THe end of the Creation seems to contract unto all men these two duties; to know, and to learne; First, to know Gods will, Secondly, to learn to Obey it: The want of the first, will not excuse our neglect of the last; we cannot serve God without the knowledg of him, nor know him unless we learne; for man was born for knowledg. It was the Devill at first, that perswaded Adam, by his soliciter Eve, to value Knowledg at a greater rate then an Apple; and ha­ving gain'd us this advantage by so deare a purchase, he now thinks it as good Logick, to perswade us to be ignorant: and we may a little guess, what a value nature hath set upon Knowledg in the minds of men, in that Adam would venture to know upon pain of Damnation. Oh that he had never been so forward a Pupill to so subtil a Tutor! He learnt to know what we may all wish had never been known; Yet may we now sound those depths by al­lowance, [Page]which he to doe, broke the Royal Command; there's now no Scilla on one hand, nor Caribdis on the other, to break this priviledg; no Law to dock the Entail of this so Costly an In­heritance; We are privilidg'd to learn without sin, that which before contain'd a world of sins; and oh, that we could know how to learne the right Improvement of so Rich an Advantage! that we could arive to the All of Knowledg, even God, and our selves. now if Learning and Knowledg be the threds, which lead us through the most knotty parts of Divine and Humane Affairs; what need is there then to acknowledg them our greatest Riches; the best Counsellers and Advisers, in our greatest businesses and deepest straits; accounting all true worth epitomised and envellop­ed in them. They seem to be born as if they were twins and ought not to be seperated; yet for methods sake, we must unlink the chain, and place them in their proper stations: for I think our unhappy predecessor, learned to know, before he did know to discern between Good and evil: to dissect therefore my under­taking, I will first begin with Learning in it self; then with Know­ledg, without the acquisition of University Learning, then rivet them together again, and see them in their issues and producti­ons in generall; and therein, first of Divine, then Humane Know­ledg: The great esteem the wisest and best men, alwaies had, and still have, of them; Their excellency, and that above Riches or vainer pleasures; The Honour and advantages accruing to the possessors of them; in fitting men for the Government of them­selves, and their Country, either Millitary or Civill: The ma­ny and main evils they prevent, as they are Antedotes against I­dleness, and a supine life, the Roote of all: Then of the difference betwixt them and Ignorance the only Coine currant amongst beasts. Lastly, the severall parts of Learning and Knowledg, in particular: wherein first and principally, that of God, that Divine knowledg treasured in that sacred Book, is chiefly to be studied: and may serve as an Imprimater to all other studies; and which no doubt, if well poised, will bring us to the knowledg secondly of our selves: and of this as we stand related to God; then to the world: especially the advantages, of the Countrey wherein we live, and that by the several parts of Humane study, as History, Poetry, Law, Physick, Mathematicks, &c. And all by the favourable aide and knowledg of Books, which are treasured up and set in[Page]order for the use of the Learned and studious.

Now In earnest at the entrance, I am affrighted to think of what I have undertaken, since I am so little able to perform what I promise; especially considering that I have not so much as the parings of Learning, nor capable to be an Apprentice to the Inqui­sition of Knowledg. I can only with children admire what I cannot comprehend, and greedily wish for what I think so well worth admiring; and if I speak my mind frankly of things not within my own jurisdiction, I hope to be censur'd only, as I manifest the proportion of desire; of insight into the nature of things, rather then to take a measure of them. A Blind man indeed cannot judge of Colours, yet do I think a distanc't sight is here on the ad­vantage ground; and it's not accounted a good eye that must have the object drawn too nigh it: the Richer lusture the scarlet hath, the more it admits only of a transcient veiw as the best triall; Howsoever, if I doe err, sure it's on the better side, for that it's a Rule given in Politicks, rather to speak well, then ill, of things or persons: and if weakly done, it's the more pardonable, because my own, without the ayde of better helps. I stand upon stilts, and may on anothers shoulders see what a taller cannot: For my own part, I think this Catalogue loaden with Riches, commands me to baite the entrance, with somewhat which may probably pull in some to seek after Knowledg: and though I am conscious, that some may justly say, I doe with unlearned bold­ness, seems to warp more then I can well weave, yet doe I choose rather to run the Censure of the best, in craving their pardon, then neglect the many advantages, I propound may ac­crue, to the worst. I aim at the white, and if I hit it not it's nere the worse shot.

It's not my intention, by an Appologie, to darken their lustre, which indeed shines not with borrowed lights, but stands upon better propes cut out of themselves, then can be lent by any; though I think truly, I could not say so little in defence of Learn­ing and Knowledg, were I to defend them, as the baffling pretenders to Ignorance speak against them; their very names, advances their worth, above the darts and dints of envy it self: yea says one; they are tacitly commended by their enemies, whilst they are proud of that little Learning they pretend to: my taske, is only to shew, the great advantages, of Learning and Knowledg, &c. which I have al­ready [Page]anatomized: And first of Learning, which, one saies,L^d Bacon Adv. is the per­fection of Reason, the only distinguishers of men from beasts; deli­vering the mind from wilderness and Barbarisme. It is Religions handmaid, the great honour and accomplishment of a person or nation, the most universall and onely usefull instrument that God vouchsafeth to the sons of men. Of Learning in general It is an excellent Drug, to re­duce mans wilder nature (for that nature without learning is blind) softens our ruder dispositions, making them pliable to the choicest desires; banishes levity, temerity and insolency; extir­pates vanity. Cato misses not the mark.

Learning, is a thing confin'd, yet not limited, for all may be sharers if they contend for it; the nature of it, of such a diffusive quality, as it fills all, and the more a man hath of it, he is wise­ly ambitious to purchase more; of other things, whereof a little gluts, here a great deale, doth but excite and quicken the appe­tite; like a man in a dropsie, the more he drinks, the drier. Methode for Sciences. This is that, which is the porch to that Beautiful and Spacious fabrick of Knowledg, by this, a man is taught the art of Diveing, into all the secrets of Nature and Art; this gives us with the Bee, wings to range for knowledg, and ravish the very hidden misteries of Divine and Humane things: we may joyne with him that saies; the Rarest and most understanding men have avered, that all we know is nothing, to things that are unknown to us.

Now though Learning be of such singular advantage, yet are not all men the wisest that are learned, no more, then all that have learning are wise; and yet the wisest of men are such as are learned, and without learning they could not be so. There is I say, learning without wisdome and sound knowledg; our times produce such monsters, as we see are filled with parts and learn­ing, and can (as one saies) utter their Complaints in Greek and Latine, or begg in half a dozen Languages; yet are not so much as fitted in any measure for their Country, unless to devoure[Page]the fruits thereof; and many such have been lopt off from pub­lique imployment; For, though Learning in it self be good, and many men are found great engrossers of it, yet are they not bene­fited by it, nor advantage others in wisdom and knowledg, to which Learning seems only of worth: These are only great devourers of Learning yet like great feeders, are for want of good digestion (by a retentive and understanding faculty) like Pharaohs lean kine: whom One well calls,L^d Mountague Essa. Letter-strucken-men, knockt on the head, dazzel'd with learning; Only some parts of literall doctrines floating up and down their braines, They know the Theory of all things, but you must seek who shall put them into practice: and many there are, who only aim at the name, desiring only to be accounted Scholars, yet are the broad Butt of knowing men to shoot at; they are but at best learned fooles: and you may partly know them by their jangling bels at the top of their fooles Capes, their heads: which as One well saies, is the Cockloft of these Learned build­ings, for they are the shallowest Rivers which make the greatest noise: and I had rather be no Scholar, than a meer Scholar; for as One that knew well, saies:M. Go [...]t Essa. Bare learning, though of the best kind, is but a map of Happiness, and no Real felicity.

