicationof the

those

to

that

and

vain

Eccles.

joy,"

And

the

Lord

divine

cially
espe-

His

towards

tendency
the

and

soul

aside

integrity tliat

of truth.

It is the

wisdom.

"God

sight wisdom,

and

to

the

tuous
vir-

gives
edge,
knowl-

the

pride of

iutellectual

own

own

your

and

reason

with

powers,

the

and

not
blessing. Presume
upon
in knowledge
self-sufligreat attainments
by your own
trust to their own
tirely
ciency : those who
understanding enof God
fools in the word
it is
are
pronounced
; and
tlie wisest
"He
of nu'n
that
gives them this character.
in
trust eth
his own
heart
28:
is a fool," Prov.
20.

neglect

of

of your

falseliood,and

2: 26.

against

conceit

jndg-

it warps

pursuit

in

the

honesty

fair way

good

are

Watch

XV.

the

to

and

steadfast

is in

who

it makes

every

have

as

animal

strangely from that

necessarily belongs
man

29

OBTAIN

divine

same

with

all

our

to

nor

XVI.

aid

be

Offer

up,

Father

of

God

the

and

supreme

writer

advises

heart, and

not

wise

in

our

therefore,

to

us

to

lean

"trust
to

standings,
under-

our

eyes," chap,

own

in the

5,

daily requests

your

T.
to

bless all your

tempts
atlights,that He would
and
in reading, study, and
labois
conversation.
Think
with
yourself liow easily and how
insensibly, by
of thought, lie can
turn
lead you
into a large scene
of
one
useful ideas: He can
teach you to lay hold on a clue which
guide your thoughts withsaA'ly and ease
through all
may
of an
the dinicullies
intricate
how
sul)ject. Think
easily
of your
the Author
direct
beings can
motions, by
your
His providence, so
that the glance of an
eye, or a word
of the fancy, shall conturn
duct
striking the ear, or a sudden
to a train
of happy seii^iments.I"y Ilis secret
you

to

who

read
may

method

such

give

of

treatise,or
you

more

He

government,
converse

light into

witli
some

can

sucli

deep

di-aw
a

you

i)v'rs()n,

subject

in

30

GEXKRAI,

llian

hour,

;iii

could

yon

IJT'T,F.R.

ol)liiiu

by

monlh

of

own

your

solitary labor.
Implore
inclination

to

lie

can

the

left,both
and

secure

which
into

the

first lines

the

first line of

the

beginning

and

several

of this kind
he

as

Musaeus
of

evil
of

danger

have

the

muse

l)yIho

and

He

Spirit.

every

can

of

influence

evil

fatal

books

and

and

lead

effect

as

in his

furnish

of

goddess

with

leave

Hero

his

to

Odyssey,

and

Leander,
and

Works

sufficient

Days,

examples

this piece of

out
of

stories

and

of

poem

us

Ovid
his

begins

his Iliad

in

in his song

Hesiod

does

nor

His

on

compositions.
Homer

of

others
;

the

right liand, and

mistakes.

in their

them

The

from

call upon

poets

of

your

lieai-tthere,

providence,

from

otherwise

might

the

intimations

you

fix your

to

on

point

to

p^racc

of His

course

pernicious

Even
assist

the

by

understandings

your
and
error,

you

temjitations

insensible

guard
men,

off

divine

studies, and

proper

keep

secret

His

constantly

the

tion,
devo-

Metamorphoses.

the more
Christianityso much
obliges us, by the precejits
of Scripture, to invoke
the assistance
of the true God
in
of ourlabors of the mind, for the improvement
all our
selves
and

without

others.

is

prayer

atheism,

is presumption.

study

Saunderson

Bishop

And

encouraged by the
their
acknowledged, from
was

prayer

gotten

more

this

observation

and

they

have

left
est

studying."
To conclude,
and

you

need

their

perusing

labor

orasse

to

bene

let

not

those

doubt

the

and

devotion

happy

they

their

such

stiuhiisse,''praying

industry

sincere

A'ariety of
for

success.

have

who

that

studies
upon

dantly
abun-

more

experience,

own

in

their

of

study

without

prayer

still

are

sometimes

by

Bene

we

knowledge

than

that

as

testimony

hinderance

no

well

as

that

says,

knees,
authors;

as

is

have

follow,

the

best

join together,
Prov.

2:2:

FIVE

THE

ol

METHODS.

to
apply thine heart
wisdom;
lift up
thy
understanding ; cry after knowledge, and
voice : seek her as silver,and search for her as for hidden

"Incline

thine

Lord," etc., which

"the

M'ho

Lord
of his

out

thou

understand

"is the

beginning

shalt

then

treasures;

to

ear

wisdom

gives
cometh

mouth

the mind
these

is

AND

is called

peculiar manner,
us

the

survey

Observation

is

words

that

an

the

acorn

of

our

great, that

our

that

things

; and

by lectures,
in

last

one

which

perceive by

that

most

descriptions

or

that

take

we

they

of all

or

things, to

furnishes

us,

and

currences
oc-

sensible

are

or

persons

rich variety of ideas

selves
our-

from

even

propositions,

fire will
that
by this we know
sun
gives light,that a horse eats grass,
is a being
produces an
oak, that man

reasoning

that

things

of

which

notice

the

phrases: it

and

capable

and

whereby

study.

It is this

infancy, M'ith

weak,

methods

knowledge

relatingto

others.

or

that

or

life,whether

whether
intellectual,

burn,

LECTURES,

COMPARED.

general definitions

in human

our

and

all.

of them
1.

the

meditation

and

conversation,

It is

understanding."

BY

STUDY,
means

in

imjiroved

the

simple,

observation, reading, instruction

are

Let

and

INSTRUCTION

eminent

five

are

of

II.

HEADING,

CONVERSATION,
There

the

to

knowledge

fear

of wisdom."

even

CHAPTER

OBSEEVATIOX,

the

is

mistakes

bodies

discourse,

that

our

are

that

our

and

die

generation
we
sense

see, which
or

many,

and

are

succeeds
we

carried

to

another.
hear

consciousness, or

or

is

judgment
sorrows

are

the

grave,

All

those

feel,whicli
which

we

we

know

..2

THE

willi

(liroct inaniUT,

i;i a

iii- laciillies

or

scarce

of

nanu;

this observation

^^'hen

be

called
that

experience

and

working

in

me,

attended

me

in this life.

AVhen
of

we

apply
observe

is
bullet

into

out

into

bullet

this

it will

would

in

the

some

water

these

belong

which

I shall

call

2.

Reading

is

whereby

written,

have

These

of

arts

for
n.ents,

by them

we

observations,
learned

former

ages

Public

means

as

IhroAv

dish, then

the

if I beat

but

strike

two

I throw

fire ; when

plant.

of

knowledge;

with
world

what

knowledge
other

in their

men

writings.

tage;
of infinite advanwriting are
made
are
j)artakers of the sentiof
reasonings, and improvements

from

private
are

to the

of

method

or

and

M'orld, in

almost
or

of observation

I throw

when

method

ourselves

published

reading

all the

3.

that

or

to

observation.

acquaint

we

first

the

to

when

So

too.

we

work

sort

when

shax)e,like

together, I find they produce

in the earth, it grows
up into

All

this

it swims

see

when
to

causes

So

flints
seed

Locke

properties

or

trial,or

; and

hollow

thin

Mr.

that

produce,

it sinks

quicksilver,

into

swim

set

or

of

experiment.

water, I find

bullet

same

have

occurrences

nature

methods

they

called

the

out

powers,

effects

passions

reflection,

various

by

what

diately
thing tliat imme-

all

includes

and

active

some

included

ai"petites and

personal

many

searching

are

being

any

be

may

to any

I have

therefore,

by sensation

means

rcflecf-

our

observation.
relates

fearing,loving, etc., that

Observation,

of

exercise

any

ourselves,and of which we are conscious,

jSo I am
said to know
or
experience.
1 ha\ e in myself a jxiwer
of thinking,

concerns

it may

:\ri;TnoDS

icasoniii;^jtowers,

our

(he general

under

FIVE

the

most

the

beginning

lectures

given

by

nations, and

remote

are
a

of

mankind.

such

teacher

in

verbal
while

structio
inthe

IMPROVEMENT

OF

religion
from

in

attend

learners

the

from

showing

teacher

silence.

pulpit

practices, by

all the

instruments

sentiments

our

the
a

learner

also

may

rank

useful

for

It is

meditation

things
of

that

life,in

we

It

It is

knowledge.
ideas

various

the

which
of

oj)erations
is

It

tions.
whatsoever

truth

or

of various

render

kinds.

former

the

confirm

of

exercises
methods

and

knowletlge

to

come

frequently

conversation

all t hose

all

in truti

but

of

and

teacher

our

wisdom.
of

memory

through our thoughts in theoccurri'iices

own
experiences, and in tlie observations
ferences,
invarious
draw
is by meditation
that we
establish
in our
minds
general ])rinciples

and
of

head

study includis
we

times,
Some-

i)ass

our

make.

we

the

we

by turns, yet

when
:

our

communicate

manner.

together

Under

increase

our

side,as

one

those

inquiry,

as

same

oi)erato

im])r("v!ng

and
well

the

discourse

or

of

parties speak

disputes

mind, whereby
by

o;i

mutual.

Meditation

5.

the

only

and

meet

profit is

the
we

is

advantage

in

both

indeed, though

and

necessary

method

others, as

others

to

art

/. r.,

problems,

or

discourse

of

sentiments

learning

philosophy or theology
of mathematics, by
a

of

mutual

minds, wlierein, by

ol"

"way

demonstration

is another

Conversation

the

or

is the

theorems

various

us

tion,with
ox)erations.

learn

of

or

or

speculations

4.

This

professor's chair;

the

33

C03IPARED.

we

draws

out

finds

deep

from

derive

the

WTite.

long

chains

diflicult

It
of

senses,

our

or

weakness,

argnment,
which

or

and
l)efore

from

or

i)roposimemory

judgment

is meditation

truths

in

tliem

our

strength

the

compare

fix in

we

form

we

our

join

that

learn, and

or

and

that

semis, and

our

falsehood,

speak

meditation

by meditation
we

others

by

of
of

study

searches

the
what
that
and

lay concealed

in darkness.

It would

be

needless

thiug

to

i)rove,

that

our

own

34

TTIK

FIVF-

METHODS

solitary meditations, to^otlicr

with

observations

tlie lew

are
capable of making,
part of mankind
into
the
not
arc
sufncieiit,of themselves, to lead us
of any
considerable
altaiiinient
i)roi)ortionof knowledge,

tbo

that

most

least in

at

improved

that

instructions
proper
each
of these
Yet

to be

are

advantages, whereby they assist

have
need
peculiar defects,which
other's

advantages

of

1. It

is

icilh the

owing

ground-work

and

makes

for

improving

of

be

of

All

2.
it be

they

at

of

impressions

their

and

of the

is

the

ular
partic-

viind

our

of

any

for

of

if

intellectual

this

lays

knowledge,

other

the

did

we

furnished

is
is

all

using

observation,

foundation

actings of

the

for

men

as

them

or

that

it includes

as

derived

knowledge

of

jieculiar

supplied by

be
some

these

are

either

things,

or

days.

our

other;

to

other

methods

attain

not

ideas

the

by

sations
sen-

of
objects, by the consciousness
passions, pleasui'cs and pains, and

first hand.

are,

each

It

and

single ideas

of

gotten
as

our

their

the mind

It is observation

thing.

have

coni])h'xideas.

mind

impossible

first ideas

of

sensible

appetites and
inward
experience

any

and

the

own

it

and

outward

of

in

observation,that

to

capable

us

variety

would

of

firstsimple

the

attained

over

improving

advantages

the

trace

us

and

of each.

method

I. One
and

Let

assistance.

reading,

methods

five

is,without

ours

as

and

conversation

of

assistance

the

much

so

age

an

or

of

our

own

books
must

in

by
spirits,it

it

to

teach

give

us

and

sense

us
our
sciousness.
con-

whether
from observation,

jiropositions,is knowledge

Hereby we
they appear
on

our

our

see

to

minds

and

us;
from

know

thini:s
take

we

the

the

original

and
which
stronger
give a clearer
objects themselves,
of things: these
ideas are
more
lively, and
conception

the

propositions(at

least in many

cases)

are

much

more

IMPROVEMENT

OF

^vllereas,\vluit kuowledge

evident,

reading',aud
one

farther

remove

knowledge
lives;

our

be

and

and

only while

lay

of

for
in

ofotlier

coi)y

i)icture; aud

is,that
and

of

it is

the

Ave

the

Mith

ac(iuaintance
and

powers

the

in

membrance
re-

truths,

some

us

may

thereby,

then

even

teach

ot

moment

treasures

and

gain

may

existence

better

we

every

our

will

dreanun"^

our

tures,
lec-

originah

asleep,

are

we

the

intellectual

our

foundation

frailties

it.
II. The

next

and

with

and

dead,

they

lived

books

we

assistance
and

of

live

own

2.

our

what

only

all

inwai'd
ire

the
men,

learn

nations

knowledge
the

and

i)owers

wisest

not

only
and

and
and

the

enjoy

who

are

near

is, our
is

knowledge

our

ourselves
much

improvement

our

selves,
our-

direct

do, that

we

; but

of

kind
man-

from
own

our

still,if wecontine

for then

all

can

when

time

same

though

as

viz.,those

persons,

contemporari(\s

of different

learned

within
we

tant
dis-

most

parts of

all
learn

we

living

the

By reading

from

comes

few

very
at the

ease

solitary reasonings, without

own

extensive

and

nation.

observation

By reading

ourselves

and

age

something

narrowed

more

much

as

conversation

by

and

reading;

from

learn

these

as

nations

remote

with

own

only

neighbors
our

our

whereas, by

cognizance

nuich

tlie most
that

may

and

us

in

in

such

are

acquaint ourselves,in a very

actions, and thoughts,of
affairs,

and

ages,

it

ing,
by read-

is

ice

the

manner,
the

of

advantages

the

mind

imjn-oving the

of

way

Jiy reading

1.

or

to

nature, both

human

the

moment

every

of

to

from

adding something

except

of

picture

advaniaye of ohHermtion
all the
day long,

Another

3.

is,the

from

derive

we

is but

conversation,

ideas, that

men's

35

COMPARED.

merely

observatn-.n
arise

must

only

meditations.
the

ages,

and

actions

but

'\\e

best

transfer
of the

improvements
the

the sentiments

of

most

mankind,

to

36

THE

"\vhon

whorosoevor

or

]i;ivc In-eu
of

the most
in

the

obtain

they

in

happen

of

have

to

meditations,

learning,
when

even

of lliose
or

person

unless

our

of

for

When

3.

read

we

and

labored,

good authors, we
refined

most

wise

and

learned

at

some

have

committed

mere

hints

they

have

ment
improvecontracted

the befif.the

sentiments,

; for

men

leant

great

study
good

our

learning, our advantage for further

in knowledge
by them, is still far more
what
derive
from
we
reading.
may

than

who

instructor

of

degrees

can

we

sometimes

any

as

^vise

acc^uaint-

and

arrive

we

tation
repu-

only

our

And

character.

htreii-s

a\

unwise

or

^reat

f;reat and

of

nations

affords

or

this

ol)tainc(l

dwelling,

wise

hooks

injudicious jjcrsons, y",'t

instiuction

scarce

wisdom

tlioiij^h
many

i)rodu(ts

our

are

sphere

narrow

eminence

and

the

and

reach

the

and

aj^es and

several

for

\\iiicli liave

^vorhl,are

whether

ance,
that

books

tlic conversation

within

are

livc"l

l"y Mcak

those

in their

men

Ihcy

uritlcii

METHODS

TIVK

of

even

most
those

studied

hard,
thoughts,

and

and
writing their maturest
the result of their long study and
experience : whereas,
by conversation, and in some
lectures,we obtain many
tutors
times only the present thoughts of our
or
friends,
which
be bright and
(though they may
useful',yet, at
be
sudden
and
first perhaps, may
indigested, and are

It

4.

again
in

our

which

what

and

but

and

and
what

retired
we

up,

haj^pen
retire
we

to

and

have

or

at

have

the

note

down

found

by

again

when

what

in those

may

the
of

we

consult

soon

as

book

remarkable

discourses.

memory,

the

in lectures,

company
unless

or

thoughts
And

always

anil

day vanishes,

good

page

seasons,

conversation
as

may

the

it at successive

on

obtain

talent

we

that

hours, having the

lost

least

maturity.

no

of reading,

meditate

is oftentimes
breaks

to

read;

have

again,

risen

advantage

we

sereuest

at hand

have

another

is

review

to

for

we

quickly
or

the

ideas
same

OF

and

reason,
a

learned

III.

for the

could

There

1.

of

is

aie

sedentary

of

voice, the
the

engage
and

li\ely and
in the

ideas

and

tutor

than

the

the

other

authois,

of

what

of

are

authors,

reading

on

the

which
of

books

doctrines

own

would

or

sentiments

3.

and

and

his

thus

the

never

well

ciples
his dis-

save

labors

and

and

the

new

before

world

witli

e\i)eriments

own

and

yet

i)erusal

what

you
the

i)erhaps

may

be

of

what

you

aecpuiint you

as

his

in

worth

compendium

inform

can

were,

world,

in

hearers

best

ai'e

labor

arising

are

be

to

much

and

importance,
teach

ancients,
He

public; as
private thoughts, and
to

come

i)ublished

and

cost

to attain.

obsi'rvations,which
be

the

books

you

pains, by shortening the

He
show
can
private studies.
of

more

of

and

doctrines

i)erhaps

many

they

time

in

show

can

author

an

convey

i^rccisepoint of

He

can

i)articularsubject,

closet and
the

were

paits of

attained, will

paraphrases

out

He

moment.

Mhat

or

any

much

their

less

and

polite

reading

or
controversy, and vnfold it.
difficidty
which
of
paragraphs are
greatest

which

turn

things

he

mark

can

very

closet.

instructor, when

or

The

the

mere

of

retirement

silent

fixed, and

the

mind,

the

have

teachers

some

way,

by jniblic

is in

and

the

forcible

explains

reading.

soul

into

there

the

silence

2. A

of

of

attention, keep

insinuate

his

delightfuland
wise, learned,

sprlghllj,more

more

which

of

good pronunciation,

alluring manner

meditations

instructions

verbal

practice

wriliiig,many

again.

entertaining,in the living discourse

well
and
qualified teacher, than
and

37

F.D.

and

useful

them

these

aometMiig

AT?

retiring

recall

never

private lectures

or

of

lost several

advantage

Thti

f "o:\rP

want

has

man

and

own,

IMPROVEMENT

never

very

his
and
will

valiuible

useful.

notions

liring
with

instructor

which

he

can

would

conrnj

furnish

to

our

our

senses

minds,

those
when

38

Tin:

hv

I FVi:

^rKT^ODK

ti'iU'lu'S lis iiuliuui

orinosl
])liil()S()j)liy,
]i;uts of
uiutical k'ainiiig. lie can
make
the experiments
om-

He

eyes.

1o

tlic lines and

in

can

not

Ave

should

anjilcs, and

"well

make

help

bo

by

in these

heloie

dia^Manis, jxiint

the

ont

deniojistration

sensible

by

done

and

wliich

means,

reading,
have
the same
figures lying in a
A
living teachei-, therefore,is a

so

eyes.

figures

manner
intelligible

more

our

describe

can

niullir-

mere

though

even

l"ook

before

most

sary
neces-

studies.

add

might

course
where
the subject of disalso,that even
is nioi-al,
logical,or rhetorical, et c.,.and -which "loes
under
the notice
of our
a tutor
directly come
senses,

not

familiar
explain his ideas Ijy such
exami)les. and
find place in books
plaiu or simjjle similitudes,as seldom

may

and

writings.
When

4.

insfrucior

an

or
of difficulty,
as

clearly or
lecture

is

lio"w such
a

other
be

in the

end

it,concerning

hearer,

this

midst

brings

ideas,

when

the

inquire

to

how

or

such

removed.
free

rather

difliculties

or

it verj'

v.ith the

converse

lecture, or

doubts

any

at least

understood,

of the

his

up

seasons,

jiroper

explained and
be permission given to

either

the

opportunity,

manner

take

matter

any

such

not

be

tutor,

delivers

in

do

you

should

sentence

If there

to

that

so

fully,you have
finished,or at

difiicultymaj'

of

himself

expresses

obscure,

seems

his lectures

in

that

the

occur

conversation

to

near

at

or

discourse.
lY.

Conversation
and

his

have
aiul

\re

help

own

us

of

danger

whatsoever

that
his
of
is

the

with

at

hand

whole

meaning

mistaking
really obscure

his

Icanird

explain

obscure

seems

ment,
improve-

following advantages

the

to

of

method

next

familiarlyivitlia

converse

sentiment

inform
less

it is atterided

TT7/f"

1.

is

us

friend,we
every

in his discourse,
;

so

seusc

may

to

that
:

also

we

whereas
abide

are

word
and

to

in much
in

books,

always

ob-

OF

without

scure

that

inquire his

may

we

mistake

we

times

many

capable

of

to

that

pavss

the

have

we

of

tlie

so

hand,

at

in

; but

in

mistake

same

from

authors, and

tion,
conversa-

we
i-eadiug,-,

and

it.

not

are

Thence

it

in all ages

contests

many

of ancient

is not

friend

our

right again

ourselves

recovering

author

sense.

set

in

on

go

meaning

the

tlie meaiiinu'

quickly

are

o9

C03IPAEED.

.since

remedy,

we

If

IMPROVEMENT

comes

about

especially the sacred

writers.

with
Ilappj' shovild Ave be could we Init converse
the
piophets
Moses, Isaiah, aiul 8t. Paul, and consnlt
and
with
difficult text : but
meet
we
a
ajjostles,when
for the ages
of
that glorious conversation
is reserved

future

blessedness.
When

2.

ve

friend,tee
his

may

and

The

remoA'cd

have

difficulties

by

doubts

our

^u-opose

sentiments,

once.

cliscours^nff
iipon

are

and

them

that

and

in

Avord

enlightening

with

objections against

solved

arise

theme

any

minds

our

of

ansAvered

at

l)e

may

correspondent
in reading, if a difficult}'
whereas
or
question arises in ("ur
thoughts, AAhicli the author has not happened to mention,
be

must

we

of it.
3.

in
in

Kot

AA'ithout

content

Books

not

can

only

subject

any

one

the

doubts

but

conversation,
books,

and

in

our

friendly conferences.
in solitary meditation
because

perhaps

thought

; and

scent
us

is not

corrected

difficultywhen

the

the

arise

in

mind

upon

easilj'proposed

and

soh'ed

very

months

have

(Avhile
and

read

we

of

if

may
Ave

see

track

pursuing

are

for

i-rror

But

solution,

Avrong

unsuccessful,

it, we
when

Avithout
into

gotten

loi:gtrain

correspondent

solution

or

the

first step.
Ave

ansAver

Avith
meet
ice
difficulties
fnd a reliefby
priA'ate studies, may
"\\'e may
a knotty
point
pore
upon

useless

onh'

in

are

labor

our

into

perhaps

Avhich

many

aac

present

speak.

discourse

or

our

we

propose
him

it leads
of

Avant
note

; we

false

but

of

being

doAvu

tliis

it to

an

genious
in-

may

be

r*^-

40

THE

licvcd

in

evidence
4.

truth, and

ConrernatUm

notions

into

hidden

treasures

bring

5.

and

discourse
its hoards

them

soul

of

useful

most

clniinbers
it

; it unfolds

the

Avilh

conversation

the

is awakened

ol)-

mind.

and

and

allured

it learns
A

the

reading

furnished

is like

ful

displays

Avhieh

mankind.

the

of

us"
briii;,'Sold

and

knowledge,
to

into

once

delightful surprise.
lijjht -what has been

incidents

knowledge
before
study, had

it

sets

of

man

miser,

who

how
vast

lives

to himself.
In

poiccrs

free
are

and

friendly conversation,
animated,

more

superior vigor

in

truths.

is

that

and

at

us

secret

of

reading without
only

hints

view,

ho

into
and

recesses

\;inisli:

dinnnliy

dillcrcnt

with

out

reinenibrance

forth

to render

lln-

leads
lij^lit,

that

calls

lodged in all tlu;

soul : by occasional

to

find

(]uitc aiiotlier

and

servation,
By mutual

METHODS

object jx'i-liapsin

ill

us

and

inoincnt.

Ix'liolds the
before

FIVE

There

attends

the

and

quest

sharpness

our

and
and

our

spirits
pursuit

inicUcdual
act

of

sagacity

with

unknown
of

thought

find whilst
we
beyond what
shut up reading and
retirements.
we
are
musing in our
Our
souls
be serene
in solitude, but not sjiarkling,
may
in reading the works
though perhaps we are employed
of the brightest writers.
has
Often
it hajipened in free
discourse,that new
thoughts are strangely struck out, and
the seeds
of truth
sparkle and blaze through the comin calm
liave
and silent reading would
iie\"er
l^any, which
been excited.
will both
give and
By conversation
you
receive this benefit ; as flints,
when
jjut into motion, and
striking against each other, produce living fire on both
which
would
have
arisen
from
the same
hard
never
side.-,

conversation

"

materials
G.

In

learned

in

state

generous
men,

we

of

rest.

conversation, among-st
have

private opinions, and

of

ingenious

great advantof/e of proposing

bringing our

own

and
our

sentiment^ to the

IMPROVr.MEXT

OF

loarninj;' in

test,

and

Way

Avhat

what

will receive

them,

wliat

defects

them,
correct

to

easy

the

pleasure

of

self-love,as

us

; which
our

in

own

our

the

as

favorable

raised

against
how

and

scheme,

advantages are
private meditations:
notions,

own

of

narrowness

opinion

an

be

may

safer

mankind

how

them,

our

variety of genius
our
give hapi)y notices how

the view
7.

wxdl

in

are

the

wlu'reas
will

by

take

we

too

to pass

objections

there

obtained

be

of

jndge

mistakes

own

our

will

and

compendious

moiv

world

the

41

fOIMPARED.

in

and

so

lor

i^assion.

schemes

own

will

opinions

associates

several

our

not

views, tempt

our

our

on

the

to

stand

in

of

versation,
con-

of mankind,

It is also

another

considerable

advantage

furnisliesthe student uiih the luoiclthe affairsof life,as

and
edye of men
reading furni.-hes
who
dwells
all his days
with book
him
learning. A man
amassed
books
have
together a vast heap of
may
among
is a conbe a mere
notions ; but he may
scholar, which
in the world.
A hermit, who
temi)tible sort of character
contracted
shut up in his cell in a college,has
has been
all his airs
and
rust upon
of mould
his soul, and
a sort
that

it

have

of l)ehavior
awkward

these
:

the

airs
and

rust

certain
are

the

worn

mould

filed

are

as

his

to dress

iu the

to set them

his notions

honor;
and
the w^orld
improves
But before
we
proceed
by conversation, we
books:
V.

and
IVIere

besides

therefore

becomes
fiiend

fairest

he

the
too

makes

; he

he

learns
as

well

brings
of

use

zen
citi-

out

in

them

theory by the practice.

far in

should
an

some

off
a

colors,

strongest light. Thus

with

else is necessary

in the

s"'ntiments

pany
com-

brushed

and

now
a

; l"ut

in

by degrees

away

The
scholar
by polite conversation.
or
a gentleman,
a neighbor, and
liow

in them

awkwardness

finishing
consider

acquaintance

acter
bright char-

that
with

something
men

and

add,

lectures,reading,

and

conversation, without

42

five

Tin:

thinkiiiLj,
aiul

sufliciciit

not

are

wisdom.

methods

is

It

our

iiKikc

to

knowifflge

and

thought

own

that

of

inim

iclb-ction,

all

other
meditation,
It carries
and
methods
of improvement
perfect them.
these advantages witli it:
1. Though
obstTvation
and
and
instruction, reading
I'unush
of men
^vith many
ideas
us
conversation, may
and
the
labor
own
meditation, and
tldngs, yet it is our
of
our
own
fot-m our judgment of
thoughts, that mud
join or disjoin these
thoughts should
things. Our own

Ftiidyand

in

idoas
that

proj^osition for ourselves

fur

judge

must

ourselves

out
us

vrith

truths, and

many

it is

; but

them

these

whether

have

eyes

not

of

reach

the

of the

known

either

is done

But

after

all,let

our

own

reflection
should

we

us

of, and

this

be

and

receive

how

and

they

to

reasoning that

never

true, and

of times
other

and,

places

discourses.
that

us,

it is

determine

must
books

or

of

our

; and

persons

with

worthy

within

and

fixed

point

our

knowledge

in their

are

which

come

writings or

which

port
sup-

solid.

immediate

judgment

truth

acquaint

things

distance

that

far

and

consulting

in their

that

far

by

of

arguments

would

and

personal

our

agreement

may

thousand

which

and

seen,

be

must

arc

the

ijropositions are
just

are

mind

own

propositions

study

own

the

our

conversation

these

there

observation, because
these

our

arguments

It is confessed

form

"svith mauy

whether

determine

must

it is

concerning

disagreement of ideas, and

of them.
Reading and

or

attend

must

how
inform

men

and

assent

credit.
2.

It

is

so

as

make

to

judgment
that
it

were

and

notions

the

makes

and

meditation

upon

them

concoct

them

properly

our

well

as

become

as

our

own

intellectual

that

of

sentiments

them,
our

stud//

transfers and
others

our

memory

property.

food,

ourselves,

to

It is

own.

and

turns

veys
con-

our

of

own

them,

It does
it into

as
a

OF

IMrnoVKMKNT

part of ourselves:

just

from

the

become

substance

one

which

poses,

muscles

those

manages

and

were

once

he

the

borrowed
lark

the

corn

the

or

roots

of

with

himself, and

the

lobster

limbs

for his

the

substance

he
om'u

now

wields

and

jjroper

pui--

of other

animals

or

which

last

week

in

sea,

waving

the

garden,

is

of the

; it is all

earth

and

aud

materials

luilk,the fruits

or

vegetables; that very substance

gi-azingin the field or swimming
the milk-pail, or growing in the
part of the

call hi:? limbs

may

from

it from

herbs

the

trees, or

niau

sheep,

derived

he

whether

the

or

ox

as

Avlietlier

llesli liis own,

his

43

COMPARED.

was

iu

become

now

man.

meditation
ice
improve the hinis that
By study and
and
ing
readhave
conversation,
acquired hi/ob.serrafion,
time
in thinking, and
take
more
by the labor of
: we

3.
we

mind

the

jyenetrate deeper

we

edge and

thoughts

our

carry

sulyects, than

many

l)o()ks of

dead

the

and

forms

which

whole

borrowed

we

of

draws

out

scheme

or

that

reasoning

own

met

discourses

or

the

themes

farther
in

with, either
the

living.

truth

one

science

from

from

Imoui-

of

much

sometimes

ever

we

into

on

the

It is

our

another,
few

hints

elsewhere.

Justly conclude,
that he who
spends all his time in hearing lectures, or
observation, meditation, or
books, without
l^oring upon
of
will have
historical
but a mere
knowledge
converse,
By

learning,
known
How

and

or

the

said

on

these

things

able

oidy

the

subject

we

will

be in

will

speaker

gain

and

but

danger
he

may

tell

to
he

conversation, M'ithout

study,
which

of

be

in

away
or

of

survey

that
due

slight and
of

that

wliat
lets

others

have

all

time

his

ing,
observation,readedge,
superficialknowl-

vanishing

Avilh the

voice

eoiijineshimself vienli/ to

of
his own
observation
narrow
things,
closet,and
and
is taught only by his own
solitary thoughts, without
will
instruction
by lectures,reading, or free convt'rsation.
his

A\

RKLATING

RULES

in

be

of

danger

scll',and

spirit, ;i

narrow

nnnasonaMc

an

all, he will oI)(ain

inpl of

conti

hut

ii

limited

very

and
knowledj^e of tliinj;s,
usefid.
make
tliat knowledp;

and
to

TInac

and
joirdJij,
arc

enjoy them
them, viz
of

moie

to lind

as

all ;

thou.i;h 1

discourse.

As

must

seldom

way,

hain

.should

hr

how

pursued

cireiunstances

our

and

should

observation, we

that

acquirinj? knowledge

view

imperfect

we

of

conversation
be

may

whether

to

much

employ

i)ul)Iiclectures, or

for

alter

conveniency
fjiveopinion that two

meditation,

than

time

our

lie will

oi)portunity

reading;-and

and

of liim-

; and

olhcis

of improvement
in hand, Mhere

hand

^o

happy

so

and

mrfhods

Jirr

conceit

vain

always
alone

are

or

in comixmy.
But

it will

be

further

our

live methods

all these

over

for

distinctly and
in useful

science

Though

and

we

draw

may

the

first

does
the

include

things
;

of

means

not

them

motions

it is

and
a

short
few

the

strict

from

and

the

directions
I shall

not

so

of

upon

the

so

concerning

this

narrowly

confine

sense

mind

upon

di-awn

from

exceedingly
making

and

is

study,

thinking

without
them,

word,

its strictest

are

for

observations

reflections

all.

the

and

inferences

mind

hardly possible
or

in

reasonings

of

of

sense

meditation

obsi'rve,or

we

gain experiences
giving

in

in it any

them

OBSERVATION.

improvement,

which

yet the

swift, that

secret

TO

distinguished

from

III.

RELATING

observation,
it is

as

go

obtaining knowledge more

vances
special adlarge, and see what

CHAPTER
EULES

we

of

at

more

if

improvement,

to

man
some

therefore

method

myself

in

provement
of imto the

STATE M
TO

first

impression

moro

; but

also

and

obvious

easy,

arise

from

When

both

we

obsL'rving their

the

and

us
we

our

abroad

than

of mi'n,

made

the

The

animal

entertain
Endeavor

and
our

we

it be

or

the

works

we

of

behold

world

round

human

thing

lilV',from

every thing within

you
II. In order to furnish the mind

curiosity

of

or

us,

may
varieties.

which

without

you.

young

of

us, and

occurs

with

are

works

in

which

God

we
we

about

thing

every

tlie

Governor.

instruction

some

from

thing

any

beneath

thousand

ten

tlierefore to derive

laudable

of

of the

more

vegetable

every

human

; when

men

ground

mind

of

mankind

our

as

in

are

city,wheresoever

the

with

more

of

Ilim

clinatio
in-

and

knowledge

the

observation

serve
ob-

reflect upon

and

and

above,

and

ourselves

of

the

to

house

we

the

hearts,

l!s^or is there

relation

see

])i'ov('m('ntof the
see
or
hear, from

idea*;, the

darkness

When

knowledge

country,

skies

in
own

ourselves.

except
our

we

eyes,
in

the

in

of the
passions in some
acquaint ourselves
may

conduct.

in the

are

improving

something more
passions and follies,and
virtues,by conversing with

affairs,vices, and

knowledge

of

discover

nature, of human

God.

of

time

engagemer^ts

spirits,and

own

life ;

one

no

properties,the tendencies
gain
body and spirit,and

of

may

valuable

our

own

our

knowledge

company,

turn

our

in

and

poweis

intimate

with

of

motions

occurrenct

witli the

of

even

is

there

or

this method

alone,

are

"working

the inward

When

Avhich

be

knowledge

your

in life ; since

converse

may

the

who

of

from

us

we

silence,we

more

tion
by observa-

reasonings

or

transactions, occurrences,
exclude

which
life,

and

reflections

enlargement
and
view
design

place, no

latest

tlie mind

on

hints ^vhicll relate to the lirst,

some

the

constant

mind.

object

them.

I. Let

or

of

include

most

45

OBSERVATION.

rich

nr

imyou

hum;iu

variety of

people

should

40

ijkt.ating

ra'i,Es

indulged and gratified, i at lici' t liaii ( 11scon raffed. Jl is

a
liopiI'lil8i;;M in youii.L,' iktsoiis, to sec tlu'in curious
very
in obsorvin'j, and
in(|uisitivoin searfhin;^ into the {greatest
should
such an in(|uirpart of thinirs tliat occur
; nor
l)e lijrorouslyreinto silence, nor
strained,
inj;temper he frowned
be

to all those

given

answers

For

this

rather

should

hut

be

peoi)le should

younjj;

should
and

distant

from

into

their

to

at

it,
sons,
sea-

fields, and

the

see

allow

proper

and

buildings, towns,

dwelling

own

j)ioi)er

fortune

and

company

abroad

rivers, the

the

woods,

time

led

carried

be

with

queries.

also, where

reason

satisfie"l

he

they should

the

cities,

be

tained
enter-

sects,
birds, beasts, fishes,inof
and
nature
productions both
vegetables, and
the i)roducts of
of art of every
kind, whether
they are
their own
or
foreign nations : and in due time, where
Providence
travel under
a
gives opportunity, they may
wise
inspector or tutor to dillerent parts of the world for
of
treasures
the same
bring home
end, that they may
useful
knowledge.
what
down
write
is
all these observations
III. Among

with

sight

the

in store

take

review

of useful

habit

of

Such

even

your

looser

both

here

where

useful

whatever
be

the

at least

marks
re-

seasons

will

give you
workings

of

by this means
hajipy account

to

for his

friends
or

own

at

been

made,

be

situation

humor

in

never

derived
as

from
a

versation
con-

meeting.

next

should

man

may

have

part of the subject of your

circumstances

they will,
travel

; and

turn

projier

the

secure

observations

some

your

which
him

will

moments

at

practice

these

reserve

hereafter.

among
Let

them.

thinking ; this will

running to waste

from

let them

oeeasions, and

soul

And

uncommon

for proper

your

and

strange

and

remarkable

most

of

life be

what

neglect

this

observation.

traveler, or

or

provement
im-

Let
pursue

gentleman
the

to

his

knowledge
himself

render

may

or

adverse

of

the

parts
and

the

In

due

observations.

wise

by

prosperous

distant

most
on

carry

let

part of the world

what

in

his diversions

47

OBSERVATION.

TO

some

he

ijleascsas
eall him

fortune

him

; still let

globe

of his soul
improvement
he
time, by this means,
useful

way

of

soeieties

the

to

mankind.
Let

IV.

and

passions
turn

to

The

eyes

keep

us

prejudices

of

both

on

or

of life

it

sutlers
them
to
light, nor
Whensoever, therefore,you would

let self, with

from

concern

stand

If this

aloof

better

make
well

were

the

of

mingle

pride

and

the

notices

often

How

envy.
which

to

i)rone

in

position

and

means

we

form

than

they deserve
tempt
self-flattery
ourselves
we

in

our

pass

little abatement

own

in
worse

to

us

the

at

make

favor.

ready
of

put

an

take

In

same

this

much
duct
miscon-

false

to

envy

persons.

sense

survey

ments
judg-

upon
of them

account.

time

pride

and

on
unjust observatit"ns
all the favorable
ments
judg-

concerning cmrselves, we
on

things.

be

is

servatio
ob-

the

and

other
ill

own

ties
enmi-

in

of

as

by
unhappy light! And
neighbors
opinion of our

an

; while

the

take

we

neighbors, to

this

viz

of men,

vations,
obser-

and

pieces

are.

your

way,

in

aside

and

friendships

common

of their

evil

they

proper

of the

the action
an

make

mon
com-

things
as

interest

out

those

is mankind

of the

many

relatingto persons
should
obeyed, we

observations

with

all

keep

guarded against
in

IIow

bid

and

you

rule

things.

the real

over

appear

own

your

and

color

influences, stand

all its

abstract

them,

that

wrong

and

beholds

never

true

i)ossible;

tions
yellow observajaundice make
with
and
the soul, tinctured
any

occurrences

as

give

persons

thing ;
prejudice, diffuses a false
of things, and
disguises

appearance

far

will

these

from

possible

as

in the

man

every

passion

free

as

; for

observations

our

on

minds

our

should

allow

48

iirLi:s

A'. In

i:i;lating

niakiiii^your

oBSEiiVATiox.

to

observations

on

is
indulging that busy curiosity which
into private and
domestic
affairs, Mith
'\u"^

of

itch of

learnin'^tlic

seldom

that

ends

it

in

such

become

neighbors: some
persons
: a
busyl)ody is most
they know
upon

observation,

your

; and

nature

avoid, rather

to

passions
and

VII.

of the

mind,

apparent

be

to

may

up

vices

of your

guard against your

reputation

good

belaid
should

old

out

of your

make

necessary

which

theme.

for the

matter

or

of

course
dis-

make

to

well

as

things

useful

or

versations,
con-

particular

on

should

call of

for

just
dence,
Provi-

observe

you

much

the less be

remarks

of the

on

conversation

things than on persons;

generally be observed, unless names
faults

man
hu-

them.

neighbor

our

and

breast, till some

on

the

with

follies

be

published.

indecencies,
follies,

neighbors as may be a
practice of the same, without

rule, that

wheresoever

present

so

such

treasure
or

learned

own

conduct

or

it should
greatly culi^able,

is

as

persons

you

speak

to

you

sometimes

in

remarks

some

you to
character

the

the

out

their

impertinencies

proper

occasion,

leads

You

and

tongue.

part lie hid in your

most

If

the

liable

imitate

to

particularlj-to their disadvantage,

persons,

and

the

or

discourse

your

-what

furnish

to

concerning

yet what
the

of

it may

Though

subject of

the

of i)ersons

even

you

than

reproaches

observations

your

inform

to

not

can

occa^sion.

every

chiefly designed in order to lead

acquaintance with things, particularly

better

evil

It is but

lUmilies.

be

conduct

what

endU'SS

an

their

tattler

Let

Yl.

incjuii-

over

juryingcuriosityattains any valuable

often begets suspicions, jealousies, and disturbances
households, and it is a frequi-ut teniiitationto

help tellingwhat
to

of

care

to derame

persons

history

secret

take

persons,

that

constant

ing
expos-

account.

should
and
be

of mankind

It

rather

this

rule

concealed,
are

our

OF

Be

YIII.

general

When

of

jewels
little

if

our

due

in

understandings,

and

often

shall

we

in their
taken

be

made

with

the

notions.

general

princii)les,
whicli

cases

lay

to

in

large and

i^articular
way

arc

treasure

universal

is the

ticulars
par-

these

become

some

all the

them,

be

to

in these

of

of

survey

included

cwn

and

from

many

great

errors

mistake

determination

hasty

without

caution, lest

so

indubitable,

therefore

are

should

we

and

from

comprehending

they

and

care

diflfusive.

be

but

aredi-awn

certain

knowledge,

room

greater

may

general theories

erect

to

observations

become

to

as

hasty

too

49

EE.VDIXG.

or
particular obscrvalions,
ments.
experiappearances,
the logicians call a false induction.
This
is what

few

not

AND

BOOKS

of

pursuit

trap

ject,
sub-

any

cajitives intt)

for

mistake

falsehood.

Niveo

in

tofrothor

his

tliere

writ

it down

the

weather,

youth

three
Christmas
observed, that on
Days
and
hath
jrood quantity of snow,
now
of
his
in his almanac,
wise
remarks
as
a
on
part
that
it will
at Christmas.
snow
always
Euren,
fell

frost
lad, tcH)k notice ten times, that there was
a sharp
younjif
the wind
the
when
in
in
middle
the
north-east; therefore,
was

the last July, he almost

expected it should
showed
liim
wind
the weather-cocks
north-east
a
he
found
it
still more
when
a
disappointed,
very
of

CHAPTER
OF

I. The

any
may
the

man's
be

are

good

month

or

written.

some

special
not

Books

purpose,

there

kind,

year, or
Others

; but

buUry

yet
be

may
in

perused by

were

was

seaaou.

is past
valuable

any

tudes
multi-

are

worth

never

worth

are

some

there

thousands

are

occasion

or

he

EEADIXa.

written, they

; and

in their

fit to be

AXl)

ill

; and

IV.

full of

so

reading

were

are

is

world

which

BOOKS

freeze, because

which

more

nothing
for

which

when

they

in themselves

for

peculiar science, but

but

those

who

are

en-

50

is it for

use

irad
ill the

;i

law?

fur

or

kiiowlcd";(', and

of

the

have

most

by

in

the treatise

the writer's
advise

always

taken

of

the

the

table

be

but

will

you

what

review

reader

I may

second

the

or

give the
done

be

will

author

what

is

chapters,

the

learn

Avith

leavSt

which

reading,
perusal

that

is

Unless

memory,
book

review

of

and

of

all

make

thought

you

or

worthy

not

marked,

which

your

before,

you

any

careful

and

In

teach.

scarce

and

ease

retentive
is

not

attention

paragraphs.

or

you

sections

first

to

most

take

will

more

unknown

there

before

one,

second

your

greater

pages,

survey

you

the

to

I would
a

be

with

or

afiirm,that
reading once,

of

in

and

paragrajihs

recollection

and

means

book

little

expect from

may

read

pretends

new

first read

for this end

be

assisted

At

mended
recom-

learn

to

yon

this

By

the

perusal.

to

especially

be

contents, if there

to

worth

lines

preface

uncommon

an

venture

chapter

the

you

those

has

And

to

should

reading, mark
and

skill.

book.

delil)eration, and
ri'adiness

and

much

be

it, M'hieh

of

what

fitted

better

and

manner,

and

of

of the

survey

only

that

read

man

reading

kind,

any

cursory

promises,

manner

cases

and

young

his

to

improvement

subject, should

any

and

general

more

what

on

judged

for
a

Avimt

friend.

inii)ortanec of

treatises

complete

of

Ileljrew

for
for

To

tradosman,

advantage

books

judicious
of

or

learn

ing tinn-.

s:i\

proper

Books

J I,

Imsinrss.

reports

to

lawyer

It is of vast

Rabbins?

the

of

liii^cvoluiiU'S

lli"!

over

KKADINO,

science;
or
]):irliouliir
"liviii(i oi- ii physician,

lliat

in

pip'd

AM)

BOOKH

OF

truly

valuable.

There
take

is another

superficial

I sit down
attention
ties in

to
:

and

it which

and

read
that
we

also why

reason

it

cursory
and

survey

dwell

is,that there
can

not

easilv

upon
mav

I would
of

choose

be several

understand

before

book,

it with

to

studious
difliculand

con-

BOOKS

OF

lieiisioii of

in such

W(nil(l

in that

If three

book,

and

four

about

render

the
to

ther
farupon

upon

it. at

they

the

same
S(nne

nicate
commu-

and

subject

this

practice

will

ficial
bene-

abundantly

more

distinct
of

each

treatises

comjianions,
it

the

same

on

one

communication

other

inquiries concerning

in

engaged

in

of

each

ing
concern-

those

perusal

several

ment,
improve-

of

the

same

by satisfying their
Mithout

conversation.

by

week,

other';;

perhaps

or

subject,

mannt'r

methods

the

study,

once

brief

by recommending

their

the

and

manner,

sentiments, and
thereby promote

and

to read

them.

season

either

every

perusing it.

one's

that

Kemember

V.

conversation,
divine

the

every
these

themselves

on

author

persons

inform

authors,

sentiments

hands

sense,

to

of

one

their

may

the

or

of

remarks

own

of any

reading

appoint

book

master

perhaps many
have
we
proceeded

agreed

friendly

several

If

his

their

it in

any

into

they

therefore

of

for convei'sation,

appointed

debate

and

And

vanish

persons

brings

mutually

take

would

or

or

each

hours

IV.

when

eompre-

reading.