Of Knowledg without Learn­ing.Now there is a knowledg in some men, who though they want the Education of Learning, yet are not only accounted, but even valued, at the Rate of Wise men; There is I say, a knowledg be­low the name, and that never advanced, to the threshold of Learning, and this is improved by the study and habit of Books; for Naturall abilities, saies One of no small abilities:L^d Bacon. Essa. are like natural plants, that need pruning by study; then he conlcudes, that reading makes a full, Conference a Ready, and writing an ex­act man: what must he then be, that reads, Conferrs, and writes? to such, I would very much commend the use of Books, the ad­vantages of them are spacious and wide. These I say thus accom­plished, are not less a glory to themselves, and honour to their Country, than a shame to such as by their university-study, are made Capable, to attract a greater part of knowledg to them­selves, than seems possible, to be acquired by others, who have only the Auxilary aid of Books. Now what great pity is it, that such as Range, and turne diligent free-booters, to seek after knowledg, should have missed of the best ends, to attain the very perfection of it. By this wee see how fortune distri­butes[Page]unequally, in giving advantages to empty braines, whereby those that are best fitted for the greatest Improvements, and Im­ployments, wants the help, which others have too much of, not to be even better than the best, by arriving to the perfection of all kind of knowledg. I cannot therefore reckon it of small use, that such minds as are intended for study, should be boared as they do with mines; for if aptness, and fitness, were dived into, wee should not have so pitifull effects, by forcing of mens minds to be scholars, because rich; when those whom nature ha's adopted to be frank engrossers of all learning, should be stifled, and crush't in their ripe conceptions; and because young brothers by birth, they must be alwaies, and in all things, kept so. This is to clip the Wings of Industry, and like the spiders webb, proves only a net to entangle the Industrious Bee: upon this ground it seems to be, that Antipater demanding of the Athenians, fifty of their Children for Hostages, was thus replied; They valued their Countries Education so much, that rather than part with such a number of plants, they would double it with twice the number of Men. Let us not therefore rob the latter of it's due, above the former; because they spend on the stock of their Natural abilities; being greedy pursuers of that which others are forced upon; the one fals in by accident, the other acquired by the sweat of the mind, that which a man seeks after, is sweeter than what is found, it tasts like venison of ones own hun­ting.

We see there is learning without knowledg, and knowledg with­out learning, that there is a good, distinct in either; yet do they grow and have alwaies flourished best together, therefore to spel a Right man, is to joyne them together; and so they become rare and excellent Qualifications, Ennobling the minds of men, making Capable of the vastest comprehensions, and fit for the largest Employments; they must needs be well furnish't that have two such principles, to adorn and Enrich their minds. Whether (sayes one)Cornwallis Essa. a naturall man speak in his best, I can but say Witty; there my commendation is at a full point: but the mind and tongue, steeped in true understanding, incident to learning, hath wisdome for his Reward. Therefore those that want learning, yet are full of knowledg, should study, a little to be acquainted, with that which is such a foile, as well as a guard, to defend knowledg, and[Page]then they shall be able not only to know, but to know what's best; for many men know enough, yet are no better, unless they have the Knowledg of that which is most worthy to be known. Of Divine Knowledg. The foord thus sounded, we have a more easie passage to the partitions of Knowledg, which are Divine, and Humane: and first, of the True Worth and Excellency of the Knowledg of God, which is, the Summum bonum, the chiefest of studies, which indeed is superlatively above all. Spiritual Knowledg is a thing in it self, above the span of our slow capacities, but that it's Gods great condescension to stoop and teach us; For all things are from him and by him, every good and perfect thing is from above, from the Father of Lights. This is the knowledg that speeds our passage to Eternal Glory, that is the shortest cut to Immortal Happi­ness. This is that Knowledg, which hath not only the stamp of Gods Command, but also the Seal of his approbation; the study whereof, is usually accompanied with his Divine benediction. Aristotle could say, The Knowledg of Divine things, is the head of all other Sciences. And whether can Knowledg better bend her force, or Learning her power, than to break a passage into the Mysteries of Divinity? We need not erect an Altar with the Athenians, to the unknown God,Act. 17.23. unless we will be behold­ing to our own ignorance. Blessed S^t Paul gives the Garland to this Knowledge, and that with an Emphasis, and from the testimony of his own experience; For (saies he) I account all things dung and dross in comparison of the Knowledg of Christ Jesus my Lord. To know God, and Christ whom he hath sent, is to know all things; and to know all that is to be known, without the Knowledg of God in Christ Jesus, is to be a beggar in Knowledg I may well say, that the Knowledg of God in Christ, is the Philosophers Stone in Divinity; by it we may turn all events into golden advantages to our souls. When the wisest of men advises to Knowledg, What is it less, than Christ himself under the Metaphor of Wisdom? He thinks it of great advantage, to spend the morning of our daies in seeking after this hid Treasure, this Pearl of price, that to sell all for the pur­chase is the safest bargain: Prov. 3.13, &c. Happy is the man that findeth Wis­dom, that getteth Ʋnderstanding! Wherein is this happiness? The merchandize is better then fine gold, all things desirable not to compare with it; length of daies in one hand, riches and honour in[Page]the other, her waies pleasant, her paths peace; happy he that can get and keep her. Nay further, God himself to encourage our in­dustry, and honour such paths and studies; lets us know, that he hath founded the earth, established the Heavens, and broken up the depth, and that by Wisdom, Ʋnderstanding, and Knowledg. The study of God in his Creatures, his Attributes, the Works in nature, &c. are sweet, pleasing, and no less profitable to man, as they are wonderfull; but to know God in Christ, is that the Angels prie into, and would gladly interest themselves in this Knowledg, which God of his infinite grace hath afforded to us that live under the Gospel; our neglect will be our con­demnation. I wish, I could as easily take hold on my own ad­vice in this, as freely as I can give it to others. To study and seek after moral Knowledg, is so lawfull, that the very neglect contracts guilt, and sinks us under the burden of ignorance; But we are first to study the Kingdom of God, and the righteousness thereof, and then expect the performance of all other things to be added to us. The many advantages now in print, by Learned, Reverend, and Holy Ministers, will be one day a witness against such as make it not their chief study to train up themselves, and relati­ons therein; It should be our duty to hug our selves, and re­joyce in the multitude of Gods mercies, wrapt up in these graci­ous advantages, and pious helps; The times are glutted with precious conveniencies of the Gospel, by Preaching, and Books, which makes them dis-relish with so many, and not relish as they should with the best: and therefore our Saviours words are here fully verified, and it is our condemnation, That light is come into the world, and men love darkness rather than light, because their deeds are evil, Joh. 3. & 19.

Of humane Learning and Knowledg,Now as all other Knowledg is not to be compared to this of Di­vine, yet is not Moral Knowledg out of the road to it; and indeed, ought properly to be subjected to it; That as we have said of Learning and Knowledg, a man that hath both, speaks the best accomplishments; so he, that is full of Divine, and Humane Learning, is most compleat; We may guess a little at the Major by the Minor; The worth of Humane, must needs set a value on Divine Knowledg. If there be found any worth in the former, the latter must sure be of greater; For as they are gifts of God, and are commonly set as gates to pass to this[Page]spiritual Fabrick of Divine Knowledg, so are they eagerly to be pursued, and purchased above all terrene felicities; If they be steps to Divine Knowledg, then are they not to be thrown aside, as Children do their toyes, when they grow either weary of them, or not well pleased with them. But some, as a hedg to this discourse, may quote Solomons Summary of Vanity, wherein he leaves not Learning and Knowledg behinde; For what's Humane Learning, and Moral Knowledg, but the devils edg-tooles to cut asunder the truth? What are they, but Satans Anvill, upon which he knocks the Divine Truths of God in pieces? Are they not blocks in the way to the best Knowledg? the only props for error and popery? Therefore the wise mans Text is well interpreted in his own words, and so I conclude with Solomon, Omnia vanitas.