III.

set

book,

fuller

stay till we

; for

perusal

of

scheme

not

solved

to be

appear

second

first

the

wiiole

should

treatises,we

difficultyat

author's

the

51

READING.

for Avaiit

first reading,

at the

quer

AND

of

especially

science, is not

author

speaker,

or

history
their

whether

on

Dv-al

freely

your

assent

subject.

for this

the

with

only

themes
every
to

to
is

chief

your

solid

in

subjt'cts

on

m"'rely

opinions

own

your
meditation

; but

business

your

are

author

evidence

know
but

right
their
you
and

natural,
the

tin?

business

knowledge
of

of

reading

or
on

writing

consider

and

or

read, and

of

edge
knowl-

is to

that

moral,

opinion

mere

not,

in

or

to

prove
im-

subject by
discoursi'.

yield

just reasoning

on

up

the

52

T would

Iloro

these

In

the

understand

aini

l)aj;-e,and

add
Tni.:,dit
demand

man

YI.

gone through
studies ; if

the

same

sentiments

his

ideas

or

of

margin

AA'here
is

and

be

gi-ajths to

derives

to
or

in your

does

explain

not

faults

the

in

either

deficiencies

be

little,and
redundant,

confirm

infers

is
:

any

he

when

where

the

better

it by

where

lie is too

where

mark

or

reasons

you

those

para-

and

grows

pages : when
be conclusive

proofs
and

where

objections and

correct

he

is in
his

if

he

doubtfully,

mistake,

sentiments

he

weak,

argument

proposition darkly

suppose

in

set his notions

yet the

and

him

trifles

passages

his

true,

those

whether

enlighten

the

further

or

some

and
justice of the inference
appear,
if such
to
inferences
occur
or
ctn-ollaries,

make

your

his

retrenched

observe
argues,
conclusion
the

mind

is obscure,

he

where

impertinent, abandon

endeavor

years

of your
papers
private meditations.

in

in your

concise, amplify

faii'er view

if he

better,

do

done

imperfect, suj^ply

brief

at

author

the

your

subject maintains

that

pn

rather

or

but

science

positions well, mark

to

are

you

reason,

of any

do, yet

you

book,

your

their

course

endeavor

for instance

As

to

practice, especially after

your

writer

at least let it be

or

own,

evidence

remember

men,

one

as

his

prove

and

defects,

be

this therefore

Let

academical

we

Yet

you arrive
you when
and judgment.

is

have

you

when

divine.

is

sufiieient

is

it is not

; and

they

as

given to guide
discretion,of manly age

of

of

composures

well

that

own

he

this

even

sense,

and
jjarajjjraph
follow

to

writing

the

true

assent.

in the
as

that

also,

our

But

that

satisfied

before

are

is bound

then

assent

our

the

llui

of

meanin;^

ti'ue

liuinan

inspired writings.

and

is only to find out

business

our

of

siM'jikonly

to

sacred

the

of

not

HKADING.

iimhTstood

be

and
:ni11iors,

AND

ROOKH

OF

make
your

projiose
what

he

BOOKS

OF

"wrrites

well

so

to

as

of

itself

approve

it up
just and useful, treasure
intellectual
it a part of your
count

both

as

and

Xote,

of

many

these

your

iiulpTnent,

iu your

iiieiuury,

gains.
I have

-which

directions,

same

be practiced with
regard to conversation
given, may
it useful in the most
well as reading, in order to render

now
as

and

extensive

lasting

Other

VII.

into
in

by

form,
the

margin

divide

and

subject

If

should

which

be

them

deserving,
it to

reduce

lesser form

to advance

that

by reading
If

YIII.

with

it: not
every

worthy
Shall

or

be

it ; but
of

survey

finished

it,recollect

upon

ha^"e

you

as

free

to

which

as

think

reniendirance
to

assure

good

should

well

are

you

the

include

i)arts of the

you

as

one

it is sullieient

those

which
own

so

improve

fuller
have

you

it, or

to

to make

paragraph,

of ycmr
I

index

no

exactness

only

you,

A\'heu

to

you

improvements

useful

print

to

notice
to

has

that
and

page

designed
take

book

tendency both

method,

give

to

made

author.

it is very

contents,

real

what

determine

have

erences;
ref-

by

it into

abridge

observations

all your

with

treatise

and

and

geneial,

subject in particular.

of that
the

iu

same

really valuable
better
method,

or

logic and

in

view

one

be

it into

practices will

skill

your

judgment

your

all to

logical scheme,

more

the

to

separatelythrough

book

throw

may

all these

may

by hints

together,
wisely distinguish

down

of

matter

it

heaped

are

them

lead,

reduce

or

own,

fully
use-

you

irregular,

things relating

and

be

may

v.hieh

of your

you

bring

you

be

things

up

nature

authors

book

those

may

if the

or

to the

if several

like

analysis

scattered

are

the

separated,

the treatise,you

and

of

little

of

regard

method

If the

viz.:

manner.

also

things

practiced with

new

53

READING.

AND

be

table

reading

book
written

of

sense

if you

done

in your

of

in"h'X
which
and

to
are

well

review.

or

my

younger

friends.

5t

from

my

will

cost

some

science,

on

subject :
And
pains.

of

find

the

valuable

be

which

any

books

usually
have

you

on

to read

easy

"vvill not

you

them

in

mattei-

new

in

an"l

profitwill
following

the

it will

manner,

readinfj

study,

the

in

few

kind, because

same

much

very

read

of

jjeitise

but

part icniar

any

the
richly compensate
of life,after you have
years
special subject in this
any

others

Avliicli you

authors

in tli(i liist

or

KKADINT,.

methods
oxporieiieo,that these
pains in tlic first .yeiir ol" your

own

(Specially

AND

ROOKS

OF

not

alreatly examined.
If the

writer

be

defects

in liis

or

just obser\"ations
find

you
the

language

just lemarks
read

will

tend

make

the

of

There

are

and
it.

they would
not
weigh

hear,

or

they

do

make

they

no

them.

from

the

order

in

balance,

words
of

over

Or

to

slide

if

they

with

in

observations

over

lield in
review

truth

or

them,

or

e;irs, and

summer's

them

they
in

as

just

i"ages,

like

of

cloud

infeiences

vanish

shadows

read

falseht"o(l;

the

over

by

told ; ])ut

are

their

their

the

that
minds

slide

gence,
dili-

and

which

their

eyes

also

knowledge

notions

their

but

to

powers.

in true

ui)on

only

not

constancy

stories

determine

evening tales, or
gre.'u

read

with

described,

knowledge,

reasoning

them

Perhaps

of

your

be

as

I have

subservient

wit Ii the

delighted

are

thau

authors.

twenty

advances

no

tion,
medita-

understanding,

treasuies

who

many

book

one

laborious

manner

reading
of

yet make

They

of

your

improvement

the

surface

in
make

may

that

all this

in the

ments
ornaoccur

writer, you

your

books

whatsoever

blemishes

enrich

all your

enlai'gement

to

the

antl

make

writing,

remember

with

to

more

the

And

manner,

skimming over
IX.
By peiusing
will

of

them.

ui)on

of

manner

also;

lences
excel-

peculiar

any

whatsoever

or

manner

the

you

this

there,

in this

over

style or

ui)on

or

for

remarkable

or

sody
rhapHying

day.

suflicieutlyto

lix them

in their

BOOKS

OF

remembi'anco.

it is

show

dream

out

again,

Thus

they

real

witliout

endless

those
with
of

of

want

their

of

men

As

reading",

real

all

eating

themselves

without

and

food,

are.

nourished

nevei-

cram

may

be

may

is

tlie tale

of

course

man

tell

to

learning they

in

digestion

readers

intelleetnal

design

days

advantage.

for

day, and,

what
their

55

RKADIXG.

Avitli

merely

and

over

AND

t^o

in

\ain

improvement

minds,

for want

of

digesting

it

diligent

therefore

in

observing

these

by

proper

re-

fleetions.

X.

Be

into

Enter

the

read;

examine

truth

or

shall

not

which

truths

well

them

all their

of

arguments

proofs,

and

the

authors

then

you
"if the

judge
of their
falsehood
oi)inions; and thereby yt)U
only gain a rich increase of youi- understanding,

those

by

and

sense

directions.

degrees

the
but

supported,
habit

of

well, in iniitati"ni

autlior

shall

you

judging

of

the

teaches,

when

and

writer

whose

good

also

acquire

justly

see

you

of

by

leasoning
works

you

peruse.
is laborious

This

undergo

to

the

tracing

eveiy

to take

all

and

indeed,

the

fatigue of weighing
thing to its original.

things

trust

upon

mind

is backward

It is much

believing

and

argument

every

less

is much

laboieasier

arguing.

than
liut

Mhcn

Stiulciilioliad

to tit'itself
porsuadod liisinind
liavc
he
i)rt'scril"c'd,
scnsil)ly
admiralilc
gaiiu'd an
facilityto read, and
judiii-of wliat he
read
tlic man
made
by his daily i)racticc of it, and
hirgo

down

to

more

an"l
and

onco

wiiicli

])in-suitof truth

; while

less i)ro"j;ress in knowkdge,

folios,
riunico
skimmed
the

over

of

iiH'tJHKl

in the

advances
made

tills

llowery
syllable, but

meads
did

in

over

May.

j)afjts like
Phimhiniis
read
the

them.
.judging about
They both
great reading, for tiiey knew

could

them

Studeiitio, but
confess

those

foi- much

far

were

whose
talk

and

less

trouble

reading

titles

is

lin"'

thiiiking

in conijiany
aiul
pages

itli science.

designed

knowledge,

over

swallow

every

of

boast

more

ac(juaiuted

little

read

the

give himself

not

I'lunico

and

thoujili they Jiad

their

than

IMundiinus

mav

only

to

content

tit

fiG

OF

thcmsi'lvf's
and

to

nm

over

lrilliii"^
way;
yiit be jxmr

wisdom

or

fair and

softly in

may

devour

lil)raries

if he

safer

to

his

fame

off

from

very

of

learning

XI.

the

Never

with

a
or

read

with

world,
the

he

design

embrace

to

lay

fiilsehood,though

author

unhappy
into

their

mind.

any

human

mind

you

it appear
are

hands

for

those
but

afar

author

against

or

disbelieve,

or

liut

always
truth,

to

open

find

attain

possesses

the

saith

and

days

and

believe
he

your

it wheresoever

IIow

read

whatsoever
to

of

may

may

his

either

resolution

runs

man;

he

judgment,
to

who

knowing

spends

riches

eome

meditation,

ancients,

; but
true

to oppose,

or

disguise.
an

without

examines

gallops full
reading and a

much

beforehand

settled

reject every
take

but

apply yourselves

with
to

of

substantial

determination

to conliini

too

and

wisdom

little of

man

on

he

though

meets,

with

walks

he

than

end,

this
Holid

no

it, will

upon

journey's

in

have
who

traveler

ventures

the

an"l

siKhlon

points right, and

that

eouise

much

converse

the

last;

at

reas(mers

through every lane he

The
speed all the day.
large retentive
memory,
of
become, in the sense

in sncli

learninjij. The

true

and

sooner

and

authors

lurnin.!^ l"efoi-e lie

every

him,

thoir

llicy

manlier,

UKAPINT,.

AND

HOOKS

it,as well

under

ever

men

who

they

have

to

as
so

fair

seldom
mined
deter-

before

they begin whether

they will like or dislike
him
! They have
notion
of his name,
his character,
got some
his party, or
his principles,by general conversation,
or
perhaps by some
slightview of a few pages ; and
having all their own
opinions adjusted beforehand, they
read
all that he writes
with
for or
a prepossession either
hunt
and
for
against him.
Unhai)py those who
purvey
all those
a party, and
together out of every author
scrape
favor
their own
things, and those only, which
tenets,
while
they despise and neglect all the rest !
XII.

Yet

take

this

caution.

I would

not

be

under-

OF

here,

stood

and

and

things:

1.

that

after

That

most

our

to live without

person

which

his

in this

design

that

or

about

alwaj's doubting

57

EEADIXG.

liiinciplesat all,by

books,

things

AND

thouj^h I ijersuaded

as

settled

any

BOOKS

Avould

keep

foundations.

and

nece-ssary

men,
man

The

these

advice, are

of

jud^e

to

chief

three

imi^ortaut i)rin-

of science, i)rudence, and

cijiles
religion,are settled upon
and
good grounds, with
present conduct
regard to our
future
our
hopes, we should read with a just freedom of
which
of such
treat
thought all those books
subjects as
admit
of doubt
and
reasonable
disi)ute. Xor should
may
of our
opinions be so resolved
especially in
any
upon,
to hear
to bear
or
an
opposition
younger
years, as never
.

to

them.
2.

When

settled

we

sentiments,
for

the

readily
we

with

most

That

the

down
them

of

the

read

we

and

lesser

it ;

our

own

their

viale

chaff,between

all their
in

all

should

we

superficial colors

when

certain

and

defend

take

not

but

solid;
corn

mere

swallow

agree
3.

the

who

authors

should

we

and

just

between
and

those

peruse

ments
argu-

wise

solid

ing
reason-

should

nor

tinction
dis-

we

because

opinions

greater.

those

authors

established

which

our

oppose
should

principles, Ave

be

informations
from
them
in other
ready to receive
any
at once
points, and not abandon
thing they say,
every
though we are well fixed in our opposition to their main
point of arguing.
Fas
Seize

truth

upon

Aiuouy^st
On

your

Christian
Tlie

est ab

or

doeeri.

found,
friends, amongst
your
lieatheu
on
ground
;
wlicre'i-r

Negieet the priekies aiul

XIII.

relating

What
to

of that

have

books

and

sort

of

said

assume

it grows
the

hitherto

reading,

books,

Vi"'(/.

"

'tis

where'er

divine

flower's

hoste

and

must

those

on

be

hours

foes,
:

rose.

this

subject,

stood
chiefly underof

our

read-

5S

ini; iiiid study,

I'.*K

direct
is

thcro
when

that

lo
(l"'si;:;ii
imjuovrs

or

iiiiiMl with

As

for

to

"iilorcc

kiiowled";c.

"\viilton to

\vlu'ifl"y\v"i

of the
intt'lli'cluiili)()\vt'i-,s

diviue

R i: A D I XO

A N" [ )

K S

")n"^

consciences

our

which

persuade

and

tliin;^further

our

convinced

or

are

tice,
practliat

and

neccssaiy;

are

moral,

iiafuial.

treatises

those

the

is,

thi-se

that

to us, and
i"(juireour
i)rudeucc or duty hi-lou;,^
then
call ourselves
should
to
conformity to them, we
have
aiul incjuiic seiiously Mhether
Ave
account,
put

of

rules

dwell
the
jiractice or not; ^ve should
upon
and
of
and
methods
impress the motives
arguments,
feel the force
our
own
hearts, till we
persuasion upon
of them
and
inclining us to the practice of the
power
in

thcni

things which
If

lives,and
feel

far

have

we

ourselves

search

us

how

inquire

think

ever

represented

be

disguises,let

secret

we

vice

folly or

recommended.

theie

are

in

we

are

with

for

colors,or its

hearts, and

our

done

sorrow

in its open

criminal
the

our

should

nor

while

treatise

we

and

misconduct,

past

our

review

vices, or till we find a

follies begun to be wrought upon
souls.
of those
our
cure
studies
and
In all our
pursuits of knowledge, let us
and
remember
that virtue
vice, sin and holiness,and the
after

aspiring

of

conformation

religion and
than

all

richest

that, because
XIV.

upon

our

There

is

I should

Is proper
this

subject ;

of diversion

or

little

common

also
for

many

of

they

and

felicityor

another

say
these

sort

something,
are

amusement

the

duties

I confess
is

and

eternal

of

of true

while

among

which

tolerable

it

treating on

travels
we

may
or

reading
good

of which

am

newspapers,
once

elfectual

sorrow.

books,

history,poesy,

pamphlets,
there

to

immediate

more

eternal

yet

lives

are

have

of these

where

and

things of far more

consequence
of our
the
understanding, and
more
speculative knowledge; and

furniture

treasures

influence

hearts

our

morality,

the

those

victory over

memorv.

; books

reckon

such. like:

may

be

ficient,
suf-

OF

when

Or
reads

several
the

to

be

may

AND

such

deserve

in

them,
the

or

rehearsal
those

the

parts also

become

of

amusement

it be

let

can

that

without
well

has

make

we

with

the

the

hearing
admirable

to

over

XV.

justly
of

for the
of

the

tained
con-

Ian

second

let

company,

ma

5'

happen

to

be

mistaken, should
criticism,made
by some
or

occasion

give

of

to

the

the

tition
repefor

censure,

reviews,

and

Who

and

these
short
; such

best

of

Pope,

in

to

satisfya
writings; nor

has

any

Young,

or

of

or

miscellaneous
Occasional

them
as

taste

or

Drydi'u,

the
("f

some
once

-r

willi

Addison,

Milton,

or

and

retirement

our

Steele

Virgil

the

of

that

poesy,

perfection

improvement

lay them
by
writings of the

as

of

the

sufficientlysatisfied
of

pages

historical

where

sore

that

be

the

sufficient

is there

would

then

where

for this

and

of

subjects

that

is neither

beautiful

Among
reckon

as

degrees

fullest

that

poems

them,

of

matter

again.

false

some

descriptions

finest

of

moment,

taste

in company.

polite writings

the

true

proper

as

the

worthy

canfirmation

glory, a single reading

mind

and

new

elegant

writings

considerable

etc., shine

oratory,

for

any

over

remembered,

is of

narration

are

diversion.

or

Still

of

this may

the

on

for tlio arunment

occasional

an

for

them,

which

way

silly,

or

and

comi)any;
of

read
these

stupid

subjects

of the

of

any

remarks

para2:!aplis,as
those
paragraphs

all

and

request

be

paragraphs

remarkably

or

tive,
atten-

so

or

excellent

beautiful

are

at

Xow

convincing

manner,

; 'and

Such

and

and

strong

are

guage

noble

are

uncommon,

them,

periods

remark,

be

occasional

one

liearing;

once

one

every

their

and

company,

writing,

that

or

sentiments

or

of

sort

sentences, such
their opinion deserve
it.

in

lines

in

are

persons

rest

59

READING.

provided
sufficient,
so
free,as to make

and
such

BOOK^

read

for ever?
hitter
essays

kind
on

we

all

may
ner
man-

rapcrs, {\w latlers,

r"0

BOOKS

OF

Sprrfators,and

llic

i'ompilcd

-vvhereiu

press,

olhor

somo

wiM'kly

the.

of

out

IIEADINO.

AND

which

have

had

age

with

present
I wisli

andadniirablo
share

considerable

and

knowh-dge

both

of

of

Ihf

1)rij;lit

observations,
in

the

furnishing

writiii"r.s eouM
useful,

and

innocent

as

boon

jx^liti-ness.

tliese

amoiiR

jjupcr

every

recomniended

j^rcat iiuinbcr

thou";hls,ingenious remarks,

liavo

"laily jnoducls

or

coiilainrd

are

th;it

liooks

been

have

wis^h

every

exijression had been l)anishe(l from

from
trillingna.sjre liad Iteen exeludeil
every
bound
been
in
when
of the
tlie company
rest
they had
up
in
l)e
it
is
so
to
but
not
a
vohnnes
imi)erfect
state,
expeeteil,
:
should
be
mixed
that every
pul)licpapers
])afre or piece of such
unsi-enily idea and
anion";st
tlieni,and

wanton

and

l)lameless

entirely

there

confessed,
goodness in them,
there

is such

for

our

renuxrks
lie in
to

is

There

occur.

and
icpiities,

fashionable

that

learn

may
tlie

we

and

age

to

dictionaries

arts

several

words

the

or

upon

occasion

meaning
If such

in

reading
some

books

called

These

etc.

your

names

are

dictionaries,
in

order
terms

of

sciences;

rivers, etc., wdiich

pass

vacant

in

them,
of

the

retirement,
ing
receiv-

or

company,

are

; and

without

of these
are

not

to

it is

neeessai'V

and

words,

common

their

and

historical

never

our

their

seeking

use

in

geographical
and

consulted
let

; of

sense

countries, towns,

men,

be

or

vocabularies

of art, to show

to

site,
requi-

general,

in

explain

of

and

proper

viz., of

sorts,

in

phrases,

every

follies,in-

the

solitary

are

with

furnished

be

of

and

and

or

]iartienlar science,

any

should

technical

leisure
of

madnesses

and

knowledge

our

prove

with

ac(iuaintance

idioms,

valuable

containecl

mankind
humors

whioli

books

other

Among

we

,\jjf
"fiifors,

many
not

infection.

in order

that

the
in

mortal

XVI.

of

of

discovrry

of

so

moments

any
is such

own
our
i)ul)licworld,
danger of fre(j[Ueutingvicious

the

without
the

in

be

it nuist

injrenuity, and

they are
improper to
plact.s of usual resitlence,

or

vici's of

much

sacred,

things

life,that

in

tlioughts

our

iioursthat

for

sununcr-houses,

])arlors,

main

volumes

eight

in

especially

conduct

the

in

virtue, prudence,

revert-nco

or

entertain

Yet

laudal)le.
much

.so

unknown

an

lor

its

used
word

sense

and

writers.
at

hand,

you

must

supply

the

JUDGMENT

of them

want
can

inform

tcis

of

the

you

books,

XVII.

best

by cousultinj:?such as
can,
you
it is useful to note
down
tlie mat-

iiuiuiry in

opportunity

first

Be

that

authors

of

treat

ourselves
itself.

There

the

with

notice

Such

of

these

two

books

at

and

rich

talking of the
which

of
of

their

their

minds

own

learning

tables

of

reason

concerning

And
man

matters

how

many

he

is still

possesses,

till he
own

the

has

farther

and

those

.TUDCniKXT

have

If

we

not

would
seen

form

how

before, the

and

such

the

At

jects
sub-

to

those

in

liest
and

indexes

learning

poor

their

judge

or

authors.
soevei-

his

standing,
under-

ing
parts of learn-

several

reasoning, by judging

and
Mhat

In; has

read.

V.
OF

in

of

remembeiing

CIIAPTEE

I.

not

deplorably

pro]K'rty by reading

for himself

the

volumes

made

than

wisdom.

contained

bear,

can

improvement

than

know

they

real

or

of

shelves, they
take
a
pride

and

any

is

practice

to

gotten

authors,

sciences

no

contents, while

indeed

his

in true

reaches

have

their

upon

they treat, without

self
him-

scholar.

of them

they

famous

of

great number

of learning
of

names

of

infinitelybetter

knowledge
men

is fond

contents

than

most

(2) when

themselves

imagine
in

of

treasures

he

quainting
ac-

subject

the

that

the

title-page, which

uj)

than

libraries

And

understanding.

of

temi^tation

heap

exi^ense

their

instead

and

rather

great

(1.) To

greater

furnish

to

under

sons
per-

of

with

their

bookseller

follies.
a

of

by

knowledge

subject,

any

of books,

has

he
a

are

])ersons

mere

y")un,y- student

knowledge

attainment

the

take

them.

thoroughly

is many

his

enlarging

with

and

resolved, either

M'ith

meet

we

satisfied

not

po(;ket-book,

some

"i('tthem

to

when

Gl

BOOKS.

as

and

and

doul)t

or

well

as

OF

BOOKS.

judgment
first

of

thing

that

book

which

offers

we

is the

G2

.IT'DCMIA'T

ticle-page,

and

and
iiiil)ort

of
(h'sij^n

wc

known

thereby

in

it is done.

manner

(Mhicli
assist

book

we

will

have

itself
be

bclbie

not

give

us

to

of

the

still

some

i)eruse

to

us

if there

or

be

]"r""iiiiHe
if it

name,

in

^micss

preface

or

index

an

at the

what
duction
intro-

further

may

"

be

of

the

advancing light.

inclination

by

and

tlic

must

conjecture

I'cconiincndcd

regularl}-,then

directed

tliouf^liit

to

us

and

leisure

litllo at

author's

lead

perusal

judgment;

our

cojitents,it
If

A
1

and

inoi'c,

"I"'("it liil

oHeii

aio

ix'rforins. The
help
tlicAvoild,may

l"erforinancc a little

may

book

j^ucss

lliaii llir book

iuovo

be

soiiictiincs

may

"*")iif('S.s"'"l
tliat lilies

I'.OOK'?.

or

the

several

to

titles

read
of

over

chapters
particular chapters

the
we
or

be anything valuawhether
there
ble
sections,and observe
"We shall find lierel)ywhether
or
important in them.
the author
he reasons
explains his i"leas clearly,whether
he
methodizes
his
strongly, whether
well, whether
be manly, and his manner
thought and sense
polite ; or,
the other
he be obscure, weak, trifling,
on
hand, whether
and
confused
the
matter
not
may
; or, finally,whether
be solid and
be
substantial, though the style and manner
rude
and
disagreeable.
II. By having run
tions
through several
chapters and secin this manner,
we
generally judge whether
may
the treatise
be worth
But
if
a complete
])erusal or not.
of some
pectation
exby sueli an occasional
chaj^ters our
survey
be
well
utterly discouraged, we
lay
may
aside
that
book
is great jnobability he can
be
; for there
but
writer
that
indifferent
an
on
subject, if he affords
but
it may
be some
one
prize to divers
blanks, and
The
downright blots too.
piece can
hardly be valuable
if in seven
there
be
or
we
eight chapters which
peruse
but little truth, evidence, force of reasoning, beauty, ingenuity
of
with
much
tliouglit,etc., mingled
error,
and
common
ignorance, impertinence, dullness, mean

JUDGMENT

OF

63

EOOKS.

Life
is
thoughts, inaccuracy, sophistry, railing,etc.
too
new
short, and time is too precious, to read every
book
the
quite over, in order to find that it is not worth
reading.
which
III. There
some
are
general mistakes
persons
of
in
the
are
on
frequently guilty
passing a judgment
books
which
they read.
One

is this:

well,
and

we

when

ready

are

sometimes

if it agree
of

opinions
be

of

find

can

his

draw

attack

even

it

though
be

may
writer

Books

may

the

world

wisest
be

never

covered

and

to

be

author

ciples,
prin-

sillyauthor

and

he

ridiculous

may
ments.
argu-

attended

methods

and

; and

error,

by just reasoning, yet

An
defended.
ingenious

colors

judged

if the

them,

always

safest

maintained

put excellent
never

is not

the

good sense, nor

our
opinions of

truth, yet

and

ii

its merit,

contrary

alas ! if

of

of

support

hand,

feeble

and

and

reason,

defense
with

in this

artfully

are

the

can

nor

infallible

errors

the

wit

tolerably

beyond

espouse

whereas,

and
in

gross

by

it ;

far

other

and

neither

pen

Truth

supported

the

On

but

judgment

principles

ow^n

sentiments

good language in
ceitain
things were
may

its character

pai'ty.

our

is wiittcn

favorable

pass

our

different
we

to

to exalt

with

t reatise

his

upon

of

mistakes.

own

merely by their subject,

they represent, but by the justness of

their sentiment, the beauty of their manner,
the force of
their
the
and
expression, or the strength of reason,
which
in
weight of just and proper
argument
appears
or

opinion

them.
IV.

this

they
every

Another
when

they

read

have

but

little

thing

standings
occurrence

are

which

mistake

new

and

some

treatise

greatly entertained

of many

on

subject

actiuaintance, they
strange

things which

fall into

persons

them:

to

and
were

tlieir

imjuoved
unknown

which

with

find

is

almost
undrr-

by
to

the

I hem

64

.TrDOMEXT

l)or()i(',
J
aiilliorat

admire

they

liad written
ini'thod

his

nor

Hence
bred
up

it

admire
talks
the

lalK)r

one

of

pertly

on

is all

matter

writer

skilU'd
with

the

these

of

diminutive

y.
of

But

discourses

books,

made

is

ourselves

entertains
little

and

or

that

time, persons

same

and

are;

hand

masters

of
it

surveyed
any

well

mistake

also

pleases
new
nothing

long

that

on

in

well

judgment

when

him;

liave

we

theme

of

sides,there

all

on

excellent
trade.
as

some

particular

afterwards,

us

ances
perform-

mean

our

for

very
mired
ad-

much

so

as

in

any

writer

and

were

science

those

that

very
there
are

upon

of

danger

other

scarcely

perhaps

the

on

knowledge,

aud

papers,

there

subject

who

because

find

we

yet, in

aud

In

parts of the

happy
aud

danger
Thus

of
the

light;

discourse
but

knew

we

therefore

they
discommending
learned

and

well

are

true

strike

the

unlearned

their
have

mentioned

mere

specimen
aside

from

specimen

; for the

truth

are

and

those

things
we

are

set

fore,
bein

them.

dangers aud prejudices ready

judgment of the writings of men.
a

and

and

not, aud

us

distinct

are

connected
of

most

is

mueb

most
are
judgment, perhaps his sentiments
proper
just, his explication clear,aud his re;isoning strong,

all the

in

httle

trade, which
i)erhaps l"ut

those

trivial

or

snhjeets, hear the impertinent tattle

and
how
weak
awkward
they know

for

thtt

at

science, politics,or
l)y the ignorant, are
also l)e ccmfessed
it must
; though
in

lie liad

tliat
i)ajiij)hlet
the
theme, because
theni, and they join to extol

to

new

; while

skies

]nipei-s of

essays

that

eommon

very

a
ijajteis, or
eiitieal
learned
or

ditlerent

in these

was

weekly

some

the

and

proper,

liis sense

subject.

straii^^e and

to

lite

both
to pass tliat f'ario and
Falxr, wlio were
and
with
the
sliall
scitncis,
imac"|Uaiiite"l

just contempt

11

many

that

on

cnnics

to

'what

neither

that
jxjcjrly,
and

jnst

but

his discourses

(.oinmend

if

\ cry

was

him

nothinji^in

and

they had attained a good dellicyw(tuld fiiultlmt

sciciK-c,i(Oihai).s

j;rec of skill in llial

theautlior

treatise

the

wherras,

once;

r.OOKP.

OF

of

have
to

them,

i"rejudicesthat
almost

their

several

attend

them

These

which

and
warp

infinite and

indeed
our

in
I
but

ment
judg-

endless.

JUDGMENT

VL

Yet
of

more

point

to

these

that I may
follies,
correction
of them, or

the

05

BOOKS.

forbear

not

can

OF

ont

tMO

three

or

wards
something- toleast to guard others

attempt
at

them.

against

There

some

are

and

temper,

who

of
book

as

are

the

as

would

not

others

know.

fond

knowledge,

soon

of

persons

all appearances

judgment

it is mentioned,
of

ignorant

lively

with

their

give

-will

seem

and

intermeddle

to

title of

willingly

forward

on

for

they

thing

any

that

And

especially if tht-y happen to have

superior character or possessions of this world, they
any
fancy they have a right to talk freely upon
thing
every
that

stirs

though

or

appears,
to this freedom.

Divito

have

they

other

no

tense
pre-

is worth

is a fine
Politulus
forty thousand
pounds.
wli'o
all
in
the
gcntlenum,
younj?
sparkles
shining- t]iin"is")f
(Iri'ss and
is a small
niinattendant
on
ec^uipage. Anlinns
a
ister of state, and
is at eourt
almost
tiuve
These
day.
every
where
book
exeellent
of warm
on
a visit
an
hai"pened to meet
relined
and
devotions
AVhat
dull stulf is
lay on the window.
here

! said

Divito

; 1 never

read

much

so

in

nonsense

one

page

in

would
I give'a shilling for a thousand
sueh
life; nor
my
treatises.
had
used
Aulinus, though
a
not
to speak
eourtii-r,
would

roughly, yet
the

his

after
from

of

Hut

cliariots.
talk

of
of

those

best

uncU-rstand

the

terms

set

or

treatise

very

phrases

might

here

themselves
5

have

who

on

used

up

to

than

devotion

of

diller

to

; and
nor

it

hesiu-tred

read, and

gentleman,

his

it in

publishrd

therefore

ridicule

made

yet it
the
in

the
wa.s

courtier,
tiiem

iie-

door

of

the

will
men
world; blind
or
harmony
disproportion

of

the

deaf

of

will
to

with

tlu-ir

the

gilded

in
i)rate of discords
with
religion will

do

subjects,though
Scrii)tures,

they
nor

do

not

t lie common

("lu"i."tianity.
another

name

and

them

nothing

in

that

in

sense

the

tlivine

language

good

at

beauty of colors, and

figures in painting ; the

music;
arraign the

will

way

fool
manners

grain

waitecl

is the

this

seorn

and

the

and

VII.

tliat

heard

of

tiiat wrote

more

he

liad

wealth,

horses

him

this tine

neither

of

man

tlu'ir

that

known,

line

eharaeter,

as

of

matter

was

madman

had

and

rank

expressions

treatise

tile

Politulus

such

devout

attlie

yond

death.

men

divine
nr,r

there

i)r()nouneed him
dcelared
retirement, and

seeret

well

allow

not

and

hook,

decide

sort

of

in favor

judges, who
of an
author,.

66

JUDGMENT

will

or

the

have

.stamp
and
or

tlie

SoniUus

echoes

book

tlie

in

witli
of

Mboro

room

or

Ihieut

the

and

the

tboufrlit.sso

their

out

jiave
(Uvotion

of

own

praises

men.

to be

hapjjtncd

their

knowl"'(l"^e

touj"ue, become
other

of

no

These,

just mentioned

adnurable

l)y otheis

mere

to

judfiuicnt tlity

subject tlieniselves.

of

Ci'usures

tlie

have

size, tliou;;h they

voluble

nien

and

Ijcjok

according

Ijlundcrcr.

kept

})ass('duixm

or

of

BOOKK.

iiicro

have

they

licard

ttuste

liiiii a

pronounco

conipany

OF

da\.s

two

three

genlle-

freely

an
upon
lie jjiet

afterwards

lioo'kwas
this
llie subject of
his, where
woiulered
conversation
and
at their tiulhuwi,
praise. Soinllus
heard
and
he had
ness
east
repeated the jists which
U))on the weakof
the
and
his
cision
deHis
author.
of the
book,
knowleiige
all Irom
it;
n"ver.seen
hearsay, for he had
it, was
upon
he
had
of right to
and
if he had
read
it through,
no
manner
knowledge
judge about the things of religion, having no more
taste of any
or
thing of inward
piety than a hedgehog or a bear
has of politeness.
all
knew
written
these
I had
When
remarks, Probus, who
wished
the four
an
they udght have
gentlemen,
opportuiuty
here.
Alas!
character
it is rei)re?-enti(l
their
to read
as
own
it
do
them
I
fear
little good, though
it would
Proltus,
very
may
is never
of
a
o!ie
against their folly ; for there
guard others
characters
if they
find
in these
would
their
them
own
name
would
all their
read them,
acknowledgv
though
acquaintance
alive
in
almost
the features
imuiediately and see the persons
the picture.
with

friends

some

There

VIII.
which

the

on

Bavis

same

and

cries

there

and

will

tell

down

is at luism

in

not

suited

in

it, liecause

to

or

the

there

they

to their

tooth

treatise

of

there

are

and

machines.

Paradisic

few

have
ments
senti-

lew

humor.

philosophy
a

it

of their

reason

are

they

uj^on

perhaps,

you,

jtidgfrom

envy,

contempt

them

brutes
be mi-re
to
suppose
allow
a\ ill not
iutluence, Momus

.seem

is, wlien

that

throw

it, or

adnurable

an

passing

vanity, pride,
ask

two

or

in

and

others,
of

principle

mischievous

persons

if you

they

expressions

or

says
that

mistake

of

book,

valuable

censure,

found

some

writings

wholesale

severe

another

yet

stimtilations

secret

despise

by

is

jirevailsamong

ment

the

of

and

sentiments

Umler
Lost
to

the

be

JUDGMENT

Sunt

dclicta

^'am

ne(iue

minabitur

quodcunque
in

nitint

])Una

Englished

Thus

carmine,

jjaucis

ego

Hor.

"

de

Pott.

Art.

too

not

fudit,

rigidly censorious
string may
jar in the best

Be

per-

et mens,

manus

arcus

non

incuria
(juas aut
cavit
natura.
parum

humana

vult

(jucm

macuiis,

Otl'endar
Aut

rcddit

sonum

ieriet

ubi

Verum

human

any

(juibus ignovissc vclimus,

tamcn

chorda

Necsemjier

it ;
It is a

absolutely jierfect.

it is not

because

lormanee,

at

in

h.ini.

done

rail

lines

heavy

honor
to

man

aiul

Hat

sonic

looiniieli

inehnes

that

liunior
]ialtr.v

road

had

]Milton

thouglit

he

and

has

ho

hecause

jTood poem,

()7

BOOKS.

OF

master's
A
hand,
his aim.
skillful archei' miss
tiiemost
And
So in a poem
elegantly writ,
I will not (juarrel with
a small
mistake,
nature's
Such
excuse.
frailty may
as
our
Boscommon.

"

honorable

very

hi'

si)ots and

be

to

who

For

ithout

him

aversion

susi)cct

some

looked

ever

he

snores

as

cooked
;
wounded
gods.
well as nods.

and

wise

pass

of

it

sly and

in

in

persons

some

])i('ty.Tliey
to

their

ni])l)le and

in the

who

know

not

of

honoi-

any

subject,

the
and

at

it.

best
to

to

and

and
in

some

that

and

i)raisesthat
he

be

even

are

li\ing,

Ihey will, if possible,

writings, that tliey may

therefore
Ins

Tlu-y
treatise

lender

the

l)ear

demns
con-

of wisdom

men

are

esix-ciallyif

author,

blemish

bark

the

how

i^rofession;

some

main

when

natuiv, and

man's

every

impcrcei)tible manner,

ingenious

an

find

in abnost

jootcd

are

it works

of

yet

grosser

just distinctions ought to be made

mortal
on
a jndgment
things; but Envy
plant;
by wholesale.
Envy is a cursed

kSuch

and

some

Homer

Make

given

main

the

for

cite,has

holy garl)arge, though by

"Whose
railing herois, anil whose

filxTS

in

censured

On

we

I here

Homer

of

justly

in

blemishes

whom

Horace,

opinion

him

allows

of

traiLslator

noble

This

it

will

endeavor

that
useless

has

by

to

been

their

dimini"]i

written

on

censures,

G8

OF

JUDGMENT

rather

than

suffer their em^

of tliat author
to

mistakes

Avill commend

they
air

of

candor

it

upon

their

cold

IX.
humor

the

attempt
whom

how

in

it is

that

and

divine

what

than

easy
authors, who

of

it. Let

with

comparison
much

marks
re-

peculiar
is

much

and

goodfaults;

than

amiable

and

reflect

again,

in all human

mistake

necessarilytiillible

are

and

more

him

author

an

blemishes, and

his

beauties

Let

it is to find

all

with

think

honorable

more

candor

him

of such

beauties

accusation.

matter

an

inA'idious

eration
following; consid-

the

by

may

the

out

undisguised
talent

he

are

naturedthingtofind
true

sly and

thinj? of this invidious

any

correction

many

he censures,

remember

unexposed.
Perliap)S
infreneral with a pretended
many

feels

person

workin*;^in him,

himself

the little

i)ass

so

i)ass

asleep and

afterM'ards,as shall eliectuallydestroy

formal
praises.

and

"When

to lie

tJie woik

; but

BOOKS.

imperfect.

author
himself
sets up
to ridicule divine
an
confers, where
and
air of s^ovreignty
writers,
an
things sacred, and yet assumes
and
almost
dictatorsliip,to exalt and
deify all the ])agan
all the moderns,
ancients, and east his seorn
espeeially
upon
if they do but
is tit the
of
niiraeles
the
and
it
savor
Gospel ;
and
these
should
author
a Iniirers of this
know, that nature
aneients

them.
tluir
never
Sir
standard, either of art or genius, of writing or heroism,
Richard
the i'hrif'ikin Ilrrn^
Steele, in his little essay, ealkd
has shown
in a more
t^aviourand
Pt. Paul
our
glorious and
do for their
transcendent
could
light than a Virgil or Homer
Reason

the

not

are

and

sajiie,

though

made

nature

Aehilles, Ulysses,

yEneas

or

and

writers

some

tlnse

aneiuit

unite

heathens

persuaded,

am

if Moses

and
had
David
been
not
inspired writers, these very
would
have
ranked
them
at least with
Herodotus, if nf"t
them
the superior place.

But
with

where

author

an

virtue,piety, and

themselves
without

and

bounds

shower

or

powers

of sotil till

wliicli

they

manner

of

has

truth,

they

condemn.

their

; but

write
This

supjjressingwhat

ill nature

rather
treatise

is the

they

stretch

exalt
him

upon

their

own

superior

to that

and

surest

noblest

censure.

given

consistent

little critics

let not

down

measure

beauties

many

men

JUDG:\rENT

A
of

little wit

mistake

be

dressed

of

scandal

but

book

better

to

judge

of

other

talents

and

Avliieh
would

but

the

author

and

cobbler

the

with

and

of

or

of

the

genius,

with

X.

noblest

such

when
at

make

this

by writing

treatise, an"l
of

to

or

lead

^lilton

liis poem

be

soon

vinced
con-

shoe

hath

the

to

cavil

Apelles

when

the

it is

littleness

bright

and

author

the

sign

poverty

sufficient

could

what

at

; but

liad

whole

Apelles

cavil

becomes

some

an

but

none

i)erformed

against

once

that

may

find

may

and

that

reason

and

fault

frequent

very

judgment U])on books, is this, that persons

same
same
praises or the
reproaches

parts

taining
enter-

and

whole

in

all thi^

them.

chapters

They

judge

in

it,which
it

as

making

due

distinction

sections

of

the

performance

wlio

lliose

is

noble

hear

them

genius, and

of J'(ii-("/isr jA"sf is

the

world

whole

due

only to
by wholesale,

are

between

into

the

the

and
a

this

seviM-al
is

ready
take.
mis-

dangerous

agrees

to confess

glorious pcrfonnanco

and

it

rivals

lie
must
pieces of aii(i(|uity; l)iit that reader
ill
favor
(f
tlie
who
liiiii
ini;:;rine
can
d.'v'ply])i\'ju(lice(l
ixnt,
xs'iilher
the suhliiiie
C(i:;alt:" lilinself throuii,!! all that worli.
foree
nor
sentiments,
dignity of iiuiid)ers,nor
or
beauty of
in
all
those
arc
evin
expression,
eiiually niainlaiued,
parts

tlu! most

famous

talk

over

were

jxissing

spread

without

this

treatise.

Another,

some

or

rejiroach

would

justice too,

added

malice,

to pronounce

Aahuible

and

once

shoemaker

of

latchet

perhaps

and

envy

he

real

made

loves

out

i^our

one

iii)on
author

as
figure and portraiture is such
low
ixiint. Every poor
genius

richest

to

man

good

subject,

same

degree

and i^erhaps might learn

insufficiency,
justly and favoral)ly of the performance

men.

painted,

world,

good

own

more

little fault

same

outshine

the

his

and

remarker

to

try
on

of

the

to

if the

and

attempt,

the

teaeh

reproach

great

by

up

enough

will

and

69

BOOKS.

learnin-j;,with

nature,

of remark

pages

liincied
may

little

ill

and

vanity

M'liole

or

OF

70

or

insttm'ctiotw

living;

liidi

fon-ffii
or
liamiony.
rccniirofrniiHlciir
iHtiiity,
loJNlr. J^iydcii'soi"inion, 1 ln)ii)r|iI will
coiiMiit

bill

Avonls, tliaf for

Jiiid

XT.

AVluMi

jud;;m"'nl ol"
be

II

some

hear

you

book,
capable judge,
iiiihapi"ybias

winHher

:i

lie lias

of

he

jiassing a

be

treats, and
i^rose

Avith

f"jr

"NvlietlM-r iw
lie

not
or

under

against if, or

inquiry

loi

to

iii

his

it.
of

good sense, yet he is incapable

of a i)articular book,
if he
judgment
man

the

in Avhieh

manner

if he

or

lie may

Kuliieieut

ac(]uai]ited uith

the

sj"iritof

in iHlier pugcw.

yourself

prejudice,
a

list-

i^retendingto j;ivehis

Avhcther

or

upon

true;

well

not

or

be

or

llaiues

not

tliut

of

alisi-nco

person

consider

not
liin
in uc-oldni-sH

lo^tctlni'iIhtc

perfect
lives,and

any

made

justest sentiments

Though

hrcathts, and

whieh

poLsy

almost

linos

of

scorcH

snnic

ainl
Ihitiitss,

lean

hath

not

subject

of

it is written,

had

an

opportunity

uhicli

be
or

it

it

verse

leisure

to look

into the writing itself.

sutficiently
so
Again, though he be ever
capable of judging on all
other
accounts, by the knowledge "jf the subject, and
of the book
also whether
itself,
yet you are to consider
there
be any thing in the author, in his manner,
in his
language, in his opinions, and his particular party,
which
the sentiments
of him
that judgeth. to
may
warp
think
well or ill of the treatise,
and to pass too favorable
too severe
or
a sentence
concerning it.
If you

his

ignorance

of that

OF

find that

book

LIVIXCr

or

he

is either

because

should

of

CHAPTER

VI.
AND

and

so

just

few

of

LECTUEES,

OF

TEACHEES

LEAENEES.

of

persons

judgment,

judge because

prejudices, his judgment

nothing.