Well met ignoramus, if you will be as wise as Solomon, you must be his fool; for if you will take all in the literal sense, (as such will do that can snatch at what's for their turn) you are by a plain Text fools in print. However, let me advise you to take along Solomons interpretation as the best Comment. 2. They are indeed vanity compared to the true Knowledg of God, which is the highest pitch; and thus considered, if you can now pin this vanitas upon the front of Humane Learning and Knowledg, you have better skill than farre wiser men, and so you may prove famous for somewhat. Yet must it not be denied, but that if these studies intend not to the best end, they will prove as unprofitable as pernicious: and yet (if not thus used) nothing below their own proper worth and value.

Valued by the wisest men.To guess a little therefore, at these so cryed up possessions, let's prie into the esteem of the wisest men, who are the onely favourites of Learning and Knowledg. The great value they that knew them best, set upon them: A Kings Ransome is below the rate of a peasants possessions, if he have only These inward En­dowments: Let's see what desires Wise men have had, and how by all means they strove to accomplish the taking sweetness of these occult Treasures; who above all things, rather let slip the profits, Honours, pleasures, and sensual delights of this de­ceitfull world, than the knowledg of things; who desired, rather to know the world, than enjoy it; who rather strove, to know the vanity of all terrene enjoyments, by studying them in the [Page] Theory, than Practically to embrace or use them. A Wise man will hear and encrease Learning, sayes the Royal Philosopher.Prov. 1.5. You may as soon turn the Sun out of his course, as a wise man from this choice. Socrates thanked God for three things chiefly; whereof one was, that he was a Philosopher, and not unlearned; esteeming the gifts of nature, far below the orna­ments of the mind. What shall we say to Diogenes in his Tub, prouder than Alexander in his Court or Camp; despising this great Monarch, who in his gorgeous pomp and warlike splen­dour, deigning to give this poor rich man a visit, did not so much trouble him, to see the difference betwixt himself and Alexander, as that he should interpose betwixt him and the face of Heaven. Speed. Chro. The Learned Henry the first of England often said, He esteemed an unlearned King but as a Crowned Asse. King Alphonsus had rather lose all his Kingdomes than his Learning; his Ensigne was a Book opened: when he was told that the King of Spain said, Learning was not fit for Princes; he frowningly answered, that it was the speech of a beast, and not of a man. It is very observable, that of all those that flock­ed to the Olympick Games, those were accounted the wisest, that came to Philosophize their time, in reaping knowledg by their observations, and not with the rude multitude, only to gaze at the active valour of the Combatants, but to enrich their minds by contemplation, valuing the sight of the mind, beyond that of robes or valour; and Caesar, that wanted but life, to begirt the world by his Conquests, as Drake did by his Adventures, in his Letter sayes, I had rather excell others in Learning than in Power: And Pythagoras delivers it thus; He that knoweth not what he ought to know, is a beast amongst men; he that knoweth no more than he hath need of, is a man among brute beasts; but he that knoweth, or striveth to know, that which is to be known, is a God amongst men. When Plato was at Dionysius Court, he must again to Athens, or else his life was clipt from that true content which his mind found in the society of Learned men, valuing the study of Philosophy above the pleasures of the Court. Stanly. Philos. Some Wise men, that might (by reason of age) plead for a Writ of ease from the toyl of the mind (by studying to learn and know,) have rather chose, to wade in Learning and Knowledg at their dying day; so eagerly have they followed[Page]after, and dearly esteemed Learning above life it self; for that it teaches how to live as we ought. Solon, at the hour of his death, hearing some Philosophers disputing in his chamber, he suddenly raises his body upright, and being demanded the reason, replies;Burtons Mel. when I have learned that whereof you are now disputing, I may end my dayes; and so he did, in the eighth year of his age. Democritus put out his eyes, that he might be more intent upon his study: yet sayes one,French. Acad. he saw more than all Greece besides. A notable story there is of M. Aurelius Emperour, whom Lucius meeting in the streets, accompanied with a single servant, demands, which way? to Sextus the Philosopher (replies this Noble and brave Emperour,) to learn what I know not; for it becometh even an old man to learn. At which Lucius breaks forth, Oh! I see an Emperour, grey headed, carrying his book like a childe to be taught. And Robert King of Jerusalem and Sicilia, a wise Prince and great lover of Learning, often said; He had rather choose to lose his Kingdome than his knowledg. And so did Robert King of Naples, esteem his Learning more than his Kingdom. It was Great Alexander that laid Homer under his pillow; and him we see, conquering more by his Wisdome, than Hector or Achilles by their Valour; using Learning as a diversion from the toile of Martiall thoughts; and in the vacancy and intervals of publick occasions and battails, he used as Cordials to refresh him; hold­ing as it were a Sword in one hand, and a Book in the other: L^d Bacon. Essa. Some contemn, others admire, but wise men value Study and Know­ledg. And if I did not here intend to do homage to the com­mand of Brevity in this task, I could usher upon the stage of observation, severall great Persons, and as great Scholars, that advanced the Nobility of Learning, by their forward assistance and Contributions, to the Honour and esteem, as well as the support of it: one or two shall serve. Ptolomie Philadelphus the Egyptian King, with vast charge, raked into his Study, five hundred thousand Books; and by his means was the Septuagint translated, Card. Richeleiu, his erecting of the famous Aca­demy at Paris, comes up to be registred among the valuations which great men, and not less wise, had to Learning and Know­ledg. And Francis the first of France, with infinite numbers both of Fame and Power, might be introduced, as pregnant witnesses to the truth: of that great value that has, in all ages, [Page]been treasur'd up, as the attendants of all humane Learning and Knowledg.

To close this part of our discourse: We find the Lord giving countenance to humane Learning and Knowledg; by letting the world know, not transiently, as it were, to be told as a story only, but with the sound of Applau [...]e and Commendation; as the livery of Gods Bounty and Honour; as a full testimony of the laudable and lawfull use of Learning. It's recorded by God, to the Honour of Moses, (whom One calls Gods first Notary,)L^d Bac. Adv. that he was fill'd with all the Learning of the Egyptians; which Nation is observed, to have contained the most ancient Schools in the world. We find also in the Scripture, eloquent Apollo; and who is it we find in these daies, to disparage that commen­dable ornament, of civil and decent demeanour, setting it against the simplicity of the Gospel; but such, as despise it because they want it and others have it; it's not lawfull because they cannot attain to it: What say we to Daniel, who is recorded to be no small proficient in the cunning of the Caldeans: and Solomon, that gulph of knowledg, whose parts spread so farre, as the Queen of Sheba (a great lover of Knowledg and Wisdome) tra­vel'd farre to hear him: It seems, Learning was then in great esteem among the Wise; and the Eccho of Wisdome sounded farre. We read also of Learned Paul, brought up at the feet of Gamaliel [...] and as the Learned Lord Bacon observes; Naturall and Morall Philosophy, Politicks, Poetry, History, Mathematicks, &c. are strewed up and down the Divine Scriptures; and not a few of them in that book of Job. Dr. Jackson Creed. And it's also observed, that Learning and Knowledg, in Christs time, was strongly pursued and valued; that the most curious Arts flourished in great splendour; the Grecians flock't after the search of Wisdome and Philosophy; whilst the Romaes, no less busie in the hunting of Policie: and yet must it not be let slip; that all was put into the fire and burnt, when they proved stops in the way to Christ.

The excellen­cy of Learning and Knowledg.Let us now see their excellency; and should I fathome this depth, my shallow capacity would be drown'd ere I came nigh the bottom, I should be lost in the pursuit; should I travell over these vast Perrenian Mountains, I should be too long a coming to my journies end, and perhaps tire the Reader to go with me; but Ile court Brevity. Herein consists a part of their excellency,[Page]that they cannot be purchased with Riches or Monies, but with the sweat of the Mind only: for were it not so, fools that are rich would be wise men, and all that have Monies would be Scholars, which is too great a Paradox to interpret; And herein lies ano­ther part of the Excellencie of them, that such Minds that are soaked in Learning and Knowledg, have their Intellectuals clari­fied, their natures softn'd, Reason, which before lay fallow, and in the Thory only, is now forc't into practice; That which was in Bullion, is ow coined, and minted, having the stamp of Ma­jesty put upon it; the mind, now flourishes with strong abilities, is made capaple to help and guid others, and it self; Others are better, himself no worse. In the full view of this, Cicero cries out: Oh Wisdom! the guide of our life, the enemy to vice, and supporter of Vertue. And, we may believe him, for this is that mouth from whence proceeded the best Maxime for a well order'd life. Let a man be never so well qualified, with the laudable accomplishments of Fencing, Dancing, Musick, &c. other accute Properties of Gentlemen, yet, if Learning and Knowledg be not mixed, all other Embellishments are cloud­ed, and prove as abortive. I cannot pass by an apt story to this purpose of Ismenius, whom by his great improvement in Musick, pu [...]chased the deserved Name of an excellent Musician, to which Antisthenes (to commend Learning and Knowledg above all) saies: 'Tis true, he was no less than report fam'd him, he handled his Instrument with a commendable and ravish­ing dexterity: but (concludes) otherwise, he is good for nothing. Study and Knowledg (saies a Learned Author)L^d Bacon Essa. perfect nature, and are perfected by experience. And this a known Author judiciously amplifies in the life of Boetius: For (saies he)Causs. H. Court. Learning and Knowledg vindicate from stupidity, and a savage life; they cleanse, refine, and store the soul, made only to know great things; they open the Ʋnderstanding, by reading so many excellent Books, and even unloose the tongue, an Instrument that's the mannager of hearts; they make one more mild, civil, and courteous, contracting much respest and credit. And, there must needs be a vast and hidden Treasure in Learning and Knowledg, else Alexander sure would never have wish't he were no King so he were but Diogenes: and, that he esteemed it more to excell others in Learning, than in power or Empire:[Page]whose ample Territories stretch even to the Heavens, and grasp greater things then Authority or Command can compass.

Riches, Plea­sures, &c. not to compare with them.The fame of Learning is below the pleasure of it. Antist­henes saies, he could talk with himself; and it's no small pleasure and happiness to live comfortably within doors; What is Riches to Learning and Knowledg? What is it to be called a rich fool? Glister within and spare not; Inlay your minds, and cast away your gilded Trappings, more fit for Butterflies than men; He hath the most right to outward bravery, that hath inward to boast of. What's a rich man, and no more? but with the Peacock, proud of his Tail: like a Tulip, hath no sweet smell, is only for shew; like a painted and gilded Sign-post to an empty Inne, tells you what there should be, but leaves you to seek for what there's not to be found. Know­ledg and Wisdom, saies the Philosopher,Hermes. garnisheth riches, and shadows poverty. And another,Pythagoras. That Knowledg is that which can never be forgotten, nor flie away. The Riches of both Indies, cannot fill, nor ballast a truly noble and aspiring mind in the midst of his possessions, without Learning and Knowledg as an Adjunct. If Riches prove his Portion by Inheritance, he reckons them only as the Antecedent, which without the Relatives of Learn­ing and Knowledg, are no more to him, than what they are in themselves, slippery vanities, fading and perishing pleasures. He reckons his best fortune shipwrackt, if he should be tempted to spend the least time to pursue them for their own sakes; For a man to be rich in Knowledg, is to be rich in all things. Solon. Riches can bring no Light, or profit to, but fetches a luster from the soul, when yoked with Learning and Knowledg. Have you a thousand Acres of Land, he that prises Learning, scoffs at it, he can embrace the world and account it his own, and if it will not be so, he cares not. L^d Montague. Essa. For as Cato saies, A man of great Knowledg, cannot be poor; and that as in warre, Iron is to be preferred before Gold, so is Knowledg before Riches. These are the true Riches which cannot be taken from me, which are situate from the fingers of the greedy Plunderer; The evil fate of cloudy times, cannot make me compound for these Riches within, nor can the Sequesterer deprive me of a thought, they are beyond his reach; The freedom of my soul hath a [Page]Charter to uphold it, that envy it self cannot touch nor break. I can traffick for Knowledg, in the midst of fiery combustions and perturbations, and no Cannon can reach me; I can sit in a contemplative Cabin, and no Martial Alarme can disturbe me; These Riches cannot be decimated; that's my happiness, saies a noble mind thus loaden; I can hide the greatest Treasures in the world, and yet carry them with me, and not a burden, more then the feathers of a Bird, or leaves of Trees are. Give me (saies one)Whitlocks Essa. that which will not put me to the charge of por­tage to carry, though I travell the world over. The more a man hath of Learning and Knowledg, the less burden they are to him: Nay, these take away all burdens, and make such burdens as will stick, rather to hang ready for shaking off, than to fix fast, as Paul did the Viper. Bias the Philosopher, when his Countrey was invaded, and all fled away with their richest Moveables, he being demanded why he did not follow the example, and secure his choicest things: answered, I can carry them about me, I have nothing of worth but what I can­not part withall. And Val. Maximus saies, He bears them in his breast, not to be seen by the eye, nor toucht by mortal hands. For indeed, experience tells us, there's no true content can be ex­pected from the large confluence of a full estate, when ad­verse fortune appeares; but a mind steer'd with Wisdom, ac­complished by the best meanes, Learning and Knowledg, teaches the soul to stand steddy in the greatest stormes and vicissitudes here below. The vast hazards to fetch Merchan­dize, storming the curled waves, bending under the violence of Herecan's, are testimonies produceable, that there's no less hazzard than life it self, which is above the worth of what's adventur'd for; And, when they have rifled the Treasures of the Indies, uncertain Riches. Nor can such hazardous adven­tures bring any thing, which have escaped the painfull searches of former industry: But those (saies One)S^r Rich Tem­pests Medita­tions. that flies over the flowery-field of Learning, are mounted upon the wings of sublimer enquiries, and come home loaden with the Nectar of Knowledg, brim'd with inseparable Riches. For, if a man lose all he hath of the world, yet hath he left him that which is better than all he could ever lose; and, it's no ill management of our losses, if we choose, with the Philosopher, rather to be thankfull[Page]for what is left us, then repine at what escapes us. Dionysius the Tyrant, demanding the reason why Philosophers frequent­ed Kings Counsels, and rich mens Houses, was thus answered by Aristippus: Quoniam Philosophi norunt quibus egeant, divites nesciunt. They know what they want, rich men don't.