AND

are

his

for

go

IXSTEUCTIOXS

I. Theee

unfit

an

as

to

be

penetrating a genius,
capable of learning the
so

and

arts

is

There

scarce

without
for most
)oks

are

mistake, they
of

work

furnished

tutors

of

Ave

learning

which

with
of

two

three

or

It

HI.

teach

; l)ut

method
It is

spirit
of

of

of

will

they

should

! there

are

sciences

greater
had

be

not

jiarts

the

place

skill

others

who,

and

have
way
with

the

in

also
the
Avhen

neither

the

and

all their
and

art

or

it.

by a
by purcliase,

i)ersons

due

knowledge

of communication.

poor

tently
compe-

jn-acticeof

interest, or

self-admiration
;

lie

they profess

i)atiencein

faction,or

skill in the

themselves

up

in

supply

which

have

tutors, who

insulliciency,have

few

care

instructors

that

and

teaching,

for

ency-

instructors.

those

or

whole

can

must

man

three

or

the

his

are

be obtained

teach

to

all

"'ueh other

the

it may

advantage

great

one

in

science,nor

to set

this

sufficient

party,

i^roperly

of two

great uidiappiness indeed,

set up

alas

each

common

is not

skillful

arc

where

convenience,

plain
ex-

sciences

of

through

run

committed

are

But

perfection.

to

that

expect

may

lie far wide

of sciences, where

circle

or
clopni'dia,

or

sustain

to

The

instructions

the

enjoy

to

or

sufficiently

are

learning, as

them

least, in order

at

1 hen

of

many

it is best

and

is

this

provinces of instruction.

and

numerous,

questions,
:

the

out

doubt

any

who

tutors

universal

such

parts and

the

sudden

few

very

with

beginners.

instructor.

living

are

under

books,

necessary

they point

difficulties

and

best

all

for

labor

we

answer

doubts

There

II.

not

can

present
the

if

; but

learning

to

way

teachers

of dumb

sort

s["ci-diiy

absolutely

useful

it is very

and

persons,

is

teachers.

so

the

geiiins and

assistance

His

tutor.

salV-ly and

so

tlie noblest

by

of

assistance

the

.scirnce

any

learned, even

without

sciences

71

TEACIIEES.

BY

And.

ignorance

and

elfrontery t'nongli
ingly
pupils fare accord-

lean in thoir understandings.

grow
let it be
observed
are
some
also, there

and
And

v"-ry

7"

or

Icai-ncd

else

mIio

men,

th(! talent

of

they

i.iviNf;

know

iN'STia:cTioxs

iiiucli

llicir

coninninicatiu^
and

lazy

are

will

tliemsolvi-s,but

take

no

have

not

knowlcd}^*! ;

own

it.

i)ains at

or

KHIht

they have an ob.scure and i)erplexed way of talking, or

their
they show
learning uselessly and make
a
long
word
of the
])o")k they exjihiin,or
on
I)ei-iphrasis
every
not condescend
to young
they ean
])eginneis,or they run
jiresentlyinto the elevated
parts of the science, because
it gives themselves
soon
greater pleasure, or they are
and
bear
pertinent
imnot
with
can
a few
impatient, and
angry
and spiightly
questions of a young,
incpiisitive,
in a very
a science
genius; or else they skim over
slight
and
and
lead
their disciples
never
superficial survey,
into the dej^ths of it.
A good tutor
IV.
and
should
have
characters
cations
qualifivery
both

as

be,

fiom

all

these.

himself

apply

lie

indefatigable patience, to
his disciples and
; to teaeh
and
method,
adapt his way
various
dispositions, as well

; to
the

is such

with

diligence

and

undertakes

to

will

and

can

concern,

learn

different

that

see

as

they

as

near

and
he

what

elfect

one

as

to the

to

inquire

may

capac^

ities of those
into their
And

whom

and

and

progress

he should

take

conduct,

him

which

savor

of

that

be

may

instructs, and

he

haughty

imi)rovenient.
particular care

he

should

have

so

temper,

or

him

to

or

create

aversion

the
a

inst ructions

of

natural

about

or

that

sordid

and

mean

per
tem-

own

be

of ill

much

his

nothing in hini
example ; nothing

there

nothing that may

expose
contempt of his scholars,
minds
against him and his

of

often

or

may

spirit ;
to

the

prejudice in their
: but, if possible,
candor
of

and

ness
sweet-

learning, as
of his disciples
into the minds
might convey
knowledge
and
with a sort of gentle insinuation
sovereign delight,
of
into
the highest improvements
and may
tempt them
mixed

with

all the

improvements

their

by

reason

speak

to

of

on

pens

to be

endeavor

at
to

more

on

the

this

force.

But

^hen
snl)jt'ct,

methods

of

the

munication
com-

knowledge.
should

attend

instructions

of

with

constancy

his tutor

; and

if he

time

any

retrieve

He

come.

say

insensible

directly of

more

all the

care

to

to

learner

The

V.

resistless and

occasion

shall liave
come

73

TEACHERS.

BY

should

unavoidably hindered, he
the loss by double
industry for
always recollect and review

and

liapmust

time

his

other
author
authois
some
or
lectures,read over
upon
it with
his instructor, or
the same
subject, confer upon
wit li his associates, and
writedown
the clearest
result
of his present thoughts, reasonings, and
inquiries,which
have
to hereafter, either
he may
to re-examine
recourse
and
to proper
them
apply them
use, or to improve them
farther to his own
advantage.
YI.
should
A student
never
satisfy himself with bare
the lectures
attendance
of his tutor, unless he clearly
on
takes
his sense
and
the
meaning, and understands
up
lie teaches.
A
things which
disciple should
young
well
to gain the
behave
himself
rfiection
and
so
as
ear
of his instructor,that ui)on every
occasion
he may,
with
the utmost
liis
freedom, ask questions, and talk over
dillicultics
with
own
sentiments, his doubts, and
liim,
and

in

of

them.
VII.

honorable

an

Let

humble

the

and

modest

learner

manner

endeavor

desire

to

the

solution

maintain

an

opinion of his instructor, and

heedfnlly
listen to his instructions, as
one
willing to be led by a
more
to
experienced guide ; and though he is not bound
fall in with
of his tutor, yet he should
sentiment
every
far comply
to resolve upon
with him
eration
so
as
a jiLstconsidof the matter, and try and examine
it thoroughly
with
honest
an
to determine
heart, before he presume
be done
with
against him : and then it should
great

74

or

Willi

modcsly,

i.rvrvf;

i\sTKT'fTrr"xs,

limnblc

;iii

}in"l
jciiJoiisyof liiiiisclf,

to (liU'cr
uinvilliiignes.s

of

and

argument
VIII.

It is

tliat

pert

wiser

than

or

did

little

very

teach

who

lort-c

him.

soon

folly in our
ago,
fancy thennselves

them

growing

disciples

those

tutor, if the

constrain

not

and
fr('(|in'iit

young

ui)on

truth

liis

liuui

parent
ap-

thought, they

the

at

first
the

discern

can

view,
insig-

of what
their teacher
nificaucy,weakness, and mistake
The
asserts.
youth of our day, by an early jx'tulancy,
and
pretended liberty of thinking for themselves, dare
reject at once, and that with a sort of scorn, all those

sentiments

and

doctrines
after

perhaps,
after
and

IX.
nor

prudent

It is true

minds

the

time

masters

in

the

right ;

is

all their

to

love

all freedom

tempted

which

danger
X.
the
the

; or,

God

and

two

think
of

authority
judgment

of

can

be

teachers, short

of

and

solemn

j)arents and

nature

at

ready

too

opinions,

we

the

san^e

in

their

to

dictate.

are

imbibe
ence
reverwe

is

Youth

take

sometimes

for their

reverence

for

ation
vener-

examination, if we
the other
hand, if
and

knowledged,
ac-

ever

sons
perin

thus : Though
safely conclude
not absolutely determine
must
a teacher
and unhis pupil, yet young
and raw
experienced
I

the

to

love

be

difficulty

of their

advice

infallible,

extremes.

learners
that

on

their

off that

of these

But

without

them

cast

termined
de-

tion,
considera-

it must

some

sometimes

are

to contest

to

and

their

"SVe

sentiments

and

not

yet
tutors, and
themselves
a
just freedom

of

thoughts.

own

have

observation,

are

just

authority and

secure

of

matter

maintain

instructions
to

careful

study,
and

to

for the

repeated

teachers

it

younger

and

teachers

experience.

they always

are

their

long

of mature

years

much

which

may

should

pay

instructions

absolute

all
of

submission

deference

proper
their
to

parents
their

and

dictates.

OF

Yet

still

receive

KXO"\VINrr

maintain

must

we

opinion

any

euufoiinable

into

evidence

of

75

SEXSE.

this, that

should

they

never

their

it be
assent, whether
to the tutor's
miud, without
first given to their own
ing
reason-

contrary

or

sufficient

THE

it

powers.

CHAPTER

OF

INTO

IXQUIRING
WRITER

OR

THE

is

reader

and

direct

us

I. Be

had

to

in

that

OF

THE

ANY

SEXSE

OF

are

it is

difficult

the

mind.
such

the

is such

guity
ambi-

an

tence
senspeech, that the same
diflerent significations: whereby

ideas

these

as

with

author's

meaning

of

sometimes
which

of

iSome

acquainted

language, wherein
not only the true

there

of

hit upon
his

herein
well

into
that

pass,

exactly

speaker

forms

be drawn
to

MEANING

ESPECIALLY

great imhappiness

may
comes

AND

AND

WRITINGS.

in words

it

SENSE

SPEAKER,

SACRED

It

THE

Aai.

the

for

the

writer

best

rules

the
or

to

the
mind

itself, or

tongue
is

expressed. Learn

each

woid, but the sense

which
those
words
when
obtain
a
placed in such
ticular
parand order.
situation
Acc^uaint yourself with the
and
modes
of
peculiar power
emphasis of the several
The
S("cspeech, and the various idioms of the tongue.
wliich
luus superadded
custom
to
ondary ideas
many
words
also be known,
should
well
tlie
a,s
as
particular
and primary meaning of them, if we
would
understand
any

writer.

II. Consider

the

signification of
esi)eciallyin the same

phrases,

more

same

in which

age

they are used by

sect, party, etc.

tliat writer
authors

of

those

nation,

lived, and
the

same

words
or

in what

and
the

near

sense

nation, opinion,

76

KN()\vi.N";

oi'

ni.
of

(Ik^

willi

author,

an

saiiu^

in

phrases

or

and

; and

ex-

jus one

which
is like; it,so sometimes
])lainsanother
expression will e\i"lain its contrary.
Kememher
as

in

;Ne\v,he

the

l)elieve

Me

aiicnt

that

always
the

best

can

Spirit

Holy
of

writings

explain

best

writer

the

Old

himself.

Consider

IV.

Hence

of

treats

the

the

same

which

place

Avhich

terms

other

subject,

may

in

uses

those

of

show

us

interpretation.
the

author

places

wliere

his

learn

is
he
in

sense

of

some

places

two

theological

which

reading, though

are

you

he

you

the

interpreter

which

on

supreme

and

tlu^

for

comparing

by

the

be

to

Testament

use

subject

the

and

treating,

excellent

self:
him-

interprets

arises, that Scripture is the best

concordances,
Scripture ; and therefore
of

contrary

rule

paiallel ])laces,are

])laf'0

oik*

kiii"li"'"l woids

parallel places

called

])!irases
generally

and

words

the

Compare

sknsh

Tin;

be

may

the

very

different.
And

the

on

words

the

where

the same,

other

subject
the

places, though
some
authors,

two

for

different

into

inquire

his
which

paragraph,
; for

his

he

they

perhaps

use

we

the

scope

aim

and
will

and
end

the

speaks
terms,

just
those

agree

quite

words

to

wise

of

it

sense

be

in

and

the

v/riter;

section,

or

explain particular
and
judicious writer

explained by

distinctly

of

book,

expressions generally toward

of
When
author
an
speaks

treats

of

same

design

in that

help

suppose

let his

he

not

to

seem

treating

Ills
VI.

same

by comparing
may

are

is

treats

sense

words

the

uses

sense.

Observe

V.

author

which

mere

when

subject, may

different

very

of

learn

not

can

you

if the

hand,

his
any

designed
subject

those

professedly

places
:

where

or

tences
sen-

rects
diend

sionally,
occa-

where
he

metaphorical
subject in mystical or
he treats
of
by other places where
explain them
of any

OF

the

"Nvhere he

let this

treats

of

the

that

be

author

the

wheresoever

shorter

he

the

determine

to

directed,

sjiiritof

the

well, there
customs,

and

times

person

of

sjicaker, as
in

good

before

obscure.

may

which

he

be

and
mistake

from

draws

excluded

which
This

Kote.

Scripture

will

rule

drawing

many
TX.

of the

and

Roman

strike
which

it is

mistake
times

were

author

in

for

of

in

but

may

we
an

in the

from

their

own

heed

inference, which

by

we

is

miuiner.

same

contr()v"'rsy. the
known

may

inspired

take

must

ing
read-

explaining

and

sacred

inferences

them,

almost

is sometimes

senses

an

inference.

that

inferences:

just

matter

those

always certain, in
they
authors, because

allusion

intro(hice(l

If it be

of

rule; f;)r the

sure

an

all

is not

their

always make
propositions. Yet even
not

allow

not

indeed

writers

do

Jewish

the

passages

; and

them

interpreting human
in

and

of
sense
particular propositions, the
sometimes
be known
by the inferences

In

author

with

sometimes

ui^on

per
tem-

temper

ancient

the

which

manners,

the

as

is

speech

interpret Scripture

to

of

which

place, the

and

acquaintance

suri^iisinglight

VIII.

the

well

order

some

is introduced

who

time

out

language.

whom

to

; and

intimations

writer, by

the

and

largely,it

more

same

only

strange and
very

brief

obscure

knowledge

some

and

that

hearers:

needs

treats

in the

persons

the

he

ularly
partic-

loose

more

obscurely, search

tlie circumstancas

spirit of

and

Greek

the

the

of

sense

instructive

or

strictly and

more

explain

more

not

but

speaking,

he

where

places

doctrinal

will

passages

Consider

YII.

in

hints

writes

perspicuous

more

other

by

where

expressions:

explain

literal

and

plain

are

speaks

theme, it

any

general

theme

the

77

SPEAKERS.

or
oratorical, alVectinj:-.
persuasive

an

explained

same

where
on

will

in terms

in

speaks

way,

OR

subjects

same

way

WRITERS

the

true

sense

objections

78

OF

tliat
the

K\")WiN";

brou.u:litagainst it.

arc

(J()(l,by

and

nth

of

the

Gth

in

"

well

the

to

What

shall

that

grace

may

in

the

we

sight

.'""1,
4th,
because

beginning
then

say

? shall

al)oun(l?"

been

have

the

Konians,

him

assured,

in the

in

holiness,"

our

which

In;

if

raised,

justification bj^

our

he

may

against

never

proving

been

we

Ei)istle

viz.

sin

could

objection

the

sknhk.

"justification

of

brought

chapter,

continue

we

of

ehapters
objection

of the

works

own

our

So

our
a.t^^aiiist

apostle speaks

of

TFii;

had

works

own

of

righteousness.
X.

In
of

sense

of

matters

writer

the

prejudices

of

such

of

if he

reader

the

and

party,
the

to

have

It

latent

any

ing
reign-

has

given

that

writers

into

come

and

mind

the

such

some

the

is this

sacred

under

labored

v^^arping

oi)inion, by
spiiit.

never

had

of

party

both

senses

would

which

others,

and

heed

own

your

prejudice

of

variety

to

self-love

principle

take

dispute,

of

x^repos-

sessions.
For

XI.
of

the

passion,

malice,

whereby
and

and
to

proved

; do

not

of

avowed
him

with

meaning

which

he

by the

most

speaker,

be

treated

just

by

as

to

be

you

others.

you

his

treat

yourselves

sense

false

with
to

lapses
his

thor,
au-

fore
there-

design

opinion,

exj^ress

adversary

to

any

an

put

little

at

to

aside

honest

opposition

plain and
that

an

snatch

impute

nor

denies

Lastly, remember
or

in

mistake,

to

Lay

even
an

prejudices

opposition

words.

read

diligence,

meaning

appearances

his

upon

or

the

easily tempted

spirit, and

and

his true

out

sense

carping

attention

be

may

you

invidious

pride,

envy,

of

heed

take

reason

same

find
and

declared

or

unless

opinion
it be

language.

every

would

author, writer,
be

willing

to

OF

70

CONVERSATION.

CHAPTER
EULES

I. If
it is

OF

wiser

BY

CONVERSATION.

minds
improve our
bj' conversation,
to be acquainted with
happiness
persons

ourselves.

than

tberel'ore

to

happen

to be

draw

out

tbe

get

far

quentl}', as
to

IMPEOVEMENT

would

we

great

VIIT.

ftivor

of

little

tbeir

of

them

what

allow:

all

use

useful

fre-

and

obliging

increase

may

advice

conversation

will

reserved,

of

piece

circumstances

as

It is

if

they

methods

your

ow]i

knowledge.
II.

Wliatsoever

in

time

trifle and

hours

amongst

their

capacity

; observe

son

of

the

comi^any

animal

impertinence.
talk

children,
; mai-k

the

the

the

as

and
far

some

according
of

infant

distinct

as

the

not

spend

therii

buddings

motions

mind,

waste

If you

with

young

different

and

in,

are

you

I'ca-

workings
discern

can

you

to

degrees the little creature

of his reasoning powers,
aiid what
up to the use
glows
eaily i)rejudicesbeset and endanger his understanding.
to
will learn
address
By this means
yourself to
you
derive
for their l)enelit,
and
children
perhaps you
may
for your
useful
some
own
philosophemes or theorems
them

notice

; take

by

what

entertainment.
III.
or

If you

sailor, a

spinster,lead
of

their

every

best.

one

In

own

hapi^en

to

be

fai-mer

or

philosopher.
in

sense

common

By this means
knowledge from

of

or

every

may
one

nierchanl

the

is wiser

you

for

business

own

gain

or

matters

profession;

their

nu'chanic
you

milk-nuiid

discourse

province
should
know,

or

with

mechanic,

peculiar

knows,
this

into

them

in company

than
some

meet.

the

provement
im-

80

rONVKIiSATIOX.

OF

IV.

('online,
to

or

in mutters
should

yourstilf always

not

of

persons

tlie

lo

party

same

of

if
lile,h-,s\,
in

e(lueated

oi*

sentiments,

men

of

of

"whicli

into

"vve

of

far

of

may

be

in

us

have

with

dilferent

it may

as

fiamed,

parties,

done

safely,

many
and

the

"wrong
to lea"l

us

juster thou.i;lits.

It

tho

said, when

is

with
of tradiui^

kinc: of Siam,
lOuropean nierehants,

some
on

liim

tliey tohl

wiien
that

horses

and

men

of

said

syllable they
things utterly imknown
a

all tratlie
to trade

and
lie

and
with

of

the

mon
com-

and

tluir

rivers.

ovrr

it, and

liglitas
would

feathers,
believe

not

were

and

names

that

sul)jeets in

hot

aud
liar.-,

suehsiuuueful

his

versed
con-

favor

country
in

hail,
his

to

with

souglit
soine

i)assed

wliite

and

first
the

hard

so

stones,

ice, snow,
to him

; he renounced
not sutfer them

climate

would

as

China,

in their

carriages
as

liaril

; for

winter

hiden

as

wlio

growing

Mater

fell down

almost

sometimes

and

and

S(mietimes

tliat rain

near

inqiiireilof tliein

Ills coast, lie

of summer
ajjiicarances

ami

and

undeceive

to

use

in the

p;"'neralconversation

countries

i"ractices,so

excellent

jud:j;ments

free and

various

very

and
()l)inions,
is

you

early

and
established
mistake, you should be confirmed
same
mistake, by conversing only Avith ])ersons
same

pany,
com-

opinion, cither

or

civil

learning, reli;;ion,or
liappen to l)e nursed
up

of

sort

ono

people.
t

Y.

mixed

In

endeavor

strangers
swift

betray
"who
those

hear

to

present
speak

are

who

be

and
The

too.

evil

of the

(piaint yourself therefore

l^artieswhich
customs

this

opinion of

Avhich

the

Father

from

should

the eye

is

men

fast that

far

are
a

is

of

lest you

perhaps offend some

Scripture severely

of those

from

whereby
is

practice
of their

elders.

with

Prove

Ac-

persons

and

life and

common

your
you

may
all

form

things, and

divine

rule, and

truth.

But

due

censures

not.

know

with

sometimes

light and

it indeed

your

things they

things.

good,

Be

tongue,

distant

way

and

of

cautious

ignorance,

your

learn

to

; but

and

acquaintances
from
all.
something

among

company,

it

young

limitation,and

wiser

hold
comes

persons
under

YT.

Be

frighted

not

from

they are in
of
lu'arinjjj

Sonic

that
rif^ht,

the

little

they

bat

notions

any

to themselves

provoked

nor

own.

your

SI

CONVERSATION.

OF

i)ei-sun.s

are

will

come

their

not

in the

province

they fancy the light shines ; and

darkness.
into the
venture
They never
solid

as

and

M'hat

they

is

certain

no

and

the

survey

useful, and

as

of

truth

but

that

in

other

Let

the

party in

canton

ont

all the

not

of

is in

edge,
knowl-

which

liner

are

than

gold

there

imagine

men

sciences

world,
rest

ocean

are

which

the

minds,

perhaps

possessed.

ever

amongst

riches

witliin

intellectnal

where

nor

coiilideiit

so

they

own:

which

they

ferent
dif-

opinions

at

they study,
born

were

and

edncaled.
VI

r. Believe

from

often

our

siglitfar

has

form

we

and

wide

connection

in part, and

whole

est

admirer

the

but

in

subject

any
of

with

consult

of

thing

penetration.

his

We

have

of

sometimes

wiser,

and

which

of, if he

use

VI

society
may

different

any
of

wiser

considcrahlci

difficult

ingenious

piopose

genius

it

and

which

man

condcs('(Mid

point

to

])r()ud-

notion

has

man

turn

of

and

hand,

man

hai)i)y

of

Ihein.

we

are

have

to

to

something
mind,

i)osi-

escaped

when

kno\A^ldege,

to

same

weaker

take

for

vaiions

make

at

the

dilfei-cnt

might

(^orrespondtMits
every

sui-vey

it uscl'ul

have

advantage,
of

not

capacity

to the

it

but

wonder

no

i)ros])ect of the

diti"crent

notions

on

the

would

II. It is of

pursuing
Ave

light

find

inferior

so
thing (if I may
sp;'ak) according
tions of our
nndei'standing towards

may

Even

might

that

see

we

do

extend

thing

of;

we

limited

not

it is

argument.

others, though

do

every

; because

parts

own

and

; therefore

part

or

and

talk

we

all shortsighted

are

narrow

reach

to

something

We

matter,

right conclusions

of

also

are

enough

with

know

not

the

side

one

learn

to

yourself.

views

our

but

see

]"ossible

below

much

persons
creatures

we

it is

tliat

wiiom
of

whereby

82

fONVERSATIOX.

OF

Avill be

in

roprc'senU'd
turned

it be

will

proposed

lilt'subjoct

all

in

shown

all its

luriiis, and

its

that

view,

to

be

e\(

lights,
hide

of

may

be

ry

juster judgment

it

framed.
IX.

To

w'lielher

it be

persons

of the

in

same

talk

begins

ono

liesitalc,or

to

take

person

dilferent

finished,and

are

book

and

accidental

or

of

or

valuable

more

designed

salutations

necessary

some

conversation

mak(^

visit, among

the stream
flat

of

and

mon
com-

let

h)w,

be

may

the

after

sexes,

runs

Avhieh

useful,

agreeable

consent
let him
by common
read
in it ten
lines, or a paragraph or two, or a few
for
word
sentence
till some
or
gives an occasion
pages,
to offer a thought or
two
relating to
any of the companj^
should
be
that subject : interruption of the reader
no

whole

to the

and

company,

isJ;he business

; for conversation
what
the author
confirm

blame

to correct

or

upon

their

add

please

improve

and

it ;

to

and

opinion

let

to

it,to enlarge

it, to object against it,or

is akin

that

question

to

or

says,

it be

whether

any
that

one

every
the

promote

ask

to

sation.
conver-

this

Observe

may

and

in

the

conversation,

hours

the

design

and

be

when

another, before

to

of discourse

drop
the

to

some

with
is

company
hear

differ

let

it be

directed

to

suffered

to

have

you

loose

is started,

subject

run

brought

tolerable

without
pass

or

ha4ily

present theme

the

issue,or

not

aim

joint

consent

to

one

of

it.

Attend

X.

general,

it lies in your

profitable point of knowledge or practice, so far

with
be done
decency ; and let not the discoui'se

some
as

lead

to

power

whensoever

rule

ever
are

so

very

sincere

diligence,
his

declaring

the

much

with

argument
from

desirous

your
to

sense

be

of

while
the

(piestion proposed:
it
patience, though

sentiments,
heard

any

with

for you

self
your-

patience l,)y

OF

others

who

differ

active

and

busy

is

You

should

mind

and

all that

want

let

be

and

ease,
connnon

gain
Ihid

who,

and

his

perspicuous
assent

hear

it

Pelhicido
lie

manner

Ibree
and

This
a

was
was

to

with

thinjis:

only
If

XII.

much

so

that

luil

si)eakei'who

thing

any

companion,

what

is spoken,

of

by

decent

speaker with

evidence,

that

so

had

that

but

common

endeavor
manner

this

in

have
olilaiu

all

liad

not

and

art

t""

said

clear

clearer
Do

not

in his

sense

or

n-

liecn
the
do

honor.

discourse

the

Iho

hapi"y

could

that

man

not
a

in

have

impiiry.

obscurity, either

clude
con-

assiinlilv

would

you

only

dark

of

or

said

spoko
simple and
heaver, and

illustiions

attaiiud

to

have

he

so

spoke

you

read

you

none

the

seem

as

to

who

one

understand

ready

when

genius;

was

familiar-,

mistake.

whole

evei'v

writings,

so

I would

the

]\'lhici(lo

will

you

been

saith

frequent
great

fast

have

man

tlirouuh

your

it

both

his ideas
to convey
in
instruct
and
convince
every

I'eady to wonder,
it ; tile

you

before, or,

very

conviction

that

same

is

easy,

of

shall

you

his

so

saith,as

and

language

or

wont

as

(he

much

as

; but

fieedom

Sometimes

hearers

some

and

yet should

imagine

that

he

thing

seize

to

plainest

plain,

so

haste, Surely this

things ; I knew
this myself.

in

uj) the

friendly temi)er,

conversation

manner,

to every

hereupon

in

senato,

the

company.

thoughts

liractice.

to take

much

presently
his

issue.

an

it is necessary

with

ojjinion in

in

to

nor

speaker,

and

solicitous

to

zeal.

your

his

person

brought

patience, and

not

by

the

speaker, zealous

speaks

do

nothing

delivers

and

and

his

something?

oppose

not

and

opi^ose

as

thou{":htsbe

unhai)py temi^er

the

man

sense,

to

where

gives

out

to

modesty
When

XL

find

in his discouise

conspicuous

as

to

is true

courage

your

your

are

intent

of

meaning

approve
you

and
be

not

means

which

rather

Let

hilc

a\

what

by

frequent

yon.

the

in matters

especially
This

fiom
all

contradict,and

83

CONVERSATION.

idea

of
of

concei)tion
charge

the

his words,

84

OF

but

his

entreat

penetration,
you

favor

of

want

own

your

\v(ir"l
ciili^^litfniii;^

an

liis whole

up

Jf difficulties aiisc

dissent

relieve

to

add

lo

or

take

may

CONVKRSATIOX.

""!"

that

t w"",

meaning.

in your

and

mind,

constrain

your

the

things spoken, represent what

objection
would
be ready to make
ments
against the sentipersons
of the speaker, without
telling him
you
oppose.
of address
carries something
modest
manner
more
to raise
obliging in it,than to appear
objections of
to him
that spoke.
own
by way of contradiction

some

This
and

your

to

XIII.

"When

delivers

his

and

can,

such

on

for

how

far you

it, exj^lain the

which

to

sense

agree

with

truth

constrains

him,

diliVr

to

jtoiut,yet

any

represent

room

any

sense

forced

are

you

agree;

in

of

who

him

far

as

agree

words

can

you

from

as

you

and

if there

be

the

speaker

in

general assent,

and

so

ation
alteror
least,by a small addition
of his sentiments, show
of things.
own
sense
your
It is the practice and delight of a candid
hearer, to make
how
it api^ear
him
that
unwilling he is to differ from
Let
the speaker
it is nothing
know
that
but
speaks.

be

words,

be

as

careful

Pro
A

he

little

natural
XIV.

As

not

be

and

will

you

should

sense

of

afraid

by taking

it,it

he

is

that

civil, and

ference
dif-

chosen

rule
his

answereth

follyand

nor

things

shame

unto

into

carry

about

your

practice

more

grow

ashamed

all i)roper

and

care,

all these

to you,

sincere

''for

watchfulness,

render

and

let that

with

speech
matter

him.''

13.

life,will

in few, and

and

Solomon's
always to take
correspondent fairlylinish

heareth

18

v.

him;

oppose

give the least offense.

may

let your
you, and
before
reply;
you

before

to

you

always expressed

such

And

at

or

to

younger

familiar, and

easy,
habit.
with

yon

ignorance,

own

in

confess

opi)ortmiities to

ask

so

this
and

you

constant

should

ignorance,
inquire

for

information

farther

the

word,
the

of

custom

degree

of

imagined

else

tliat he

had

known

himself

will

that

God

will

one

not

than

conceit

own

such

and
and

ten

is very

one

he

that

know

the

ready

are

to

was

teach

it, sucli

be

"wiser

render

in his

reason;''

everlasting

an

his

renders

silly shame

improvement

be

may
can

to

of

way

fool

who

already,

(juestiou about

likely

it is

also

perhaps

enough

man

into

men

self-eon-

ignorant; but he that

particular subject well, or

any

diligence.

and

by inquiry

of

full

the

to ask

himself

put

and

considerable

been

others

and

know

to

venture

not

let

to

some

not

iTuacquainted with it.

the
nu'ek, the humbh',
fancies

at

had

ashamed

was

of

meaning

proposition,
ance
remaining in ignor-

if he

knowledge,

the
of

reason

ariivfd

liad

person

of

teut, and
or

thin;;-,the

nation, etc., never

asking.

for Avant

Many

of

it be

whotbor

nature

85

CONVERvSATIOX.

OF

fool ;

folly

incurable.
incurata

Stultoruni

nialus

pudor

ulcora

"Ilur.

In

English

thus

celat.

Epid.

Lib.

IG.

1.

:
___,

If fools have

They
XV.

Be

ulcers, and
have

must

not

ulcers

too

forward,

part of life,to determine

an

infallible

assuming
young

and

in

any

the

with

heal

can

noue

question

in

sentence,
decisive
of

presence

them,

pride conceal

especially

peremptory

airs, and
man,

their

still,for

tone

his

theiii.

in the

younger
with

company

speak

nor

of

with

voice.

elders,

should

weigh the aigunu'uts

of any
which
are
brouglit for tlie jiroof or refutation
to speak,
it is your
turn
doubtful
proposition ; and when
of iiKpiiiy. I"y
tlu)ughts lather in the way
]v;'opose your
to
will be kept in a litter temper
this means
mind
your
will be more
receive truth, and
ready to correct and
you
not
been
have
where
sentiments,
improve your own
you
rather

hear

and

attend,

and

86

or

rnxvr.KSATiox.

llu'iii.
positive in iiflinniii';-

too

the
tcrially decided
point,
to retract, though
lin.";:ness

conviction

tliat you
It is

XVI.
when

and

gross

and

some

very

talent

dangerous

a.u:ainsthim, the
their

give
the

assent

censured
are

would

never

lie
and
in

of

danger
made
in

Now
man
OAvn

of

such

tivity are

imagine

to

"with

has

tempted
and
a

case,

of
infallibility

airs

us,

his

is

could

well
truth

his

folly,lest

more

But

it is

and

convincing

good

too

imj^erious

never

to

he

join

some

fool

and

should

be wise

no

modest

the

dictates.

be
in

his

such

on

with

argument

force, and

let it be

strongly

resistance

is made,

you

its

wisest

answered
own

ceit,''
con-

faith

and

and

Courage

than

is

opjjo

with

uji their

easily yield

necessary

itself

be

Solomon,

as

that

maintain

rei)elinsok-nee

time,

\vhen

"

is

nnless

assurance

wise

too, and

which

be defended.

means

much

so

themselves,

mnch

even

ea-silyto

too

never

persuade

By this

made

doctrine

can

so

vilify

pofjular

proposition

that

said.

lest others

to

reason

be

right, and

There

to

and

inward

an

remonstrance

no

the

teaches

according

nnwil-

and

being betrayed or lost, if there

to such
a pretending talker.

weai:)ons.
men,

be

renounced

talk

assume

may

I'eei

if he

imprudence

ready

he

what

prove

sition

too

certainly in

were

ina;xi'^-

secret

renounce

and

true, and

and

minds

to

"jr

may

may

be

"Weak
man

wronjjj.

there

the

to

never

boldly

so

in the

trutli:

They

can

sliould

comi)ajiy

presumer.

vilified

you

erroi-,

important
talkin*;-,and

of

'will iind

you

Imve

it' you

granted, indeed, tliat a season

happen,
may
bold
science
to
assume
pretender
may
and
vindicate
positive airs, to asseil
a

some

haughty

"were

But

posi-

occasion.

an

them

of

real

pronounce

too.

When
of those
fierce

such

bold
and

talkers
feeble

will

pushes

draw

in their

against

truth

shall

find

horns, when
and

reason

some

their
are

repelled
that

with

truth
know

and
piisliinc;

should

that

87

CONYERSATIOX.

or

confidence.

need

e\'er

such

It is

sort

of

pity

indeed

defenses

; l)ut

hath
sometimes
triumphant assurance
have
supported gross falsehoods, and a whole
companj'
been
till some
man
captivated to error
by this means,
has rescued
with equal assurance
them.
It is pity that
momentous
should
point of doctrine
happen to fall
any
under
of vindication
such reproaches, and require such a mode
to hear
: thoujih if I happen
it, I ought not to
and
turn
back
off in silence, and
leave
to sneak
tht;
my
truth
slain.
I must
to lie baffled, bleeding, and
Yet
be glad to have
occasion
no
ever
confess, I should
given
to fight with
at this sort
of weapons,
me
man
even
any
be so happy as
his insolence
to silence
though I should
and
evident
to obtain
an
victory.
XVII.
Be
fond
of disputing every
not
thing jvo and
talent
of
nor
indulge yourself to show
con,
your
A logic which
teaches nothing
attacking and defending.
This
else is little worth.
practice will lead
temper and
of knowledge, and
divert
you just so far out of the way
honest
is debated
or
inquiry after the truth which
your
laid
is often
sought. In set disputes, every little straw
hold on to support our
own
cause
thing that can
; every
in any
is
be drawn
to our
argument
Avay to give color
advanced, and that perhaps with vanity and ostentation.
we

This

puts the mind

receive
XYIII.
free

the

Do

ever

bring

not

conversation

which

proper

ijosture to seek

in those

doors

the

of
of

any

warm

party

is

Take

self-satisfied

assurances

understanding
ni'W

designed

of truth.

search

yourself
admission

and

tiutli.

in the

the

of

out

barred

sentiim'uts.

spirit

for

heed

of

ing
allow-

which

your

provemen
im-

mutual

fast
Let

into

keep

against
soul

to farther
discoveries,from a
ready to hearken
of our
and
present fallible
ruling consciousness

tht^
be

stant
con-

and

88

OF

COX^'ICRSATIOX,

it is
lillle

"

words,

the

lor

tjisk to you

liard

no

of

As

you

and

Avho

perhaps

be

may

times, if you
of debate,

otlier
matter

in the

of
in

yourself

you

tlie

such

sentiments

too

reserved

method,

subject:

manner

then

as

may

y""u
not

in

the

aptly

into

posed
pro-

clearer

Ix'conie
appear

at

so,

unskillful

him

the

friends,

your

questions

your

out

modest

or

lead

for

draw
of

person

by

may,

it Ix;

soever

inquiries
and

line

perceive

Socratic

knowledge

them.

improvement,

and

learning;, wisdom,

i)ronounee
raise

those

i)ronounee

liar"l

sometimes

may

instruction

own

to

and

liow

mistaken,"

was

friends,that

to your

l(;arn

to

mankind

bulk

XIX.

it appear

make

im]icifcct state; und

his
to

structor,
in-

make

his superior.

Take

of

heed

shine
in
to
affecting always
the rest, and
to display the
above
riches
of
company
own
understanding or your oratoiy, as though y"ju
your
to all that are
would
render
yourself admirable
present.
well taken
This
in polite company
less
is seldom
; much
of speech as should
should
such
forms
insinuate
see
you
of those
with
whom
dullness
the ignorance or
verse.
conyou

XX.

XXI.

Though
copious harangue
neither
that

happens

and

you
to

whether

show
you

of
hit

use

it

not

flourish

in

style in company,
yet
interrupt and reproach him
he has done
when
speaking,

but

into

his

contracted

more

correcting, but
upon

affect to

diffusive

rudely

his sentiments

reduce
with

should

should

you

true

a$
sense

who

one
or

not.

form

not

is doubtful
Thus

ters
mat-

brought more
easily from a wild confusion
be sooner
determined
into a single point, questions may
and difficulties more
easily removed.
Be not so ready to charge ignorance, prejudice,
XXII.
to suspect yourself
and mistake
others, as you
are
upon
of it : and in order
how
free you are
from prejuto show
may

be

dices, learn
be

to

eusy

bear

to

amongst
to

evidence

of

of

truth

has

led

siLspect that

to

into

you

been

afraid

be

you

you

it is not

opinion, but

the

some

presumption,
party scheme, in

If your

sufficient

let the

to

truth

be

has

assent

grounds, why
to the

put

trial

argument?
Banish

XXIII.

fire in the

blood.

no

from

no

sudden

nor

any

suffer

these

be

abused

to

there

instructions

can

])iide,and
a

scene,

by both

XXIV.

conference,

be

consequences

construction

of

insult

to

; let there

and

of human

invidious

yield

all calmness

read

no

tongue

tilings arc

such

intellectual

provoke passion or raise a

clamations,
sharp language, no noisy exno
biting jests be heard
among

your

free conversation.

sion,

and

conversation,

drawn

opinions, and imputed to the person :

willful perversion of an
other's meaning
no
;
seizure
of a lapsed syllable to play upon
it,

where

even

and

all

to

sarcasms,
or

of

out

other's

not

begins

Let

perverse

each

let there

tends

that

no

you

utterly

of all learned

especially out
thing
every

of

of

and

just

upon

Give

beloved

undistuiljed.

to rest

established

should
of

desire

you

this

putable,
dis-

otherwise

it

posed,
op-

and

virtue.

all sides

on

lazy anticipation of judgment, some

rash
some
long and
possession
which

and

; let

strongly

doubtful

are

sobriety

occasion

patience

opinion

which

ari,aiinents

company

with
own

your

men

patient hearing
the

hear

in matters

especially

give

contradiction

to

you

89

COXVERSATIOX.

OF

be

an

innocent

modest

and

that

opponent

croM'ing

no

mistake

triumph,

All
victory on your side.
of
enemies
the
ruin
to friendship, and
Theimiiartial search of truth re(piires
serenity, all temper and candor
; mutual
is evident

clamor,
there

sides,on

attained

be

never

unless

is

the

we

loud

folly

in the
suiipose,

and
and

midst
in

of
the

penetrating
shameful

i)a.s-

midst
lecture

inlirmitie^

nature.

Whensoever,

therefore,

any

unhappy-

word

90

CONVERSATION.

OF

shall arise in conipaiiy.

disj;ust,quash

the

and

your

command

lest

cancel

you
and

hour,
"Nvho

began

under

the

if he

tlic

vulgar

has

the

to break
and

in such

conviction

about

be

let a grave
suflicient,
of wit, with
an
gentle turn
not

occasion

disputeran

waim

fire ; if not, to

into

the

silent

fall

reproof,
soft and

or

pleasantry, give
of

stop the progress

the

man

If this shonld

him.

of

air

retract

that

and

indecency

the

his

decent
in-

quench

ilame.

the

Inure

XXV.

in your

address,
and

yourself
when

even

when

j^ou
This

without

here

to

of

and

when

not

of

learn:

assert

be

to

ner
man-

])leasing

you

you

kind

such

to

of

art

when

as

frequent

obliging

as

politeness is

diligent attention

laid down,

well

as

well

as

opjiose,

and

acquire the

teach,

you

degree

candid

and

conversation,

prove.

are

admonition,

to

for

railing. The
society, Mill

of such

thing ingenuous

any

so

conversation

learned

peace

ever

im])rov('mcnt

of reproaches and
the

it

just,
tonj^ue into silence,

your

ol" all
Iio])('s

form

shame

and

soul

reasonable

you
be

rising resentment,

transform

and

mean

iiii";lit
^nvo

that

or

attained

directions

exercise

and

as

practice

of them.
XXVI.

the

mind,

general

advancement

human,

contagion
into
see

the

be

may

and

is, choose

such

their

their

sure

moral

or

of
to

of
a

quest of intellectual
irreligion and vice.

house

infected

finest collections

with

of any

as,

by

and

Xo

the

you

wise

man

to

cellence
ex-

keep

your
some

while

fall into
can

the
ture
ven-

plague, in order

virtuoso

by

divine

always, lest

gain

their

study, or
peculiar

accomplishment,
administering
maintain

of

advantage

learning, or

character

in

companions

in

diligence

in

capable
be

of

sort

and

art, science,

any

wander

what

cultivation

rule

superior

improvement;
due
regard to
you

for the

parts, and

in
or

know

of

brightness
their

would

select

should

you
the

If y(m

in Em-ope.

to

XXVII.

is it every

Xor
nor

no,

91

CONVEESATIOX.

OF

sober
of

man

every

bright

in
learning, tliat is fit to engage
inquiry after trutli. Let a person
he

talents, yet
if he

If he

will

and

iUustrions

for such

either

of his
of

his

fond

clinatio
in-

no

of

capacity

pose,
pur-

speech

sentiments.

knowledge,
of imposing

perious
im-

his

company.

dogmatieal in

and

ire
2)o.sit

end

to the

; if he

his

opinions,

own

resist the

will

brightest

of

silent
If

5.

of

person

whifflingand

close

keep

not

can

to

unsteady

point

of

of

turn

controversy,

perpetually, and is always solicitous

it be pertinent to the question
something, whether
from

wanders

but

attentive.

and
be

he

who

mind,

to say

it

not.
(). If

upon

he

ha

fretfuland peevish, and

all occasions
or

is

lie is swift

to

retain

ready
feel

7.

If he
and

these

may

silent

if he

then

and

sullen

agreeably
have

break

to

or

into

sense

wrong

imagine

sudden

; if

self
him-

passion,

ceits
oceasions,and is full of his conquil)bles,jests and rei^artees ;

entertain
no

out

diction,
contra-

wrath.

all
or

offense,

to bear

how

in

resentment

lo

given

not

things

supposed

affectsicit on
quirks
puns,

mirth, but they

knows

take

to

i.tlVonled, and
or

for the

so

hath

in

come,
truth, rather than suffer himself to be overor
yield to the plainest and strongest reasonings.
to outshine all the comwho
4. If he be one
pany',
always affeets
and
delightsto hear himself talk and flourish upon
subject, and make
long harangues, while the rest must

all be

or

he

dispute

evidence

all the

rich

or

following infirmities

proud
always

airs,and

on

If he

3.

and

haughty

his

sentiments

ever

communication

for the

be

in

have

tolerable

no

ance,
acquaint-

conversation

exceedinghjreserved,and

language

2.

of the

any

free

parts,

associate

proper

discourse, or

to

and

lie under

lie he

Jf

1.

is not

of your

pei.son

and

animate

place in the search

an

hour

of

after truth.

92

COWllKSATION.

or

If lio oan-y

8.

and

Have

upon

disguise, and

act

such

as

of

care

in

when

-which

one

short,

and

authority

of

ill

an

avoid

IVom

ments
senti-

those

iu such

man,

is

thing that

any

heresy

estahlished.

has

the

dom
of free-

use

charge

dilfer

to

sincere,free,and

make

custom

practices

character

like

immediately

or

should

you

will

ning,
of crnfl,and funxpij tlutn a J'rUnd.

sort

rather

happen

you

who

the

conversation,

you,

In

al)oiit liini

always

select

versation,
con-

unbecoming
after

searcher

open

truth.

Now, though

you

life to persons
with

them

of

humanity
debate

matters

and

on

if
talk

well

no

and

in your
of
will
an

hear

profb

you

can

against
them

justly

too

if you

with

from

his

to

you

much
to

free

of

beware

of these

of

of

infer that

hai)pen

evil
be

to

learning

acquaintance,

unsocial

tention,
at-

course
dis-

fri'edom

avoid
and

for

chosen

]Men

unhappy

and

him

yourself.
your

fess,
con-

knowledge.

natural

working

the

breast,

own

and

persuade

it is very

them,

be

to

from

company,

of

may

learning

abstain

treat

religion. I
happens to judge

means

I would

watch

such

by

"While

amongst

any

what

in their

you

subject,

of

as

falsehood

temper

of

persons

duties

religion and
entering into a free

of

principles

in matters

XXVIII.

should

such

is

relative

far

so

care

or

the

he

conference

find

yet take

derive

; but

such

of

such

on

love,

of truth

person

and

with

and

especiallyabout

the

and
uuliappy qualifications,

these

decency
oblige you,

all

pay

may

temper

course
dis-

you

ities
qual-

tainted
and

when

genuity
in-

they

prevailing in

you.
To

XXTX.
then

inquire
your

conclude,

you

have

understanding,
for

the

you

with

converse

what

when

increase

or

retire

yourself

in

from

solitude, and

learned

for the

for

rectifying your

the

of your

virtues,

pany,
com-

improvement
or

the

of

tions,
inclinaameliorat-

OF

conduct

ing your
If

life.

seen

modest,

humble

in

just and

pious

in their

the

been

notice

well

of

of reason,

giving

too

loose

to

while

others

every

thing
for

have

were

to

all the

that

spoke

time

to

was

full

had

done

to any

charged,
he

talked

thing

lest their

to

let
or

and

he

cessive
ex-

i. e.,

by

You

will

will

and

silence

should

he

in his
let it

well, indeed, bnt

equal libeity
that

before
the

another
friend

his

least
that

opposition
some

sons
per-

great confidence,

not, and
that

to

observe

bright
that

reniciuber

intolerable

nothing
will

remark

of

with

they have

and

allow

words

impatient

large,
and

not

his

out

others

you

himself

sure
cen-

and

hud

they

spoke

did

they understood
tedious

of

topfnl

You

said.
at

an

just

therefore

and

; that

long,

speaking,

things which
every

so

his associates.

thing

have

careful

company
too

please,

deserved

hearing. Perhaps
ingenious in his thoughts

spillon

versation.
con-

persons

by

taciturnity

of sense,

was

useful

some

to

have

Some

speeches, though

language, but he

something

company,

worth

was
was

he

and

make

that

the

affected

want

remark

aifectation

an

and

interpreted

one

find

take

improvement:

own

your

will

said.

was

associates,

flattery or promiscuous praise

and
contradict
ready to oppose

as

that

and

have
civilitj',

elegant, polite,and

you

servile

anxious

which

in

visible

morose

been

ventured

or

sagacious,
graceful, as

memory,

and

your

really disi)leased

and

your

of this kind

avoid,

to

or

upon

decency,

for

occurrence

present have

tliat

and

polite and

amongst

defects

every

imitate

say

candid,

imitation.

observed

those

from

all these

for your

up

Perhaps

be

parts of

company

wise

manner,
sentiments,

of

If the laws

XXX.

to

your

their

idea

them

treasure

aiul

of

some

future

any

and

clear

as

impress

not

in

sally
strong in their expression, and univeracceptable and lovely in their behavior, endeavor

well

to

behavior

and

have

you

93

COXVEESATION.

others
wa.s

of

counted

spoken

upon

94

OF

subjects
the

of their

out

confereuee

satiou
XXXI.