I too much doubt, many that are rich, had rather be so, than Learned; And as One in another case saies, so say I: His voice is, hang Learning, give me twelve-pence; I love to read my summes writ upon my bags, rather than think there's any value in Knowledg bound up in Books; I had rather be bound seaven years to the first, than trouble my brain a day with the last: I love to work in these silver Mines, though I be con­demn'd to be a slave all my daies, my Children shall be Mer­chants, hang Learning; to be compassed about with my best friends at a feast of my own cost, is as bad as the torments of hell; I laugh to think what fools those Kings and Emperours were, that made so much of Scholars and Philosopers, as to give away their riches upon such slaves to Learning. Oh! thou miserable soul, from whence cam'st thou, from Hell? Canst thou have any true content or pleasure, like to those of Learning and Knowledg? Thou sordid Mole, that digst under­ground to find Hell, doest thou know how nigh thou art the Pre­cincts of it? 'Twere thy happiness if thou didst know the misery in thy full enjoyments; Unless thou hadst a heart to use them to their appointed end, thou dig'st in the earth to undermine thy self; thy bags will take fire by some flash from Hell, and then thou art blown up bags and all; when death comes with a Habeac corpus, and sets a ne plus ultra to thy miserable life, what wouldst thou then give to learn the Knowledg of God, thy self, or thy sad condition? Oh then, that thou hadst known and learn't to be wiser! 'Twas a sharp E­pitaph given to such a Miser, as suits our present dispo­sition.

Is there any pleasure will hold comparison with this pleasan [...] [Page]fruit of our labour and study? If any be, these are the utile and dulc, the profit and pleasure; these are the constant hand­maids of Learning and Knowledg; These are the Honey and Honey-comb; and if so, then the Knowledg of God, must needs be sweeter than both. If the one be positively and com­paratively sweet, the other must needs be superlatively so. If it be such a sottish thing to want Knowledg, if such a brand of bruitishness and savage barbarisme to be ignorant, What must it then be to be Learned, Knowing, and Wise? the first may well be as a foil to set off the two last. I remember a notable example, to prove that the wisest men found sweetness and pleasure in these things: French Acad. Antigonus, King of Macedon finding Cleanthes alwaies turning the Mill-stone, I turn it (saies he) to get my living, but forsake not Philosophy for all that; For, the same hand which turned the Stone, wrote of the nature of God, and the Heavens. Now I say, if so pleasant to such as were poor, and stole Knowledg and Learning from the extremi­ty of time, how much more delightfull and easie to them who may better make it their recreation, by reason of outward con­veniencies? for certainly, most mens minds are crusht in a time of adversity.

The Honour of Learning above all other Honours in the world.Is there any which seeks after Honour, let them tell me if the truest Honour be not enveloped in this rich Mantle of Learn­ing and Knowledg: and that also the greatest Honour, in that it appeares God himself is the Grand teacher of Wisdom and Know­ledg; These are the very Loadstones and Attractives of all Honour; These are they which Aggrandize a mans acceptation, to the most wise with great affection and courtesie; His worth is perpetuated with the remembrance of Honour, when his dust is offensive; The beauty and luster that Learning and Knowledg sets upon him that enjoys them, are their natural Escutcheons. He that is thus qualified, is honoured at home, in the City where he lives, beloved by his Countrey, and is indeed the Honour of it. It's better to be envied for thy Parts above others, than pitied and laught at for thy igno­rance. This Priviledges his access to strangers, honours him in a forrein Nation, makes his Name survive his life; The want of these (necessary set-offs) so dis-robes and unmans us, that we are to be only accounted things of scoff and pity. To[Page]be well seasoned with Learning, Knowledg, and Wisdom, per­fumes our society; To blazon a rich goale of many descents, what honour is that to the study of the universall frame of na­ture? Is it like to the honour of either, of natural Philosophy that teaches what things are, or moral Philosophy, to know how to use and improve them? Nay, Learning and Knowledg teaches how to mannage the honour it attracts, whereas igno­rance when it hath surreptitiously snacht at honour, cannot weild it for want of the former; And it's pity any should know what 'tis to have honour, that hath not Knowledg and Learning to use it. Knowledg and Learning (saies One) are Endowments and Honours greater than Nobleness of birth, or estate; Careless Heirs may darken the two last, but Immortal Honour attends the first, making a man like God. We may guess at it a little by what honour is added to the Possessors of Learning and Knowledg even by ignorance it self, because they carry a stamp of Authority in the countenante even of young men, when gray hairs, and a vicious conversation dwarfs gra­vity it self. It's not gravity in countenance (saies Cato) that carries authority in the front, or contracts respect in the rear, but a life steer'd according to the true end of our being: and to such saies the Philosopher, age, which in it self is grievous, yet by Knowledg and contemplation, they rather grow than grieve; for that their minds receive sap and nourishment whilest their bodies peele away. For what is it, I pray tell me, that Caesar stands on Record so much, as for Learning? so Homer, all the Royal Philosophers, and thousands that can now be only reverenced in their Graves: their thoughts are as perfumes to study. This it was that carved Trajans Name upon the wall, with the Cha­racter of Parietaria Walflower, for of all the Emperours that reigned, he was the most renouned for Learning and Arts. And it's recorded with no small honour to the feminine sex, and well may be also exemplary, that Cornelia was so Learned, that she taught her two Sons the Latin Eloquence, so that Cicero admired her. Eudoxia Theodosius Empress wrote Lear­ned Poems, and one concerning Christ was accounted singular. Aristippus was taught Philosophy by his Mother Aretia: and Zenobia, Queen of the Palmirians instructed her Sonne in Greek, Latin, and Aegyptian Tongues, and penn'd an Epitome of[Page]the Esterne Stories. And if we descend to our Times, many like Examples might be introduc't: I only light on the Lady Gray, who was skil'd in the Latin, Greek, and Hebrew. M^r Torshea. Glory of Wom. May not these few, indeed of many, revive the footsteps of that Masculine word which our Predecessors left us, as paths for succeeding ages to tread in. Now to leave this part of our Discourse, who will not conclude it of the greatest advantage and Honour in the world, for men to be fitted for the service of their Countrey: which in the next place falls in to be considered.