By

TConduct

in

all

you

by

make

; that

to maintain

the

oppose

II.

As

the two

these

which

by

the

with

both

regard

to

desired
the

may

and

best

of

conversation
rank

two

or

in

the

more

and

loved
beyour

in

for

defend

tjie

practice

persons

of

ajipear

their

alternate

often

own

or

discourse, by

fervor, in
the

perhaps
the

cause

fees
are

of

; sometimes

gain

arise in good earnest, where

believe
do reallj-

mere

to

of
may

opinion,

trials

students

sides

we

they support

apparent

in order

which

GENERAL.

sentiments,

disputes

contenders

as

and

of argument.

methods

some

quire
ac-

IX.

head

is, when

other's

will

highest improvement,

IN

mind,

ditferent

it less

acquisitions.

general

of the

these,

of address

where

the

DISPUTES

the

disputing

conver-

make

degrees you

time, among

saiue

may

OF

improvement

own

i)iec('Sof ill

or

lespondeiiccs,

coi

CHAPTER

I. Under

of

and

manner

easy

every

intellectual

own

Ihcir

irrcf^ularitiesas
follies

; and

useful

company
the
at

companions,

of

errors

spoil ";ood convcrsatii"n,

less useful

your
; and

such

those

delightful and

behavior
render

of

avoid

to

and

that

The

confine

tUin

th"! limits

study.

revi(nv

which

agreeable

your

au"l

would

infinite.

learn

may

CKNKRAL.

witliiu

entirely

almost

are

I\

iiiid tlicy
s])liei"',

kn(/Wledge

narrow

you

DISPUTES

so

ditferent

sometimes

they
courts

are

are

or

pointed
ap-

schools

jjractices,and

of judicature

of their

tions
proposi-

they

skill in academies

really of

which

the

b}-la wy

that
el's,

dili'erent clients, while

the

is tried.

same

sentiment

with

DISPUTES

OF

TIT.

Til

without

ami

they

to the

truth

There

and

truth

though

few

and

all debates

several

Avhen

upon
different
as

judgments
any

as

^A^hen

V.

take

principles
remotely
have

no

they

must

while

there

of

to

that

care
or

they

foundation
have

find

they

tions, then let them

near
they approach

are

and

e\en

confer

declare

by

such

is called

many

persons,

to

gether
to-

their
ings
reason-

debating

debate

they

agreed

in

Avhieh

either

ground

conunon

some

the

they

as

or

should

nearly

more

or

they
other;

stand

upon,

contest.
agree

search
to

to

ways
al-

general

some

question in hand; for otherwise

or
hope of convincing each

they nmintain

When

are

propositions,

ali'ect the

there

them

liud

settled

any

almost

ready

are

should

error,

to

meet

tory
vic-

descriljed.

begin

persons

as

to

Muuld

Ave

of his

are

things

subject, they

is above

if

to

at other

which

according

sentiments, and support

they are capable of. This

dispnting,

rules

friend

as

but

in order

-whatsoever,

happen

persons

battle

general

by them, or convince
they be not managed

opinions

order,

or

effectual

nnstaken;

of

scene

of disputation ; and

forms

the

convince

some

are

in

regularity

truth, sometimes

out

dispute is a mere
and vain triumi)li.

observed

out

so

search

to

of

often

are

good or evil jjurposes, cbiclly aecuiding

be
sometimes
disputants. They may

TV.

be

of

temper

maintain
times

to

turn

successful

disputes

forms

any

95

GENERAL.

convorsatiou

common

managed

IN

each

in

remote

some

farther,
other's

and

pro]iosi-

inquire

sentiments,

how

and

propositions they agree in, let these lay a

foundation
for the ]uutual
Hereby
hope of conviction.
to
turn
Mill be prevented
from
running at every
you
some
X)ropositionsand axioms, which
originaland remote
whatsoever

practice both entangles

a
instance, if there was

prolongs dispute.
debate
proi^osed betwixt
and

As
a

for
Prot-

90

DIKPUTKH

OF

"'sl:iti( and

Papist, wlicllicr

Let

?
J*iirj;at()ry
tliis

by

them

that
])()int,
for sin, and
search

they

IN

lias ma"h;
this

upon

The

and

terms

the

to

without

it

contests

as

Sartor

combatants
the
zeal

and

asked

each

transubstantiation,

him

that

"l^o

altar,

he

Latino

at the

wonder,
you

the

word

about

Avliich you

the

the

wlink^

better.

conferenees:

in

plain

and

in-

thini;, that

of ridiculous

the two

anlearned

assaulted

and

with

hapi)enin.i;to

fended
de-

much
into

come

such

but

Jesus:
but

bowing

Sartor
at

"that

Latino,

understand

the
you

another,

one

sured
as-

high
can
nor

contend/'
of the

family

kind

alas!

But
other

Sartors

and

of debates

even

their

Sutors

till

they

wives

would

ho

understood

carry
street

on

sueh

heard
in the
was
day one
ing
explainof
the
meaning
neighbor
nietaj^hysieal
she
assured
nu-dieines
science; and
her, that as physics were
for the body, so
were
metaphysics
physics for the soul; upon
this they went
far the divine
how
to dispute the point
on
celled
extiiedoctor.
to her

the

]*ur^atory

long
thinj^sthat be-

sort

who

name

neither

avoided

they

terms

all

between

nothing
then," said

when

if

and

such

to

meant

agree

I think

ment
atone-

all doubtful

transubstantiation

not

wiser

in

stand, while
of

nee"'ssary

Sutor,

of

bowing

"

a;;ree

inquiring the subject of their dispute,

what
he meant
hard
word
by that lon.cr
him
that he
8utor
readily informed

of them

understood

so

day

and

and

as

or

from

expressed

exposed

violence; but

company

is

one

doctrine

their

l)e

This

found

were

cleared

additions;

Avill be

men

ion

doctrine

be

should

tellii^iblelan_nua,";e.

hoth

phic^

dehate.

needless

question

they

h-t thein

j^ronnd

should

question

such

Ix-

satistaet

controv^erted

"svay of ("("nlVi-eiiee or
YJ.

there

i-eiiieiiil"erthat

Christ

the

out

CJKNKUAL.

less learned

"

admissi

Auditum
Rideutem
Can
A

Or
A

dicere

it be

faulty
dialogue that
can

my

laugh,

risuTU
verum

to

teneatis,

(]uid vetat

amici?
?

repeat

walk\l

the

street?

forbear
friends
gravest
sueh
disputes they hear

when

DISPUTES

OF

And

VTT.
nscd

in

the

the

tween

should

be

be

in

the

its

and

of

(pii'stiouin
special extent,

general

more

inquiry

tlu?
its

debate
clared
de-

or

This

sense.

the

of

I)e-

adjusted

precise point

limitation

or

nieaninj:^of the words

setth'd

i)reciselyto

taken

specification

and

and

distinctly fixed;

l"e limited
to

of

disputants, but

97

GEXEE.VL.

sense

shonhl

qnestion

be

slionld

the

only

not

IX

sort

hinders

question

disputants from
wandering
away
from
the precise point of inquiry.
artifice
dishonest
It is this trifling humor
of
or
fn)m
the
changing the question and wandering
away
fiist point of debate, which
putes
gives endless
length to disthe

prevents

and
satisfaction.
of

one

and

both

causes

And

the

different
of

aware

to

avoid

thus,

him, he

begins

holds

fastness,and
thoughts and

words.

own

opinions
VIII.
Keep

an

this

everlasting

out

that

truth,
of

and
truth

victory,

which

secret, but

powerful

dispute, unless we arc

in frequent conversation
l)arty of mankind,

they

know

this vain
7

not

love

are

how
of

to

seek.

our

age,

; every

renounce

victorv.

new

is the

yield up their

of

to

as

find
tation
affec-

warm

iiu[)ro\'eme:it,

admission

of

This

with

works

the
a

influenci' in every
It appi-ars

guard.
every

being

this

mind

debates

all real

the

upon

fond

which

your

even

mischievous

much

so

or

of

against
and

upon

ii^your

bane

to

artilleryof

man

to

well

bj'truth, itself.

design,

profess

in

is

him

be not

new

:i

pride of

conduct

the

he

betakes

himself

with

overcome

bar

you
a

is

and

unwillingness

resolute

eff"ectual

an

of

fail,

demolished,

adversary

always, therefore,

rule
a

if his

siege

an

be

to

even

and

and

low

run

the blow,

It is the

sjiring of this evil, and

whiMi

entrench

to

the

out

any

of it is this:

part

cause

confuted

be

question

his

without

to

occasion

feels

combatants

is

chief

one

just ready to
tempted to step aside
to

disputants

sex,

in the

unhappy

and

each

rii;hl.that

prejudice,

98

OF

Wlinii
upon

triitli with

and

and

in

main

How

with

Ju.st thus
hath
taught
her

the
Let

So

its

former

being

hare

she

scent, when

she

is in

truth, do
of

not

of

yielding
Use

appears.

do

avoid

pleasure
it be

on

affect
of

to

espy

the

side

the
of

little obscurities

the

it to break

encourage

that
of

not

while

; and

am

that

principle

hang
into

out

in

that

is

nature
eon-

taken.
truth

find

to

out

anU

words

subterfuges
of

to

generous

truth, though

endeavor

to

it. and

and

it

soever

entangle the

take

sincere

side

and

remove

suffer

and

convincing light ;

may

yourself
much

vert
di-

to

imagine

one

doubtful

about
open

ing
part-

and

crosses

and

beams

perhaps
you

that

with

cloud

to

opponent

your

of

may

more

gain

the

triumph
valuable

better
over

sition
acqui-

victory.

\Vatch

opponent

sure

shifts

which

on

rising

opponent

your

and
X.

first

the

certainly possessed

argument

an

off from

in order

little shifts

reiisonings,yet

your

error

reason,

arts

sional
occa-

nature

debate

yourself

not

force

the

to

the

pains to avoid
understanding?

are

you

to

fiom
some

; ijut would

dispute
the

subtle

no

hide

question;
phrases;

Enter

is he

possible methods
l)LMngseized and

of

of its
a

perplex

sucli

take

and

by truth.

all

teai;hes

that

presume

it beforehand.

design

to

come

you

of

overcome

danger

nature
practice what
that any
rational
being should
and
to escape
the improvement

When

hold

is human

uses

puss

IX.

divert

all the
up
back
lier mazes,

track, and

in

""n;^a;;";

ea"^cr

to

calls

treads

to

and

discourse

afraid

and

hunted
her

the

mind

How

tak"?

to

break

to

objections

cloud

to

(luestion

lead

to

much

errors

is the

subLlcly,

swift

roady

his

ready

impertinent

some

hand

is

ovcn-oiue

and

word, thereby
point iu

GEKERAL.

truth, if possible !

the

sul)ject!

founds

lo

fancy, craft and

puzzle

tiirow

and

swift

how

mistakes,

IN

ovidonce
bi-ij^lit

disputant,

wit

DISPUTKS

narrowly
does

of

the

not

lead

in

dispute, that
to grant
unwarily

every

you

proposition,

which

will

your
some

bring with

it

fatal

and

consequence,
it

sentiment, though

step you
by this wrong
before
dangerous errors
of

at

Let

men.

small

some

insensibly

into

your

XI.

the

leal

your

of

When

find

when

it,and

you

or

him

his

l)een

his

from

your
to

ment
hapj)y improve-

Zeno

be

or

incjuiiy how

wiu'ther

in

of

and

thus

you

him

to

frei'ly

his

own

convince

philosopher

defense

of

disputant, by

And

Moses.

the

of

right

was

counted

use

son
per-

and

])()th

you

make

Stoic

many

Zeno

makes
Jews

if not

done

yourself,
picvail with

concessions
for

tlie

fair treatment

axioms
of

of

.Tew,

Christian
laws

or

though

laws

wrongin

or

or

some

you
Mose.s

do
are

or

philosopiiy,
(.pixment,

(Jospelof ("iirist,this
of an
adversary, and

just

honor

and

tiiat tlie

an

Yet

great

obstinate

miglit be paid

oidytrut'
propagated amimg

philosophers;

them

to

and

truths

doctrine
sinful
care

whicii

and
must

and

at

is sometimes

whieii

dying
be

St.

he

last

he

necessary
tiiat

adversary,

clamorous

of salvation

rogated,
ab-

your

t .r co/icjssis.
in, or ratio
tliis sort of disputation, when

heathen

convinces

against

of

use

not

his

(tr(/inii"iiti(in"t(l /loniiiK

sometimes
with

dis])nte with

concessions.

own

sliould

from

always

it is eallt'd

XIII.

Ixxly

truth, be wise

the

mistake,

tlie principles and

yet if from
can
argument
sui)i)ort your
you

and

he

turn

may

from

fairly

may

show

either
tiie

in

principles

your

into

to be

and

found

as

make

engaged

argument
])ursue
or
duty against sueli

you
doctrine
borrowed

silences

head

whole

have

you

to

opponent

may

tallvH

in Lis

his

ready way
truth
by princii^leswhich

the

If your

I*aul

subtle

peiiiicions wound.

any

silencii him

has

wind

maintaining

are

you

acknowledge,
principles to

enter

the

garment,

your

concession

observe

different

very

embrace

or

in

advantage

not

can

of

of

thrust

once

you

such

into

it.

XII.
of

fold

hand,

any

to

caution

unavoidably

other

watchful

and

but

give

anil

awai-e.

plain

snake

and

make

opponent

and

his

you

are

you

and

bosom,

On

lead

unguarded

will

09

GENERAL.

insensibly into
be far astray from
the truth;
will be, as
it were, plunged

this short

Remember
errors

IN

DISPUTES

OF

he

kiu'w

might

divine,

were

be

eonlirmed

men.

taken,

lest

your

100

debates

break

llu'iii to

lake

in

upon

opinions,

own

strokes, and

with

mingled

so

and

has

such

is made
in

come

and

are

mortal

and
which

sentiments

tender

feeling

of all the

personal

brawls

that

to

them,

as

seconds,

opinions.

Then

in all their

shapes,

succeed

to

and

noise,
and

the

and

clamor,

chase

to

of

dispute

folly, appear

and

reason

which

ready

very

finish

and

is

chosen,

opposition
are

lln;

Self

have

we

to

ffcl

to

defense.

the

nent
oppo-

wounds

apt

very

resentment

awaken

^\'ll("Il tlie

controveisy.

i)assions

in

and

passions,

^ives jnst

our

rise

to

GENERAL.

your

pait in the

])Ms1icsliaitl,and
our

IN

DISPUTES

OF

truth

of

out

sight.
How

is the

unhappy
dark

this

in

glimmering
loads

of

is this

what

than

often

too

heart

from

aside

after

truth,

Happy

souls,
inferior

their
of

pride

or

these

superior

and

who

and

secular

lietter

These

XIV,

in

all

least

useful,

arise

in occasional

certain

time

without

any

or

search

the

world.

powers,
that

whether

rules

the

sensitive

rise
the

they

to govern

the

to

are
are

them.

over

influences

tumults,
the

disturb

reasoning
are

or

the

dominion

whatsoever,

conversation,

in

all

never

of

it

in

and

directions

debates

place

formal

our

honest

sacred

general

it

principle;

and

operations

kind
man-

carries

such

infiueuces,

the

in

i)raeli('ethat
of

interest,

our

ui)on

require
evil

propagation
keep

what

consequences

this

by

is fair

animal

vicious
and

in

dangerous

the

or

the

are

involved

all that

truth

sions
pas-

more

lay

can

and

our

consider

we

and

Dismal

and

common

reproach

when

we,

to

kind
man-

passion

strong

are

dispute,

wretched

and

of

state

reason

itself !

controversy
are

and

frail

ready

the

in

nonsense

opponent,

How

engaged

are

dusky

or

reason

of

case

mind!

necess;iry,

or

whether

api)ointed

managed

at

they
at

with

any
or

CHAPTER

STUDY

OF

I.

been

has

It

foregoing
the

the

enjoying

in

reason

all
A

of observation

towards

and

but

imjiroved;
lecturers,

of

aids

Under

and

our

cuUivate,
enriching

aiul

is

some

to

give

thoughts,
what

for

further

IT,

The

and

attain

to

way

of

to

clear

juiigment,
in

man

every
those

shouM

Me
our

the

of

much

can

quire.
ac-

happy

themselves

th("y

where

and

him

to

learned

chosen

this

books,
has

man

superior

well

are

of

well

and

lucthoils

his

learned

first

all

degree

ideas

the

knowledge

advanlairc-*
this

nuiy

our

liow

we

and

l"e most

life, and

own

and

on,

and

of

chapter

employ

ellectual

as

of

examine,

mi'ditate

most

do-

already

in
to

studies,

our

circumstances

in
may

com-

usrlid

particularly

professions.

direction

distinguish
plain

such

as

jiow

should

we

in

and

winaiiis

I hints

regulate

been
should

reflection

What

suhjeets

so

it has

discourse

oeeaslona
of

Mhatsort

manner

imi)rove
^K'udious
for

own

of

heads

nioditation

all
othcT
iniprovf
understamling.

the

he

cerning
con-

knowledge.

preceding

the
how

his

judging

advantage

raise

to

of

thought,

superadded,

are

nor

large opportunities

do

the

instructions,

study

of

mind,

the
to

concurring

wisdom

clarod

of

where,

and

diligence

will

labors

evidence

and

memory,

converse,

living

the

and

best

nor

make

ever

can

sagacity

or

cultivation

the

human

genius,

h^iriu'd,

instruction,

"without

the

the

tions,
observa-

the

of

examining,

upon

capacious

wise,

of

some

own

of

labors
lectures

surveying,

good

our

conversation,
and

subjects

judgment,

best

brightest

truly knowing

own

neither
the

tlic

on

in

establislied

that

reading

our

MEDITATION.

and

proved

altendance

man

OR

chapters,

nor

X.

for

is

the

things
101

this

and

^vo^ds

between
of

youth

you

are

"

learn

things.
set

to

times
be("ct

study.

102

OF

Do

not

lest

STUDY

^rKDITATIOX.

witli

yourselves

rontont

l:il)()re"l

your

OR

iinintclli*j^ible
plinises,and
This

of kernels.
Let

III.
search

their

above

which

antecedent

Let

not

be

present powers,
the

of

depths

in the

the

knowledge,
of

may

balk

as

overstrained

limb

Nor

fright

be

let

any

yet

himself

that

at

difficulties, nor

than

student,

imagine

that

the

an

despair

afterwards:
its power

vigor

or

if

exerting its,

ever

other

hand,

insurmountable

with

turn

every

its

create

by

the

on

to

above

above

and

lighten
en-

happen

forever

agility
frighted from

science

any

perhaps

subject

into

once

rather

hy liftinga weight

may

does, the man

strength again.
it

IV.

study

its former

recover

never

may

at

l)y an attempt
understanding, and

joursuit of

the

forbid

their

above

practices may

and

of

observations.

or

confound

diligence,

far

advantaj^es

things
to

to

peculiar

any

mind

the

the

future

seienee.

inquiries

begin

; such

in every

in

the

know

their

instead

matters,

labor

not

to

nor

understanding

it

may

have

it ; this will

jade

to

their

spend

plunge

and

aversion

abstruse

hasty

too

discourage
power;

and

lieai"of

themselves

learning,or books,

nor

middle

use

namos,

husks

upon

apply

they

necessary

them

or

amass

students

dark,

reach,

for

subjects,

your

deep,

out

feed

you

is of unknown

rule

not

only

iniprovenients

and

words

inorc

truth

is wrapt

in

up

formidable
These
are
specters
impenetrable darkness.
flatter its
to
raises sometimes
the understanding
which
and
in a remote
Those
laziness.
fused
conown
things which
be apand
view
perplexed may
seem
proached
very obscure
then
fold
unby gentle and regular steps, and may

and

explain themselves

hardest

problems

schemes

or

diagrams,

step by step; every

witness

in

to the

at

geometry,
may

be

large
and

the

explicated

great mathematician

observation.

to

the

eye.

intricate

most

and

bears

The

understood
a

constant

STUDY

OF

and

learning

any

new

as

possible

first

proposed

that

then

the

to

safe

the

apply itself

akin

near

the

and

sure

what

to

is

INlathon
book

liapponcMl

some

deep

book

again

Newton
found

in

this

he

chief

tlie

tirst

of his

Engage

things

many

relation

not

to

slight smattering

and

substantial

and

valuable

study

the
at

once

at

th(i mind
sort

one

much

of

mind

Where

if

two
one

of several

or

attention

any

one

three

of them

now

found

et"-., and
shut

the

Sir

time

became

Isaac

in

one

the

of the

will

be

such

as

ready

to

have

no

distract

from

attaining perfection

Snch

them, and
and
though
on

it may

at
not

multitude
and

of

pursuit

practice gives

sciences, without
without
two

be

to

soli"l
real

any
three

or

once,

of

weaken

any

sorts

entertain

overtire(l

with

subjects will
the

lo

"

application

of them.
sciences

be

intense

of

varietj^,that

to

he

weeks'

he

the

usefully carried

the

it, and

he

but

especially

This

thoughts, yet

distract

of the

time,

with

sections;

last

in
;

improvement;
be

of

saw

diagrams whieh
pyramids,

three

in

mind

knowledge

may

he

Jiut his tutor happily persuaded

lines
about
and
an.iihs; juid he

it
understanding and hinder
in any
one
subject of study.

the

amazing

and

none

with

cope

with

as

slow

age.

another.

one

to

by

chapters

soon

conic

is

advance

to

manner

imagined

pagi's

This

then

them

cones

it.

once,

If
knowledge.
subjects,and things

last two

the

surprising pleasure
daily ol)tained, that

geometers

VI.

and

despair

as

at

and

over

among

tit (oread

begin
such

victories

of

demonstrations

wasever

liini to

of

into

dip

tlie frustums

ai)")Ut
tiK'i-(",

in

prevail

to

at

parts of knowledge

of f^e()]m"try and
mensuration
as
frisjhtened witli tlie eomjilicated

was

too

arrive

already known,
able

mind

unknown.

at first to easier

be
degrees, it would
and
great difficulties,
and
happy success.

be

fully mastered, i)roc('ed

to

knotty

should

the

to

and

way

and

remote

more

there

adjoininij,i)art yet

next

slow, but
mind

thing,

understood

being

lO.'i

:MEDTTATI0N-.

In

V.

little

OK

are

pursued

dry, abstracted, and

at

the

same

unpleasant,

104

as

OF

STUDY

OK

MI'DITATIOX.

lo.uic,
motapliysics, law, lanj;naf;os,let

entertaining^
weariness

and

and

aj^reeable, to
to study.
aversion

with

labor

tlu; faiit,nie of

as

far

.secrurii

as

dry studies

ariotlir'rbomore
tli"' niiixl

Delight should
possible,
the

to

l^etter.

Irorn

be intermingl

allnre

as

Poetry,
teemed
generally espraetieal matliematies, liLstory,etc., are
entertaining studies and may be happily used for
dull and
ThiLS while
relieve
this j)urpose.
we
a
heavy
of the mind,
hour
our
alluring employments
by some
very
diversions
enrieh
our
pleasure
uuderstandiugs, and our
to profit.
is turned
edge,
valuable
YII.
In the pursuit of every
subject of knowland
be not
verted
dikeep the end always in your
eye,
in the
with
from
it by every
petty tritle you meet
have
such
Some
a
wandering genius that
persons
way.
incidental
theme
sional
occaor
they are ready to pursue
every
ject.
lost sight of the original subidea, till they have
the men
These
are
they are eng-aged in
who, Mhon
conversation, prolong their story by dwelling on every
with long parentheses,
incident, and swell their narrative
who
lost their first designs ; like a man
till they have
is,
in quest of some
sent
great treasure, but he steps aside to
flower
he
finds, or stands still to dig up
gather every
till the
with in his way,
shining pebble he meets
every
found.
is forgotten and
treasure
never
Exert
YIII.
skill, and
diligence, about
care,
your
question, in a just proporsubject and
tion
every
every
to the
importance of it, together with the danger
of ignorance or
therein.
and
bad
error
consequences
excellent
Many
advantages flow from this one direction,
rule will teach
to be very carefulin gaining
1. This
you
some
genei'aland fundamental truth in philosophy, and
life ; because
of the
they are
religion,and in human
and
conduct
our
thoughts with ease into
highest moment,
inferior and particular propositions.
a thousand
to

bear

STUDY

OF

This

2,

rule

will

of much

In

3,

fix

end

our

which
and

labor

our

much

the

human

in

should

wisely

This

rule

in the

world

to the

interest

means

end.

And

they

are

piety

and

euG^ajje

for those
the

the

in

of this

alfairs of

so

to

tain
at-

pleasure,
end,

and

Ave

proceed

to

extend

but

of

that

shall

relate

Avhich

or

tention
deepestat-

that

only

small

have

into

The

Christianity.
God, faith

in

the

portance
im-

influence

and
the

Lord

Jesus

meditations,

regarded
connection

Avhile

vestures,
farther

no

the

with

than

faith

and

fundamental

mint,
and

Avilh
best

our

towards

love

and

to

lune

of
a

men,

brightest

anise, and

fringes

they

of

appendices

lopentance

Christ,

by

laborious

more

lesser

of

holiness, will employ

gestures, and

be

the

walk

Ave

and

necessary

great doctrines

our

universal

religion,if

shall be much

rule, Ave

of faith and practice, than

articles

suited

powers

those

wnjug,

perhaps

viitue, and

things

choice

be

or

better

life,are

with

compared

end

our

to

at

scope

in the

us

vain,

propositions
present

the

chief

best

our

careful

most

sensible

mere
our

will

inquiries

our

evident

it. If

be

misery.

even

conduct

will

to

be

diicct

be

wealth,

are

conseiiuiMUH^

will

If

they

cverlastinjjjconcernments.

our

hours

as

real

of

when

5.

is to

attain

to

the

since

determine

to

and
affairsof reliffion,

future

upon

that

contrary

towards

4.

and

Ave

mistaken

means

apace

ill

practice

j^randeur, or

choose

the

and

pernicious

more

that

use

means

careful about

more

speculations,

gieater

because

of all the

be

to

lis

more

right, aud
aim,

we
use

all

of

matters

105

MEDITATION'.

direct

tluiii

jyracticalpoints
commonly

OR

min,
cum-

religion,
plain

love, Avith holiness

an"l
and

peace.
This

G.

such

rule

errors,

Avhole

Avhose

scheme

(fuch mistakes

Avill mak(^

of

us

solicitous

inlluence

Avould

our

knoAvledgo

also Avhose

own

influence

not

Avide

spread
Avould

only

and

be

to

into

avoid

the

])ractice,but
yet

more

ex-

106

OF

lonsivc

and

town,

who

to

called

are

civil,the moral,

the

should

of theiis
with

Church

in

it most

wide

diffuse

pernicious

These

are

of the

some

relatinj^ to

matteis

and

perhaps

Have

IX.

and

lest

care

inquiry

e\ery

tend
ex-

all your

spreads

beloved

some

he
and

ideas, like
scene

meets.

I have

much

studj- in

portion
pro-

that

as

give

to

and

jaundice, who
all the objects

over

of

some

or

studies

in the

man

of the

mind

other

his eyes

to

notion,

your

your

known

devoted

great resemblance

over

person

with

yellow

and

the

from

importance.

darling science, so far prevail

all
tincture
to
a
sovereign
discolor

arise

which

advantages

its real value

to

State, ouj^ht to be

or

consequences,

eighth rule, viz.: Pursue

music,

raised

are

following generations.

to

which

account,

relijiiouslife,lest a mistake
draw
along
mischief, should

the

or

this

others, who

instruct

to

haps
per-

\vlM)loehnicli,

Upon

settling theii- jninciples in

in

careful

kin^Mlom.

either

eminence

any

ourselves

to

as

families, to

or

woll

as

jxTSonsorniany

country,

l)crHons

othrrs

injuriousto

to many

MrDITATIOX.

OR

STUDY

peculiar skill

science,

who

found

out

of

doctrine

Athanasian

in

the
'

Trinity in
something

every

have

of another

read

of the

thus

of

the whole
this

of

he

and

in it to

argument

first week

Under

single note,

prove
accommodated

who
creation

creation

to

became

influence,

doctrine.

that
the
notes

seven

it carried

thought

days

seven

of

music,

and

harmonious.

derived

from

mathematical

have
been
tempted to ca.st all their logical,
studies, some
moral
their
their
theological and
metaphysical, and
and
of mathematicians,
bring
learning into the method
every

thing relating

to

those

abstracted,

those

or

tical
prac-

problems, postulates,
theorems,
sciences,
ought
scholiums, corollaries, etc., whereas, the matter
under

always to direct
of thought can

the
not

method
be

moulded

; for
or

all

subjects

subdued

to

or

one

matters

form.

PTITDY

OF

Neither

the

doctrines

the

nor

exhibited

be

naturally

bring
bend

and

strain

and

the

reli.2:ionand
in

are

their
order

things

understanding,

virtue, can
dia;:;rams. Things

themselves;

natm-al

relations

to conceive

to

them

tures
na-

able
unalter-

aright,we

things, and

to

their

pretend

nctt

compcjrt

with

study

prejudice

fancies

our

forms.
Suffer

X.
mind

not

far

so

This

in

up

of

Their

search

confined
Let

XL

to be

according
the

to

you

or

to

lay
the

upon

studies
the

circumstances

out

with

than

are

their

own

into
more

if

sciences, they might

but

might be
glorious

tliought and
province to which

they

of yoUr

best

of

let

not

favorite

hours

upon

necessaiy

and

to

Ueei)

liiosr

but
superstitious i)i-eeisene.;s,

good degrees of a regular constancy.

time
much
in a course
of study saves

have,

aecordini:

i"roj"ei

to

science

you

discretion, and
lite, fixed

and

it,as ought,
more
tant
impor-

profession. When

your

of your

due

have

study

such

more

particular studies, endeavor

indeed,

very

it, and

assigned

employed
affairs

that

abroad

of

particular

every

prevail with

hints

other

hereby cooped

knowledge,

new

tory,
his-

of their

Mhich

world,

themselves.

time

proper

got

with

look

never

fruitful

rich

to cultivate

assistances

they

more

of

with

also

furnished

have

acquaintance

little into other

liiid treasures

only

have

ing.
learn-

all in comparison

that

beautiful, i)erhaps,and
not

due

intellectual

of the

your

other

souls, who

understandings'are

l"oun"ls,so

narroAV

scolf at them

all

chemistrj^,metaphysics,

of

for want

science.

they would

little

some

to

despise

to

as

astronomy,

provinces

other

of it

fault of

etc., and
sciences, make
favorite

.beloved

any

in favor

is

smattering

to

of

understanding

our

of

fi^^uresand

they

as

therefore,in

; and

to

duties
in

107

MEDlTATfON.

conduct

inflexible,and

are

must

the

nor

considered

be

to

are

for

rules

on

for

hours
luh-s

; not

with

some

Order

and

and

makes

method

largo

108

Su"-li

iiiiproveinents.
h;i\c

"wasting away
time

apply

longer

than

attention

close
1)0

mind

and

to nauseate
have

you

In

XIII.

that

occur,

and

solutions

not

to

tutor, he

early, and

too

time, lest

tempted

be

thereby

the

application

your

to

any

difficulties

under

present

and

impatient

for

answers

Perhaps

arise.

"acquaintance with the

experience will solve those

and

the

that

and

make

your

under

the

instruction

knot,
are

you

that

you

the

inquiries

your

have

you

which

upon

little further

inform

can

giving

wandt-iing.

or

any

questions that

any

esiicciallyif

of

importunate

too

difficulties, untie
vanish

at

particular suljject before

uneasy

little time

subject, a

at

study
of

capable

weaiiucss

of

tired

too

study,

more

is

spirits

beginning

nor

and
trilling;

iu

hissitude,and

will

it.

the

newsubjeetbe

little

the

grow

finished

IVoiu

you

mind

the

with

seized

be

secure

it williout

to

fs-rtairi liours

of

iiajxTtincncc.
one
yourself to any

overfatigue

uot

to

iniuutt-s

your
not

Do

XII.
one

li\;itioii

:i

]i;ii)pyinduciicc,

mkditatiox.

or

sTrnv

OF

of

solution

such

of

i)erhaps

are

yet learned

not

doul)ts

those

ciples
prin-

difficulty

depends.
Do

XIY.

not

subject

which

wherein

we

be

reasonings
as

you

will

probability,
as

no
we

are

and

and

^^'e must
we

things

state

best

our

where

in every

hundred

imperfect

where

farther,
can,

certainty

at

There

pursue.

reach

justly

arrive

in this dark

mortals

with

content

to

expect

miLSt

and

light

balance

ments
argu-

not

can

find

the scale with

weight enough on either side to determine
must
content
we
ourselves,
sovereign force and assurance,
This
will give us
perhaps, with a small preponderation.
a

probable opinion,

for

the

life,and

humau
It

dailj^

is

and

those

of

det-umination
mary

admirably

times
well

sullicient

probabilities are

even

thousand

in

matters

expressed by

actions
of
late

in

religion.
writer

"

OF

"When

is

there

lis, if

will

we

till every

STUDY

resolution

Suppose

I had

religion

I should

argument

in

certainty,

but

evidence

practice
has

have,

we

and

whose

and

and
in

But

due

divine

eternal

and

and

much

the

springs

less

in

of

to

men

to

the

Ijctter

awaken

h:ii)py
life ;
us

of God

or

at

our

creator

such

he

as

that

use,
it.

may

the

both

as

self
yourvwn

amusement,
Kesearchcsinto
motions

the

they

ease

should

wondrous
in

study

Jn(|uiries

mere

for

least

admire

to

and

such

their

methods

him

of all.

be

and

best

prayers

pi-aycr

religion.

bodies

man

the

humble

and

for

not

atl'aiis of

the

natural

invent

contrivances

Nature.

be

the

it.

speculative

every

practical

some

may

of human

and

apply

to

and

Judge

jjliilosophy should

natural

lead

the

plete,
com-

religion, let

in

earnest

dence
evi-

abounding

seeks

discover

can

require,

betoie

courage

others

with

concerns

possible, to

as

he

reason

best

acquit

willingly

and

and

His

and

inciuiries; such

his

Endeavor

XV.

in

in

as

and

the

to

Judge,

apj^rove

and

absolute

not

great importance

diligence

as

with

far

as

of

aid

diligence

plead

it

matters

all

join

will

honestly

obeys

it be

still

receive

to

nature

according

act

Supreme

our

of

probable

dilliculties

many

God

the

and

equity

conscience

light

far

is

me

1 he

c")ni])lele

to

arose

myself obliged

; for

what

that

lind

not

give

to

as

though

though

even

lie

as

goodness

think

assent

to

take

never

long searching

yet I could

far

so

of it

truth

religion

us

and

Christianity

only

shall

us,

live."

Me

and

of

defense

that

bound

for

choose,

went

as

fit for

most

we

before

set

argument

appears

honestly

I should

yet

of

removed,

long

as

been

of the

remain,

what
is

objection

wise

one

do

to

109

MEDITATION.

great strength

refuse

little

OR

all the

should
and
be

venience
con-

proved
im-

wisdom

works

of

CHAPTER

OF

I.

Student

acquire

to

very

The

tliini;-in

necessary
of

attention

and

it is for

haste

view,

we

of

our

while
and

This

being

at

is

of

amiss

the

sometimes

man,

takes

longer

from

horse,

and

one

the

he

it,

upon

arise

from

glance,

l)ut

ourselves

it.

would

to

fix

and^

would

if he

his

from

himself

secure

nuich

of

nearer

or

pose
(sup-

judges

whereas,

then

mist,

colors

came

takes.
mis-

object
)

and

or

into

in

visible

he

and

confused

church,

till

would

AVe

sudden

other;

light comes,

things.
a

any

situation,

for

and

walking

or

judgment

his

till clearer

who,

long

and

i)lunge

man

figure,

withhold

distance

great

tree,

like

thus

by

evidence,

many

have

we

at

is

slight

which

guesses

perception,

upon

judgment

of

ately,
immedi-

It

si^lit.

falsely

minds.

our

appear

arriv""

we

judge

we

determine

to

obscure

stay

it

always
first

is

Attention

improve

to

not
at

methods,

proper

thought.

order

soul

the

confirm

pass

of

does

all

by

ins])ection that

want

make

but

trutli

shike

nor

labor,
fixation

steady

ATTENTION.

THE

should

evidence

we

FIXING

XI.

it.

or

eyes
those

mistakes.
II.

we

culty
a

of

good

AVe

pursue.
in

order

or

sense,

It

fancy.
to

the
know

ideas

is but
search

mind

that
to

acquiring
and

is

there

especially

not

if

they

themselves

hearty

survey

tion,
atten-

you

icoidd

mucli

dilti-

what

contemplate

paint

of

stiidi/of knoxdedge

; and

which

out

rules

the

observe,

confining
to

to

facility

greater

these

liking

may

desire

great

gain

to

observe

may

Get

1.

in

Now,

the

good

we

are

mattei's

upon
will

various

have

and

the
lution
reso-

properties

OF

THE

FIXING

HI

ATTENTION.

Mill
be
attention
our
objects, and
in the
delight or diversion
engaged, if there be any
mathrmaiical
study or contemplation of tlicni. Thcieforo.
towards
tion
studies have
a
lixing (lie attenstrange influence
and
to a wandering
of the mind
giving a steadiness
in lines,figures,and
they ileal much
disposition,because
and
affect and
which
tion.
imaginanumbers,
please the sense
have
Histories
a
strong tendency the same
way,
for they engage
the soul by a variety of sensibh^
rences
occurhow
to leave
it hath begun, it knows
not
; when
natural
the final event, through
a
ofl';it longs to know
Voyages and travels,
curiosity that belongs to mankind.

such

of

and

parts

and

accounts

of

assist

will

mind

the

detains

by

the

2.

we

and

are

the

for

and

which

abstracted

more

ideas

moral

on

and

to them

be conveyed

young
with

sensible things and

those

of

intellectual.
mind
of

in

immaterial

of
to be

used

in

some

method

and

way

intellectual

and

abstracted

at

notions,
Therefore,
and

astronomy

virtues

and

vices

may
those

pleasingly impress
minds, which
perhaps might
much
more
diflQcultyby mere

confopp, in this practice of representing moral

h'st wi"
be cautious
far
should
so
pictuns, wo
it inifit
to render
mind
in corporeal iniajiis, as

and

tation
expec-

gratefully

may

sulijeetsby

rather

study

discourses.

abstracted

and

of

use

illustration

diagrams greatly assist the

philosophy; and the emblems
happily teach children, and

moral

ances,
appearof

sort

occurrence

that

maJce

may

corporeal images

useful

This

perpetual

new,

strange

imagination.

Sometimes

which

the

and

work.

this

in

of something
strike

countries

strange

idea,
things.

first,in

or

order

only ; but
pursuing

eases

of

it to

C!)U*^e

it

get

fixed

never

can

all

take

to

form

in

an

ceptions
con-

wrong

is

i)ractice, thert^forc,

Tliis
to

llu-

iniuursc

moral,

habit
be

of

tion,
atten-

constant

our

and

abstracted,

spiritual themes.
3.

Api)ly

authors

who

yourself
draw

out

to

their

those

studies,

subjectsinto

and

nad

perpetual

those

chain

of

112

OF

discourse

fjo bef")n\

if not

all,are

render

it.

of

it

be

can

not

applied.

choose

and

natural

the

among

not

that

in

of

side
the

out

study

much

haste to

truth.

Do

ciuestiontoo

of

of

it is

tlio

best

are

of

so

fond

things

understand

out
to

with

know

to

professing

the

determination

it worth

give

on

that

enough

and

they
to

on

at once,

Ixildness

scarcely

search

one

and

before
ever

the matter

up

to

this account,

Eather

difficult.

deal

tQ

your

assent

your

merely

evidence

great

freedom

them,

attention

through.

sufficient

for

of Kensington

years

and
continue
ignorance for a season,
till your
attention, and meditation, and due
found

dering.
wan-

closet

divei*sions

with

have

of

ha1)it

trillingand

Think

soon,

mind

still.

come

not

and

long

gets

seven

novice

important point.

to find

soul

subject which

any

with

after

; but

have

the

away

gaieties, and

mere

especially

changing,

of

the

variety

ear,

steal

pursuit

beauties,
a

the

often
to

thereby

was

too

or
difficult

either

tendency

Court

Hampton
learning, he

waiting

or

impertinence,

or

in motion

light, or

or

liiin:=*olf furnished

Va.scario thoujjht

Be

eye

; and

and

much

the

its steady

contemplate
silly curiosity

his studies

Too

things.

powerful
from

often

most

strike

we

of

the

ever

place of stiulyby the finery

and
various
entertaining

constant

your

sensible

objects which
while
they are

5.

stronj^

Labor

of

pursue

with

understandinj^

operations by the very pleasure

soever
ipne i-ohiptasis a happy proposition where-

of

too

sciences,

proper

jyrospects,or

scenes

those

from

of tln^ niatlu'iiiatical

the

of

foUowiii;^ parts

easily derived

of the

powers

to their

Do

the

Several

fix the

attention

Uw,

This will
ha])i)ilyuseful for this jmrpose.
labor
of study delij^htfulto a rational
mind,

the

will

4.

ATTENTION.

and

naturally

are

wliich

of

Tin:

reawnhu/.s, wlicreiu

connected

and

FIXING

side.
love

be

tented
con-

in

pense
sus-

labor,
Some
to

talk

they truly
allow

selves
them-

through

and

FIXING

OF

Have

G.

Let

attention.

to

comes

the mind

of

meditation.

the

The

proper

when
the

or

provement
imthe

under

great pain,
his

the

sense,

person

of

to

untler

of truth
A

the

call

of

things

to

search

to

be

shident

little government

it attentive

great enemies

are

understanding.
fear, or anger,

or

so

keep

not

can

love,

hath

sorrow,

in

engage

of

passions and

sensnal

more

alfeotion

-svarm

of his
l^ower

the

nature; they

not

of any

influence

he

animal

113

ATTENTIOX.

of indulging

care

of

appetites

THE

deep

or

he

soul, that

su])ject of liis

the

thoughts with
incessant
the object that excited
importunity towards
them
if we
indulge the frequ"'nt rise and roAing of
; and
shall
an
unsteady and
passions, we
thereby procure
habit

unaftentive

Yet

this

can

be

the

side

of
have

mind

It

duty

to

particular study

great influence

the

j^ursuit of

jjh-asuresof truth
to

any

engage

admitted,

viz.

passion of

the

which

to

we

fix

useful

is, therefore, very

in

dirine

as

be

must

the

If

we

soiil

on

pursuing,

are

attention

more

to it.

strongly
7.

the

away

of mind.

exception

one

happy

so

it may

passions

to

study by

any
and

Jix
by

"

of
of

sense

the

engage

consideration

knowledge

and

the
our

lectual
delight in the exercise of our intelfaculties
by the hope of future service to our
to ourselves
glorious advantage
creatures, and

God

by

"

"

fellow
both

in

world

this

Ihouglits,though they
it with

do

promote

soul

may
influence

present

our

inspired

and

with

move
:

is to

these will rather

])roper

the

These

come.

aflections,yet they

our

disturb

attention, than

our

subject of
A

proper

which

that

and

or

divert

assist and
it from

the

meditations.

fondest

love

of

truth

and

aspirations after sincere felicityand celestial

attentive
to the
beatitude, will keep all its powers
and
incessant
])ursuit of tliem : passion is then refined

the warmest

consecrated
8

to

its divinest

purposes.

CHAPTER

OF

ENLARGING

There

make

to

go
which

is

THE

three

are

of

CAPACITY

the

OF

which

things
that

up

one

XII.

in

ampUtude

noblest

THE

MIND.

cspcoial

an

of

capacity

or

nianiior

mind

belonging

characters

the

to

understanding.
When

1.

icithout

pain

the

When

3.

the

from
The

that

I.

is

to

take

ready

obvious

any

affairs

of

intellects

their

and

familiar

and

all
II.

the

that

the

ideas

any

and

ideas

many

rived
de-

they

mind

to

the

things

used

little,

such

and

of

or

noble

domestic,

measure

and

stretch

to

large

their

to

narrow

able

not

is'

pain

been

common,

admit

make

to

which

without

never

are

us

subject.

ideas

acquired

that

Let

genius.
this

the

may,

daily,
that

all

is,

be.

can

cai:)acity or

but

enough

of

images

aversion.

or

characters

narrow

have

life, have

ready

these

sublime

thing

are

proceed

is, when

ideas,

judgment

true

capacious

who

wide

; thi'v

thoughts

and

of soul,

habit

and

Persons

with

contracted

strange

survey

little upon

vast

of

have

to

ample

in

or

form

to

either

said

an

difficulty.

convei'se

ideas

survey.

meditations

That

and

wants

be

surprise

conecive

to

and

new

great

is able

who

our

sublime

great and

in

reeeive

to

without

extensive

respect,

diffnse

free

eonfusion,

person

that

to take

ready

is

mind

without

once

or

mind

just evidence,

upon

in

is

diffirnltij.

or

When

2.

at

the mind

to

now

amplitude
is

mind

free

propositions

great surprise

or

the

consider
of

the

to

upon

aversion.

mind

receive

just
Those

next

thing

consists,

wherein
and

and

new

evidence
who

confine

that

strange
witliout

them-

CAPACITY

selves

the

within
and

opinions,

to examine

as

of their
with

family,

of
of

of

this

native

been bred

have

when

appears,

and

the

of mind

of

of

from

our

mankind.

much

to

enlarge the

other

to

endeavor

It is the

surprise and

at

once

in

the

at

civil

what
least

respect

i. e.,

their

they
censures

think

but

our

it

upon

when

dition
con-

must

in

their

"")f

religion,
Perhaps

infancy in

of

set

one

confined

been

the

hear

they

to

one

religious life, without

other

they

opinions
have

are

seen

their

own

])iece of justice
the

in

awakens

that

embiaced.

have

what

those

where

own

sentiment

making

besides

affairs,or

or

so

by books.

have

thoughts

polite

more

represented in a
thej^ judge and
light; whereupon

every

lay heavy

from

tries
coun-

privilege,we

jycrsons,

they

vp

or

besides

and

what

and

this

and

mind

in human

knowing

or

mankind:

malignant

of some

trained

their

hearing

of

narroicness

from

both

of it

want

schemes

been

notions, and
single track

notions

the

the

in

this

us

hearing
the workl,

nations

countries,

educated;

grant

aversion

different
have

not

Srtwe

and

doctrines

and

supply

to

of

home.

by

ixirts of

traveling,

as

from

cured

be

sight

new

every

especially

own,

cities,or

born

of life does

among

the

to

liniits of tlieir

miles

ditl'erent

mind

towns,

were

we

at

K'othing tends

of

quite

stances
in-

some

days tciihin the

the

few

past ages, and

parts

2.

dictates

direct

then

within

or

should
of

accounts

histories

distant

which

the

sni-vey

all their

up

travel

they

narrowness

reading

visit

and

much

so

jnstly eharjicd

are

ns

surprised

village, are

or

and

ever

Let

imperfection,

who

town

This

they

sonl.

of their father\schimney,

smoJie

that

thing besides
party,

leave

and

it.

Persons

1.

any
or

ideas

hereditary

own

themselves

sect,

or

115

:NrTND.

give

believe

narrowness

cure

never

or

own

of their

circle

who

THE

OF

practice

of

and

every

cm-rent

all oilier
false

and

condemn

party

ceives;
re-

truth

to

sect

in

IK)

OF

i:xi.AHr,ixf;

or
'hiistiniiity
polilics.

the

liiivc;so

They

rootod

tliom solves

in the

opiuioiis ofllirir parly, that they cau nut liear an

objection with patience, nor can they bear a vindication,
much
l"esi"le
or
an
so
as
apolo^Q',for any set of j)rin(;ij)h'S
their

all

own;

the

is

rest

nonsense

heresy, lolly or

or

blas[)heniy.
This

with

also

defect

of

persons

Ijear with

to
our

is to be

different

patience
If

own.

we

of other
own

authors,

who

would

and

unbiased

and

and

By

of

all to

the

divine

on

and

snares

such

the

free

and

sense

of

much

parties

test of

virtue,

and

with
differ

other.

This

will

soul, and
others,
of

Ill,
another

The

the

the

avenues

and

to

us

done

in

humble

an

while

grace,

dewalk

we

affection

capacity

of

ideas

at

of different

and
are

the

once

sects

who

worth,

belong

our

them

which

the

of

different

that

without

is.

each

to

unpolished
charity towards
an

into
word

understanding
and

to

good

])crsons

opposite

roughness
of

of

persons

of
trines
doc-

necessary

and

piety

receiAC

qualification in it.
many

be

to

with

sentiments

soften

incline

unity

honest

an

only in particular forms

goodness,

imbibed

enlarge

and

not

persons

of

persons

and

have

those

of

citations

but

agree in the great

shall find that there

and

in their

reasoning on all
unprejudiced reasoning

manner;

converse

who

candor

ciples
prin-

of

Christianity,but
it) we

the

the

view

take

to

read

represented

are

force

wisdom

us

dangers.

(especially those
of

also

and

Kote, this is

self-sufficient

teach

opinions contrary
should

in

the

conversation

this will

'\^'e should

them,

revelation.

l"endence
among

they

merely

survey

bring

divine

rash

not

confute

sides, and

of

tenets

own

parties,as
and

scholars,we

our

free

by

sentiments

defense

are

objecfeious against

relieved

an

all

the

of

God

includes

ability

confusion.

grees
dequires.
re-

yet
to

ceive
re-

The

CAPACITY

mind

ample

takes

OF

THE

several

of

survey

117

MIND,

with

objects

all within
sight and
glance, keeps them
present
soul,that they maybe compared together in their
it

respects;
inferences
of

forms

from
and

argument,
The

1.

is

temj)late or

There

when

the

swift

almost

and

take

mind

lose

we

once

intent

are

have

we

it out

variety

in
as

few

it

faculties
one

upon

slight

But

if

it

with

can

we

objects; or

least

at

objects with

moments,
doue

were

con-

sight.

to several

so

if

of

can

but

of

in

ivisdom

to

our

capacious min"l,

in

ends

at

we

apply itself

can

same

things

souls

who

persons

subject,

succession, and
the

few

while

and

large

view

single

one

several

practice

sign of

demonstrations.

but

are

property of
of the rest, or

part or
glimpse

of

great length

that

limited,

very

is

chain

to

even

mutual
i)roper

belongs to human
great imperfectionand impediment

happiness.

are

compaiison,

narrowness

general
and

this

the

to

it draws

and

just judgments,

one

attains

as

in

so

the

same

instant.
2.

in

This

is

and

good

those

false

each

learned
well

3.
are

duty

as

It is

ought
itself,but

are

so

aifairs

owing

to

not

the

only

consider
who

sciences,
and

of

witli

and

of

danger
It

all

tion
rela-

passing
is

for

found

tliis

among

of religion

government.
of

peril
many

things

survey

in matters

world,

narrowness

In

persons

controversies

of civil

same

to

the

sul)ject proposed.

the;

prudence.

in

edge
great knowl-

appendices,

without

often

unlearned

the

in

connection

numennis

in the

to

in

are

tiio

on

and

exposed
and

stand

other, we

there

; and

to

several

are

circumstances,
them

which

judgment

reason

the

various

attending

ideas
to

we

for there
judgment;
life, in
religion, and

have

relations

order

qualificationin

necessary

human

whieli

as

our

the

in

matters

things
the
act,

minds

mere

the

that

naked
i)ersons

human

of

which

irr

we

do,
action

towanls

118

OF

Ihetiino
Avlioiii,
llie end

when,

which

lor

edV'cls that

ENLAKGING

th("

])liic(i
whore, the maiuior
;u;lioii is (loiic,
toj^ethor

Uw

must

or

TUE

that

follow, and

may

all

how,
witli the

other

sur-

those
:
roiiiidiugcircumstances
thiu";s must
necessarily
into our
be taken
whether
the
view, in order to determine
is indifferent
in itself,
be either Liwful
or
action, which
unlawful, good or evil,wise or foolish,decent or indecent,
or
improper, as it is so circumstantiated.
proper
Let

to he

and

an

tills makes
own;
it ; this ^Ives it an
done
at ehureh, and

it lor)k

do

him
Avas

added,

circumstances

dog

kills

his

not

bid
It

Mario

matter.
seems

for the
ilhistratioii
of thia
plain instaneo
consiilcred
a
doj^,whieli,
merely in itself,
aetion
iudifrerent
the doj^ was
: now,
Timon's,

^ivo

me

flow

Mario,

at

on

put

it

an

him

air
in

divine

Yet ^lario might

impiety of the aetion.
have
escaped by Hying thence; therefore'tlie action ajjpears to
Jiut the dog was
be improper.
known
to be mad
; this farther
relieves

the

cast
and

aj^ain.
service; these
of irrelifrifm. But
the
of
his
this
danger
life;

of

time

Timon

of lawfulness

appearanee
in

IJut

uidawful.

seeming

circumstance

makes

it almost

that

necessary

dog should

the

be

the assembly
and
do mueii
mischief.
slain, lest he might worry
with
wliich
he
Yet again, Mario
killed him
a pistol,
happened
in his pocket since
to have
yesterday's journey ; now
hereby
and
the whole
terrified
disct^mposed, and
congregation was

divine

service

gi'eat indecency
consider

off:

I)roken

was

and

further

violently assaulted

this

impropriety

in

carries
it

but

tiiat

circumstance,

an

apjiearanee
after ail, when

Mario,

being

of
wa

thus

escape, and
about
all the
seems
no
him,
weapon
away
and
colors of impropriety, indecency, or unlawfulness,
to allow
lives
that the preservation of one
will
or
justify the act
many
and
all
wise
these
concurrent
as
good. Now,
appentliees of the
action
with justice
ought to bo surveyed, in order to pronounce
truth
and
concerning it.

I)y a

nuid

other

There

dog,

had

it

are

multitude

of

no

to

human

way
take

actions

of

in

private

affairs,in traffic, in civil governments,

life,in domestic
of justice, in schools
of learning, etc., which
in courts
have
so
complicated circumstances, aspects, and
many
and*
regard to time and place, persons
to pass a right
things, that it is impossible for any one
judgment concerning them, withotit entering into most
of these circumstances,
and
surveying thom
extensively,
and
comparing and balancing them all right.
situations,

with

CAPACITY

4. Whence
how

OF

the

by

take

there

are

119

MIND.

I may

way

tJioiisands

many

THE

who

occasion
take

to

say,

them

upon

to

the
domestic
personal and
of others, who
actions
holdbj on the affairs
pronounce
the justice or madness, the
of the public, and determine
wisdom
or
folly of national
administrations, of peace and
neither
God
nor
men
ever
qualifiedfor
etc.,whom
wai,
such
not
a
were
capable
post of judgment !
They
of entering into
the
numerous
concurring springs of
of the twentieth
taken a survey
action, nor had they ever
their

pass

censures

the

on

part of the circumstances

judgments
5.

vices
a

of

the

all the

fullview of

belong
there

that

pass

prudence,
;

alike

thence

needful

and

for such

necessary

is

minds,

our

oftentimes

complicated
human

to

so

as

prevents from

and

actions

well

as

concurring
thence

it

little

rightjudgment, so
the
decency, practiced among

or

foolish

of

narrowness

will, that

the

that

were

censures.

or

It is

Avhich

the

taldng
dices
appento

comes

little

justice,

bulk

of

reproaches and censures

You
and
unrighteous.
see, therefore, how
happy a thing it is to be possessed of some
arise

infinite

kind
man"

us
ami)litude of soul, in order to make
wise, or knowing, or just, or prudent, or happy.
very
this sort
G. I confess
capacity of
of amplitude or
the gift of Nature, for some
is in a great measure
mind
much
born
with
more
are
capacious souls than others.
and
is so poor
The
limited,that
genius of some
persons

of

measure

this

of two
tlireo
or
hardly take in the connection
of sense, and
wliieh
propositions, unless it be in matters
utterly unfit
by experience : they are
they have learned
for them
the
to discern
for speculative studies; it is hard
in malt. -is ""f reason
difTerence
betwixt
right and wrong
set up
to
abstractt^l
on
subjects ; these ouglit ne\'er
any

they

for

can

scholars, but apply

of life which

by

slow

degrees

and

themselves
are

to

be

to those

learned

daily experience.

at

arts
an

and

fessions
pro-

e;isier rate

1L*0

Otiirrs

hare

in

lake

can

they

make

ever

well

assured

M'cU

resolved

tells us,

and

stick

of

are

solid and
bear

study

eaparions and

more

few

c")nse([uences

to

science,they

if the

fatigue
irou

be

of

of

this

should

be

persons

strong constitution
the

thoy

i)roj"("silion.s
pretty
be a little prolix,
If

confounded.

themselves

to

in

little

conlu^('ti")n of

the

devote

diligence

if tliecliainof

M'cll ; but

here

Houl

TUT,

KNLAUGING

OF

hard

of

body,
labor

and
and

bent, King Solomon

strength.
some
of so bright
But, in the third place, there are
and
so
ample a mind, that they
happy a genius and
at once,
of propositions, if not
take in a long train
can
and
judge well concerning
yet in a very few moments,
of them.
the dependence
a
variety of
They cau survey
complicated ideas without
fatigue or disturbance; and
it were
at one
of truths offering themselves
as
a number
view
to their
found
understanding, doth not perplex or conthem.
This makes
a great man.
lY.
owing to nature
Kow, though there may be much
in this case, yet experience assures
a lower
us, that even
be
of thought
may
degree of this capacity and extent
increased
by diligence and
application, by frequent
exercise, and b}'the observation of such rules as these:
attentive
and
1. Labor, by all mea)is,
to gain an
patient
of
fixing your
temper of mind, a power
confining and
one
appointed subject, till
thoughts so long on
any
surveyed it on every side and in eveiy sit nation,
you have
and
run
parts, i)roperties
through the several
jiowers,
of it. He
whose
and
relations,effects and consequences
thoughts are very flutteringand wandering, and can not
be fixed
successively, will
attentively to a few ideas
tinctly
various
and
be able to survey
never
objects dismany
and
but
will certainly l"e overwhelmed
at once,
The
rules for
with
the multiplicity of them.
confounded
chapter are proper to
fixing the attention in the former
be

we

consulted

must

here.

put

more

CAPACITY

Accustom

2.

thing
and

yourself to

think

you

B^

bo

may

THE

clear

of.
conceptions

confused

clearer

OF

and

distinct

of

^vith

ol)scure

one

variety of aspects
spreading confusion

of

thus

have

may

twenty

Consider

with

and

that

darkness

jnfused

which

be

to

3.

large
to

notions

be,

forma

surround

the
clear

all

placed

danger
ideas, and
the

overwhelm

jud.^ment.
and

tincture

spoil

and

endless

involve
and

how

just judgment
diligence to
acquire

fix them

and
to

notions:

your

in your

stock
memory;

ideas

and
every
:

and

to

come

impossible

about

take

sion
confu-

understanding,

confused

; and

once

the

that

will it

them.
treasure

tip

opportunity
by frequent

nothing tends to
a
frequent review

like
enlarge the memory
of its possessions.
Then
the brain
being well furnislied
with
variv)us
images, will have a
traces, signatures, and
rich treasure
always ready to hi proposed or offered to
the soul, when
its thoughts towards
it directs
ticular
parany
a
subject. This will gradually give the mind
that
faculty of surveying many
objects at once, as a room
with
is richly adorned
and
a
hung round
great variety
of pictures strikes
at once
with all tliat
the eye
almost
well
been
surveyed one
variety, especially if they have
and
it habitual
more
by one at first: this makes
easy to

confirm

and

and

content

you

and

of ideas
something

recollection

at

if

vast

obscure

soul

store

add

the

in

of

pervert the

and

that

how

and

of these

before

Use

to

in

yourself
with
instead
of ideas, or
cloudy
of things, how
impenetrable will

words

must

many

set

be

scene

shamefully

further,

yet

frequently

bo

will

fused
con-

colors.

gay

when

will

paint

whole

inlluenee

darkness

with

little black

them,

the

unhappy

an

understanding

towards
over

where

or

idea, especially if it be of great importance

clear ones
and
question, intermingled with many
in its

every

obscure

things, especially
for

in

ideas

satisliiid

not

ol)lain('d

121

MIXD.

122

KNI.ARGTNO

OF

th(^ inhabitants
with

single ghince

Here
I do

note, that

not

arguments

have

but

common

that

sacred

or

ready

and

among

question,
useful

hand

to

should

as

at

occur

affairs;that

to

observations, always

propositions,

reasonings

judge concerning any

prineii)les of truth, some

some

scenes

of notions,

also

experiences, with
various
subjects

the

painted

rich treasure

by ac""uiring a

moral,

called

are

those

tAvo.

or

and

upon

and

natural

of

in many

only single ideas,

mean

observations,

you

take

to

THE

when
will

you

and

axioms

direct

and

assist

judgment.

your

that

It is necessary

4.

and

entertain

order, and

lay

daily

our

up

far

possible

as

in

ideas

new

acquisitions of

the

range

we

regular

souls

our

under

of

whether

divinity, law, phj'si"s,

mathematics, morality, politics, trade, domestic
life,
of cause, effect,substance,
civility,decency, etc., whether
proper

heads,

mode,

power,

should
and

inure

minds

our

when

their

proper

with

the

should

jilaces,and

see

how

of

rest

among

its kindred

dispose

of

new

disposes
that

box

the

same

book

on

on

authors;

London

it in the

placing

notions

our

or

as

of

ideas,
of

stand

the

to

them

he

as

the

post-

takes

in,

road

proper

shelf

jjroper
at

in

agree

subjects:

letter

every

rences,
occur-

and

oflQcer

an

belongs

continually;

dispose
they

We

etc..

order

fresh

any

we

would

in

in

spirit,
and

observations,

scholar

house

methods

to

take

we

and

body,

property,

or

county.
In

any

with

method
ease

to

preserve

these

of any

addition
but

of

cases,

and

keep
them
Mhich

sj^eedy

pleasure.
our

things

object would

new

gives

if

ideas

ready

for every

distributes

increase

and

Method

from

all

lie all in

heap, the

the

confusion,

short

of

survey
is of admirable

confused
use.

beings,

The
and

them
tage
advan-

mixture,

and

to

science

of

tology,
on-

all the

affections

CAPACITY

of

being,
classes,is

whether
of

at

THE

absolute

good

in such

or

service

order

keep

that

as

relative, under

or

to

the

123

:\riXD.

i^roi^er

intellectual

our

mind

may

sitions
acquithem

survey

once.

As

5.

method

is necessary

in order

mind,

make

to

in all your

so

of

for the

of

treasure

your

ideas

further

most

and

pursuits of truth
observe
a
knowledge,

rational

of

improvement

the
ful,
use-

ments
acquire-

regular

j^ro-

gressive method.
and

obvious

and

more

of

growing

up

the

same

give

thej'were
observing
An

the
most
simple, easy,
Begin with
ideas; then by degrees join two, and three,
them
together : thus the complicated ideas,
under

your
confusion

all otfered

the

to

thought

the

mind

as

at

master

head

without

once,

if

your

of them.

formation

is at

disturbed

once

the

of

the

each

of which

divisor

the

and

out

of

These

are

souls

anionic

first

iiave

arrived

renders

them

they
by

the
at

the

Locke

nature

with

which
watchful

regular methud

of

have
in

all that
enriched

several

a.iies.

anii)le and capacious

that
jirodij^iousextent
wonder
and
glory of

Though

live.

Jioyie,]Mr.

favored

world

Plato

and
a

yet, in their early years, and

but
limited
ami
science, this was
narrow,
what
attained
l*"iithow
vast
at last.
tiiey
powers
and

be

operations in
pleasure,

which

learneil

the

amplitude;

those

weeks

and

foundation

the

science

which

knowledge, which
doubtless

of

been

and

ste])S by

mankind

nation
where
the
Descartes
an"l Mr.
were

of art

lil)raries
tlie

(v\v

tlie

proceed i"y

so

all

syllables, has

frlorious sui)erstrueturc
theiuindsand

it from

of

intricacy and confusion.

syllai)les out of letters,
A, ]i, C, andlnakinj^

lirst seemed

at

Beglnnin.i? with
words

manifold
dividend, and

with

confounded

and

nunii)ers

conijiarisons
the inultiplicatiou of the
and
sulttraction
one
other; but if he besjiu reiiularly at addition, and
subtraction
lie will then
in
and
luultiiilication,
able to take
in an
of all those
intelligent survey
Mith
himself
division, and to practice them
ease

and

do

in the study of arithmeexample of this appears

liis
tlie
admitted
into
11 scholar, just
school, observes
perfoniiing an operation in the rule of division, his
of

of

would

they

not

eminent

If

tie.

and

will

observation,

of

and

original

and

eye

Sir

genius
lirst
in

and
Isaac

Cicero,
Xi'wton,

ofunconinion

attempts

with
with

comparison
capacious wi're
tention
ac(iuired by patient atthey afterwards
observation, by the pursuit of clear ideU8,
of thinking.

and

124

(5. Another

mraiiH

of

mind,

capacity

iind of the
and

and

cases

Nalare
will

of

law
the
men

his

will

furnish

politicalsubjects,

with

us

such

many

the

promote

of

amplitude

same

public trials,and

PuffcndorlT's

therein.

in

art^uments

ance
attend-

An

mind.

the

of

Xajc

ds-terniinatiuns

several

and

Natiom,

civil courts

good advantaj,'e for this purpose,

the general principles of the
after a man
has studied
of o^ature, and
the laws of England, in i)roi)er books,
reading the reports of adjudged cases, collected by
will richly improve
of great sagacity and judgment,

justicL',will

and

eutouijlnl(jucfUoius
ajijcrmdlof dIJ/irult
scienci'.
of them
in any
Si);'Cuhilivo

is

divinity

and

and

on

iiiiiplituduand

controversies,

nioial

In

tiiis
iU'ijuiiiiii^

ol'

solution

casuistical

M]:^roRY.

THE

IMPROVINf;

OF

mind

extent

of

be

amplitude and
acquiring this desirable
of thought, and more
especially in persons of that
toward

profession.

Xin.

CHAPTER

IMPROVING

OF

I. Me:mory
very

is

and

its other

any

thing, when

idea

what

idea

the

Our

before.

retaining

Then

the
at

of

we

is

learn, and
we

can

it be ideas
thing, whether
things, notions or arguments,
any

some

former

idea

thought

or
or

that

of

of

natural

recalling
be

never
or

mind

said

perception, either
reflection ; but

we

power

of

it
to

on

whatsoever

every

remember

have

by

this

propositions,
which

with
had

have

we

our

remember

to

in the

it arises

memory

we

said

are

time

same

Therefore

occasion.

man,

perception, judgment, and reasoning,

powers.

consciousness

of

distinct, faculty of the mind

from

diffei'ent

MEMORY.

THE

words

had

not
or

sense
we

or

agination
im-

learn

IMPEOVING

OF

from

observation, books,

all be laid
make

it

borrov/
other

To

and

of

aud

enriches

would

wc

if

the

soul

all

are

of

obtained

wilh-

usch'ris

edge
iu knowl-

labors

our

to preserve

and

What

sii:;uifyall

other

if

It

they

is memory

morals,
and
of

be

the

or

would

man

everlasting

an

ideas

of the

well
tlu'-

orator,

blank

hear

they

readers

such

the

and

in

speak

forced

grace

and

to

hearers.
of

our

have

awakening

neitlier
nor
or

assistance

soul

the

being, with
the

tieetiug

public

the

power

read

ready

all that

sentiments;
the

heard

discourse

by
than

memory,

they

would

is certainly

Beading

those

better

"leli\"er their
and

those

And

much

are

The

lost, if

forget them.

as

and

hearer.

abnost

are

teacher

the

the

or

speak

who

assists

scholar

immediately

who

dustry
in-

virtue

memory

those

to
; it

instructions

of conveyance

mere

soul

learn

and

to their
way

useful

as

are

and

moment.

accepted, when
they can
help of a lively genius

when

the

it, except

over

well

to

iu

destitute, naked

S[)read

who

them
called

are

Without

poor,

is very

as

who

the

but

those

to

as

speeches

and

be

present

best

who

this power.
a

mankind

religion,without

of

Memory

III.

of

practice

influen"'e

of

improvx'meut

any

tliat

alone

the

there

lost

are

mind, by preserving what our labor

be
In a word, there
can
daily collect.
kjiowledge, nor arts, nor sciences, Nvithout memory;
can

; lur

memory

acquired?

are

mind

the

perfection

almost

are

want

we

and

is the

faculty

spiritual improvements,

they

as

IT

abilities

beauty

purpose

have

intellectual
soon

what

we

it must

etc.,

memory,

excellent

other

their

wisdom,

what

iu the

so

all

hence

capacities

outthis.

as

and

that

man,

from

conversation,

or

preserved

necessary
of

125

MEMORY.

useful.

really

memory

use

aud

up

So

II.

the

THE

and

municate
com-

heavier

there

are

few

felicity of ixMietratiiigllie

passions

of

of oratory,

as

who

those
the

man

hear, by
who

seems

126

OF

to talk

the

word

every

ronnd

about

liiin

memory.

This

is

and

spoken,

impression

has

own

by

the

life and

them

spirits,causes
both

the

to

men:

receive

to

jjleasure,and

afifection and

spirit to

make

in

dulh'st

discourse

with

more

who

solid rational

tolerable
of

been

and

excellent.

V.

Yet

is

be

found
laid

wheresoever

the

for

and

always
comparison of

and

determining
it were,

which

are

such

in

very

the

and

pens
hap-

it

idiot,

an

of

extent

disjoin

or

make

to

manner

the

yet their

of

some

to

any

various
form

thing,

to be

of it.

things,
sagacity

ment
good judga

upon
in

doubtful
"Wlien

good

of
of

solid'

happy

one

thing

things together

truth

wise,

is

there

but

judgment

where

that

any

had

have

dej^end

measure

survey

the

mind,

ijroposition
mind

has,
objects present before it,
true
ment
i)roposition of judg-

comparison.

necessary

are

who

just judgment

genius has
a
right use

some

set all those

ideas

and

several

and

concerning
and

%vise

to make

must

person,

any

natural

brightness

survey

memory,

acknowledged,
in

and

as

times

suj)erior degree, just and

much

foundation

by that

of

power

it must

memory

happy

very

where

join

to

of others

instances

been

has

able

and

wise

cellence,
ex-

proposition.

have

very

in

have

strength

been

hardly

are

above

degree

one

amazing

an

ideas

three

There
a

but

are

have

but

memorj^,
or

who

manifested

have

two

and

grace

good

those

deeper

the

and
a good
judgment
memory
different
qualifications. A person
may
retentive
strong, capacious, and
memory,
and
is
weak; as some
judgment
very poor
A

IV,

copious
thing that

his oiation.

and

person

and

singular

people

it awakens
a

adds

the

every
to

out

pours

npon

free

tiaideney

of

minds

of

help

natural

the

on

knowled^'e

liis

gives

lieart, and

liis very

from

of

liches

very

memory.

Tin;

iMPRoviN(;

it then

joined

or

the

determines

disjoined, be

that

such

affirmed

OF

and

denied;

or

with
any

way

can

be

things past

times

some

idea

be

there

some

are

business,

good

genius

happy

memory,
at

needful

one

the

and

thiii.iijj

many

important object
quired
concerning the thing incomes

world

of

acquired

and

that

large

mistaken.

appear

of

they

pass

the

world

the

just

ideas

nor

of
very

very

before

set
in

of

character

neither

not

tliat

have

to

learning,

thought,
can

of

scene

it to
in

have

yet

sagacity
so

of

there

Now,

or

who

have

or

once

which

propositions

survey

judgment

wisdom,

and

bright
minds

the

as

judgment,

prudence

if

persons
well

as

ence
correspond-

subject.

same

false or
thereby become
will inquire then, How

You

and

it is by reviewing
degree of memory;
it hapto judge of the future:
and
pens

that

absent,

will
VI.

and

comprehensive
learn

we

ideas

to the

127

MEMORY.

consistency

other

tolerable

is

belong

or

such

no

without

or

this

all those
relate

THE

IMPROVING

order

their

to

i)ass

judgment.
Now,

we

shall

You

difttculty.

Penseroso

from

learn

may

scarcely

lind

ever

of this

accounts

some

this

man

forward

in

proposed ("" him; Imt healways

judi^iii^aiiddeteriniuingtliiiigs
and
takes
ponders
thinj^
suspends, and
delays,
time, ami
he
then
practices a
maturely, hefore ho passes his judgment:
the sul)ject,anil thus
slow
perhaps
on
meditation, ruminates
those
and
awakens
and
three
in two
or
nights
days rouses
"as
which
he can,
are
several
necessary
ideas, one after another,
ami
makes
of
tlie
to
tiling
i)ropost'd,
in order
aright
judge
them

pass

his

before

in succession:

review

tiiis

lie

dolli

to

and

of tiiought
of a (piick sagacity
and
tliis caution
rei-olieel
ion;
speedy
ready memory
and
his
foundation
of
lavs"
the
just judgment
practice
well before he judges.
He
conduct.
surveys

the

holii

want

rule

of

genius,
That
matters

urgent

advice

and

they
of

to

of
do

but

not

can

not

doubt

of

persons

large

as

too
or

occasion

take

well

higher
as

to

infer

as

wvU

hastily pronounce
there
inquiry, where

necessity of present

action.

wise

good

one

lower

as

memories,

narrow

The

ami

and

Whence

lieve
re-

of

viz.:

concerning
is

not

an

Itright genius

128

is

OF

roady

be

to

continual

the

excel

persons

it is

of

and

into

conduct, without

usinj^ the bridle of

delay and iireeantion that

by this
lower

the

itself

betrays

itself,and

of much

person

often

as

upon

And

many

memory.

judj,Mnenl,speech,

guard

tongue.

Tin;

forward

so

in

.i^reaterrors
a

iMPT?ovi\(;

natural

abilities

brightest genius

in

shall

often

wisdom

and

prudence.
VII.

It is often

feeble

found
for where

memory;

iniaginatiuu vivid, the

and

neglected

lose

wanders

readily

l)leasure,but
itself
make

and

And

as

so

memory,

reads
the

cramp
The
to

offer

good

its memory

invention

memory
to his

persons

of

of
mind

and

for

but

veiy

short

and
of

to

and

fancy

the

attention

ability,and

things

prevent,

which

is

tbina:

ever

ready, upon
men's

prcsentins: him
perpetually; thus the man

Mith

tlie

out

and
which

and

who

had

all

occasions,

writiuirs

or

thoughts of
naturally a

suffer himself
his
not
to pursue
good llowinsc invention, does
Some
who
have
been
blessed
nature
own
thoughts.
by
persons
v.ith sagacity and
bid
often fortoo
no
contemptible genius, have
the exercise
of it, by tying themselves
down
to the memory
of the volumes
read
and
the sentiments
of other
they have
men

contained

in

them.

"

vention
in-

it learns

restrain,

otlier

is

of

riches

having

of

and

plain

itself.

Lectoridcs
some

one

borrow.

retentive

may

to

and

persons

various

with

them,

mind

is

have

to

hindrance

continually,

conversations,
other

quick

some

mind

crowding

ever

such

be

solicitous

it

suffers

of

the

some

spirits,who

not

tinually
con-

with

pages

one

This

is

seldom

upon

are

fancy-

and

new

any

remembrance

thej^ are

own,

there

active
of

or

remembrance.

why

reason

may

and

lasting

the

flying images;

scenes

thereof

much

active

objects

new

upon

and

be too

may

attention, and

impression

pov.ers

YIII.

due

but

has

bright

An

of

with

new

deep

narrow

their

of

and

of memory

itself

long enough

obvious

is

genius

multitude

dwell

bright parts

is

over

without

it to

genius

its improvement.

to

commit

fine

the

power

entertaining
through a number

runs

that

OF

Where

IMPEOVTXG

tlie memory

has

itself ill scraping

Avhere

there

has

treasured

in the

mind

heap of hodgepotch

soul

may

be

true

riches.

IX.

I have

in

read

beautiful

very

have

to

Fathers, as they
"Whatsoever, saith he,
has

it be

these
the
A

the

are

or

few

to

and

lay

apart
X.

of

nothing

the

these

called

whatsoever

he

borrows

his

treasnres; both

and

are
a

length

notions

in

of

of

ages,

pebbles,

sticks

the

are

ancients,

the

and

witli

same

confounded

rubbish,

fill up

their

possessions. It
distinguish things aright.
but

memory

is

worth}'

his

Ins

proper

to

be

arise

has

what

numbered

to the

mind

reasoning

own

as

together

nmn

and

be termed

may

make

of

])owers,

manufactures

abroad, these

from

excellent

many

framed

or

net
drag-

huge

wealthy

mind.

happy
How

XL

the

of

exercise

be

])i()])er

intellectual

improvements

wise

may

no

treasure.

Whatsoever

from

but

greater part of mankind.

of

to

in it and

value

our

in

the

Church.

stream

is much

manner

their

compose

up

just

some

his

these

of the

all

and

writings

Christian

with

case

great happiness therefore

an"l

in the

mud,

represents the books

things, perhai)s, mixed

trifles,and

with

ideas;

Milton's

along the

us

The

were

filled

or

jewels
shell-fish,

possessions

useful

memories

to

idle,

been

he

Time

Old

things

what

Mi*.

called

or

fathers.

memorial

.with many

is

shells

straws, sea-weeds

or

of

are

and

large possessions,

some

down

conveyed

whether

had

tinguish
dis-

to

recommended

words

simile, whereby

of the

sufficient

be

has
of

and

acciuirements,

and

memory,

wretched

said

coiistanllyemploying

new

fit to

were

needless, tlie

useless, or

almost

judgment

129

:\rEMOKT.

together

things

up

1"een

been

not

what

THE

years

lias he

jnind

the

been

IIow

of

judgments
man

many

possessed of

and

and

of wisdom

worthy

reasonings

and

in life, bt"th

study
admirable

by

his

own

in

IMO

and

reawoningR,
the

of
for

air.

his

and

want

of

have

answered

What

XII.

of

knowledge,
best

own

paragraph

authors

he
and

speed
of

]uan

hiUi

read,

all those

furnished

objects

have

to

and

and

painter
wrought
whole

runs

the

by

delight I
mortality.

in

over

these

of wit,

difficult
witliout

to
more

of the

and

throw
room.

memorv

as

his

alone.

and

ideas

thoughts

would

about

the

he

all

be

present

skillful eye

with

that

joys

with

and

Let

retain

complicate piece
Titian
a
or
Eaphael,

indulged

them

If

survey,

remarks

memory,

ment
glorious entertainfelicitate his spirit,if he could

are

far I have

thoughts
powers

same

beautiful

through

andfeedshimself

once,

But

Thus

of

every

the

them

fine and

some

excellent

most

admirably

"What

single

hand

at

scene

XIII.

would

pleasure

all these

grasp

occurrences

ing
stampin

but

and

just judgment

pavSS

how

of

with

could

in

engaged

imprint

read

wise

passed

ever

subject,

one

any

those

is

but

he

sagacity

forgot

happiness

power

mind,

which

and

of the

his

upon

numerous,

which

once,

sentiment

facility with

good genius

survey

upon

and

reported

his memory

could

great

icad."

""r

who

but

upon

if he

and

and

if he had

sentiments

characters

is

unspeakable

judgment,

pursuit

man

valuable

treat

of

indelible

at

and

unknown

wius

that

I have

man,

Icaiiit

hast

law

the

"Alas

I youiiir

empty

retentive

in

praclioncr

everlhou

in

more

him,

to

all his

and

age,

than
an

lost

are

in

sands
thou-

niauy

with
point of debate
Sergeant Maynard, he

it be

would
the

law

more

I how

ajjain and

youn^^

contest

to

alas

stronger

collections

laborious

But,

away
a

W'licn

in the last

lawyer
much

readinj; !

vanish

said

once

prudent

them

memory!

to

THE

of his

course

MEMORY.

IMPROVIXO

OF

do

some

into

us

now

regular
with

history

views

the

the extensive
not

belong

loose and

regard

judgment.

of

of

to

For
form
more

to

nected
uncon-

the different
it
or

was

very

method

regularity

the

"Thoup:h
of man,

and

though

the

belongs

which

to

it

matter,
in

matter, yet it works

not

operations
and

brain

the

of

and

it also

The

XIV.

of

the

upon

memory

may

be

by

sloth.

of

of habits

the

immediate

mind

to

mind

by

fixed

but

the

upon

the

itself.

mind

Many
things

which

be

long

so

were

retained

various

The

is
close

or

of intense
the

and

injured
the

tion
applica-

time,

impressed
thought,

becomes

age

will

the

deei^lyengiaven
most

events.

requires

and

during

and

infancy

memory
or

powerful

its

more

Slight impressions

whatever

in their

minute

as

the

upon

is

indelibly

durable

as

long stories

tell

the

of

of

their

memoiy

as

early peiiod
upon

are

particulars through

of years.

succession

XVI.

pursuit.

occurred

of

renders

impressed

exercise,

is, at

of advanced

persons

lives, and

whatever

of

facts

ideas

reflection.

then

period

of the

memory

images;

early life

are

the

imi)res-

their

instrument

proper

and

of

and

in

brain

its

of the

receptacle of the

the

by

attention

stamped

up

of attention,

object of

forgotten,

soon

from

improvement

cultivation

treasures

images which
of
chiefly those

grows

The

receives

meditation

is

knowledge

memory

the

greatly improved

XV.

the

are

memory

The

obtains

of the

becoming

actions,and

mental

mind

from

derived

immaturity

it incapable

medium

retentive

the

becomes

conclusions

and

the

events, and

facts and

condition

by the

Through
The

world.

external

it

Though
matter, and

of

means

the

system

nervous

of

sions

by

organ.

instrument

the

operations.

materially affected

are

brain, its principal

to

all its

"

principle

"

is

mind

incarnate

not

ai-e

brain

the

yet

of the

laculty

immaterial

is

itself

employs

natural

spirits -which

to

mind

superadded

be

memory

131

MEMORY.

THE

IMPEOTING

OF

memory

diseases

of the

is

more

body

or

less

chiefly

from

affected

by

iryuries of

132

Ihc

of

alfcclions

head,

liavelost

knowledge

wlio

man

of

lif' ill lOiiujland and

ontirrly

habit

lost the

of persons

of

who

others

things.

had

but

Franco,

in

and

of

recovered

disease, have

of persons

born

was

disoasos

record

on

are

things loni^ forj^otton;and

of

cases

influence

aknowledji^e
all

and
luaiii,fy^v(rr,

the

Xuinerous

debility.
the
"who, from

extreme

MEMORY.

THE

TMPROVIXG

OF

of his
spent most
of spoakiuf:^Frcu'^'h,

luad, and, duriiiLC tiie iHticss wiiich

iiijuiy
in
tlie French
Another,
followed, always
language.
spoilt'
when
from
an
recovering
injury of tlie head, spoke the \Velsh
hmguage, wincii he leanicfi in cliildiiood,imt hadsubso(|Uently
faculties
Another
entiri'lylost his mental
entirely forgotten.
his
For
several
weeks
to
illness.
subsequent
during a severe
and
understood
he remembered
nothing;
nothing
rei'overy
mouths
he
but
the
of
three
at
two
or
gradually
expiration
rived

ret

an

recovered

his memory

in

brain, which
and

of

want

The

attention
from

brain
tends
of

condition
but

memory;
well
of

as

1.

the

in

the

weakening

XVITT.

It is

that

the

calling
other

some

the

of

mind
of

condition

the

made
chief

the

organ

maj*

wine,

study

and

the

memory

the

on

of

instrument

healthful

help

to

of

luxury

or

memory.

application
by

to

and

the

ous
vigorthe

preserve
any
the

kind,

as

lousiness
and

overstraining

brain.

good

ready

to

ideas

various

or

faculties

promote

of

injure

life, may

to

excess

excess

being

being

of

power

sickness

mind

the

upon

its energies,
people relaxes
to pavSsing events
prevents,

aged

most

close

whatever

mind,

the

but

injured by

or

lasting impressions
XYII.

engraven

The

power.

assisted

greatly

are

deeply

lost,until

that

restores

cause

faculties.

effaced;

is sometimes

up

other

are

be

to

never

them

and

which

Impressions
appear

the

on

receive
both

learned

or

taught.

treasure

up

these

of
2.

ideas

these

several

admit,

with

has

memory

and
words

tions:
qualificagreat

things which
large and
copious

It

is

in

great

and

ease,

number

and

are

to

variety.

It is strong

3.

time

woi-ds

those

oi-

It is faithful

4.

every

XIX.

in

in

general

injured

of

faculty

There

belongs
the

is

the

to

and
made

should

memories

early, and

As

service.

took

the

firmness

and

v.ill be

memory
an

hour,

will

lost.

almost

but

few

retain

will

who

charge

them

but

are

used

their
an

to

let into
for

never
are

retain

and

use

grows

shoulders
he

the

last,

at

bull.

great

measure

them, they

use

wont

but

remember

before

them

injured, according

or
we

to

thereby.

his

on

bear

to

in

memories

hour

childhood

also, and

be

Our

exercised

it

grew

who

Tliose

and

action.

from

cairied

If

them.

of

as

due

corroborated

improved

things only,

; those

and

of

in

duly

are

will

in

strong

joints enough

formed,

exercise

the

of

memories

Our

moulded

daily
strength

his

at

body

which

a habit,
degrees form
is strengthened and

knowledge

and

and

calf

grew,

XXI.

lead

calf

arrived

to

of the

nerves

up

well

ence
experi-

wi'll

"^s

always

become

thereby

liml)

any

stronger, the

as

will

show

direction

powers

inured

of

and

to this purpose.

again

and

and

reason

it

power

quantity

they

by

by

appear

used

be

moderate

Milo

to

or

branches

its

general

acts

ability

ready

more

liear

Many

yet I

assisted, and

or

keep

is to

that

the

thei-eby

all

of other

improvement

exercise.

proper

and

in it.

up

improved

influence

hapi^y

great

one

and

memory,

of

found

been

in

both

which

thoughts

particulars,but only
directions
whereby

or

preserved

practices that

the

have

rules

recollect,upon

qualifications

be

memory,

be

qualifications,may
are

few

it.

to

treasured

these

these

on

committed

or
or

may

or

considerable

and

words

of

one

for

are

to its care,

propose

noble

XX.

suggest

to

distinctly

insist

not

what

active

every

be

may

this

Avhich

and

Xow

memory
shall

thoughts

recommended

been

rotaiii

to

occasion, all those

proper

have

durable

and

133

ME:\roEY.

the

i:\rrEOYTXG

OF

with

they

to
a

converse

few

or

in their
for

things

but

it

longer,

no

vanish.

And

134

let woids

he

rciiic'iiilu'rcd

may

ac(iuire a

more

r('a"lyto

XXII.
the

of

memory

child

overburdened

be

never

recovered.

the

and

power

than

them

on

or

constitution

they

joint

not

be

may

its natural

and

strained
over-

power

wisely ju"l;.jeof

should
and

imi)osenomore

with

bear

to

cases:

should

person

ol" youth,

able

are

be

and

jrivenin sueh

loaded,

l'"'a"-hers

you

all oecjisious.

on

limb

so

rerum,

as

infirm

any

l)y bein"^toonnu-li
be

well

as

Ix' a caution
or

; lor

that
tliiiiKH,

as

mind

your

express

there sliould

\vi

well

as

verborum

rojxa

mi;:\iory.

Tin;

niPKoviXf;

OF

and

cheerfulness

improvement.
And
of the

particularly they

should

be

much

learner

heap
ideas

at

retain

effaces

the

towards

Due

1.

which

strongly

fixed

are

some

remember

time,
and

things

in

their

hear

which
on

of memory,

It is needful,
remembrance

the

of

read

are

mind

but

soon

therefore,
of the

learn

general

rule

who

the

such

get

vanish
if

things

they

no

and

avc

would

which

we

are

mind.
not

can

they hear,
half

wonder

no

l"ut

firm

is

the

indifference,

make

spoken

and

it is

rule'

is said

the

upon

and

attention

Mhich

coldness

spirit, that
or

is

wandering

are

things,

all that

complain

discourses

know

and

"When

case.

thoughts

with

of

remembrance,

our

human

trifling temper

impression
seat

truth,
they

or

to

persons
or

not

exercise

these

as

deeper impression

divine

one

particular subject,

any

does

grasp

such

are

ilUif/enceto

in this

it makes

concerning

"when,

to

nothing,

the

is

or

of it.

commit

necessity

great

There

and

avouUI

we

that

particular rules

atfenfion

ous
tumultu-

remember

it is

But

memory

documents

overgreedy

moderation,

improvement

The

XXIII.