That Learn­ing and Know­ledg makes wise, and only fit for publick affairs in City or Common-wealth.Is it sweet, pleasant, profitable, and honourable, by Learn­ing to govern our selves in all affairs, vicissitudes, exigencies and straights? How much then will Knowledg guide us to the government of others, which is no less profitable, honourable, &c. Learning and Knowledg are the very essence of Magi­stracy, and the countenance of Authority and Majesty. It is of great advantage and benefit to a Nation, to have fit sup­porters for the Fabrick of a Town, City, or Common-wealth. Wise and Learned men are the surest stakes in the hedg of a Nation or City: they are the best conservaters of our Liberties; the hinges on which the welfare, peace and happiness hang; the best publique good, and only Common-wealths men. These qualifications meeting with a true and brave mind, can conquer men, and with the Bazilisk, kill envy with a look; Knowledg and Learning are the guards of a City; if comman­ded by wise and Learned men; are the gates of a Town, that by disorder it may not thrust it self out, the Bulworks of a Nation. Learned men are the only well Orderers of Kingdoms, Provinces, and Cities, in the constitution of a safe Government, by establishing good and safe Laws, which accordingly are in­stituted and mannaged, as the Agents are fitted with Learning and Knowledg. For saies one,L^d Bacon Ad­vancement. If they be illuminated by Learning, they have certain anticipate notions of Religion, Pol­licy, and Morality, which preserveth, and refrain them from all ruinous and peremptory errors and excesses, whispering in their ears when Counsellors cannot; They also proceed upon safe grounds and substantial Principles, which men only of experience, cannot so well direct unto; seeing dangers afar off, and repulsing them betimes, whereas men of experience see things at hand, seeing only [Page]that which is ready to fall upon them, and trust to the agility of their wit (upon the very point of danger) to ward and avoid them. And who so (saies Seneca) thus cometh to hold the Helm, will find easie access to the most knotty Parts of Government; Weild it with Honour, whilst others fitted only by long experience, though at last they attain to sit at the Helme of Government, and steer it well, yet is to the great damage of the State: as much, as a young Chirurgion is forced for lack of Knowledg in some extraordinary cure, to torment the Patient with more pain, than could be expected from a more experienced Doctor in that faculty. Experience doth much (saies One)Cornwallis Essa. but it is too full of scars and wounds, and is bought with gray hairs and danger. Hence the Persians Elected none to rule amongst them as King, unless he were a great Philosopher; And this advantage accrues to one Learned above experience and know­ledg only, in that our Scholar and knowing States-man, having laid his fame upon the eminency of Learning, early practising on lesser matters, which by degrees compleats his ascention, gradually signalizing his publick acceptance, (which courts him daily) and so by Learning and experience, is better com­pleated for publique imployments, then the latter of the two is able to perform alone. Caussin. H. Court. And One producing some examples of wise Governours, lights on Moses, one whom God chooses to a great charge of Government, who it seems could not be better fitted, than by attaining to know somewhat of all those Sciencies that was in request amongst the Aegyptians: and there be Learned Areth. Geom. Music. and all other great Sciencies of Phylosophy in the Hyerogliplicks. Pray who is it which stands on Record for good Government, but such as were great Scholars? And as L^d Bacon well saies:Adv. Learning. It's almost without instance, that ever any Government was disasterous, that fell into the hands of Learned Governours. And it's very ob­servable, that the Ages which passed from Domitians death to the Reign of Commodus, was a succession of six Princes, all Learned and choice Favourers and Advancers of it: and those times wherein they lived, the most flourishing that ever Rome saw, which was then the Module and Epitomy of Government in the world. So that in this continued sequence of six Princes, a man may see the happy fruits of Learning in Authority, painted[Page]to the life, upon the greatest Tables of the world. And such saies,L^d Bacon Essa the general counsels, plots, and modelling of affairs, come best from those that are Learned. Burtons Mel. It was said of Democri­tes, that for his Learning, Knowledg, and Wisdom, he was sent to Abdera in Thrace, to be the Law-maker or Recorder. And the L^d Bacon alluding to Empericks in Physick, concludes: That it cannot but be a matter of doubtfull consequence, when the Govern­ment must be at the dispose of Emperick States-men. Causs. H. Court. And another saies, That Sciences well managed, adde a marvellous luster to one in Government. Cornwallis Essa. Aristotle hits it, when he saies, It's no small utility which groweth to a Common-wealth by the sapience of a Learned Governour. And he misses not the mark, that saies, He governs by guess, that's not a Philosopher. And me thinks, the Answer of Themistocles fits this part of my Discourse fully: There were some that Ironically desired him to play and sing, I cannot (saies he) fiddle, but (which is the proper Orbe of a Learned man) I can make a little City a great one. Not much unlike Tiberius, who could steer the Senate with his eye. Methode for Sciences. They are unprofitable Citizens (saies One) which can contribute no­thing to the good of a Common-wealth, or Ornament of a State, by their parts and Learning. Innumerable Instances might be pro­duc't in this behalf; The best Law-makers were the wisest of men, as well as Scholars; all good Laws produc't from their care; others may steer the Helm, but they are the fittest to order it. How many persons of no mean quality, have been coined out of the Schools of Philosophy, to be Governours and Rulers of the vast Continent; And tell me, who stands upon record for good, but such as Learning and Knowledg made wise and able to man­nage. If we do but read the History of Solon, Stanly Histo. of Philosophy. we need no Ar­guments but that example; he was a great Philosopher, and no less Ruler; he ascended gradually by his wisdom, which shin'd in the eyes of all with a wonderfull clearness and bright­ness: and the Grecian Army being commanded by Clisthenes the Athenian, Solon must be sent for his Counsellor: He it was, that by his wise advice quieted the hot disputes of several facti­ons and parties, in the City Cirrha; For, Solon was looked upon by the discreetest, as the only man fit to command them, whom they intreated to take into his custody his Helm of the Common-wealth: He became both a Law-giver, and a Law-maker[Page]at once; he rul'd so well, and became so great a hap­piness to the Common-wealth, as a Proverb ensued, and was often repeated; Equality breeds no strife. And some say, this Oracle was received by Solon from Apollo:

What excellent Laws were made by him, every Nation, Pro­vince, and City, to this day experiences; they are so good that they need no other Name to know them by, but Solon.

Il'e dismiss this Discourse with the Example of Xenophon, who by his Learning and wise conduct of Affairs, gave life to the bleeding condition of himself and followers, with one of the most notable Examples of valour that ever was yet read of in the world; testifying, that Learning and Knowledg fits for Government, as well of Armies, as Cities; Martial affairs be­ing sharp and quick, require a wit and headpiece proportion­able. Stanly Philos. Montagues Essa. L^d Bac. Adv. This Xenophon was a Socratick Philosopher of Athens, a young man, yet aged with Wisdom; his first assay of valour was in the Peloponnesian Warre, betwixt the Lacedaemonians and Athenians, where seeing his Master Socrates dis-mounted from his Horse, and fighting on foot, takes him upon his shoulders, and carries him many furlongs, till the enemy left the pur­suit. He goes with Cyrus into Asia, in his expedition against Artaxerxes, he was never in Arms before, nor had seen the Warres; and now went only as volunteer for the company of Proxexus, betwixt whom there was knit a Gordian knot of friendship. Cyrus their General being slain, a message comes by the mouth of Falinus to the Grecian Army, (now a prey to their enemies, being but an inconsiderable few in the midst of Persia, many miles from their Countrey) That they would deliver themselves up into the Kings mercy; (One would take it for a good message in such a condition.) Now before a publick answer was returned, divers of the Army had discoursed with the Messenger Falinus, and amongst the rest Xenophon speaks: Falinus, we have but these two things now left, our Arms and Virtue; to yeeld up the first, stifles the last. Falinus scornfully[Page]replies, If my judgment deceives me not, you are (young Gentle­man,) an Athenian, and study Philosophy, you speak indeed neatly; but build not on such airy speculations, as to think Vertue can stand against the Kings Authority; But, as one of my Authors saies,L^d Bacon. This was the scorn, the wonder follows. This young Philosopher now displaies his Parts, Wisdom, and Valour, for the Honour of his Countrey, and discourse of the World; in saving the Grecian Army from the gulfe of ruin: when no hopes seem'd to remain; he made way for their safety, and the overthrow of the Persian Monarchy, which afterward Jason the Thessalian design'd; Agesilaus the Spartan commenc't; and Alexander the Macedonian pursued, till victor; and all by the means of this young Scholar: For, with an Army of ten thousand foot, he wades through Persia to Greece, fording fifty Rivers, and usher'd his well ordered few with so great skill, that he arrived to his own Countrey with safety, through the daily opposition of an hundred thousand enemies; yet never disorder­ed with any skirmish, though he had many sharpe ones, besides Mutinies.