An

handful.

due

of

to

way

the

with

multitude

another.

carethat

crowded

is the

; this

largest

with

memory

of

time

the

too

overbearing

or
one

idea

one

not

take

the

slight

f""otingin

the

lost.
maintain

read,

or

long

hear, that

IMPROYIXG

OF

should

tee

and

the

use

in order

to

will

more

no

it will
purse
Let

delightand

our

engage

other

fix the

attention.
the

with

treasure.

it be

added

gain,

also, that

of

their

before

are

the

subjects,

prescribed

field with

of proper

but

memory,

and

as

the

for the

knowledge

such

the

or

corn,

the slothful

only

not

negligent dei)rive themsehcs

furniture

in those

pleasure

Sloth,indolence, and idleness,

with intellectual
riches,than

mind

with

hand

135

MEMORY.

which

methods

bless

fill the

THE

have

to

apj^ear

active

the surface
ever
over
are
spirits,who
skimming
of things with
a volatile
temper, will fix nothing in their
Yario
will spend whole
minds.
mornings in running
loose

over

and

curiosity is

unconnected

glancing

ever

his present

strike

objects of art
knowledge.

attention

inquiry,

which

of upon

the

Clear

2.
commit

only

dwell

distinct

the

names

If

to

our

treasures

labor

what
of

would

we

in order

by

the

ideas

of

the

diligence

should
a

clear
If

take

what

whether

we
we

learn

or

have
and

would

we

stick

them

words,

we

them
distinct

treasure

things, notions, propositions, arguments,

conveyed

expressions,

think

or

be recommended
also
sciences,these should
distinct
by a clear and
perception of
memory
ideas will vanish
Faint, glimmering, and confused
in twilight. Every thing which
we
images seen

be

and

things which

and

should

little

thought

to make

pronunciation, spelling,or writing.

up

but

read

we

remember

memory

thousand

the

of

that

man.

things, we

or

up

and

aj)j)rehension
of

of persons

recommended

the

faculty

is necessary

there.

yet

fresh

ideas

flutteringover

impress

can

remembering
and

and

particular subjects

to

to memory

and

be

must

words

new

is

science, and

There

of close

; he

fancy

and

over

with

and

pages,

Mithout
desire
would

to the
any

ambiguity,

to reniemln'r.

employ

in. the

understanding
that

This

the memory

we

is

may
a

to

our

them.
like

learn

])lainest
not

jnis-

general rule,

about

words

or

IHG

lli""u";h
tliiii^^s,
Moi'ds

and

TTTF,

TMPTlOVIXr,

OF

it

]ui confessed

must

nuich

are

harder

knowledj^ii of things and

For

thin

that you

do not take vp

sounds

instead

forgets

what

he

understood

in the

meaning

required

was

Method

3.

to

Avay

furnish

make

to

them

and

Whatsoever

disjwscd in
referred

to

general

and

mind

with

Avould

method,

proper
distinct

and

it is

As

long.

much

vain

some

the

certainly

to

and

happiest

connected

let it be

memory,

your

well

particular heads

together, and
classes, both

or

i)articular.

sooner
apothecary's boy will much
his mastery's
shop, when
tliey arc

in

effectual

more

by

An

shi'lves

to memory,

variety of knowledge.

trust

eommit

there

decried

age,

you

distinctly

syllables which

take

abide

of the

the

he

get by heart.

mind

tritlers

humorous

and

alad

Ix'cause

clearly and

never

mere

Many

him, merely

sounds

systematical learning is

as

the

warned;

of things, nor

in the things ice

rrf/iil"(rili/

possession of the

Ix-fore

ideas.

and

taught

of those

in order

is necessary

often

irnftcad

sentiments

it; he

to

and

(;is I have

been

well

never

took

has

sounds

mere

images.

with icorda

of real

lliat

get l"y li"*art llian

to

real

herd

fake

reason

MTMORY.

aecordiii'r

to

llieir

distinct

all the medicines

learn

raiifrrd

in

boxes

or

whether

natures,

"

on

herbs,

chemical
(hugs, or minerals, wlietlier leaves or roots, whether
Mhether
or
galenical preparations,
simple or compound,
etc.,
^\"hl"n they are
and
order
placed in some
according to their
their
tluidity, or their
nature,
consistence, etc., in phials,
of a
bottles, gallipots, cases, drawers, etc.; so the genealogy
is
when
learned
more
family
begin at some'greateasily
you
graniU'ather as the root, and
distinguish the stock, the large

boughs,
all sorts

4.

braiuhes,

the

twigs,

to

are

more

learn,
for this

compass
:

therefore

committed

happily

frequent review,

would

memory

lesser

tiic prrscut
infants
of the
of arts and
seienees
taught in a

kind

this

we

the

dowu

come

and

an

and

careful

the

buds,
And,

house.
ui("tho(l
to the

mind

of them

till

or

the

rules

of

of

in

memory.

the
a

things
narrow

great injluenecto fix them

it is that

you

indeed,

something

repetition of

abridgment

end, has

and

grammar,

in the

and

IMPROVIXG

OF

aseful

peculiar forms

the

of

examples
of

appointed bj' the masters

be frequently repeated
tables

vaiialion
in

speech

they

for

frequent review, that

mind
be stamped
at first,may
and
rehearsal.
peipetual survey
Kc'petition is
his youtli
sonic
making
margin, to mark

so

from

and

review:

useful

very
his

to

old

small

what

he

and
always shut his l)Ook
he
had
remarked,
expressions
of every
analysis and abstract
had

finished

rich

variety

Even
he

far

tMo

or

two

in

discourse

If

hear,

or

M'hat

into

brief

and

divines

down

or

plead,

much

their
use

for

proper

for

chapter;

or

sentiments

give

or

tolerable

read, just after he

furnished

sermon

or

to

or

and

will

be

with

acknowledged,

as

is

The

well

as

those

the
let

art

who

of

priiuMpal

or

short-lmnd

purposes.

scarcely

Ave

ever

them

Lawyers
write

they
of

lieads

in ordcrto
may

the

of it.

discourses

assistances:

invented

other

order

often.

amplifying
of

or

sentence

abstract

us

epitomes

several

easily

more

that

or

branches

theirmemory

abstracts
the

and

them

of the

the

richly compensated

memoiy

such

step

lecture

loss of

method

speak,

to

of it from
the

the

lecture,

then

heads

before

review
of

to

places.

this

and

hiids

commit

for such

to

need

and

now

important

the

design

have

proper

the

well

or

the

most

in

fix
we

sooner,

sentences

mind

in the

notes

they desire

even

in

so

amplifications

ct)mpends,

short

times

omission

the

the

would

we

had

the several

three

or

the

among

by preserving
whole

he

hearing
thoughts leave

is finished:

sermon

treatise

became

recollect

to

as

beginning,

the

could

is

person

give his

so

he

all

he

without

were

that

so

by

book

section

in the

hooks,

discourse

recollected

fixed

]Mnemon,
a

or

of

into

memory

read

tlie

to

knowledge.

when

may

back

Thence

it.
of

the

upon

to tlie end

came

often

so

scholars

is not

what

dashes,

of

parts

he

when

age,

llio

contracted

arc

never

points,

are

the

practice, that

and

words,

for

lessons

and

of

lanffuage,

any

as

137

MEMORY.

THE

Avliat

pr"'ach

be reviewed
sentiments

or

recollected
is

in

of cxrrUcnt
It

must

take

be
i)en.

138
in tlioir luind

speak

to

are

method

their

menioiy,

to

natural

of that

degree

the

of

things

into

order

liave

need

had

thoy

in

of them

survey

power

cast

to

try

wliat

of

hints

or

never

contract

to

them

conunit

who

learn,

or

or

slioi-t notes

write

to

MEMORY.

THE

IMPEOVIXG

OF

to

double

ing
retaining and recollectto speak.
intend

amu.senu'nts

they read, or hear, or

or
studies,
plunge yourself into other business
or
recreations, inmiediately after you have

attended

upon

what
Do

not

that

they
the

be washed

not

may
of

torrent

in

if you

other

croAvd

occurrences

have

heard,
mind
by

the

engagements, nor lost

loud
or
importunate

or

clamor

or

from

all away

it.

avoid

well

can

time, if possible,to recollect the things you

Get

instruction,

of other

affairs.

Talking

the

over

your

companions

have

for

it,is

in order

He

man.

society

fields and

reading

and

in

home,
the

in the

as

was

day,

and
he

by this practice that

he

since
5.

could

Flcasnre

set

towards

therefore

we

memory,

make

to search

his

his

the

the

desire

it as

genius

he

own

your

The

them.

to

pleasant
and

child

corner

very

learned

enjoy suitable
he

the

to

over

what

had

been

advantage

it to all his friends

it for seventeen

things

remembrance
a

talked

recommended

the

remote

considerable

so

probatum

that

to

as

evening

found

delight in

and

assistance

therefore
in

woods

in

he became

happy

so

and

hard

studied

solitude,yet

seldom

at

it to

them

tongue and of your ear, as wella^

faculties,will all join together to help

Hermet

memory.

land,

Teach

establish

to

tion,
repeti-

or

mind.

the

order

review

you

of youi'

powers

of the

of

upon

with

read

opportunity'

proper

manner

in

have

you

communicate

you

intellectual

your

tliem

friends,

younger
'knowledge while

the

fix

to

first

useful

most

your

animal

the

on

which

things

of

ice

them.

should

to him

his temper,

as

learn

years.

give great

Whatsoever
commit

to

his

possible; endeavor
and

let him

take

in

the

instnic'tions

him,

far

as

as

THE

IMPROVING

OF

him

give

you

be,

may

in

the

or

139

MEMORY.

lessons

suited

way

you

appoint

his

natural

to

inclination.
Fabcllus

would

moulded

the

into

^sop,

till

or

those

he

then

form

they

wherein

learn

never

of

put

tlie

on

well

remembered

fable

or

the

the

tauglit

they

like

of

appearance

Saviour

till

lessons

liction

some

blessed

our

moral

any

of
lilce

parable,

world

ignorant

end)leiuatieal

were

those

that

instructions

and
to practice the moral
sense
given liim, an"l leanu'd
of
virtue
ting
them.
was
Young
taught
meaning
Spectorius
by seti)ef()re him
of the
various
a
variety of examples
good
he was
life ; and
appointed daily to rejjcat
qualities in human
were

story of this kind out of Valerius JUaximus.

the
to avoid
vices
common
was
early instructed
This
is akin
to the
manner.
youth in the same
Ijaced;emonians

the

and
into

their

made

of

him.self.
make

Cliildien
of

way

learned
and

and

Such
long and

be

may

useful

same

follies

and

Some

taught

vocabularies

in

tongue

one

the

word

same

in

on

one

another

tion
instruc-

memory.

thinfis in

many

have

creatures

the

pronouncing

them

pasted

dies.

Some

written

or

have

languages, having
side

of these

tongue

the

on

had

he

of

the

ujjon

young

or

of different

written

forms

syllables, and

little flat tablets

many

man

beast

sensible

enness
drunk-

hate

drunken

remember

to

spelling of words, by having

upon

to

of

by
where-

method

children

impressions

play.

letters and

their

up

visilile

tauglit

sport and

their

viz., by bringing
what
tliem
showing

intemperance,
company

will

trained

lad

The
and

some

been
a

word

tablets, and
other

side

of

them.
There

might

for the
to

instruction

geometry,

and

have
make

of

children

geography,

and

which

entertaining contrivances
in several
things relating
astronomj",
would

throicn into

rhyme,

; for the

according tothepoesy

considerable

them

verse

receive

influence

with

more

alluring

mo.st

able
agree-

minds.
receive

numbers

considerable

and

of different

upon
ease

in such

make

lasting impression on
of usefulthings may
memori/

The

many

their

if they are
and

also

illusory methods,
and

6.

be

mankind,
the

aid

measures

languages,
both

to

things projiosed

140

("l)S('iv;iti(m.iiiid jucscin

totlicii-

rcmcmhraiMM'.

liimian
the

by

years
fastened

in

the

So

How

of

allaiis

life

whicli

liave

of the

number

and

rhyme,

l""nj;crin tlicir
of

tlicic

an'

llic

rarly

been

nails

have

like

riveted

by daily

days

of each

month

of thousands

these

by

conmion

1)"'"mi tau;ilit in

and

plaee

sure

llirni

""

iiiaiiy

of

belp

the u:^emory

on

MK"ronY.

Tin:

TMr"RoviNc;

OF

use.

aie

engraven

foiii- lines

Thirty days hatli Scptonilxr,

April, ami November;
F"'l"ruary twcnty-eifrht alone;
All the rest have
thirty-one.

and
.Tiiiir,

So

have

called

rules

from

doubtless

diseases

and

health

magna
sis nocte

Ut

Englished

in

prescribed
a

many

gluttony, and
it, by these two

upon

stoniacho

ca^na

fit maxima

levis, sit tibi

the

book

has preserved

person

the

evening

consequent

Ex

been

Saleniitani,and

iSchola

himself

of

pains

lines:

poena:

brevis.

coena

To

all nifrht

be easy

I^et your
be lisfht;
sui)per
else you'll eoni]ilaiu

'

Or
Of

And

hundred

made

into

stick

to

stomach

in

pain.
in

proverl"ial sentences

formed

are
are

rhyme
the

upon

or

verse,
of old

memory

guages
lan-

various

whereby
and

they

young,

that
moral
rules have
been
cast
It is from
this ]"rineii)l('
into
of the
So
from
all anticpnty.
the golden verst's
poetic mould
in Cirrek; C'ato's
Moi-ihu.^
in I"atin,
tlistiches Ih
Pythagoreans
Mi/ii, with
others;
Lilly's precejits to scholars, called (^fi'i
many

and
of

this

this
mind

7.

better

been

done

with

kind, recurring
a
temptation

from

youth
in

has

of their

It is also

imprint

icith it

some

present

very

the

on

to

vice

good
memory,

and

often

folly,as well

as

or

two

guarded
put them

duty.

by this association
any

have

line

success.

new

circumstance

ideas

upon

of

ideas

the

that

memory,

we

may

by Joining

of the time,place,company,

etc.,

i:\rPROVING

OF

wherein

first observed,

we

would

reeovei"

those

absent

an

of

cireunistances

will

times

many

his

remembering

office

time, place,
a

etc.

color,figureor motion, by the

wherein
it was
kept.
To

this

head

and

names

also

of their
either

word

recovered
idea

that

has

been

lost

has

the

of the
If

would

we

or

fancy

the
if

with
with

to them.

An

idea

been

kindred

of the

as

name,

well

or

often
word

it, and

Hippocrates,

or

that

as

in

ties
proper-

hit

on

loeal viernofj/,
the

side

the

right or
bottom,

or

or

page

the

hair, and

new

the

its

word

wo

Avhere

Goliath,

be

it is written

at

the

in
So

remembrance

Trojan

done,

of Avhat

at

fixed

be

may

etc.

it may

left,whether

shall

opposite'.

the

of

name

Greek,

or

may
think

things.
be

may

contrary

the

it; or
a

of other

so

strange idea

or

remembrance

whether

Naso,

I*lato,we may
large nose;
large shoulders, if Crispus, we

wherein

cases

or

if

by thinking of
such

Ovidius

recover

may

Galen, or
beginning with H,

name

remember

curled

times

not

can

8. In

know

we

character, form,

to

by considering

recovered

the

with

])erson

some

of David

lection
recol-

our

which

other

physician' s

will

man

memory
we

of

we

another

And

from

resemblance

remember

think

If

P.

lepresent
ui)on

of

thing.

Paracelsus,
G,

his

stature,

forgotten,has

some

sound

thoughts
our
fancy

remembrance

name,

or

upon

to the

or

that

belongs

nearest

letters, syllables,or

size

things

in

thing

substance

to

derived

other

to

The

by its
beast, bird, or fijsh,
cage, court-yard, or cistern

be

may

anj^

by hitting

which

his

we

reeollect

to

recurs

refer

resemblance

which

man

may

likeness

their

accident, or

we

which

things

brought

garment,

emi)l()yment,

or

and

etc.

If

it.

learned

or

it is useful

idea,

shadow

141

MEMORY.

heard,

be recovered

by recollecting the
by

THE

the

seek

have

you

after
read

by

printetl; Avliether

or

top, the middle,

beginning

of

chapter

or

or
a

142

parn^^'apli,or

and

edition;

same

divines

several

to

accustom

been

It liaslx'cn
oneself

is also

special

furnished

lite,they

in the

find the

may

find, and

editions

Let

9.

assistance

chaptera

observed

be

to

of grammars,

thing

every

loritten
distinctly
in the

psalms,

them

writing

appears

seen

may

the

is not

this

by

This

forgotten

Horace

aliiirms

sunt
quio
sibi tradit

Quam

Ipse

thus

which

Sounds
one

in

short

oculis

words

of every

distinct

colors:

and

minds,

the

the

what

ideas

haye
only

we

have

we

mind

passions

or

per

aurem,

sulyecta fldelibus, et quae

spectator.

English
address
hour;

but

the
that

ear

are

whieli

the
the mind;
long upon
the knowledge
with
Engraves

the assistance

more

of weak

lost and
strikes

faithful

Lives

For

and

what

domif=sa

animos

who

fairly and

conveys

the

it may

remarkal)le

sense

of

so

verse,

ters
large charac-

our

more

as

or

shall the

on

other;

any

ments,
Testa-

memory.
be

we

words

and

eye.

than

irritant

Segnius

means

glance, the

local

periods, with

also of the memory

be said

In

into

matter

soon

so

A\'hat.

Applied

for

to the

fancy better

heard.

divided

with

recollect

the

and

of

by

learners

young

desire to remember

we

beginnihg,

readily imprint

to

those

to

feel, the advantages

even

with

parts of the page.

convenience

great

new

happy

use

of

etc., to print every chapter, paragraph,

in the same
part of the page as the former, that

yield

of the

years

in the

and
bo

to

l)ooks

to

of constant

tage,
advan-

some

their

same

standing

printers

of it.

MEMORY.

edition; that Mhei-esoeverthey

chamber,
j)arlor,or stu"ly.in the

elder

verses

This

end

it has

of the
in

or

THE

private Christians

Bil)les

younger
and

and

wliether

are,

Iho

at

llii.sreason,

lor

to

IMPT^OYING

OF

memories

beam

the

die
the

eye

sight
of

light.

first letters

period, in every page, may be

yellow, green, red. black, etc. ;

written
and

or

in

if you

the

observe

it will

and

greater impression
this head

Under
which

dratni

of

the

with

eaith
Vj

or

map

books

of

and

sea-chart,

of

description

learned

better

aie

in

positicm

of

than

i)arts

hundred

times

heavens,

the

reading

by merely

the

several

day's conversing

one

in

the constellations

So

geography.

their

by

situation

their

our

niattors

of the

situation

The

diagrams.

ohjeetnof

philost)phy arenotonly
by
preservediu thememory

let into the understanding, but

figures and

advantage

natural

and

science

mathematical

the

tables:

and

seheines

into

out

memory.

of

several

the

make

will

the

aid

notice

take

may

follo-uino; sentences,

the
This

much

may

hi/ having
ffai)is

the memory

harning

we

in

tlie better.

still

be

colors

of

order

same

1-43

MEMORY.

THE

i:\rPROVING

OF

astronomy,

easily

more

are

in

over

It
by hemispheres of the stars well drawn.
is by having such sort of memorials, figures, and tables,
studies
or
resort,
or
our
places of residence
hung round
that our
of these
things will be greatly assisted
memory
remembered

and

improved,

shown

I have

as

twentieth

in the

large

at

chaptei".
I

might

design

to

write,

we

add

xcill

And

naked

lines

fix

in the
of

printed

world

parts of the
days' survey
same

heaven,
the

of

be

may

circles of

10.

It has
names

for

own

upon
a

said

drawn

same

map
also

if

and

latitude

use,

or

sentences

we

drawing

the

of

on

the
the

on

far

plan

of

the

on

the

much

might

of

knowledge

figures

of

all

the

by many
by imitation, than
world
the
so
printed. The
the

concerning

been

projected
the

in

it

had

we

what

to

reading

learner

himself

by the learner
the sphere upon

sometimes

than

manner,

this

what

over

attention

due

the mind

in

more

advance
his

by

geography

it

writing

once

giving

longitude

sjx'edily

more

and

remember,

times.

meridian

also, that

here

their

of

constellations

naked

plane

projection
of

practice of
memory

the
men

of

eiiuator.
to

print
im-

by talcingthe

141

OF

firnlk'ltcrs
and

names,
tlie

of

IMI'IiUVlNU

which

wliieh

has

been

called

thmi.

from

llie

banners.

lish, in

(jf

name

fiist letters

is like thee

llie

So

those

of

or

llie sentence

their

on

of

make

i. c, Who

MJ'MOEY.

lliut sentence,

xrord

is l)oii()W("l

written

was

Saviour

of

luak'niganew

woids,
Jehovah,

Bealim

word

every

jMaeeabees

Hebrew

TIU:

jMI

Camoka

among

the

Jesus

Christ

Greek

tlie

of

ixeii;

godst
our

by

the

these
the first letters in those
Greek
are
fathers, because
So the
Son, the Saviour.
words, Jesus
Christ, God's
word
the order of the
Vibgyor teaches us to remember
seven
original colors, as they appear
by the sunbeams
cast through
white
formed
or
a prism
on
by the
paper,
in a rainbow,
sun
according to the dilTerent
refrangibility of the rays, viz.,violet,indigo, blue, green, j'ellow,
and

orange,

red.

artificial

Other

helps

to

memory

be

may

just

tioned
men-

here.
Dr.

Mrmnria
called
Grey, in his bonk
Tcr/tnira, has oxthe ligurcs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, (i,7, S, 9, for
some
changed
consonants,
vowels, ft, r, /, o, ?/, an"l several
Ij,(/,t,f, /,jj, ]h k, n, and some
Mords
that denote
diphtliong!^, and
tlRMel)y formed
nunibei-s,
M'liieh
renieml)ered
l)e
^Ir.
Lowe
has
more
: aud
easily
may
Mitrmonics*
small
called
in
a
pamphlet
imi)roved his scheme
in seven
leaves
he has comprised
J)(rn}( at( d ; whereby
almost
of
and
in
science
in
and
an
common
duced
relife,
things,
intinity
words

them

to

may

be
of

mixture

of

sort

to

and

vowels

like

measure

supposed

be

Latin

verse

barbarous,

very

consonants

as

though

being

unfit

very

are

the

such

for

harmony.
But

after

confessed
are

so

or
a

all,the

that

several

cumbersome

person;

nor

are

the

writers

of those
not

to

they

of

as

numbers,

aud

names.

this

on

artificial

be
any

of
nor
by memory,
but
be
sciences:
they may
remembrance
assisting our

discourse

the

very

suitable
use

much

helps
to

for

of

of memory

every

the

service

sometimes

subject have
temper

delivery of
in learning
practiced for

certain

sentences,

CHAPTEE

DETERMINING

OF

AViiEX

I.

it be

whether
it be

whether

is

mind

the

keep

and

of

of

inquiry

your

of

it

much

too

is

studies

these

its

finding

capacity,

which

ignorance

own

not

deserve

may

life,

studies

books

the

end
of

but

not

Consider

skill,

It would
at

10

be
a

carve

proper

man,

things

that

in

part

one

for

at

dis-

or

ical
theolog-

studies,

but

not

mathematical

pursue
for

professor

of

divine.

subject

; whether

madness

advantage
for

Venus

tools.

have

you

and

and

one

preaching,

proper

useful

the

furniture
be

first to

without

for

are

To

whether

difficult

or

them.
may

of

world,

impertinent

academical

his

to

are

or

art

to

design

person

improper
the

tbe

inquiry

same

be

may

according
in

there

worthy

it

chief

your

and

the

of

of

labor

worth

discipline,

largely

very

or

be

church
in

of

study

beginning

easy

it.

another;

read

about

philosophy,
III.

to

would

To

student
the

things

far

station

life,your

many

the

which

another.

X)utes

profession,

so

how

and

your

be

matter

then

of

are

are

and

time

your

There

the

search

present

your
end.

all;

at

your

ago,

of

of

use

whether

again

your

be

chief

by

humble,

Consider

worthy

at

; the

then

that

remember,

yourselves

busy

to

and

inquirj' and

your

; and

sider
con-

weakness,
II.

of

time

not

or

of

reach

state

thoughts,

your

all,

at

the

unsearohables

amongst

to

knowable

piesent

waste

great

to

the

QUESTION.

pioposed

above

not

in

knowledge

is

subject

XIV.

a
or

And

young
a

it

of

snlllcient
for

the

dation
foun-

pursuit

statuaiy

Mercury,
is

inquiry

your

equal

and

folly

to

tempt
at-

cially
espe-

for

] 10

preleud

to

man

uiiike

to

Avithout
I)liilosoi)liy
Consider

IV.
useful

not

or

exixTiniciils.

put this qiu'stiou to yourselves

God,
the

Wliat

end

for the

good
of

removal
of

equal

in the

learned

these

wiser

in

and

much

time.

among

doubtless

those

to

tend
as

men,

important,

more

inquiries which

nences
imperti-

make

due

you

learned

more

to wisdom

vain

make

to

you

tion
reflec-

from

away

it has

many

and

prudence

God,
piety toward
preferable beyond all

well

as

and

only improve

in

knowledge

oui-

speculations.

mere

VI.

If the

question

application, and
requisites to
be

as

questions which

conduct

our

well

as

profit be

kinds, which

in.

mind

tendency

what

better,

those

are

save

Consider

A".

and

call the

for

ment
attain-

problems;

engaged

will

and

amusements,

and

things

of

painful trifles,even

many

been

the

subtle

follies of varioiLS

have

men

pose?
pur-

gloiy

the

Will

many

theorems

laborious

dijfficik's
ni((/a',or
some
ingenious
upon

schools;

mathematical

the

among

are

what

the

evil, for

good?

ways

it: often

advantage,

own

moral

There

To

Is it for
your

or

moral

or

labor?

the

to

natural

any

natural

any

for

men,

any
of

study

C'ui bono?

it attain!

will
of

inthc

enga^ije

you

be

subject

the

whether
IxTore

in natural
iiiipiovenieiits

great

due

QUESTION.

DF,TET?^^TXT\fJ

OF

dressed

needful,
than

and

you

entangled

contain

is necessary

; and

simi^licity and

inquiry

and

argument

If it be

form,

it may

stated
be

include

or

greater
VII.

are

well

to be

worth

furnished

in
more

if so, endeavor

to

sary
neces-

it

whether

reduce
will

is

than

complicated

plainness, which
easier and
plainer
in

the

words

more

gent
dili-

your

with

consider

it, then

pursue

and

up

appear

ideas
it to

make

all the

the

way.

improper, obscure, or irregular

meliorated
by changing the phrase,
an

always to
traus])osing the i)arts of it; but be careful
keep the grand and
important point of inquiry the

or

DETEEMINlXG

OF

in

same

words

renounced

and

searchei-s
The

trieks

sophistry, by sliding in or leaving out such

be
al)anentirely change the question should

as

doned

Little

question.

of

deceits

and

147

QUESTION.

statinj^the

new

your

after

all fair

by

and

disputants

honest

truth.

stating

question with

clearness

and

justice goes

times towards
the answering it. The
great way many
lies in a distinct
greatest part of true knoMicdge
i)ercepof things which
in themselves
tion
distinct
are
; and
a

some

give

men

stating of
others

the

with

question

l"y talking
To

together.

light and

more

question

disentangle the jiarts of

from
thing which
every
then

and

the

lay

oi'der

and

fully

resolves

If the
of

principle

admitted

suddenly
It is not

enough

tion, much
first

less to

piin('ii)k%to

many

it has

denies

it,that

temporal
of
IX.

and

received

it is established
or

of

of
of

by

human

reproaches

will

not

proi)osi-

axiom

an

believed

by

quences
conse-

it should

honor
been

first

or

tiain

tlie truth

it has

where

axiom,

an

long

it to the

been

mind

or

through
nations,

many

nobody

or

laws,
attend

that

or

the

belief
dis-

it.

Kor

title of

the

this

ado,

universally acknowledged,

penalties

as

question,

more

it ; therefore
received.

that

say

it is almost

that

been

that

ages,

to

determine

raise

well

dispute.

or

that

or

to

the

shows

relate

upon

and

separate

concern

without

and

remember

depend

hours

parts of the question indue

argument

question

truth,

may
be

doubt,

the

lies,without

VIII.

not

oftentimes,

to

anothei-,as

one

does

for Avhole

is but

it tiom

disentangled

nielhod

truth

the

persi)icuity and

of it in gi-oss confusion

state

by the bare
justice, than

knowledge

is it enough

axiom,

because

doubted

unreasonably

of

to

forbid

it has

been

by othei's; for

credulous,

and

any

i^roposition

denied
some

others

by

some

])ersons

have

the
sons
per-

have
been

ius

148

OF

unreasonably
be

by

called

to

them

prove
X.

Cul nature,

keep

examined,
the
for

ilesire

the

such

or

as

just

if you

question,

idea,

lia\

you

wouldlie

led

but

thing
from

secured
XI.

For

truth,

of

fairly instead

most

and

family,

country,

their

minds

vogue,

nor

their

or

as

they

one

of

do

apostasy, if

we

are

applauded

for

the

of

reason

things

possibly
doctrines.

And

acquisition

of

This
can

are

bring
that

he

deviate

thus

their

his

long
mind

whose

in matters

assent

and

to

evidence
of

the

be

their

of

what

their

the

are

foe

from

without

be
he

idle

amination
ex-

tendency
Persons

right, and,
into
cause
be-

orthodoxy,

the recei\ed

industry

any

of that

inquires

of

some

and

as

in the

to

ciples.
prin-

suppose

them.

and

in

fiishion
their

to

examine

unhappy

once

will

to

charged

considers

(lazy

to

for

born

truth

without

men,

own

biases

examine

to

examined

they

is counted

may

inured

hath

propositions
and

to

truths, i. c, the truths

local

live,and

about

go

are

the

it will be

and

truth:

side

assent

lukewarniness

presuming
he that
saitli,

Locke

either

of

evidence.

ever

of

into the

bodies, after

hundred

side

party profess. The}' clothe

their

suspected

to

Mr.

either

excited

people

question

necessary;

as

to

be

your

part

never

It is

not

and
your
i"re-^iiii'i"^

opinions,
or

by this indifiCereuce

will

you

questions of
yet thor""nj:ldy

to

leaning

going beyond
the

term,

in

honestly

judji^ment strangely: whereas

every

clear

so

middle

or

indifference

incliuation

or

li^dit,and

after trntii

in search

up

connected.

are

you

plain

third

no

be

to

While

doubt

needs

as

truth, vIhd,
subject and jtH-dicate,

the

so

tion
proposi-

Kell'-evident

to

in

appears

should

only

or

att"'nti")n

connection

evidence,

an

Then

axiom,

an

QUESTION.

skeptical.

nioderalt^

their

DETERMINING

as

they

are

or

"

herit
in-

place Avherethey
evidence.

induence; for if a man

fierce for
positive and
hath

never

examined,

greatest concernment,

he

will

believing
opinions
XII.
a

determining

of it.

solution

Take

If you

would
take

W/ioi

1.

in

relating

be

might

it

employed;
and

judgment,

If it be

2.

partial

its relations

another;
the

due

Again,
report

partial

on

time

or

when

of

ination,
exam-

distance

from

of it,or

under

disguise
of

into
the
any

whatsoever

object itself,

the

only, where
inquire into

others
it

by
and

understanding,

the

which

the

when

for

to

it,and

sudden,
weighing

if it be

in

sort

of

only

the

neglect

all

question

it

upon

to think

of the

testimony of men,
incjuireonly
you

you

do

only

in

not

to

object, and
advantages

of

it,

reasons

too; wlien

have

given

circumstances,
of

is

light and

one

its inconveniences
l)efore

by

examination

look

you

determined

be

your

one

survey
a

is to

question only

consider

you

never

determine

mination.
deter-

inquire

or

sense

you

use

aspects
for

reasons

against it,and
a

turn

and

when

partial

sense

then

all sides:

on

organ

one

argument,

it

called

any

when

or

(piestion

iclien you

turn

only

reason.
a

and

reason

except

speedy

great

or

by

the

are

for

situation

the

or

examine

helps that

viz.:

too

organs

medium

only, without

sense

the

the

at

on

the

calls

object of

an

inconvenient

you

be

instances,

an

the

to

when

3.

all the

use

up

towards

can

you

take

thoughts

your

light

may

sensation

of

his

it is

when

not

fully determine,

of

indisposition

you

turn

and

you

examine

you

object,or

and

the

what

these

matter

some

not

but

time

know

all

buihl

do

importance,

i)resent necessity of action

where

and

question, especially

all

attained, before

be

jnduinci:and

of

way

grounds.

iu

easy

moment,

of

sides, to gather

or

less

difficulty and
partial examination,

with

to

and

insufficient

upon

In

of

cases

in

matter

all

this short

follow

naturally

149

QUESTIOX.

DETEEMIXIXG

OF

self
your-

etc.

fact,depending

upon

examination

is but

your
what

one

man

or

few

150

an"l aAoid

say,

vli((l those
those

llie

who

not

vrrc

into

fact,aiul you never

for denying
it, but
aflirm
4.

resolve

is yet

There

deny the

their

about

believe

fuHher faultin

question,

any

1)1/natural

when

reasons

who

those

only

word

some

without

sentence,

or

further

doubtful

decide

you

by

part of. revelation

some

might give

parts, which

other

by
the point

assisted

be

the meaning.
help to determine
examine
is also a culpablepartUditu, if you
some
or
pretended vision,or revelation,without the use

light

It

when
or

it with

comparing

might

it

to determine

resolve

you

or

tion
partialexamina-

your

you

o)dy,where

reason

suj)ernaturalrevelation

5.

to

enter

never

who

many

yonself

concern

with

it.

of

by

it,and

are

tiff/Irct

yonrself

content

about

there

yotionhjnsk

; vhcn

witnensrs,and

car

ci/cor

talk

general
particulars; or when
and

loose

mere

of others

it ; ^vll("Ilyon

heard

and

saw

testimony

who

nport

QUE.STION.

DETKKMIMNG

OF

of reason^

and

better

the

without

or

use

of

which

revelation

that

is

These
sulhciently proved to be di\ ine.
and
we
of
all instances
imperfect examination:
are
two
determine
or
should
a question by one
lights,
never
four.
the advantage of three
have
or
where
we
may
heed
lest some
Take
XITI.
darling notion, some
and

nndoiibted

favorite

beloved

hypothesis, some
falsehood

truth

or

same

subject.

notion

opinion,

unexamined

but

Dare

adjusted,

indulging

be

of all other
not

till it be

doctrine

or

doctrine,

and
such

build
very

made

some

or

mon
com-

of

test

the

the

propositions about
much

upon

such

fully examined,

sufficientlyconfirmed.
been
a practice, have

rately
accu-

Some

sons,
per-

led into

long

in
involved
they have found themselves
of mistakes, by taking up some
a train
petty h^iiothesis
in philosophy, politics,
or
either
religion,
or
i)rinciple,
grounds, and establishing
slight and insufficient
upon
ranks

that

of

as

things.

errors

test

and

rule

by which

to

judge

of all other

XIV.

For

the

same

determining

any

one

of

question,

Take

of

in your

early judgment
possible against any

the

of

to

by

upon
The

easily

wr(

any

watchful

bias, which

be

younger

mind

far

be

to

The
credit

giving

to

opt-n

as

given

-years.

the

or

t urn

m"x
as

may

or
sillyoi^inioii,

fable, lays the

nation
determi-

will

ca"e

; be

suddenly

the

receiving

things

false

one

some

foolish

one

which

on

esi^ecially in

understanding,

indulgence

of

heed

of

care

parallel

or

151

QUESTION.

have

reason,

kindred

any
follow.

naturally

DETERMINING

OF

imposed

many.

ancient

Romans
founders
tlie
Renins,
and
pos('d ill tlie-Avoods

taught

Avero

and

of

their

nursed

believe

to

and

state

l)y a

Avolf

Eomulus

that

empire,

were

tliis story

ex-

prepared

tales of tlie lilie nature

for tlie reeeption of any
tlieir nunds
rethe
enforee
would
eountries.
other
to
I'lting
Trojus Ponipeius
also nursed
tliat one
of the
aneieut
kiutis of Spain was
bi'lief,
and

suekled

It

by

by

was

and

hopes

Ronudus

of

hart,
to

Remus.

and

tliey learned

to

soothsaying,

when

give

their

up

they

were

and
the glory
greatness of their empire
founder, were
predieted l)y the liai)py omen

that

their

and

omens

Romulus

I'ahle of

the

from

inlluenee

same

fears

persuaded

onee

the

tiie

to
when
he sought where
appearing to him
all the following legends,
eity. They readily received
of prodigies, auguries, and
together,
prognostics, for many
ages
has
furnished
his
Avith whieh
Livy
huge history.

twelve
build the
of

vultures

th(;

80

child
to be

occurrence

month

week

or

inroad

who

made

is

good
be

to

the

on

unlearn
and

lucky

of

foolish

idle tales

or

believe

of

hath

ever

greediness,

and

which

acquainted

in the
to

open

the

wide

understanding
lies

one

any

day

any

of nurses,

becomes

ever

to

unlucky,

life ; he

story with

again if he

or

of his

his

sillyimi)ressions and

many

evil omen,

or

soundness

following judgments
the

taught

once

all

imbibes
In'

with

must

truth

Avisdom.

XV.

Have
zeal

evident

in

in

of

care

those

matters

themselves,

examined

and

interesting your
or

which

Avhich

proved

are

; for

and

warm

suflTiciently

arc

not

not

fully
zeal,

this

ligious
re-

and

oughly
thor-

whether

152

OF

liinlilor

influence

(loct lines

Avliicii

of

sort

divine

espoused

to be

this sacred

fervor

have

nature,

it is

not

but

obey

of

of revelation

for it ;
defense
that

of

they

of them

the

convinced

banter,

reason

warm

of any
of the

jest

assault
has
then

He

of

attain

any

article

strong

point
of

for

viction,
con-

faith

of

light

the

Zeal

understanding,

our

truth,

the

and

to

doctrines

sublime

be

( Jud

of His,

support

without

mankind

requires

believed

have

of

revelation.

pious affections

we

employ

light and

never

amiss

be

to

till

of

faith

the

just

rejison

in the

engaged

and

convincing proof
though perhaps we may

plain

to such

clear

and

distinct

ideas

desire.

we

As

defense

God

points

to

dictate

of

powers

certainly revealed,

are

as

XVI.

even

them

nounced
re-

not

important

mysterious

our

in this world

never

or

should

nor

have

have

for

and

plain

article

is the

not

are

ser^^ce

evident

an

the

most

the

or

faculties

the

espoused

important

ought

we

with

out

order, and

natural

with

you

to

earnestly

; but

necessary

God

Even

cause.

saints

over

ought

the

upon

have

you

all

up

heresy,

opinion

most

contend

to

assured

an

and

their

use

or

bring

of

and

for the

is either

them

reason

stop

pernicious.

it made

reign

must

dread

of spirit in

s"hmi

practice,and

of

will

wliatever

zealous

to the

that
or

maintain

false and

as

delivered

till we

and

awe

religion, and

once

This

just evidence,

any

ought

our

light.

to

in llioso

iniiids

own

divine, though perhaps

it without

of

oii^^a^^cd"will have

oiu'c

really (louhtful, and

are

to

as

it

QT'ESTIOX.

to ('stiil)lisli
your

sacred

coneern

"We

it is

of further

avenues

Koul

wlicn

wn"n;,f,

powerful
the

DKTEKMTNIXG

revealed

ridicule,
doctrines

proved
these

ought

revelation

and

any

zeal

that

methods

truth,
so

ever

of

they

are

should

to be

never

till

neither

our

employed

reason

should

be
wit

in

well
and

be

indulged to oppose
professed revelation, till
not

really revealed;

be used

very

seldom,

and
and

DETEEMIXIXG

OF

with

the

were

made

to determine

they

to

be

refuted

follies

with

it to be

mere

some

divin('

revelation, viz., to
the

at

; and

ment

uncourtly)

deists

our

tempt
con-

been

first

only

has

reason

first

intioduccd

elfectuallybeaten

are

men,

it would

not

l)e

that

say

unreasonable

most

talents

that

of

it is

arjj^ulittle

a
our

ligion
re-

animal, that is,grin

vile

bats
com-

and

attack

now

of

and

in all their

(tliough

would

they

ridicule

is, reason

unjust

test

judjic

to

try if it 'vill bear

of

the

thou";h

indeed

serve

when

have

weapons

to

with

and

silly

They

have

they

and

to

expose

which

shame,

which

laughter.

to

wit

nonsensi'.

is therefore
of

controversy

serviceable

by ai'"inment

nonsense

proved
It

answer

inconsistent

abundantly
cover

prudi'ncc. Eaillery and

our
inquiries after truth,

and

sometimes

may

153

QUESTION.

question of rational

those

to

caution

utmost

never

and

grimace.
I
or

think

not

can

pupi^et,

be

can

likely

them.

Plato

have

haps,
nor

in

the

they

the

Ciesar

kings

or

The

slaves,

would

form,

ami

; but

Euclid,

eternal

secure

inform

never

whether

they

strongest reasoning,

truth

wraj"i)ed

they
with

are

all

overwhelmed

up

may
in

be
artl'ul

the
in

absur"lities

banter, that

about

might
jier-

the

one,

from

us

whether

best
most

most
a

and

them

weie

the

in

dressed

truth, and reason,

his demonstrations,
with

of

wisdom

be set
i)olitestthoughts, may
light by this grinning faculty:
of

them,

troversy.
con-

disguise

sentiments

of

any
the

of

in

things

droll

Alexander,

or

upon

would

deciders

just

any

other,

or

the

axioms

and

of

treatment

philosophers.
and

into

monkey,

all

up

disguise, neither

majesty

were

us

clapped

coat

this

; this

sneer

dresses

or

judges

Socrates,

or

fool's

lead

to

jester

proper

which

That
is not

that

very

fools

("r

sense,

lous
ridicuobvious
foolish

by this

ent
tal-

good sense; still.

might be so covered
a
beginner in the
and

154

OF

imitlunuitics
tlu'oivms

true

useful.

and

ness;
otF

from

and

the

the

civil

well

be

painted

life,as

the

among
XVII.
men

and

out

of

still these

good

for

this

men,

renounce

public

should

more

light

song

of scurrilous

by

rude

help

us

if he

in

the

person

his

back
more

XVm.

be

mirth,

of

the

or

the

shambles

conviction

The

and

truth

smarting
and

as

Why

joke

merry

yet

ridicule.

upon

railing s;irpenalties? Why

and
the

of

understanding

are

faith

of

very

is made

how

see

his

jeers

of the

in the

minds

severe,

not

cau

truth

opinion

the

by

witty ballad, than there is

professor of any
religion is

whij)ping-post
his

cutions
perse-

at, I

than

to

or

When

scourged.
the

truth

and

i)oints of

and

print, or

derived

laughed

judge

were

and

no

be

to

may

virtue

they do, and

wise, as just,

as

persecutions

cudgel?

to

up

("f

exposed

personal

penal

banter

test of

and

set

and

convince

as

whit

as

puipose

casm,

folly,

determine

mucli

every

better

duties

Christianity,

and

to

these
as

public mockery
be

moral

penalties

order
and

of

are

all

and

conviction

think

stage,

of

all social

in

state,

Now
of

should

of

colors

ruin

in debates,

the

error.

methods

the

religion, by the

The

articles

rational

most

and

consciences

and

the

as

to

as

natural

beat

thoughtless part of the world.

should
be
observed
also, that these
very
the
of
all
use
severe
loudly against
railing

reproach

and

so

gay
It

cry

of

be

might

serious, the

most

i)rofane ^vit.

with

over

stage,

upon

the

liis

easily ju-eaud;;(Mtd-

truth

piiiiciplesof

i)oints,even
of

be

nii^ht

i)art of mankind

of

imi)ndent jests

whctlicr

ini;i;;inctlioy could

to

minds

noblest

younger

important

doubt

to

not, ;uk1

So, weakei'

belief

the

tcmpU'd

or

judieed aj^ainstthe

QUESTION.

mif^ht be

were

be

never

DETERMININ(J

the

any

Besides, supposing

than
it

is

better

theater,

akin.

near

jest

executioner,

one

this should

in the

but

of

the

I think

than

the

lory,
pil-

A\Tien

mob,
there

or

is

other.

barely possible

DETERMINING

OF

shouUl

that

the

men

by miracle, vision,
and

contempt
and

And

not.

or

in

be

false,in

order

from
should
think

to

himself

become

treated

such

l)eril,and
them

with
ino

revelation,
well

as

the

as

royal proclamation

the

of

part

able
toler-

any

of

true

and

kingdom,

well
In

jest

raise

nj^ver
and

other

the

abated,

nor

contempt

cast

abusive
what

by

or

lu'

some

; for

the

to

religious

or

ojiiniou

any

author

bestows

warm

condemns

upon

asserts

it ; nor,
be

oi)inion

an

not

sort

assent

warped

strains

any

is

no

Let

it.

your

be

there

such

ment
merri-

and

pretences

of

of

treat

by the supercilious
by the sovwriter, nor

influence

soul
your
the other
by

language
hath

; let

it laised

to

that

care

side

it

which

alone

argument

scolf

all their

esteem

your

aversion

upon

eueigu airs with

Take

let

hand,
your

with

wherewith

zeal

dearest

Bil)le,and

esteem

your

by the highest praises he

it,nor

their

philosophical, moral,

reading

the

deceivings

the

and

not?

or

at

own

at

of

assurance

king

on

their

Christianity
let them
lay aside
as
religion.

controversies,
the

in

mation
procla-

determine

to

go

his

public stage,

of

writers

of

i)erilmake

articles

as

tt) have

on

word

it is the

sort

but then

XIX.

manner

spoit themselves

sacred

reason

just honor

with

in this

their

at

but

the

to

of

it \)v di\

test

i)roi)er

piece

revelation

s^jort of buffoons, in order

the

Let

one

whether

distant

question. Whether

of

lind

to

1o

the

canvassed

on

will

doubt
whether
it came
subjects should
ridicule
the king or not ; is it possible that wit and
the
decide
the points Or would
ever
prince ever
of

some

by

order

treat

to

distinguish it. Suppose

to

sent

it is

of such

proi^erly applied

was

the

insolence

yet, if this be

it may

iniiid and

inspiration,

or

appearance

laughter,

His

reveal

profane

rational

or

jest

God

groat

155

QUESTION.

the
or

or

of

dissent.
biased

on

llatteiiug

question

of defendei*s

force

and

whatsoever
opposers.

or

156

Loavc

tliosc

writers

the

thus

upon

menl

; leave

victories

of

voice

Ju

but

of

the

and
infallible,

ridiculous

insolent

same

Yet

let

truths

though

well

as

remembered

it be

are

ever

these

the

tenses
pre-

could

sense

objection against
find

can

of

the

vain

ov\n

of

an

they

as

to be

ignorance:

man

sometimes

been

opinions

Sometimes

in their

men

of

opjiosite side of the

rail at

And

railing.

this

weapons

the

of

no

because

paities
in

sentiments

arms

exult

all
much

deal

of notice.

They

of

are

little of the

as

practice

and

contrary

they

vanity, have

excessive

boasted
to silence

clamor

all his

mere

know

opinions.

it but

to

answer

the

sentiments,

own

sessions
postheir

that

their

bigots

supposes

the

are

knowledge,

their

oppose

man

therefore

and

to

and

these

worthy

them

use

question,

their

Sometimes

not

talking

who

men

arj^u-

fancied

found

and

noise

practice

without

own

errors,

positive,

most

imagines

and

of

ways

of

heap

the
i'elif|^ion

and

hau"ihty

readers

it is oftentimes

argunu'ut.

l)iide,for

their

overbearing

philosophy

sort

of

who

truth.

generally

are

follies

own

triuin])h in their

to

but

are

are

their

to

victories

possessions

QUKSTION.

weakness

them

and

the

DETi:UMI.MNG

OF

other

no

learning, by their
tempted into the

ignorant.
there

too, that

are

some

evident, that the opposition to them

in
monstrous
is strange, unaccountable, and almost
; and
of good sense
vindication
of such
truths
a writer
may
be

sometimes

he

XX.
is of
a

large

multitude

one

Stoics

should
or

the

use

extensive

and

of

subjects, as

at

once

ask

me.

by

may

of

air
of

be

not

you
?

Do

contidence,

convincing

force.

proposed

whicii

nature, and

ought

and

assurance,

in

single aigunu-nt

Are

Platonists

an

reasons

question

of

degree

with

with

them

Sometimes
so

to

strongly

defends

determined
if

allowed

them

pronounce
Avhile

and

plain

so

refers

to

justice

such

to

answer

or

be
: as

professed disciple of the

you

receive

an

assent

to

of

principles

the

Kewton

Have

Calvin

or

copal, presbyterian,
be

may

in the

very

is
I

no

and

men

has

I may

though

greatest part of
by no
party, yet it does
them

does

nor

that

there

human

and

I would

mistakes

the

another.
and

sect, and

XXI.
to

and

to

Cicero

was

the

us

ceive
re-

main

in the

to

difficulties

fewest

of

of

science

every

the

correct

ening
])arty, by soft-

one

ai-e

judge

and

(leteimine

lime

and

deny it, take

as

proposition,

or

the

course

full survey

the

arguments

falls,
the

admit,
if

and

either

arguments

oi"inions

such

of the

positions
truth.

of

life

of the

ligion
re-

tions
objec-

it, as

for

the

or

(piestion,

any

see

of

nuMi

was

to the

concerning

circumstances

i)reponderati("n

against any

in

called

various

of them

nearest

came

phrases

or

greatest

himself

he

; but

you

the

of the

of each

out

well

of

one

age

judgment

or

best principles

the

account

an

his

chose

against it, as
side

or

lump,

the

by

jjossible,to

as

expressions

^\'llen

affirm

your

I should

that

me

the

far

as

of

gives

in his wisest

as

for

has

some

i)hiloso])hersin

eclectic

agree

person

one

go

to

for

reconciling methods, by reducing the extremes,

antiquity,
of

which

harsh

by borrowing

from

of

attending

enough

endeavor,

or

and
and

it is

side

that

to

judge

to

ground

always

not

difficulties

are

knowledge,

incline

sentiments

party professes.

one

some

whose

spoil all the articles of belief

and

tincture

of

follow

means

aiLSM'er

an

detail

reason

opinions

does

Truth

all.

error

Since

as

the

me

it

I think

give

sufficient

see

the

to

given

ei)is-

particulars
Perhaps there

earth,

upou

God

follow.

entirely

myself;

set of

nor

man,

into

or

ments
senti-

the

etc. ?
to

Tycho

notions

sentiments.

own

of

to

your

not

cases

enter

to

one's

explain

and

such

in

rather

but

gross,

Are

independent,

or

proper

yourself

Isaac

Sir

or

hypothesis

devoted

you

Arminius,

Descartes,
the

chosen

you
Have

Coi)eniicus?
of

Gassendus,

157

QUESTION.

DETERillNING

OF

on

fai-

which

objections

for the

defense

158

DKTKKMINIXG

OF

ofil,

will

l)laiidy unaiisworal)l"', they

the

al"i lilies

the

liattcr

both

on

the

on

judgment

siiles

])ension

art^

to

is

])resent detenninal
must

we

deration

of

worth

where

then
arrive

found

will

heed
in

well

that

be

of

if

of

ini-

is necessary,
certain

or

side, we
as

must
we

can

be observed,

stronger,

the

reasons

greater

arguments

no

seeking

probable

either

should

it, than

in

sufficient

on

probable

assent

degree

time

matters

any

rule

determine

to

daily practice

general

our

There
in

as

with

of evidence

thousand

believe,

there

ditferent

evidence
both

which

gradations

because

relatingto

things

many

of

Ave

reason

civil
of

regulated

be. always

degrees
a

are

philosophy and
different
degrees

very

should

the

this

in

question

such

conclusive

oider

much

here,

attain

and

in

it is

viz.

rise

or

no

probable argument

support.

XXIII.

are

theie

is of little consequence,

spend

even

not

with

the

matter

to

And

But

at.

higher

wherein

cases

importance,

certain

; it is sufficient

can

up

and

after

the

determine

to

take

to

in

sus-

i)resent ai)i)eaiiug prepon-

moment

labor

our

we

take

unless

there

the

l)oitance, especially where

grounds

e(|ual weight,

reascnis

to

be

where

themselves.

and

the

])ractice is required, and

iflliey can

after certainties
offer

where

oi'

seek

to

but

(question ;

it is not

of

jtrob-

sight "\voidd

lirst

at

But

duty,

of

matters

arguments
a

it.

our

ion

indeed

duty

our

favor

seeming

many

reasons.

In

XXII.

"which

near

acc")iding

act

side,

very

doubt

or

be

other

evidence, and are

ought to constrain

and

may

there

assent, though

QUEHTION.

undouldcd

tliciii iiiosl

in

carry

ha^

are

in

enjoy:

thousands

questions,
e

and

assent

which

concerning
revelation.

to

of

the

and

is,

or

different

])erhaps

there

things

we

circumstances

increase

them,

this

the

to

and

believe

we

and

assent;

our

religion, as

life, which

according
we

in

even

or

that

diminish
in matters

This

direction

and

the

tlian

higher

should

faith

run

is

he

revelation

be

to

to

than

what

the

heard

of His

give

were

very

from

our

Kazareth,

himself

our

anj^

about
of

reason

the

require

instance,

reasonable

believe

in

Therefoie,

true.

without

his

matters

because

in any

not,

cient
suffi-

or

i)roi)ositionmore

for it will support.

We

ground to believe, that those

Saviour
requires such strong l\iith,
for

and

their

of His

evi(U'nce

credible

this

strong

worthy

of

Saviour,
of

when

His

to

and

the

wrought
Now

the

of

made

appeared

great
and

the

on

in

and
and

the

against Jesus,
as

they

Messiah.

had

purpose
sucli

profession

open

as

commission

reports

public encouragement
magistrates,

tln^ age
He

were

because

the

and

power

commission.

faith

faith, had

strong

incontestable

miracles, which

which
doctors

be

to

commends

eviden(;e

both

us

evidence

our

certain

from

by

tlieni ?

things

the

even

sured
as-

man

to

in all

assent

heal

every

idenee

an

abundant

He

strong and

e\

; and

judge

to

our

given

of

of those

professed
to

so

His

both

some

power

has

his

can

then

Gosjiel

out

upon

who

and

judge

thing

nor

of whom

whom

or

any

therefore

persons

the

can

reason

the

lay

praises

believed

not,

evidence;

strongly

His

revelation

will

assent

to

of

faith, and

direct

to

the

great God

case,

it,

support

right

tlie liistories

the

called

are

pronounces

to

to

rise

never

objected here, W^hy

of nature

be

to

be

commission

God

particular, and

or

than

little reasoning

of His

reason

have

faster

and

of

the

answer

to

have

we

our

evidence

our

evidence

strong

benetits

belief

us

with

pace

should

in

creatures

which

repeated, that

often

too

proposition

it will

Saviour,

miraculous

own

keep

or

commend

to
any

Perhaps
our

poor

be

159

QUESTION.

it.

XXIV.

much

not

proof

our

encourage

does

of

belief

our

nor

can

ought always

assent

DETERMINING

OF

of

it

praise

]niblic opposition
i)riests,and
the

man

of

160

OF

And

DETERMINING

besides

this it may

sujiftosed,wilh
irjisoiialjly

be

of those
regard to some
strong
are
required and commended,

further

some;

rcvehilion

liints of

from

Christ

blessed

hath

Saviour

Simon

thou,

be

to

that

of

^oii

commends
"

r)arjona

it unto

and

wlien

St.

God,

Mutt.

Hi

adds,

thee, but

immediate
Peter

our

art

l)lood

and

Father

my

fesses
con-

1(",17,

Flesh

"

had

"Blessed

saying,

lie

but

which

belii'vers

these

as

him

faith

of

evidence

Himself;

the

n".t revealed

exercises

inward

(Jod

QUESTION.

who

is in

heaven."
And

the

the

miracles,
of

the

divine

!Now

this

and

it to
who

we

them

well

as

felt it

never

the

not

are

with

commended.

and

carried

to

as

should

compliance

expected

inspiration

and

inward

miracles

and

suflieient

ancient

dence
evi-

i"rophets,

capable

so

of

recjuired

by

such

to

was

faith

sometimes

e., when

?.

obedience

them,

the

concerning
was

assured

supernatural

to

judge

distinguish it.
XXV.

What

reason

is said

may

be

of

both

also

Duties

which
of

than

that

and

circumstances:

tliis,because
found

in

form

only

are

without

as

most

also, that

for

my

as

I may

])ray

because

derived
to

sciences
con-

God

neither

ferred,
in-

cidents,
in-

occurrences,

conmiands
be

our

dubiously

conscience

to

evident

bind

instance.

evident

well

one,

but

are

guage
lan-

plain

most

to

for

practice.

our

the

the

occasional

God;

Scripture, as
or

by

which

from

to

pray

there

I believe
written

those

that

to

in

required

; the"

truths

are

for

principles, ought

and

ought

one

truths

are

dictated

or

first

upon

the

as

expressly

are

more

same;

trines,
doc-

or

duties

concerning

others

the

truth

concerning

confirmed

Scripture

reasoning

before

is the

speculation,

our

be

(iod

illuminations

with

though

others,

and

their

wrought,

said

whereof

exercise

inlluences

these

be

may

discipUs

divine

be

same

certain

am

is bound

to

for it to
from
either
reason

son.
rea-

by
nor

revelation

all

times,

conscience

therefore, bind my
utterly to renounce
either

of

direct

them

forbids

or

the

as

of

these
I
the

practice
I

but

other;
and

modes

other.

the

to

reason

my

161

QUESTIOX.

either

expressly requires

at

prayer

DETERMIXrXa

OF

one

as

practice

circumstances

ATe

observe

may

these

rules

three

in

of

to be determined
are
probabilities which
relalinc^either to things past or things to come,
TJud

1.

carries

icJiich agrees

the

with

most

probability

greatest

circumstance

to

appears

the
in

it,

That

it:

counterpoise

eomformable

ichich is most

likely to be

true:

that

as

without

England

other

no

if I let loose

as

large plain,

will

seize

her

the

sight of

;
a

observation

to the constant

exj^cn-iment frequently rejieated,is

to

or

men,

of nature

them.

among

2.

by reason,

Avnere

sight of a hare upon

there is great probability the greyhound
will fly away
at
thousand
a
sparrows
hawk

judging

eonstUntion

within

greyhound

of

so

me.

XXYI.

not,

eaii

"would

other

of

winter

frost

some

and

will

not

pass

in

awaj'

if you

that

snow;

most

deal

quantities of strong liquor to the mob, there

will
will l)e many
drunk; that a large assembly of men
be of dillerent
point ; that a
opinions in any doubtful
of it
thief will make
his escape
out of prison if the doors
are
unguarded at midnight.
out

3.

great

In

neither
any

nature,

suihcient

there
and

of

matters

ice

witnesses

they relate,etc.
to the

degree

This

of moral

who

have

testimony
certainty.

tea-plant grows

in China

Turks

Constantinople

lives
11

side

multitudes

at

; and

in many

that

we

the

; that

of the

gives

the

of

ivise

concurring
what

known

will arise

cases

believe

that

Emperor

Julius

us

question,

attestation

and

seen

So

present, where

custom,

ntu-

either

on

or

probabilityfrom the
or
by word
writing, or

derive

men,

of

past

are

observation,

nor

infcuniation

may

honest

fact,which

Ciesar

the

of the
con-

102

DETEKMTXTNf;

OF

that

(|U('ro(l
France;
in

that

Judea;

faith in
books

the

thousands

-wliich

histories
thousand

.Icsus

and

years

to

our

own

XXYII.
our

Tliere

aj?o

are

not

senses

or

and

age,

cause,

it would

iluttering in
firm

in

to

or

be

fro, and

and

good thing

to have

wdth

; that

meats

of grace,

to-day,

and
and

minute

more

for which

of

it is not

so

religion,such

as

culty,
diffi-

every
not

are

1)6

not

to

be

like

children

wind.

It is

with

grace, not
of the Gosp^

great doctrines
is the

stand

yesterday,

same

in

necessary
meats

and

the

drink,

of less importance, and

are
ceremonies, which
directions.
Scrii^turehas not given such express
advice
of the great apostle, Eph.
the
14; Heb.

is

8, 9.
In short, those
practice should
13

but

the

established

heart
the

to

of

sake

with

Christ, who

ever;

matters

the

the

and

forms

This

is,in

in Jesus
for

for

our

continue

principles, and

wavering

the

of

to

therefore

objection. We
Hying doctrine,

eveiy

in

merits

the

always

us

ought

alter

occasional
with

about
to

for

We

and

of

and

examined,

just arguments

well-established

change

doubt,

directly evident

well

survey

weakness

reasonable

sucli

vaii"'tyof

are

been

upon

large

suspense.

every

carried
tossed

settled
a

tain
cer-

n'asoniufj powers.

mei-e

i)oint hath

after

such

tempted

our

that

above

written

no

which

; and

relij^ion are

infinite

an

died

th"- Christian

to

were

of

matters

judgment

manly

is

and

of Christ

Christian

admit

can

"When

own

the

death

ei)isth'Swhich

propositions which
thouj^lithey

convert(;d

Aveje

contain

lived

Saviour

our

after the

century

","n:STIOX,

of

exercise
but
never

tlnxse
be
as

XXYIII.

our

truths
be

best

which

are

settled

as

powers

after

the

soon

as

the

springs
we

state

of

daily

can

with

of

manhood

the

should
we
possibly mistake
things wherein
may
and
mined
deterso
absolutely and finallyestablished
infallible.
though we were
remember
But
let us
also, that though the

CAUSES

be

Gospel

AND

infallible

an

when

revelation,
determine

we

written

propositions

though

seem

to

.be

sense

of

Scripture

partieular
just

calls of

there

is

is

need

no

subscribe

Pi()\'i(lence

or

the

in
])ossible,

uieet

with

give

us

such

quite

imagined,

once

evidence

of the

light cast
alter

solid

and

different

view

and

may

the

is

against
such

the

prison

all

in

even

sic sentiam, 1.
sentio,

Sic

e.,

of

the

for

soul

the

of

of

fairer
to

moment.

so

will

and

mind.

in matters

we

reason

life-time

the

may

sulhcieut

sec

believe, aud

so

as

to find

points

may

what

us

and

some

improvements
profession on other men

To

lieve,
bebar

impose

absolulely

not

pation
usurabsolutely certain, is a criminal
and
faith and
conscience, and which
tyranny over
infallil)le dictator.
to require but an
has power

and

necessary,

none

not

CHAPTER
OF

Some

INQUIRING

effects

by

causes

particular
nature,
follow
1.
a

or

found

in the

by

out
us

inquiring

are

effect

CAUSES

Let

cilecls.

we

XV.

INTO

are

their

J. When

of

objection

Scriptures

same

sentiments

things, we

lay before
"NVe may
happen

we

it

since

things from

of

it,yet

mind,

of

couise

be

promise,

or

our

substantial

contrarj'.

over

our

and

natuic

some

may

snljscribe

resolve

change

to

never

swear,

there

though

should

we

of

terprete
in-

therefore,
; and.
{he belief of any

in

and

fallible

even

profess and

to

that

sense

there

established

but

are

we

tlie

important
M'C

1G3

EFFECTS.

or

or

moral

EFFECTS.

their

causes,

and

both

these.

consider
into

the

either

api)earance,

civil

AND

of

cause

in the

concerns

of men,

appearances

yoM

some

any

woild
we

of

may

this method:
Consider
kindred

w7/rt/

effectsor

nature, and

what

have

been

the

//rnr A"ojr"
certain

and

164

CAUSES

real

in (he

found

aie

such

of

particular

like
sort

same

exclude

gradually

the

to

Consider

3.

and
of

the

the

true

4.

several

whether
and

of each

I stand

an

intermediate
and

must

be

there

must

either

each

that
the

would

of these

an
are

be

must

impressed

wanting,

the

call

fire

at least

particular

upon

of my

attention

ciples
prin-

are

we

or

motion

that

what

tind

particles of

of the

of

derivation

and

agency

proper

heat

I shall find it is necessary

fire;here

there

vellication

might

cause

which

sensation

agency

air;

be

effect,yet

probably light upon

particular inquiry.

mediately by themselves,

flesh,either
motion

the

near

be

there

the

cause

therein.

of them

of that

causes

the

be

cause

o)ie

phiUtsophy^ if

in natural
or

that

more

degrees of influence
producing the effect,and

influence

when

and

may

the

in

So

-we

it;

upon

determine

before

going

or

to produce the
sufficient
it does
not
of
require a concurrence
far as
endeavor
then
as
possible to

whether

causes;

adjust

its

further

by

Consider

effect,or

have

from

you

event

an

inlluence

any

certainly

not

lead

cause.

have

forerunners

cause

stances
circum-

and

also,

ihingH i^rereded such

can

many

them

certain

might

thing only

among

of

and

real

we

may

excluded
are
possible;causes
proceed by degrees to the
: Thence
and
close attention
tion
inspecmore

some

which

though
any

ichat

appearance,

whicli

thos(;

case

till

probable causes,
shall

po^miblccamc.H
find out
bj- some

effect,and

an

lioM" many
in this

the ncvcral

ic/uil arc

Consider

produce

to

soul

nerves

my

to

sensation

on

my

bj' the
of

sort

; there

and

the

brain;

this

motion;

of heat

will

if
not

i^roduced.
So in the moral

Ihcy

generally

sul)jccts.
2.

be

liave

like; cfiecls

; for
^vllen

especially

causes,
of

of tlirm

causes

EFFIXTS.

AND

state

or

icorld,if

kingdom,

inquire

perhaps

I find

into
it

the

revolution

of

about

by

brought

CAUSES

the
of

AND

tyranny and folly of

his own
subjects; and
arise

may

either

revolution

that

abroad

would

M'ho

these

of

of

we

and

ways

natures,
of

their

the

Mill

the

ascribe

not

the

may

follow

of

j^art or

of

effects

into

the nature

ajxni,

cause

property

any

method:

this

every

Be

wisely

it will

of

several
tlic

far

the

promote

or

balance

and

subject is,

for the

propositions

the

harden

clay.

diligent

such

things as are
effects, according

concurring
occasional

by

an

the

industrious

you

see

upon
on

in

which

different

effects;as

making

the
jects
sub-

the

all proper

sun

periments,
ex-

tcorJc,ichose

effectsyon
an
oiderly mauiuT
putting together
useful
most
likely to i^roduce some
causes

at

in

to

causes

the

best

and

carefullyall

Observe

or

cause

same

different

setting such
and

in

produce
will

wax

know,

any

oftentimes

frequent

to

and

hinder

will

one

the

operate

softens

5.

adjust

together in their
operation: inquire how

of

what

in

the

many

influence.

is to

desire

by

or

and

can,

hero

united

causes

other,

Consider

4.

etc., or

or

alone.

every

proj^erties of

or

powers

which

we

we

causes,

effect

the

cause

as

home

at

peison

produce.

to

3.

oi)position

in
inix)ositioiis

government,

inquiring

diligently

2. Consider

of

some

of them

one

or

what

observe

effects

of

wisely

are

cause

Consider

tend

account

the

to

as

to

event

particular
and

claim

each

'When

1.

of

guard the liberties of the people;

must
concurring together: then we

whole

11.

the

disaffection

and

disaffection

this

opposition

lays

influences
the

the

by

or

the

by

injuries relating to their civil rights; or the

of a foreign
be
effected
by the invasion
may

religion,or
army,

prince, or

ni^on

165

EFFECTS.

you

can

take

of

all

circumstances.

the

concurrence

survey

events

of

which
various

happ"'n
causes,

either
or

by

when
: and
applications of knowing men
certainly ijroduced, and often rehappy effect

1C6

CAUSES

pcatod,
of

it vp,

frrasiirr

it,imionj;st
(". Take

tlie

effect is

special
how

far

either

of

of

all

those

or

which

to

far

as

had

circumstances

effect

tendency

operations,
be

might

any

pc^ssible

as

those

chant^c

tend
at-

whereby

causes,

find out

and

obstruct, promote or
fur the
consequently how

and

causes

t/ie circunvftancrs

cause

any

j^roduced

of

any

known

Um;

lo^jetlxT Avilli

unrvnj

operation

KFFEf'TS.

iniprovcnicnts,

yi"ur

just

AND

inlluenced

them.

by

1)1

this

skill.

consider

They
herbs

or

effects of their
the

correct

the

native

or

diminish

such

uncommon

and

known

effects

the

medicine

cases

they

nicely

medicines

and

the

patient, and

of

make
the

and

virtues

of

other,

or

observe

temper

or

be

likely to
And

cautioiLS
of

effects

the

the

patient.

wise

different

is

what

ticular
par-

be

they

present

such

on

observe

on

the

force

the

of

will

what

fiualities. Then

constitution,
of

pomid

vai-ioiLS

of its noceut

any

effect of

the

their

improve

drugs, they meditate

composition, and whether

"will exalt

one

and

physicicoispractice

maniujr

in

cumstance
cir-

the
all

ments,
experi-

i)articular com-

constitutions

ent
in differ-

and

of just observations
diseases,and by these treasures
honorable
they grow
degree of skill in the art
up to an
of healing. So the j)reacher considers
the
doctrines
and
the

reasons,
the

of

word

of

conscience,
the

couiage
of

his

with
be

some

the

considers
or

allure

may

or

of any

such

mind

threatenings

natural

of

natural

he

vice;
some

of

some

may

observes

particular person
and

representation

dency
ten-

is well
these

prised
ap-

things

terrifythe

slothful, and

; he

of

of them

effects

is the
a

the

things sacred,

effects of each

and

what

understanding,

desponding

about

the

are

representation

the

heareis,
him

Avhat

virtue,

the

convince

may

; he

such

that

and

God,

mind

the

upon

precepts, the promises

some

the
that

he

judges

on

such

en-

temper

converses

what

pei-sons

will
; he

and

reviews

recollects

Kl^ecial parts

and

careful

of

skill

survey

In

and

causes

an

we

at

not

arrive

can

l)y

operate
effects

from

at such

connection.

and

He

clear

OF

perception,
is

dear

and

large
to

him

distinct

he

with

all its

with

all
lie

hold

out

first to his

nnderslanding

hend;
most

knows

and

also

likely to

that
knows

allure

the

to

and

necessity,and

thing

thoroughly,

and

lias attained

the

of

the

teach

to

for

whole

the

see

it to

the

which

view

or

disciple, and

acquired

one

how

to
to

set

assist

side

of

to
is

occasional

his

in
and

easiest

liulher

and

survey,

it,

grasp

all its
quences,
conse-

subject

projiose

it in such

it familiar

learner

how

i)art of it which

subject

sides,to

relations, in

subject,

same

having

all

on

in

distinct

properties, relations,

and

yet

causes

any

represent
its

where

as

himself, and made

meditation, reading, and

appendices
to

probability

of it

supposed

able

better

views,

is

times
some-

may

LECTURES.

method

idea

by frequent

we

those

READING

prepared
easy

in

AND

amijle survey

best

only

operation.

maniici-,

an

and

discourse,
is

and

generally

in

learned

methodical

and

have

XYI.

TEACHING

has

that

of

natuial

the

necessarily

Even

contingent,

certainty

follow

and

Mliich

those

CHAPTER

I.

those

distinguish

must

high degree

very

necessarily

METHODS

by

greater degrees of

naturally

is but

evident

an

some

and

ministry;

attains

are

other,

effect

the

arrive

his

we

contingent

or

where

causes

each

with

accidental

cases

which

effects

connected

he

the effects of

been

employment.
these

all

of

methods

in his sacred

Xote:

have

what

all these

1G7

TEArilTNO,

OF

METHODS

to

to

to his
appr"'-

light

as

iiuiuiry.

is

168

METHODS

TI. But

it is not

becomes

always

have

may
as

e\teiisi\-e

ail

He

ideas, in
take

not

the

conc"'ption,and

be

III.

with

some

of

soul

learners.
to

pass

He

as

gentle

former
what

very

method

for

he

hits
it in

of

jiatience

to

person

has

of

want

or

sagacity
candor

have

much

their

impertinences,

on

use

mild

every

into

insinuating knowledge

delight in seeking truth,

who
are
wandering in error.
somewhat
already in
spoken

have
and

also

be

and

shall

occasion

have

and

pretty

particular truth

into any

is the

useful

to

as

some-"

exj^ress

of

method

Socratical

lead

to

way

dialogues are used

of leading gentlemen and
mode
sciences,who seek not the most

as

and

is,by questions

this account

person

answers,

On

disputation.
and

polite

ladies

into

accurate

pleasant
of

some

and

the

methodical

of learning.

measure

the

Xow,
It

1.

represents

the

which

is

excite

more

the

of

advantages

conversation,
and

last

may

of it shortly.

more

which

he

enlightens

mistakes, and

in their

chapter,

IV.

well

as

discipledoes

till at

and

scholar

censure

are

of this

But

words,

expression,

forms,

should

willing
reclaiming those

who

well

of

of perception

slowness

pity them
engaging

those

several

his

of

form

one

well

science.

any

his

lie

truth.

to

and

as

should
this, a tutor
condescending temper, who

and

in

and

methodical

Besides

happy
bear

of

ideas

of

thouj^h

llui l)i"incli('s of

of

j^hrase into

just idea

even

acquainted with
variety, that when

understanding

the

f^roat scliolar that

well

proper

the

in

change
the

is

Iiappiest teacher,

survey

also

must

as

the

who

one

ovory

clear

TF,AfnTXO.

OF

sprightly
attention

form
a

way

and

much

this

of

method

more

dialogue
easy,

of instruction,

sharpen

the

are

more

and

siderable.
con-

very

common

or

pleasant,
more

penetration

fit to
of

the

METHODS

solitary readini?
Man, beinjj^a sociable

lecture.
in

conversation,
always be wisely
This

carries

that

instructs

matiou
3.
It

happily practiced.

him

It leads

by

his

be

if it could

this way,

the

very

inquirer, and

seeks

inlbr-

learns.

learner

into

the

invention,

own

ohliging in ?7,and
lie
condescending air, when

and

who

the

better

nomdhing

to

seems

from

were

and

humble

very

to

creature, delij;Ltsmore

learns

hath

attention

silent

or

and

method

IGO

TEACHING.

tlian

learner,

2.

OF

of ti-uth

knowledge

which

is

very

as

pleasing

and
nature:
thing to human
by c[uestions pertinently
and
artificially
projiosed,it does as effectuallydraw him
his own
to discover
he is much
on
more
mistakes,which
he seems
to have
easily i:)ersuadcd to relinquish when

discovered
4.

It is

them

himself.

managed

in

great

in the

measure

form

of the

serted
reasoning, always arising from something asknoMii
in the
and
or
so
foregoing answer,
i)rounknown
in the following
cceding to incpiire something

most

easy

question, which
such

Kow,
to

makes

again
exercise

an

for

way

the

next

answer.

is very alluring and

entertaining
while
its own
leasuning p()w"'i's

the

understanding,
all along employed, and
labor
that without
are
culty, because, the querist finds out and proposes
intermediate

V.

ideas

But

the
of

way

is

perhaps

tutors

as

the

most

in any

of the

in the

academy

cellent
ex-

sciences,
do

to

i)upils.

The

first work

contains
at

and

instructing students
lectures,

all the

terms.

useful,

most

by reading

their

middle

or

dilU-

or

least

treatise.

science

short

is to choose
scheme

it should
Or

if the

not
tutor

draw
written, he should
himself, containing the

of

that

copious

very

knows

written, which

well

abstract

or

be

book

not

up
most

any
an

science,

and
such

abstract

substantial

or

diffusive
book
of
and

ready
al-

that
ini-

170

OF

METIIODK

of

parts

portaut

Ti:.uiii.\";.

in such

it,disposed

method

he best

as

ai)pioves.

Let

chapter

learner,

on

manner,

namely

VI.

uliich

He

of

explain

and

speech,
be

Where

should

be

arguments

by

either

arguments,

that

doctrine.

be

is

amples.
ex-

it

dubious,

confirmed
if need

where

must

be

and

or

be,

they

cogent,

paraphrase,
made
i)lainlyto

be
weak

are

and

is

author

strong

should

veiy

together, they

and

the

appear.

and

insutheient, they
rejected as useless ; and

should

added

be

to

support

should
concisely in the author
several
things are laid closely
taken
to pieces and
opened by

parts.

"

Where

the

reads, he

the

happy,
The

gently point

of

pursued
irregular, it

that

treatise,or

recommended

that

more

they

necessary
lest the learner
needless

the

necessary,

to

would

retain

should

parts of

and

spend

science.

book

he

his

takes.
mis-

is

commended

and

be

be peculiarly

pressed

memory

much

it

useful

and

science, should

shouhl

and

; where

remarkable

it in

just

corrected.

be

learners

too

which

confute

the

should

superfluous

or

of

most

the

and

out

of that

author

the

order

be

and

most

and

method

it should

is defective

from

differs

tutor

should

Where

them

more

and

further

some

treated

amplified

parts

ideas

ai)t similitnd"*s

the

are

arguments

new

AVhat

and

determined.

inferences

the

of

sense

and

enforced

of the

Where

words

both

partly by

the

fixed

the
be

truth

lliis

is dark
and
difficult
especially what
and
opened
illustrated, i)artly by various

also

should

shonld

tntor

the

Where
must

daily by
i)araphja.se in

and

be

forms

the

should

largely ;
should

of this be read

section

or

antl

upon

what

is

distinguished,

time

in the

more

METHODS

The

various

of

or

ends,

and

uses,

far

as
l)lified,

the

as

services

also

i)articularlyin

doit;

of that

science,

and

declared

be

hath

tutor

171

TEACHIXG.

part of it,sliould

any

to

OF

exem-

"i)p()rtunityand
mathematics

and

ture
furninatural

X)hilosopliy.
Ami

if there

defective
tutor

be

in the

to

he

is

While

of

style

make

thinj? remarkably

any

just

the

; he

subject

same

is treated
lead

his

which

he

VII.

is

and

now

then,
on

such

rational
should

pleasure

they do

fancy
In

and

their

of

solicitous

therefore

and

sense,

convey

VIII.

he

himself

expresses

his

that

them

se\'eral

jjossible,to

the

delight

time

must

ears

and

up

in his

own

It is necessary

all

his

forms
that

ideas
of
he

as

speech
who

he

structio
in-

heed

take

gi-atifythe

let the

take

learners

and

tlu-ir

enricliingtheir

inst luction,

and

Teachers

with

they

the

amuse

solid

minds.

teacher

his

frequently impiire
intelligibly? Avhether they
in

the

join profit

should

take

marks
re-

-which

hand.

in

mingle

same

also,

i)arts of such

them

far

of

in

put olf his pupils merely

disci[)leswithout
lectui'cs

firmation,
con-

historical

stories

theme

as

learner

some

of the

merely

and

discourse

the

neglect to give

the

at

not

reading

very

does

an"l

together,
but

that

the

not

as

subject

peruse,

of

to

useful

or

he

endeavor,

that

elucidation,

with

to

information

the

upon

may

theme

agreeable

entertained

stories,and

tions
edi-

them.

with, relating

provided

they

that

different

wheie

further

of

occurrences

met

science

with

to be

any

has

tutor

to

particular

writers

them

which

and

alluring

diffeient

inform

instructing

It is

the

any

the

compare

or

improvement

or

exijlaining

may

by other authors
disciples thereby

for

it.

ui)on

and

should

or

writer, it is proj)er

remark

reading
treatise to his pupils, he
of the same
book,

beautiful

be

meaning
whether

he

understand

endcaxors

instructs

others

to

172

OF

METHODS

should

the

use

most

TEAflTINT,.

style

proper

for the

conveyance

of those who
hear
easily into the minds
him;
and
thon.u^h in tcachint^the sciences, a jxTSfin is not conlined to the same
rnles
must
we
our
l)y which
govern
language in conversation, for he must necessarily make

of liis ideas

of many

use

of art

terms

and

hard

words, yet he should

his leiirning,n(jr affect

merely to show
we
sounding language witliout necessity,a caution which
never

them

use

shall further
I think

inculcate

wlien

that

and

convenient

it very

necessary,

anon.

reads

tutor

run
pupils, he should
in questions
proposed to
with
their
acquaint himself

his

for the

vain

to say

be

to

for

he

has

Besides,
it is real
that

far

and

examined.

I must

we

proceed
learner

taught

this

we

are

he

has

means

to be

came

in

boys,
school-

not

taught,

not

is it
But, alas ! how
his instructions, if he

in

takes

in

and

remembers

generally

it is sloth

believe

idleness,

or

ignorance, incai^acity,or unreasonable

refuse to give his teacher an
a learner

makes

how

again

to

by

daily proficiency. It is

lessons

far the

been

and

them,

to

foregoing lecture

the

over

absolutely

following lecture

object. Surely

to

teacher

how

not

what

our

catechised

possible
knows

learner

if not

proper,

profited by

his

last

pride,
account

iiLstructions.

For

gentlemen have
idle and useless years, even
under
daily labors
spent some
and
teacher
turned
inspections of a learned
they have re; and
from
the academy
the gain of any
without
one
want

of this

science, and

even

learning, that
which
IX.

they
Let

examination

constant

had
the

Mith

is,

the

learned
teacher

the

shameful

knowledge
in the

of

the

knowledge.

loss of their
of

Greek

grammar

of

and

Latin,
himself

his

prudence

of them

cla'^sical

school.

always accommodate
and
capacity of

genius, temper,
and
methods
practice various
one
persuade, and assist every
to

young

disciples,
to

in their

allure,
pursuit

METHODS

A^Tiere

the

"where

the

less

has

illustrations

his

enlarge

scholar

help

When

the

the

capacity,
him

; let

let tlu; teacher

searcli

find

and

sticks, -vvhat is the difficulty,and

learner

let him

173

TEACHING.

OF

out

thus

laborin;j^intellect.

learner

manifests

forward

and

genius

sprightly curiosityby frequent inquiries, let the teacher

oblige such an inquisitive soul by satisfyingthose questions
far

venience
condecency and
when
these
incjuiries are
unseasonal)le,
; and
let him
not silence the young
inquirer with a magisterial
candor
and
gentleness postpone
rebuff, but with much
those questions, and refer them
hour.
to a proper
X.
: it
spring of knowledge
Curiosity is a useful
as

should

be

as

be

may

done

with

awakened
children, and
by
them.
It
of talking with
frequent and familiar methods
be indulged in youth, but
should
not without
a
prudent
moderation.
limited

by

wandering

In

those

wise

and

of

have

who

grow

attain

never

they

it shonld

much,

too

restraint

gentle

after every
thing,
In
wiio
those
have

excited, lest they

and

in

encouraged

delay, lest by

or

learn

be

nothing

to

fection.
per-

be
little,it should
fied,
stupid, narrow-spirited, self-satisof ideas, or an amplitude
treasure
too

understanding.
Let

the

not

sublime

teacher

and

f.'arful

demand

diflicult

fi-om

the

things

expect

or

humble,

modest,

too

and

just and
to plain and
hajipy ansAver, even
easj' questions, let him
of commendation
Avords
and
love
have
ready for him.
Let him
sjjark of kindling light, till it
encourage
every
grows

XL

disciple :

np

to

When

light

his

he

before

modest

finds

tutor

error;

of his

to be

where

such

bi'ight evidence

let the
him

and

him,

take

lad

pert,

every

let him

set

and

convince

humble.

gives

one

contirmed

and

mistake, till he
and

the

sees

knowk'dge.

j^ositive,and

suming,
pre-

to show
just occasion
absurdity in com])leto
stration
him
l)y a fnll demon-

and

feels

it,and

h'aras

174

METHODS

XTT.

toachor

sliould

only ()l)S('rv"'tli"-difTfroTit
he
should
liis scliolars, but

not

spirit and

liunior

anionj^

watch

various

cfVorts

the

their

of

of thoir

He;

understanding.

nursery

Icainin^'

TEACfflNG.

OF

as

should

of

growth

in liis yoiin;;

practice

skillful

and

reason

in

"locs

gardener

liis

of
apply prudent methods
dominions, and
cultivation
to every
plant. Let him with a discreet and
the irre",Milar shoots
genlle hand nip or prune
; let him
and
tender
tiie
of
the
guard
buddings
encourage
understandinj^, till they be raised to a blossom, and let
him
fruits.
kindly cherish the younger

vcijctalde

The

occasion
to instill knowledge
every
his disciples,and make
of every
occurrence
use
should

tutor
into

take

it ; he
conversation
i)rolltable
upon
should
frequently inquire something of his disciples that
teach
thorn how
set their young
to work, and
reason
may
and
to form
to draw
inferences
one
proposition out of
"f

life to

raise

some

anotlier.

Xm.

Reason

he has

and

proper
and

deal

to

with

enlarge
opportunities
when

them

best

so

and

evidence

uncommon

any
or

to

be

it into

by

take

idea

is clear

strong.

formed,

strength

that
of

fre(|uent
fused,
con-

or

and

doubtful,

or

all

exercise,

should

an

or

which

endeavor

is evident

feeble

mind

the

And

by this

whatsoever

he

they will

reason

receive.

"When

moral,

will

He

when

proposition

minds

with

proposes

them

is

call

to

of it.

i)Owers

show

to

the

their

readily

methods

argument

an

means

the

faculty of
pupils, let him

in his

familiar

to

when

being that

political world,
their

make

reflections

of

his

he

own

invite

should

remarks

on

for

the

in the

arise

appearance

it, and

natural,

and

give

instruct
them

the

of

their

imi^rovement

minds.
XIY.

he

loves

He

should
his

by
pupils,

all
and

means

that

make
he

seeks

it appear

nothing

that
so

OF

much

their

as

affectioii

his

to

Aud

should

of

and

knowledge

aud

procure

their

will

acquiieiin'iits; this

his person,

to

iudced

obtain

those

of any

ciipijj;o

just

atteutioii

that

have

for

good

some

his

of infinite

and

unspeakable

parish

or

has

be

because

that
cast

of

of

him

hereafter

i^eople

his

conduct

own

he

injury

but

if this

wicked,

must

bear

the

to

to the

lies under

his

good by

no

th;it it is

minister

by

tempt.
con-

he

does

and

contempt

malicious,
ill

all the

and

and

quences
conse-

will

divine

i.s

the

to

labors, and

great

of

character.

way,

injury

the

by

they

the

by

the

him

men,

receiving

accoimtable

of

hear

upon

censures

it

procured

criminal,

reproach

the

teacher

degree

and

person

notice

where

hope

instructions, unless

take

of them

unjust

his

but

can

If he

souls

in

him

respect

town

doubly

little

not

matter

is but

success

hear

and

here

there

any

that

esteem

increase

] 7.")

STYLE.

lectures.

XV.

And

INSTRUCTIVE

all valuable

j^roAvth ill
their

AX

be

Judge

of all.
would

It
tutors

make

their

well

by frequent
should

tutors

to

necessaiy

obliged

are

studies
their

very

not

were

learners

and

be

go

seek

daily addresses

to

and
errors

God

of

this
for

Heaven

(if

thiit since

all

on

their

wisdom,

pious practice
the

of

success

instructions

OF

style

place

blessing

in

them

before

this

it before)

the

to

prayer

in

divine

XVII.

CHAPTER

I.

of

api^rised
to

add

The

most

fit for
easy.
in

AX

instruction
here

stylewhich

useful

and

necessary

And

STYLE.

INSTRUCTIVE

is that
1

shall

diminish

or

of

character

it be

plain, perspicuous

lirst

i)oint

out

destroy the

all

tliose

perspicuity

176

STYl^E.

INSTRUCTIVE

AX

OF

how

few directions
a
it,and tlion mention
perspicuous and easy slylo.
of

The

II.

1.

The

of

iise

JorcUjn words,
and
mingled

many

naturalized
which

speak

we

sciences

in

English,

English, names
learning; but

for

when

ficiently
suf-

the

with

in

language
teaching the
words

use

rowed
bor-

have
in
not
Latin; for we
belong to
variety of subjects which
all occasions, to
a man
affects,upon

and

Greek

the

from

l)y

not

are

sometimes

must

we

which

It is true, that

write.

or

avoided

be

must

obtain

iollow:

that

these

teachers, are

style, wliicli

of

errors

to

the ancient

from

words

bring in long-sounding

languages,

and other out landish

and mingles French
necessit}-,
serve
as
and phrases, where
terms
plain English would
a
well, he betrays a vain and foolish genius, unbecoming
without

teacher.
2. Avoid

sciences, where

various

Do

require the use of them.

occasion, nor seek
every
wor'ds

It would

pedantry.

affect

not

is

if the

well

be

do

matter

of

terms

the
not

art

on

ing
learning by sound-

toshowyour
j^hrases; this

dark

and

subject and

the

from

style,borrowed

fantastic learned

properly

quacks

alone

called

had

patent for this language.

3.

There

are

couii

; and

some

gaudy, and

only

lectures

the

of

poets has

too

much

into

and

distinct

poesy
urge

clear

is to
the

strike

passions

strong images, and

sort

of

inquirer

into

is another

calm
4.

There

is

mean

of

that

in

with

should

things:
a

the

or

not

of

language

lead

it to

only at

sounding

are

; the

instruction

of

tised

are

theater; these

metaphor
soul

mankind

business

glaring light,and

of
to

by splendid shows, by
of style: but it
pathetic vehemence

into
a

the

to

ideas

the

that

words
affected

peculiar phrases

belong

into

come

line

some

flame

speech that is best suited to lead

just conceptions of things.
borrowed
vulgar style,

from

the

the lower

AN

OF

of

ranks

that

persons

^itliin

the

supposed,
bred

up

they
would

create

the

An

obscure

and

and

and

confounds

by

or

and

great

natural

foolish

of

all their

these

parts,

and

of

conception

and

language, they

sul)ject
much

imitated

of such
A

6.

that

would

if too

the

know
many

perspicuity

en

with
into

before
12

lime
sub-

tlijwing

the

manner

drown

sometimes

such

under

their

preachers
the

papists

have

the

as

many

obscurity

his

ears

he

can

teacher,

of it.

happy talent for the instruction

divide
how
and
liis
to ilisenlaiigle
into
of them
are
ready to crowd
rather
let him
speak three sentences
and

which

his

sentence,

one

for

i^aragraph ;.and
distinctly and perspicuously,

one

thoughts

with

overwhelm

perplexity:

understanding

gain

thoughts,

in

the

lessens

must

once

and

blessed

ideas

is verj' improper
long and tedious stj/Je

of othei'S

at

clearness

discourse,
and

line

clouds

style.

for this also

He

of

their

buried

and

been

mystical divinity of
of expression,
manner

of

speaking;

lives,

of

torrent

of their

have

and

genius,

want

in darkness

prejudices, into

have

may

comprehensive

argument

have

persons

thinking

for

times

borrow

we

Some

them; yet

and

it

of expression and

manner

in upon

read

that

ideas.
of

some

own

sequently
con-

scullery, the dunghill,

the

some

them

with

their

Perhaps

their

be
been

not

it; besides

avoided.

be

unintelligible way

this continues

from

mysterious

is to

and

with

have

ideas, should

offensive

led by education,

dark

for it should

and
lan";;uai;(',

of such

understand

not

meanest

Jakes.

cloudy language
been

avoided;

libei-al education

for illustration

and
5.

of

can

characters',and

to be

hearing

very

similes

even

is also

177

STYLE.

tlie ba.sest

mankind,
life;this

affairs of

IXSTRUCTIVE

understand

the

hearer

soul, than

crowd

which

it.

the

hearer

receives
all
has

the
got*
for-

17.S

P"u(

tliis leads

was

to

IIT.
^vhit'h

INSTRUCTIVE

AN

OF

mention

methods

whereby

obtained

as

some

be

of style may
]K'iKi)ic'nity

T proposed,
lliiiij;

tlio, iicxi

lo

mo

PTYLE.

suclj

is proper

for

instruction.
1. AccuHlom

evidence, such
fast
as
understanding
and

write with great clearness

ideas

into

tongue

can

upon

the

style

with

it with

we

and

success.

are

as

this will

; and

with
and

tongue

your

which

words

and

Scribondi

recte

will

will

you

sapere

teaching

Good
Words

will

est et

rem

to

manner

easy

of

variation
to instruct
view
in

necessary

which

one

invita

Upon

this

those
so

ct fons

you
the

phrase

; it is like

sequontur.
dc

Poctica.

Art

springs;
good knowledge
to follow
things.

the

language which
and

idioms

the

to convey
in the

treat

ideas

needful

various

of

quaint
ac-

and

hearer

the

forms

turning

all sides

of

the

to

take

most
:

another

may

the
use

subject
in the

be

of

the

on

is of admirable

in several

not

speak,

you

special phrases

most

understanding

to

ideas

ful
success-

end.
account

I have

always thought

is used
wliich
instruction,
Take
some
they call variation.
of

your

haste

happen
; and if the learner
of speech, probably
form

for that

under

first made

has

principium

non

all the

yourself with
subject of

from

make

icell skilled in

are

all the

easily clothe

very

Jlor.

it, which

practice

have

and

view

mind

your

provisam

Verbaque

Be

the

itself.

to

easy

it ; then

to it in your

relate

that

sentiments

3.

imprint
leain

shall

we

or

eye

your

conversant,

very

of

yourself perfect master

familiar

imitation

their

convey

comprehensive Jcnowledge of the subject

make
all sides, and
it on
of, survey

treat

you

ideas

as

distinct and

command

sentences

of

habit

which

ease

which

their

over

run

mind

Get

2.

your

ir/io i/iiith and

fliosr antliors

rrad

yoKr.srIfin

in

some

plain

it

Latin
sentence

useful
schools,
in

the

manner

wliiih

English

OF

tonguo, and

IXSTRrcTlVE

AX

turn

it into

179

STYLE.

in

forms

Latin

for

Instance,
let
slieepfold will (lovour the shoep ; If you
wolf
tlie fold, the
into
wolf
The
a
sheej) will be devoured:
will devour
the sheep, if the slnei)fold he li'ftojieu : If the fold
be not
shut
wolf
will
devour
the
The
carefully, the
sheep.
into the
sheei) will be devoured
by the wolf, if it find the way
fold o^ien : There
is no
defense
of the sheep from
the wolf, unless
of
it be kept out
the fold : Aslaujjhter
will be made
amonj;
the sheep, if the wolf
Thus
can
get into the fold.
by turning
the
active
voiee
of verbs
into
the
and
the
nomiiuipassive,
tive case
of nouns
into the accusative, and
altering tbe connection
of short
adverbs
sentences
or
by dilferent
conjunctions,
and
with
instead
of the
by ablative cases
a preposition brought
insti'ad
the
of
sometimes
verits,
or
nominative,
by ))articiples
i)ut
A

let into

wolf

many

as

tlic

of the
of the
assertion
of the contrary
instead
negation
of speech will
be
thing first i)roposed, a great variety of forms

the

created

which

shall

Acquire

4.

the

in synonymotis

thing

same

effect with

happy

securing
ing tlie

will

this

add

of

of slwHening
long complicated period into
olheis

^^'heu

if

they

be

must

and

I know
as

to

take

no

united,

method
and

guilty of such
transhito
the

gust
dis-

let

so

then

long

by dividing
small

other

frequently inserted, do

it be doiu'

rather

may

appear

to

page

learn

of

or

an

at

least,

by conjunctions
like

hearer

to the

effectual

involved

iu

which, ichcrcof tchercin,

periods

some

ones:

sentences

distinct

they

or

what

author,

distinct
reader.

nieau

wlio

is

style, and
])arentlu"ti('al

plainer lOiiglish,by dividing the ideas or

asunder, and multiplying the periods, till

it into

sentences

may

three

or

give less confusion

now

your

tatitology, orrejieat-

two

as,

into

them

coi)ulative,that

sentences, and

same

foregoing
style,by

sometimes

two

by parentheses

divide

rather

tlie

in the

sentences

your

join

pronotms,

whereto, etc., and

you

and

connect

relative

by

one

of

ing
express-

attain

to

Let your

learner.

the art

Learn

5.

also

ofteu, which

too

of the

phrases

beauty

words

or

only

not

appearance

an

words

ear

terms,

its varation

from

you

same

the

it will

but

direction,

sense.

same

varietyof tear ds, i\"copiaverborum.

l)e rich

memory

the

express

180

CONVINCING

OF

laii^iia-xobecomes

llic

OF

TRUXn,

:in(l eiisy, and

smooth

intelligible

first rcadiniLC.

at

(J. Dillc

frcqncnlbj

which

subjects

are

to

yoioif/

and

new

diligent to incjuire whether

this
of

will

put you

s])(M'chin

convey

idea

your

unknown

THEil

I. When
iu

the

the

at

the

of

judgment

of truth

so

is such

there

in

delight
mankind.

for the

to

And
:

our

of

affectation

promote
here

found

of

be

their

which

as

lead

dutiful

in

our

tempts
at-

the

of

that

men,

us

to

promote
before

to

gard
re-

love

hearty

I mentioned

naturally

sincere

possible,

as

love

Yet

and
a

and

love

or

nature.

successful

far

mo?e

duty,

errors

disinterested
will

and

all

upon

much

honest

an

or

pi-oceeds

influence

is human
as

lishment
estab-

bringing

this

superior

Maker,

ourselves,

which

of

sense

LIVERING
DE-

religion

to

creatures,
a

OR

rational

and

of

would

we

that

and

truth, arising from

men

divest

truth,

methods

useful

us

acquire

to

TI.

if

3IISTAKES,

desirous

corrupt
be

to

of

convince

truth, let
pride and

and

honors

Now,
to

from

it does

thing

AND

it relate

fellow

our

vicious
a

pride

propagating

the

to

and

affectation

TRUTH,

j ust

sentiments

our

ANY

ERRORS

arrived

into

frequently than

seek

OF

an

world

from

hit their

can

opinion, whether
are
naturally
life,we

common

forms

XVIIT.