Divers Stratagems in Warre, have produced much honour to the Learned Authors, and with great success; take only one in short. Stanly Philo­sophy. Periene being besieged, Bias the Philosoper being be­set in the siege, orders two very fat Mules to be sent out of the City: Craesus wondering at their plenty, desires Peace by a Messenger, which Bias hearing, did against his coming to the City, order great heaps of Sand to be made, and covered with Wheat: when information comes to the besiegers of their great abundance, they had their own termes accomplished. And what hath been said of Xenophon, might be almost paralell'd with Epaminondas the Theban, who abated the power of Sparta. The wonderfull Engines of defence and offence, to the great ad­vantage of Armies and Cities, produced only by the power of of Learning, I leave to their proper places to be spoken of. These already hinted, with many other, were raised to the high­est pitch of Fortune, through their brave aspiring minds stirr'd up through the Knowledg and Study of Philosophy. These were taken from the Schools of Philosophy, and being as it were minted out of the rubbish of the world, received the stamp of Honour, as a due debt to their Learning and Wisdom.

[Page] The Evils which Learn­ing and Know­ledg prevent.Let us now turn about, and as we have seen the Advantages of Learning and Knowledg; Their Worth above all things; their Pleasure, Profit, Honour, &c. you may set their opposites to them, and thereby judg of the several Inconveniencies and Dis­comodities in the want of them; they will fall in of themselves, as necessary Consequences; I'le only touch at that, which is the great enemy to all good; the nursery and store-house of wickedness; the retarder and pull-backs of all kind of Virtue; the great Antagonists of Learning and Knowledg, this Monster, Idleness: The very lethargy of the mind; no man that's troubled with this epidemicall disease, can stirre a foot for it; nor make any progress towards any noble design; it's the sluce to let in all wickedness and vice: But the study of Sciences, the desire of Learning and Knowledg, rouses up the mind, and enervates this fosterer of Ignorance and Error, which if nourish­ed stifles all the Heroick actions of the mind: for without the study and search after Knowledg, the mind is sick: Now a man cannot be idle, that is richly lin'd with Learning and Knowledg; there's no room to slow idleness, where the mind is full fraught with the merchandize of Knowledg; for, he is alwaies at work with contemplative thoughts, which are the souls life; and true Knowledg, sets the soul at work, to think on that which is good; and the will embraces it; else our thoughts may be flagitious and wicked: To converse with our selves in our studies, and pri­vate retirements, is better company and society, than I see by most now adaies frequented. Cicero tells us, That idleness is the cause why the body and mind languish, and that to do nothing, is to do ill. The Romanes taught not their Children any thing which was to be learn't sitting They are a brood of mischeifs that are hatcht with sitting idle. The Romanes also enacted, that none should go about the City, but such as carried the badge of his Trade; so that when one had earnest occasion to dispatch a Let­ter three daies Journey from the City, he found none so idle as to be his servant: Was not here a great evil cozen'd? Plato de­scribes it as a Maxim for the health of our minds; For saies he, The Doctrine of Learning and Knowledg, is the safeguard of the soul, and certainly the mind must needs wither away, if not prun'd and sometimes lopt: It will rust without use. No Pilot exerciseth his Office standing still; When once mens minds[Page]have a taste of the sweet fruits of Learning and Knowledg, they never delight in other company, but such as may advantage their desires in Knowledg. What are deboist courses, but the proper branches of Idleness? Knowledg is the Bezar, the only cordial to the mind, in the deepest Melancholy: It's the best guard of safety in a field, to be alwaies in motion; Skip­ping from bough to bough, preserves the life of the poor Bird: whilest the lazy and careless seate, courts destruction, and as surely embraces it. Idleness is the grave of living men, saies the Philosopher,Plato. and that a man is twice buried; in the body, and sloth; and a man that passeth the one part of his life with­out profit, ought to have the rest of his life taken from him. And still I say, and with it conclude, that there's nothing fortifies the mind against all vices, as Errors, Ignorance, &c. in particular; and against Idleness in general, but Learning and Know­ledg.

Now in that I have placed diversity and variety of studies, in this Catalogue of Books; I will crave leave a little to speak somewhat of most; pointing as well to the particular studies, as generally what they are: not aiming so much to direct how, as what to use; That if Books be the Spectacles we see through to all Learning, let's then use them so; branch them forth, and spread their Knowledg, by discovering the benefits and advantages of each sect. For, if I mistake not, it's the counsell of a wise man, and great Counsellor of this Nation, rather to embrace and follow a general Knowledg, than be confin'd to any particular: and there seems no small reason for it. For, one who retains the Elements of all Knowledg, though but weakly, yet shall be fit for discourse in what company soever: but to be confin'd to an exact sight of our Knowledg, puts him out of that element, wherein he is only exquisite: he must then vaile to others discourse, and so keep consort with silence. There was never any Art yet (saies One)Cornwallis Essa that could fasten me to her service, for to know them otherwise than superfi­cially, was more than he intended to do; he would not earn them so dearly, as to tie the mind to one thing; for by this her best power is taken away; for that her power is limited, which would walk universally, if she had her own will. It's injustice, saies another, to fetter a mans spirit to any fixed labours. [Page] Hall. Essa. For what I see not at first view, I shall less see (saies L^d Mon­tague) if I opinionate to it. The Apostle Paul seems to be the File-leader, when he bids Try all things, and hold fast that which is good. Therefore in reading Books, One said,Ld Montague Essa. He had a skip­ping wit, for if one Book (saies he) seems tedious, I take another, and so I am not weary with doing nothing, nor with too much poreing on one Subject; which is not to do less than to dull our minds, and never suffer them to be relieved, but tired and jaded out like Hacknies, with continuance. Diversity of study, is found by most Scholars to be a great refreshing and nourishment to the mind, as well as variety of meats provoke the appetite to a fresh desire, when it may be one bit of another al­ready tasted, will not down.

The study of the Bible a­bove all Books.Now in this diversity of Books, I must still keep touch with my duty in setting the Book of God above all; This we are all bound to, as the most serious and necessary; It pleads for it self against all gainsayers; The most considerate know so; and that it will at the great Day, plead against such as neglect or contemn it. There are here all sorts of Philosophy, as well as variety of History, &c. So, that if any be weary with the Children of Israel, and loath this sweet Manna of Heaven­ly Knowledg of God in Christ, or in his creatures, there be all the Sciences sublimely comprehended in it. This sacred Verbum Dei, will teach us the true keeping of those Account-Books of our consciences, which one day must be open'd, when our Shop-Books are burnt. M^r Clarks Examp. Charles the Great, used to set his Crown upon the Bible, concluding, that Piety was the best Policy. All studies that are stoln from this, though good in themselves, yet are in their issues bad, unless necessary, accor­ding to the Rules of Christian Prudence and Wisdom; to which I leave every one, as his own guide. A Divine said well to this purpose:M^r Church. If the Word be our Counsellor all day, it will be our Comforter at night. To step aside, and make it our only business, to take up the golden Apple of Atalanta; chiefly studying moral Knowledg; the Divine Race may be frustrated, and the Goale lost. M [...] Clarks Lives, first part. It was holy Luther, that said, Odi ego meos libros, &c. He wish't his own Books lost, fearing they would hinder him of his time, which he thought two little, to imploy in reading the Sacred Scriptures; This is the guide to[Page]the deep secrets of God, and as short a cut to that de arte cordis. By this a man is taught to know God, and that well relished, will the sooner bring us to the true Knowledg of our selves. Though David had good Counsellors, yet saies he,Psal 119 24. Thy Testimonies are my delight, and the men of my counsell. We are taught by this our duty to God, and demeanour towards men; all the duties which we are indebted one towards another, are plentifully treasured up in this Book of our Instruction. To read what David saies of Gods Word, is enough to make us deeply affected with the study of it; The Law of God (saies he)Psal 19. is perfect; Converts the soul; his Testimonies sure, makes wise the simple, rejoyces the heart; pure, enlightning the eyes; true and righteous; They are my Meditation day and night, a light unto my feet, and Lanthorn to my paths, &c. Next to this sacred Book, are the infinite labours of Gods Servants to be valued, and prized; as Index's to find out the obscure parts of it; I have already glanced at them before, and therefore come now to the Advantages and Use of Moral Studies, beginning first with