FROM

are

we

i)hrases and

your

PERSONS

OTHER

CONYIXCINfT

not:

or

you

be

capacity, and
uuder.standing.

till you
their

into

upon

and

them,

to

understand

they

CHAPTEK

OF

ignorant jtcrsonn

changing

upon

variety,

and

into

; and

and

zeal

the

best

it.
the

following

directions

may

be

OR

If yon

1.

DELIVERING

FROM

convinco

would

ISl

ERROR.

of

liis

mistake,
choose a proper
rent
concur
place, a happy hour, and the fitlcHt
circumstance
for this purpose.
Dp not unseasonably set
in the midst
when
him
lie is engaged
of other
upon
affairs,but wiien his soul is at liberty and at leisure to
hear

and

attend.

when

his

spirit is

of

seize

of life may

will

you

dark

and

from

which

life

of

his

to
or

Let

him

that

as

you

the

whole

best way

whole

more

trust

we

softestand
to cuncince

is necessary

to

far from

truth,

the

that

represent
and

what

he

ance,
ignor-

asserts.
own

your

for

up

him

and

him

assure

design

his

expose

love

person

your

yourself

you

of

him

io

friendshij) for

this

force

from

in

liim,

all

times

Truth

and

at

him.

an

seek

ai-gunient with

an

conduct

the

mouth

of

love.

address
f/entlest

them

set

on

particidar
and

in

are

the

advance

to

only

not

your

real

with

come

to

nor

entering

of

error

agreeable

to

well ; that

aim

your

do

that

aged,
rightly mansuccessful,

conduct

him

mean

some

There

if

of

pleasant.

; but

are

your

whom
The

that you

; and

wlien

argument
3.

your

disputant

demonstrate

one

by

it is not

interest

let

and

of mankind

instructor

but

easy

rather

truth

very

his opinion, nor

triumph over
his
incapacity of defending

character

words,

him.

much

his

throw

may

which,

person,

; but

upon

deliver

attempts

your

teach,

see

his true

heated

the

upon

consequences

fain

addressing

it appear,

would

or

rences
occur-

occurrences

tempora fa)idi,some

conviction

Male

is not

color

has

which

or

siil)jeet

any

some

aspect

him,

would

render

may

you

convince

moUisHhna

some

2.

favorable

unhaijpy

moments

and

oppoi't unity, when

you

with

opinion

contrary

that

uixm

or

of

defense

cast

not

discomposed
he
especially when

golden

some

which

rui'lled

person

liiiu

Aecost

life,and

in the

passions

of
to

that

to

the

"Sometimes

their

mistake.

your

opponent

you

would

/.sthe

erroneous

that

fain

he

draw

it

is not

him

182

f'ONVIXCIXG

OF

lilllo

that

says

is

tlie youn;^

Commend

it.

to

noarer

just

OF

and

and

tiuo,

"from

Imitate

the

the

"

lU'ar

when

convince

he

shocking

will

choose
if

opinions,

he

and

in

all

your

dare

in

come

wide

is to

be

tempt
at-

party,

iwssible;

as

convinced

and

maintain

into

yours

keep

to

who

their

to

as

who

person

not

can

Jesus.

persons

others

differenceappear

any
ratlier

you

34.

justice.

reconcile

to

as

our

12:

in

can

you

fatal mistaJce

and
the

make
iJu'i/

this is

and

truth

Mark
blessed

much

as

treated

far/' says

not

of the
as

him

to

great and

very

to

conduct

lio

eoneernin;^ tin*

heaven,"

opponent

yield

with

consisteuce

and

your

and

propositions,

of

art

wliatovrr

Saviour

well

Thou

kingdom

mildness

as

It is

bh'sscd

scribe, Avlieu lie answered

Lord,
Come

establish

our

as

^reat coniniandiuents,

two

TRUTH,

his

;
own

without

nouncing
re-

reasoned

thing that he believed

he flattereda little as well as
must
be able to come
the argument
may

at his

which

before.

abandoning

Human

nature

wnth, that so
understanding,

every

otherwise

will

l)e

thrust

off

with
and
nonsense
charge a man
absurdities, with heresy and self-contradiction,you take
a very
step toward
convincing him.
wrong
of
that error
is not to be rooted
out
Always remember
of man
the mind
by reproaches and railing,by flashes of
of sharp ridiwit and
cule
biting jests, by loud exclamations
our
: long
declamations, and triumph over
bor's
neighat

If you

distance.

will

mistake,
these

are
or

4.
grow

Set

signs

therefore
in

never

clear

and

confusion

which

has

it is calm

either

capacity

warm

and

of

bad

for the
a

the

prove

icateh

constant

the

at the

soul

bottom

undisturbed,

are

you

understanding,
in

of

or

over

i"aise

human

good

aware.

but

the

him
of

want

ments
argu-

one.

yourself,lest you
The
passions
darkness, clouds,

nature

of it

and

convince

to

way

cause,

defense

disputebefore

the

mud

not

it may

is like
be

clear

ideas, like

water

Avhen

pebbles,

OR

of

the

eyes

are

clouded

and

is

clear

so

ideas

light

before

conceptions

own

your

you

i)assion.

spirits are

own

your

in your

fire

same

just

so

heat

"with

wrath

your

and

and

uppermost,

all the

over

neiglibor, while

your

Besides, when
and

in

it is stirred

once

rises

darkness

and

si)reads confusion
not set things
can

when

mud

by passion, the

moved

aiul

183

ERROR.

; but

bottom

at the

bright

appear

FROM

DELIVEKIXG

this

awakened,

disturbed,

kindles

naturally

and

correspondent

little

the

him

i)revents

from

clear ; for his

so
they ever
ideas, were
of
passions are engaged all on a slidden for the defense
as
his own
fiercelyas yours
mistakes, and they combat
in

taking

your

do, which
To

perhaps

provoke

only

his

arouses

against

))iu,st treat

Jiim

to

all

there

why

between

is

disputants,

two

and

friend, if

or

would

you

of

are

great

one

either

on

success

jiersuade

is

this

side

writei-s,because

controversial

ready to interest their passions in

contest, and thereby to prevent the mutual

they

not

You

arguments.

; and

you
little

so

convince,

it

sets

from

thing

any

of truth.

side

would

you

instructions

your

the

on

against your doctrine,

well
as
against your person,

and

anger

opponent like

an

learn

reason

whom

person

its resentment

it directs

but
as

awakened

be

may

so

the

sul)ject
light that

either
side:
on
ambition,
given and received
zeal, reign on both sides;
indignation, and a i)rofessional
is j)relendt'(l
truth
victoiy is the ])oint designed, while
;
retires
the
fiom
in
the
truth oftentimen
and
perishes
fray, or
end
field of battle ; the
combatants
just where
they
opinions,
began, their understandings hold fast the same

be

might

this

perliai)s with
obstinate

more

and

andi'ooted

they generally

charit y

that

Avith

olT

nor

hoj^e

the

are

fresh

without

in them,

come

they
of

loss

Utile

reason

and

temper

T). Neither

mistake

disadvantage,

by

attempt
any

pe mil ineihods

to

or

convince
severe

usaye.

person
There

of

is

his
no

ISi

OF

f'OXVINCING

OF

TRT'TR,

li^'htbron;;lit into llu' iiiiiHl l)y :ill tli"' rirc and sword,
into
introduced
and bloody persecutions, that were
ever
the
would
think
both
One
world.
the
princes, tho
the
the Icarnc*!
and
unlearned,
priests, and the pe")])l"N
the

fijreatand

the

folly and

the

madness
of

laws

by the

of

cruelty

the

blows, because

by

should

mean,

by this time

all

and

ox

the

not

are

pow"'rs

truth

the

have

;iss

yoke

standing:
under-

no

be

to

seen

the

seeking to piopa^^ate
we
compel a beast to

intellectual

but

have

fettered

believe
what
Men
not
can
compelled at this rate.
they will, nor change their religion and their sentiments
be made
hypocrites by the
as
they please : they may
constrained
to profess what
of severity and
forms
they
with
be forced
to comply
ternal
exnot believe
do
; they may
sciences
concontrary to their own
practices and ceremonies
never
please God, nor profit men.
; but this can
should
convince
order
to
6. In
always
another, you
and

mahe

those

of

choice

nature, and

of

7.

as

clear and

by

are

cases,

and
8.
time

have

the

church

liy the

state,

persuade

to

of

derstanding
un-

ment,
governof

use

Gret*:

of

word

God, the light

of things.
in such
be proposed
a
to

perceive

constrain

to

as

the

Clear

conviction

the

ideas,
as

truth

in

in
sent
as-

many

well-formed

syllogism.

the

the

your

illustration

desire

you

person

into

declared

his

temper,

were

onward

towards

useful

to enter

couviucing

always

Jead the mind

unanswerable

of

reason

agreeable light,as well

of reasoning.
power

as

Allow

the

common

should

may

form

any

from

; but

tbe

Arguments

manner

and

attempted

be

not

fathers

Latin

of

truth

of the

it should

and

If

circumstances.

station, and

to hi.s

best suited

are

capacity,his genius

and

X^loughman

that

arr/umruts

force of
own

and

argumeuts,

to

arguments.

your

sentiments
enforced
you

are

instruct

not

in the
them
to

reawnable
When

brightest
with

suppose

you
ner
man-

the

most

that

your

.should

friend
truth

habitude

not

can

you

but

cj-iors

deteimine

with

Address
not

am

such
of

pain

thereforein

hhii

fond

so

lights

to throw

as

flunking,

])reseiitopinions
hint

improved
lead

may
effect
to

add

by

such

to

you

in

; all that

have

of

his

allured, by
to

much

as

teach

icoidd

lay aside

your

of

capable

some

being

possibly it

or

in time

as

hint

AVhich

to

leads

me

])leasureand

to find

seem

; and

teach

much

of

this

that

they

can

by itself

out

there

are

bias

natural

be

never

the

very

thing

persons

that

some

themselves

hereby

which

into your

to the

propose,

you
of
own

their

own

opinion,

till

error

if you

they
do

have

led
but

you

have

so

them

by

tlie

tliougli

tliey may

follow

to

and

that

in

contrary,

faces; but

be

ing,
reason-

mistake

gentle insinuations,

such

out

of

convicned

own

rooted

self

toward

you

may

its

strongest arguments
the demonstration
glare in their
thought

nature

i)ridein

I)lainestand

tempted, by

the person

vuikc

Human

instructor.

own

to

possible

as

secret

would

of

track

reasoning,

thoughts.

your

in

subject
anew

conviction,

own

train

the

say,

hope is,that

he

this

on

and

into

is

given

time

Labor

9.

to your

you

change

designs

or

please

take

further

placed
sudden

nor

least,that

immediately

you

which

other

or

on

you

to make

or

I have

think

to

as

of, and

ohl'igingmanner

an

arguments

your

upon

you
aversion.

or

sudden,

he would

large; at
speak yet

to hear

disposed

the

on

capable

at

again

over

without

subject

is

imj^artialityhe

these

be

reflect

; and

assistance

own

that

; but

once

scheme,

your

all the

would

at

well

accustomed

his

his

by

the

as

of nature

from

judge

to

thinking,

force

the

and

not

of

way

man

degrees

against you

think

to

wean

therefore

review

to

slow

him

entreat

to

expect

by

particular

thin"js,obtains

other

in most

as

in

receive

and

convinced

immediately

be

185

ERROR.

FROM

DELIVEEIXG

OR

be

track
wound

themselves
let it appear

186

OF

that

they

under

are

And

yours.

coxviNciXf;

tlieir

perhaps

there

dexterity

of

minds

of

otliers,which

they

follow

Mankind
from

is

of its

own

when

you

about

proved

will

bring

in

the

Vanillus
behaves

but

that

he

his

will

he shall

have

been

of

read
will

have

find such
of

the

up

one

do

distinction,on
the

question,

propositions in
of expression,

your

manner

and

terms

convinced, that
to be punished

now

phrases.
a

to allow

who

man

for

not

author

universal

liis

ligion,
re-

tolera-

he

him

pleasure

of your

prejudice

in

truth

reason.

and
doth

he

t)f the

is convinced
own

yet he retains
not

way.

instruct

to

truth

person

in

dice
preju-

some

yield to the convincing

have happy
sometimes
you
may
of that truth, by settinghim
to

writes

that

opposer,

is the
injure tlie state, which
Well, let Vanillus, therefore,

labored

tcho

the

not

it in his

arguments,

against
evidence

opponent

an

in

it in youi'

truth,

convincing

\ceak

to derive

every

manner,
useless

consent

;
to dress

leave

j'our

in

success

willing

of words

proving.
I am
glad

against it,so that

force

not

exprcHsed.

be

have

be

you
controverted

some

while

even

it shall

not

receives

is

whicli

When

11.

the

over

question,

in

it is not

and

ought

not

language

own

which

can

such

he

tlie state

I had

proposition

in

confess

in

yet

he

receive

of all religions

tion

more

tiling
at least to mingle something
derives
elsewhere
: therefore,
sentiment
in the fullest light,

form

the

and

will
well

it

frivilous

not

point

effectual

most

some

can

it
your

change

he

though

seem

set

sense,

main

though

what

acknowledge
a

discern

not

nicety with

it would

in

to

such

do

shows

influence

secret

thing, that

and

have

and

and

wliich

nothing

this

the

the

vain

so

with

purpose

is

than

{iiiidaiieerather

own

they

gain

can

another;
itself,
yet

from

than

TKrrir,

it.

soUciious

very

use

address

If you

10.

of

against it;

being
he
and

able

will

to

the

ments
argu-

his former

judices
pre-

the

and

this looks

another;

reader

young

answer

drop

yield

I confess

to overthrow

to

but

power

like

setting

where

pre-

OR

judiccs
the

DELIVERING

Avise.st and

this

place, by

"When

12,

way

contrast

of

of persons

truth,

any

we

is to

of

to

attempt,

Avhole

number

found

to

violejit

at

raise

proposal
never

AVe

Such

sudden

carry

his

must

{^xorviorQ

inteUlgcnt and

the

he

ichole

and

to

it

take

lead

tluMu

various

are

it is not

it,by addressing

and

has
has

been

made

the

the

ollen

producetl

fair,pious,

most

who

famiJj/or

therefore

method

alarm
to

that

so

truth

there

; and

effect

to

easy

opi^osition even

to

suj^pose

them

once.

and

convince

justly

so

nor

lind

mistake

any

may

reason,

prejudices.

reigning prejudices among

safe

reason

of

dint

pouictinus

will

for

design

our

communiiy
into

the

by

teachers

of

make

to

necessary

best

187

ERROR.

fairly removod

be

not

cau

FROM

and

ful
use-

could

motion

point.

firstmake
least

at

hamrdj

as

of the most
most
leading persons
apart prudentlj' and
as

sure

the

them, by addressing them

till they
offering proper
reasons,

among

can

ve

and

convinced

are

with
more
engaged on the side of truth ; and these may
to others of the same
conun
u n i1 y :
success-apply themselves
should
not
a
neglect to make
yet the original proposer
distinct
application to all the rest, so far as circumstances
admit.
AVherc

votes, he
then
and
very

should

take

the

first

matter

proposer.
So unhappily
if

on

human

truth,

forms, and

most

divine

the

clearest

multitude

are

and

good

justice,and
iVoin

situated

hcavcnto

prejudices

publish
are

and

move

again.-.tthe

goodness,

doctrines,
and

should

; and

(fUiished in the

lest it be

circumstances

descend

majority

persons

of

number

prejudice

some

our

useful

by

proper

public,

by

and

secure

most

in

evidence,

whose

determined

to

the

proposal

world, that

be

labor
that

care

argue

is to

thing

engaged

could

piopose

bring

them

in

at

this

put
the

wit ii them
once

to

against them,

188

AND

I'SE

tho

in'oposal

ARl'SE

bn

would

OF

eonxinee

art and

dexterity, tofiether

])ersua"le;so

nor

mankind

miracles

with

of

to

AUTHORITY.
AND

The

T.

opinions

our

of it is
any

in

person

it.

nurses,

called

world

Our
a

AND

ITS

OF

have

persons

authority.
from

is

scarce

sions
impresand

watchfulness

of

jjower

the

tutors, yea,

multitude

upon

The

there

that

free

their utmost
and

REAL

SERVICE.

entirely

parents

determine

AND

widely extensive,

after

furnished

conviction.

IT:

other

usually

the

OF

USE

which

and

it,even

avoid

to

is

great

so

of

PROPER

influence

to

reason,

came

create

ABUSE

THE

OF

we

join

XIX.

CHAPTEE
OF

of

force

unless

truth,

would

it is to

necessary

the

with

omnipotence

or

fruitless,and

uud

v:iin

neither

convinee

AI'TIIOKITY.

care

our

very

sentiments,

our

our

of the country where

friends,our neighbors, the custom
form
w^e
opinions of mankind,
dwell, and the established
our
belief; the great, the wise, the pious, the learned,
and the ancient; the king, the priest,and the philosopher,
of mighty

characters

are

what
dilferent

they

heads

nature,
head

of

efficacy to persuade

dictate.

of

These

prejudice,

and

be

may

but

may

be

they

are

reduced

to

this

to

us

ranked
all

ceive
re-

under

of

dred
kin-

spring

one

or

authority.

influences
of
acquainted with tlie unhappy
hook
his
!)""
Xatnrd
of
it
in
first
authority,
coniplain.s
"In
controversies
Donitn:
disputes and
(^says lie) it is not so
nuich
the autliorsor
patrous of anj* opinion, a:s tlie weitrht and
Cicero

well

was

and

force

of

argument,

autliority

of

those

whieli
wlio

sliould

teach

is

intluence

the

frequent

hindrance

wlio

learn, l)ecause they utterly neglect

judsrment, taking for granted whatsoever
have

reverence

what

we

learn

judged
from

the

for them.

can

Pythagoreans,

to

that

no

Tiie
those
to

their

exercise
others

by

mind.

whom

means

if any

own

they
approve

thing

as-

USE

serted

in

AND

disputation

ABUSE

questioned, they

was

189

AUTHORITY.

OF

wont

were

to answer,

that
himself
said
is, He
so, nieaniiif^ I'ythajjoras.
reason
prejudiee i)revail,tluit authority witiiout
was
and
truth."
to determine
estahlisli
to
disputes

I]"sc dixit,
far did

So

sufRcient

All

Imman

authority,though it be never
liath had
universal
sovereignty, and

it

though

learned

the

yet has

violation

and

of

influences

thence,
and

it be

Though
of

and

the

into

of

and

Parents

1.

younger

nature, and
innocence.

it would

is

with

Avilh

acquainted

judgment, and before

degrees of maturity

been

proper

child

ought

in

so

before
of

dictate

of

state

of

should

be

their minds

are

ideas,before
and

to

up

exercises

they

of just

rules

is grown

reason

and

is

children

that

should

they

Thin

principles

their

the

or

determine

what

number

any

inent
em-

their children in their

life.

for themselves

competent

will

or

have

impossible

callable of judging

three

authority

them

religious

doubtless

errors

of mankind.

instruct

and

of

are

wherein

jx-i'soiis must

and

civil

It

furnished

thousands

world, yet there

practice

derived

prejudices

appointed to judge for

are

years,

X)ractice in

the

evil

against the

guard

to

cases

with

caveat

is

nor

dominion.

pretended
and

ofyears,

truth

to

enter

introduced

the

oilier

judgment

to

necessary

remarkable

s"nitim('nts

are

its

it has

mischiefs

claim

all

swayed

thousands

some

manners

authority

because

lor

undoubted

good

decency against

II.

world

vulgar

certain

no

it any
due

and

ancient,

so

any

such

ujjou

subjects.
I will

not

impossibility
the

his

because

impossibillityappears

I say

he

ought

pai'ents, or
at their
to

(hat

say

find

lo

to

bids

him;

for

he

not

believe

it

can

to all the

assent

what

practice,before

he

he

yet

should
can

child

knows

believe,

false

and

possibly judge

fara"

so
:

or

any
what

for

will

nor

o])inions

muider,
not

and

nonsense

father

practice idolatry and

connnand
out

to believe

of

his

miscliicf,
better

he

way

should

himself, than

190

AND

USE

to

liis

to

mil

ABUSE

OF

parents and

AUTHORITY.

receive

their

sentiments

and

their directions.
You

will say

this

is liard

heathen

idolater,or a
necessity by nature

of

; I

nature

That

if the

of

indeed, but

parent should

jiarent judges ill,the child

from

by it;and

the

equity

and

it is the

the criminal

instances,and

ic'dl not

could

Besides, what
children

be

in their

and

care

of

goodness

their

are

folloM^
them

God,

in

before

for

the

; therefore

indeed

children

are

may

we

do

right :
child

the

those

to

to

the

commit

puerile

None

them

capable

to

of children

as

it

the

safest

to

law

of

is

better

any
of

the

to

happiness

original

is there

for

supposed

are

directions, their parents' reason

of their own
in
they had reason

their

nor

which

olTense

of parents?

happiness, according

of

law

punish beyond just demerit.

God, as a Creator, do better

concerned

parents

the

minority, than

instruction

much

so

of

nature

judge lor his child ;

is greatly exposed

reasonably infer,that the great Judge of all will

he will balance
the ignorance and
incapacity of
with

of

cannibal,is laid under a sort

sinning aj^ainst the light of

cruel

grant it is hard

nature, namely,
but

indeed, tliat the child

step

creation, to
acting for
ercise;
ex-

proper

general

rule

by

being governed, though

in

it may
far astray from
lead them
particular cases
virtue and happiness.
If chililren by Providence
be cast under
some
happier
opinion,
instructions,contrary to their parents' erroneous
children
I can
not
to follow
say it is the duty of such
their
it to be error,
because
when
error
they discern
I said before is to be interpreted
father believes it : what
many

only

of those

that

of their

capable of
freed

their

from

are

the immediate

under

parents, and

examination.

not

I know

receiving the dictates

youngest
inspiration.

years,

yet

except

not

of

by

care

arrived
how

cation
edu-

and
at

these

yeai*s
can

parental authority
immediate

or

be
in

divine

AND

USE

It

is hard

to

it

much

is

exerting his
When

and

childhood

reasoning
maturity,

arrive

are

standing
underof

capable

mnve

far

so

are

to

up

this

limit

to

ought

persons
of their own

religion

just

but

as

of

measures

begin

to

faith

the

that

expired

any

that

of life and

this

sovereignty
in

than

is

Perliaps

grows

and

powers,

grown

reasons

all the affairs

eliild

more

youtli

it is certain

the

is

tliis

child

years.

and

faculties

into

tlie

as

intellectual

own

that

suppose

cai)aeity,and

months

by

matter

to

l)y degrees,

and

of lifethe

time

sovereignty of parental dictates.

juster

diniiiiislios

131

AUTIIORITY.

OF

icliat exact

at

say

the

exempted from

ABUSE

quire
in-

to

and

practice

reason

does

in

not

and

self-sufQciencyin any single

of time, so there is no singlemoment
Avhen a child
moment
beliefs and practices;
cast off all his former
should
at once
but by degrees,and in slow succession,he should
examine
firm,
them, as opportunity and advantage offer,and cither condoubt
or
of,or ehange them, according to tlie leading of
and reason, with all its advantages of information.
conscience
at

When

and
power
Governor

their
God

set

lias
or

and

Creator

given

But

assent
to
men;

be

we

which

Another

of
us,

dictate

case

"wherein

determined

matters

////the

I confess

the
if

we

is

believe

declaration

have
and
others

to

given, less will

with

with

take

due

authority
offact. Here
is

person

religious life.
judge for himself, in

talents

withont

this

no

and

less

assert, and

they

is

dictate

to

justly chargeable

instructed

is in many

though

AN'here

are

improveuu'ut
others

to

leason

degi-ees.

gi'anted which
2.

man

there

whatsoever, that
by God, the Creator

men

practices in moral

every

lower

has

things

of

age,

authority gi^en them

of the
world, absolutely

required.

sloth

manly

at

society

or

oi^inions or

higher
be

arrived

are

we

earth, no

on

power

or

all
and

criminal

which

our

things

for

])iaeliceall

examination.
nnist
we

may

narratin'S

usually called

our

govern
and

ought

if

other

testimony

192
rather
sou

than

that

and

Biich

is by

such

and

though

did

we

that

in

been

never

Paris

sottish

and

cruel

that

in

tenets

there

He

as

many
mony
testi-

by

the

of

books

down

to
a

us

person

miracles

and

again

have

we

are

such

was

wronght

rose

is such

It is

religion.

that

He

cross, that

the

there

that

mony
testi-

persons

Christianity and
faithfully delivered

been
Bible, have
generations ;
through many
Christ
our
as
Saviour, that
on

such

that

the

died

there

perhaps

are

and

their

our

princt;

It is by

believe

there

Eome,

the

to

character.

; that

and

believe

we

them

to

of

laws

It

degrees of authority,
chosen, crowned, or

York, though

or

either

at

papists

subordinate

title and

the

deference

necessitated

are

at

believe

to

are

of othei'S.

dictates

by the

actually see

Canterbury

as

required to believe
their i)arents,for they

all proper

their

we

we

pay

not

with

invested

city

to

magistrates

to

of it

tliat ovcry

foot

this

are

are

persons

tliat

testimony

countrj', and

is upon

uiuoii;^ mankind

infornuid

be

never

can

AUTHORITY.

OF

aiifli""rity.It

daughter

or

ABI'SE

AND

USE

and

ascended

to

heaven.
The

if they
testimony of mnu
they had full opportunities and

mithoniy

honest,
knowing

if

truth, and are

in relating it, ouffhtto

deceit

the

icJicn multitudes
are

or

other

many

concur

the

VI

from

all
assent

our

sway

they

of

suspicion

of

to

the

even

in

matters

especially
there

when

which

dictate

an^

capacities

testimony, and

some

circumstances

attending

proposition which

free

wise

are

degree

raise
of

the

moral

certainty.
But

in

this

affairs of history,
the

dictates

testimony
several things
There

are

we

should

not

of tradition, and

the

testimony,

case,

very

and
and

of

which
to

have

till

men
are

lay
been

we

have

necessary
a

fact

pompous

all

pretenses

to

fairlyexamined
to

make

and

into

easily give

too

the

of

up

the

credible

for our
belief.
just foundation
so many
falsehoodsimposed, upon

USE

mankind

AND

\rith
that
of

male

should

And

the

the greater
itself,
the veracity of that

of

claims

be

to

The

3.
when
have

Ciuse

called

are

dictated

to

but

what

that

is of

matter

the

probable

do

fact

justly we may
it
testimony on which

wherein

authority

to bdicve

ichat persons

This

us.

of God

men,

the

truth

admitted.

last

we

picious
jiLstlysus-

signs of

less

nesses,
wit-

ear

evidence

testified is in
demand

and

esi)eciallywliere

importance.

and

eye

the concurrent

reports ; wiiere

considerable

of

wisely cautious

us

and

10.'}

AUTHORITY.

OF

specious pretenses

fairly ai)pear,

not

ABUSE

is not

Himself

must

nudcr

we

are

is

inspiration

authority of
obliged to believe

properly

; and

us

govern

the

at present
authority asserts, though our reason
other way,
the certainty
not be able, any
to discover
may
evidence
of the proposition ; it is enough if our faculty
or

of reason, in
authority which

discover
the divine
exercise, can
has
of
proposed it. ^^'here doctrines
revelation
divine
are
plainly published, together with
sufficient
are
proofs of their revelation, all mankind
not
bound
to receive
perfectly
them, though they can
is true
and
that God
understand
can
them, for we know
falsehood.

dictate

not

if these

But

God

which
dictates

When

must

faculties

given
are

us,

vain

I have
or

will

w";

may
to

be
us

for

reason

three

determined

classes
in

by
by

what

assuied
(iod

these

Himself.

authority to
oi)position to
they believe,

wherein

their

authority; that is the case of children

of their
commands
in regard of the
of all men,
with regard to universal,
13

well

amusement.

mentioned

be

of

directly contrary
understanding and reason
are

really influenced
mysteries in plain

pretended
and
yet pretend

is but

dictates

revealed

never

persons

reason,
HI.

has
were

believe

this

pretended

natural

the

to

its best

in

mankind

sentiments, by
their minority,

])arents; the
and

complete,

case

and

194

AND

USE

snflficiciit

and

revelation,
of

each

with

person,

every

as

have

were

other

some

men

to

thouj;liwe

are

jiroceed
we
ought

divine
under

to

of

and

absolutt'ly (concluded

great

pay

sentiments

and

and

mention

to

now

of

case

of

authority

authority

not

the

divinely inspired ; and

limitations
such
given some

wherein

the

and

fact;

the

to

necessary.

cases

deference

of

matter

regard

of
I

these

cautions

of

teslimony

AUTHORITY.

OF

ABUSE

others,

determined

their

by

opinions.
1. AVTien we
begin to pass out of our minority, and to
of civil and
religioas
judge for ourselves in the matters
life,ice ought to pay very great deferenceto the sentiments of
natural
in time of our
our
our
minority were
parents, who
of
So in matters
guides and directors in these matters.
unexperienced youth should
science, an ignorant and
great

pay
and

he

though
which

to the

deference

justly suspend

may

his tutors

dictate

of

opinions

be

of those

his

judgment
perceives sufficient

till he

for

Persons^ofyears and
when
they give advice
conduct, ought to have
authority by
the

seen

persons
3.
much
and

In

should

tutors

evident
or

sons,
rea-

conscience,

concerned.

world,

in the

the

affairs

deference

piety.

of

in matters
a

those

for it is

are

in human

long expeinence

2.

their

in matters

them, yet neither parents nor

great and most
directly opposed without
the understanding
such as constrain

evidence

iastructors

his

considerable
that

are

prudence

young

to jx't'sons

confess, in the

paid

and

have

the

i:)robablethat

more

forms

in

and

to

not

elder

should

of long standing

particular

civil

or

deference

right.
of practicalgodliness there

paid

affairs,

be

vitiue
monies
cere-

bigotrj^ and
religion,there may be as much
old
the young
the
as
superstition among
tions
; but in quesdevotion
of inward
or
virtue,
religion,and pure
who
has been long engaged in the sincere practice
a man
of

MAXAGIXG

OF

of

these

things,

with

youth

3Icn

have

justly presumert

all liis ungo

al)Out

prejudices
4.

is

several

all

their

is due

those

matters.

In

of

paid

according

to

confess,in
is

mere

draw

is of

they liave
be supposed

and

paid

have

to

then'fore

their

judgments

in

is not

suflicient

timony
tes-

to

there

tliey

employed

; and

assent, yet there

our

of

degrees
of

many

to be

ought

due

ttise and sober,

of persons
their honesty, skill, and opportunity

these

therewith.
where

cases,

the

of

spe"iulation,and
practice along with
it, wo
matter

till better

assent

in wliich

mis

others

acquaint themselves

to

than

more

the nnrratires

to

the

be

to

fact,where

to constrain

deference

must

skill than

respect

matters

in whieh

days,

and

greater knowledge
there

know

passions, appetites,

and
profrfisirnis

echicated, and

themselves

5.

veined

to

liim.

in their

been

195

PEEJtJDICES.

evidence

; but

api^ear

doth

tion
proposinot

sarily
neces-

delay

may
where

our

tlie matter

practical nature, and requires us to act one way

deference
to aulliority
another, we
or
ought to pay much
such
or
we
testimony, aiul follow
prol)abili(ieswhere
have
no
certainty ; for this is the best lightwe have ; and
surely it is better to follow such sort of guidance, where
we

have

can

absolute

better, than

no

uncertainty.

our

caiullc

the

light of sun-beams.

and

It

to wander

is

sit still in the

OF

TREATING

I.

If

we

with,

and

would

then

AND

had

dark,

that
be

THE

but

reason

were

matter

of

because

fluctuate
to
we

in

])ut out
have

not

XX.

MANAGING

nothing

reasonable

not

CHAPTER

and

the
jjure

uo

PREJUDICES

reason

and

great skill

of

OF

men

MEN.

lo

deal

uncorrupted,
or

labor

to

con-

it

196

or

vinco

anotlier

liim

1o

stands

himself

and

is

the

seliools,like

of

the

follies of men,

through

all

their

acquaintance

and

enchanted

with

interest,together
and

and

he

is

He

finds

his

steel

manage

he

must

the

strength

the

weapons

of his

subdue

to

to

his

authority,

old

and

the

of

opinions
at

much

address,

or

and

tt'Jii]"ts.

he

but

with

errors

men,

of

sharpness

arm,

reason

skill

artifice, with
able

trust

of

with

passions

their

to

sions
preposses-

in his generous

not

to

be

from

t inl h

meets

education,

defend

to

and

and

besides

light and
he

but

various

strangely disappointed
that

opinions

fuith

goes

castles, strong

all the

obstinate

now

trenched
en-

arguments,

strong

to scatter

mind, habits, customs,

of

never

and

furnished

has

worhl,

alas

and

of llu'ir

Avho

and

the

]Jnl

liiinj;else

some

truths

lis.

knight-eiiant, jiiesuming bravely

vanquish

armed

by

persuade

to

or

errors,

one

every

with

yet unacquainted

giants

in

bright genius,

variety

but

huge

round

[;narded

young

witli

()l)vi()ns 1 ml

wrapped

and

reason.

mistakes,

and

piejudices;

snppoiled

the

common

plain

to

in
is

of

person

assent

mankind

MANAcixr;

must

terity
dexhe

shall

convince

to

"

mankind.
11.

AVhere
methods

several

1.
out

their

of

])ersons

into

enter

prejudices

their

By avoiding

any

all the

his
at

and

the power

and

degrees leading the

which

and

make

there

in order
a

these

are

convince

to

for truth

way

to

mind.

upon

soft,and

sentiments

own

mistakes

direct attack

slow,

practiced

be

to

strong,

are

it ; and

distant
your

person

prejudices

of the prejudice irithinjhtencc

would

this

is done

methods

arguments

of
for

by choosing

proposing

not

bear

if

and

them,

step by step into

those

they

your

by

truths

were

posed
pro-

once.

Perhaps
and

the influence
neighbor is under
bigotry in the simplicity of his

your

of superstition

soul

you

PREJUDICES

must

show

him

though
but

the

; and

upon

him,

bear

; and

then

and

bear

not

according
thence

our

how

reasoning,

the

as

degrees, lest the infant

back
again, if poured
so

good, and

your

We

endeavor

prejudices

truth

advanced
When

of
to

but

the

they

will

success

leal
in

our

our

slow

by

it all

return

he

wine

it

bestowing

which

you

ever

it with

pour

the

overset

sooner

on

indidge those prejndicesfor

rise up

truth

endeavors

to

practice this complaisance

the

against

in

and

tmith,

against

arms

we

as

and

if

convince
for the

conquered
the

safely

can
we

the

benefit

world,
of

yield
do

have

wonld

at

evidcnci*
and

allowances

some

prejudice.
he

not

ean

far

the

out

wear

mankind

to

injuiy

by

by degrees, while those

allowed, till by degrees the

truth, there we must make

them
for the present, as

without

; but

truth

of itself

itrejudices
of

the

and

expressly
may

from

manage

drink

in

will

you

merely

received

be

thus

liberal

stand

to

seem

are

eye

wine.

introduce

to

to

tant
dis-

at

of others

choked, or
hastily. If your

month,

narrow

able

force, and

child

bottk'Anto

expresslyallow

may

which

season

once,

fill it with

than

bottle
2.

has

; and

so

ever

are

their

be

in too

neighbor, yet if his

freedom,

you

should

this makes

arguments

our

gives

nurse

tlie

diseased

or

likely to

are

with

converse

impression

conviction

they

have

once.

of

immediate

the

we

persons

at

notions

own

regard

light

his

confirm

to

tender

to consider

not

are

expect

should

the

we

to

of

the

establish

degrees as he is
the work, perhaps

on

carry

deluge

Therefore,

we

must

and

and

irhat

slow

by

glaring light ;

projiositious which

mistakes

HiJenthjobserve

and

opinions,

own

in

dintance

ea^sy

his

his

them

set

of conversation

seasons
can

and

proceed

you

to

violence

with
of

folly

or

at
h""(jin

refute

to

him

upon

abUi

familiar

some

tendency

truth

be

rather

must
to

run

absurdity

might

you

you

assent
a

immediately

not

197

MEN.

OF

we

mankind.

it
any

must

198

or

studont
Pciipatotics, and

who

sulistaiitial

forms

to

lir"',
water,

etc., and

operations

or

Take

nniversal

and

be

them
believe

the

by
shapes,

yiild

in

these

up

and

and

at

situations

of

pervade

liodies, to

nature,

and

in"leed

fancies.
the
the

of
the

and

tlien,

and

of

witli
and

tlie

jrivc

to

may
strain
con-

one

liis notion
how

them
various

sizes,

allowing

matter,

in

act

let the

with
teach

time

same

)notion,

solve"l,

be

Well

otlier fr"" ""n

parts

in

concourse

may

inuiidi,

iin'initi

an

it
special poweis
; perhaps
these
and
by argument,
persons

laws

nature

jiroperties ami

all its

l)elieves
all

their

to

original

divine

to

soul,

forms,

and

prinfipli^sof iho

their

convince

to

certain

ances

world

and

liis universal

substantial

of

I'latonist, who

according
to

the

iiiiniatfrial

iiihaltit every
to 1)0 llioHprin)^ of
a

nature

hard

very

iiuliilx-d

ln-injis called
herh, flower, mineral, metal,

of

soul

their

dwply

has

iiiia";iiu's certain

take

them

hy

them

TIIK

MAXAfJINU

tinued
con-

all, the several

ai)peartlie variety of effects iiro-

duced, accortlinyc
corpuscular ])hilosophy improve(f by
Isaac
Xewton
when
Sir
Descartes, Mr.
Boyle, and
they
; and
of skill in this science, they will see
these
attained
have
a degree
of theirs, these
to be Houseless
imaginary powers,
airy notions
will
that
them
of
their
and
own
acthey
drop
unnecessary,
will vanish
from
the mind
like a
c )rd : the
Peripatetic forms
soul of the
world
will expire.
and
the Platonic
dream,
the

to

words

and

form

of

doctrine

great

he

phrase
he

if those

Is'ow

can

not

in his

on

do

(as

rule

only

should
with

prejudices
make

it

as

the

and

necessary

omitted,

the
him

will

indulge them
Scriptural sense,

mistaken

far

of

this

of that

doctrine

words,

that

he

is lost.

doctrine

part with

little, and

rather

liis

try to
let him

than

ideas.
there

proper

possible) applied
be

never
reason

zeal

an

some,

of

means

to
a

in

explains

the

by

possibly persuade

it is most

grant

Avords
this

in

lie

and

particular

is educated

man

form

his

are

of

false idea

very
to

words

terms, I

exiilaiu them
go

bigoted

imagines
improper

Gospel,

imbibed

so

speech, whereby

of the

has

is

if I

Suppose

practice,

same

fondness

prejudicate

phrases.

unhappy

yet

is

there

"where

of the

instance

another

give

may

for
that

sliould

to

dispensed
of

some
we

mankind

party
should

ditferent

with, if
:

but

ideas; and

them

had

we

their

i)hrases

lead

different

be

to

various

sometimes
into

truth

OF

PREJUDICES

under

the

rather

of

covert

than

woukl

in

raise

such

conviction

wkleh

under

we

and

with

the

he

desire,

those

animals

In
h-'r

the

tliat

tban

were

and

their

him

of

some

his

upon
true.

is forhiddoii

and

own

This

is

way

o\

to

sort

law, though

manner

Tenerilla

myself

for

not

liim

no

faiu-y

and

do

that

tln'

; and

did

physician

tell him

of food

was

beUeve

may

I"y liis

tliem

it could

persist in
life,I Avould

his

of

eat

\\\a

it tiiat

which

llcsli

jjrovided

were

because
upon
him

kt

prejudiees

very

i.i another

earnestly

danj^er of
stran"rled,

the

to

the

him

rabVtits

desired

same

Sunday.
it

At

slie)the
death

that

forbidden
that
law
is

law

of

broke

of it, and
thoughts
thief
were
coiulemiud,

lie nuist
law
Knglish
Gixi, in the Mritings

prosecuted,
on
Smulay
that

Kxod.

HI:

Tenerilla,

M;

Numb,
she

used

of

the

lawfulness
that

all wine

withliokl

means

same

wiiu'

to

shall

the
of

excess,

to

law

same

surely

be

liuU

us

when

appetite
convince

him

from

l"y
him
excess.

that

of

ought

w;is

mitted
com-

Moses

i)Ut to

quires
re-

death.

prevailed

argument

"

with

prosecution.
-when

conviction
and

heard

jileasure of druidvcnness
bis own
i)rophet ^fahomet
and
his followers,
thegooil
this

theft

the

aiul

him
vicious

to

that

the
This

b"): ;"').

consented

drink

cording
ac-

(said
hanged, whereas
Moses, doth not appoint

mind

now

S;iltbath-I)reak(

Mahommedan

otherwise

morning:

the
an"l

Kncrates

])Ut

in

her

n--

be

"

be

on

the

the

if

open

Damon,
house

their

of such
be the punishment
criminals, but tells
tlieft.
Kxod.
lint
for his
sliould be sold
I'l: ;^.
convince
her that the thief
could
not otherwise

thief

his

she

to let

jiersuaded

to

Damon

the

first

thief who
abhorred

utterly, because,
to the

to be

was

liusi)and, prosecute

fused

words

al)olished.

now

an

men.

fever

impatient

rathir

.Jewish

the

of

hi' insisted

and

Surely

that

by

whereius

to convince

with

hominem,

hcarinsj:

family,

became

liim,

permit

and

to render

though tlicy AM-re

as

lies sick

l)Ut

of

hurt.

speecli.

obstinate
:

as

of

in order

prejudices of

the

Jew

8upposoa
pliysiciau
8Ui)p")se

Ihem,
use

art^ue

ad

argumentuni

dinner

die

of

tlieir ohl-establislied

make

labors

professed principles
dealing

and

mistake

within

may

person,

particuhir truth,
called

forms

hopek'ss.

Sometimes

3.

of

them

tiunult

live

to

dangerous

any

deprive

to

beh)ve(l

own

them

permit

unconvincible

attempt

their

lOf)

MEN".

superstition,
drunkenness

when
was

him

he

saw

; Kncrates

had

nuiintain

utterly

minded
re-

bidden
for-

restrained

man

be

could

unlawful,

not
nor

200

When
niistakc

will

and

opinion
likely
I
of

be

But

in

by

left

to

all

speak

lives

in

sui-ely
for

we

allure
But

be

by

after

all,
is

make

to

this
a

into

we

best

the

person
better

jiart

to

childish

of

and

remove

the

entrance

humor,

necessarily
with

seutimeuts.

some

of
or

be

their

wliat

practice

from

truth

pursuing
shadow,

beloved

or

happiness.
it

those

out

into

indulge
done

is

they

as

wheresoever

root

hut

reasoning,

true

own

that

to

are

all

persist

solemn

their

to

be

to

deaf

reasons

act

than

Thn/

them

conclude

palliate,
must

them

terrors

must
to

all

overawe

sugar-plum

reject

such

may

obstruct

than

sometimes

we

bj^

them

rather

and

by

they

since

and

continue

evidence.

all

persuade

to

ruin

which

to

perverse,

judge

otheis,

and

errors,

si::e, and

interest
to

it

blind

try

own

done,

])ernicious

of

sense

reasoning.

silly,
to

fess
con-

influence

of

jtoor,

persuaded

the

that
I

usinf;: any
art

the

use

reason.

the

of

sinee

jx-rson,

of

that

be

minority

may

own

better

for

larger

hearken

their

is

to

than

teach

should

their

their

will

it

and

argument

of

would

in

wander

children

him

to

this

authoiity

or

fa\orite

ashamed

veneration

that

know

we

sonu-times

more

creatures

aright,

needful

much

cases

some

obstinate

of

while

authority

is

sentiment

regarded

almost

am

it

authority

to

the

to

name,

and

take
mis-

if the

especially

reason,

pernicious,

or

hearken

favoiite

some

all

to

in

oli.stiiiatcly p"'rsistinf;

person

injurious

very

person

any

oi)])()sition

in
be

is

find

wo

iM;F,.n'i)iri:s.

MA\A(a\(;

OF

error,

dices
preju-

the

mind,

them

before

can

you

and

and
can

lead