History. History: which I may well say is Speculum mundi: to praise the use of it, were in a manner to dispraise it; advancing it, would but clip its own wings, which is able to make it soare above the highest commendations. I would only, with a few chips of my own, strew the way to the profits of this study; and drive them home with more solid perswasions of wise m [...]n. Cicero. The usual encomiums of that center of Eloquence, and others, are no whit pigmied by my refusing them; I think (as many others wiser than I can express) that History is the best Prospect into Humane affairs, a thing which consociates the remotest Regi­ons; by which we may, as it were, be seated free from danger, yet be fully acquainted with all the ruptures, perturbations, tu­mults, changes, actions and transactions, of all Nations, King­doms, and Empires in the world; which many Millions have engaged their lives in. It's grand discretion, to learn to be­ware by others Examples. In History are many Examples of Virtues, as Copies drawn for our imitation; as baits to allure us; And alas! no few of vice, as Sea-marks to warn us; as a glass to shew us the ugly deformity of sinne. For, they say, Examples are more taking, than Precepts binding. The [Page]Law furnishes us with the last, and History with the first: accor­ding to Seneca: ‘Longum Iter per praecepta, breve & efficax per exempla.’

Here Virtue survives our Persons, and wicked men may per­haps find it the truest Astrology to tell them their own fortunes. It was Thales, that said of History: Nil mortem a vit â differre: because, the life of the deceased, hangs upon the remembrance of the living; Ld Bacon else, to be vicious, and virtuous would be all one as to their Examples, if not transmitted to posterity. History: makes men wise and deliberate in their publick and private affairs; and indeed, wisdom got by experience, is very costly, and somewhat dangerous; it hazards a mans reputation, to pay any thing of it for the least part of wisdom. For as another saies well,Fr. Acad. Such as are studious in History, though young in Knowledg of affairs, have a very grand Aspect, and almost tell their experience in Knowledg, by their countenance. If that received Opinion be true; that Vultus est Index animi. But especially in the judicious deportment towards business, and men: You may read their minds by their eye, that card, and compass, which guides to the heart; Ʋt ex pede Herculem: Trace their fitness, for larger strides in more important affairs. One speaking of the accomplishments of the Gentry, saies,Mr Brathwaits Nursery for the Gentry. Would you be enabled for company? no better medium than Know­ledg in History. And he that trod on the Theatre of History more than any other, could say, he never affected airy comple­ments, which give only a sound to the ear, but never leave an impression behind them; a thing that History is not guilty of. History is that, which hath, as it were, reduced tradition into profitable Knowledg, tempers the mind, and formes it to a perfect shape and symmetry. We may by History reconcile the future and present tense: See Asia in England, travell the Holy Land; and go to the Holy Warre with M^r Fuller: See the Grand Seignory in the Seraglio, compass the world with Drake. Would you see the Warres and Actions of the Roman Empires? you may see them tread the stage again with less cost or hazard, than at first. You may by the study of History live in all Ages, see Adam in Eden, sail with Noah in the Ark, sit[Page]and consult with Julius Caesar, converse with Seneca, conferre with all the wise Philosophers; go to schoole at Athens, and with a free access hear all disputes; and much more from this study of History; which one well calls, the worlds Recorder: G. Essa. L^d Montague. We cannot sure, deny that of the Sages, That no wise man could be an experienc't Statist, that was not frequent in Histo­ry. And he is not otherwise to be accounted, than Learned and wise, who concludes: Historians were his right hand, being (saies he) pleasant and easie, from whence may be drawn, wise sentences, rare examples, and as rich precepts. M^r Torshell. One takes notice of Apollo, as a man not only Eloquent, but also much Learned in History. And a modern, and Divine Moralist, observes,M^r Herle. That to be acquainted with History, purchases more wisdom, than the strictest Rules of Policy, for that the first do furnish as with Instances as well as Rules; and as it were per­sonates the Rule, drawing out more into full proportion, and linea­ments. Again, (saies, he) We are weaued from a childish effeminacy, and habituated by the reading of History, to partake of what we most affect therein, training our minds to manlike actions, snatching us from the vanity of youth and corrupt society. Socrates tells us, that History best suits solid Head-pieces; and therefore was Caesars Comment, the bosome com­panion of King Alphonsus, and T. Livy in no less esteem; and that when exquisite Musick assaid to ravish his mind, he com­mands their absence, as a disturbance to the better content he resented in Livy; And I trow, there was good reason; for that this King of Arragon, and Ferdinand of Sicily, found the Physick which prov'd the life of their health, and health of their life; the first by reading T. Livy, the last from Q. Curtius, when all their physical doses could not effect the least change of their conditions towards their health. An Historian saies truly: One looks round about him, and sees things past, whereas a traveller in other studies, looks only forward to what he is a doing. For my own part, I account it with others, a usefull and beneficial study; A man needs not so much toil and beate his braines, as with other parts of Humane Know­ledg, which shall not avail his cost and paines so much; Yet not to neglect other Studies; for this comes not up in account amongst Students, as a Sudy so full as others; if it be, it's[Page]the easiest part of it, yet the most profitable, reckoning with what little paines it's to be purchased. Therefore with Plato, I think it best, when weary with other Studies, To sport thy self with reading of good Histories. Mr Leigh. Learning. Bartons Mel. Chronologie and Topogra­phie, are the two eyes of History; Geographicall Maps (saies one) should please any man. But these I referre to their pro­per places, as part of the Mathematicks, let's now slide into the sweet and pleasant paths of

Poetry. Poetry and Poesy It's affirmed by some, that Poets were the first Pri [...]sts Prophets, Legislators, Politicians, Philosophers, Astronomers, &c. in the world. La Montague Essa. Others, that Homer was the first and last of Poets; for that, having no Copy set him by any, yet hath left One unimitable by any, One admired by all; he was great­ly valued by Alexander, who in the rich spoiles of Darius, ordered a Cabinet (there sound) of great worth, for the pre­servation of Homer, saying: he was his best Adviser, and faith­full Counsellor he had, in his grand Affairs: doubtless, he was of g [...]eat honour and estimation, that when Constantinople was fired, Homer (writ in Letters of Gold) shrunk under that general Martyrology of two Hundred Thousand Books. And Al [...]i­biades requesting of a Scholar Homers Works, no sooner was answered, he had it not; but was replied by a box on the ear, for that, he thought as a Scholar, he could no more want it, than breath to live by. Another, he calls Virgil the Prince of Poets: And, I. Scaliger, was so much affected with Poetry, that he protested, he had rather be the Author of twelve Verses in Lucan, or an Ode in Horace, than Emperour of Germany. We find Moses giving thanks to God at the Red Sea, in this Language; and David composed many sweet and heavenly Hyms and Songs. A Learned Writer saies well; That the Books of Job, Psalms, and Moses Song, are the best Pattern's of true Poesy. D [...] Jackson. Creed. M^r Leigh on Learning. 'Tis certain, that Poetry and Poesy are well cal­led the luxury of Learning; and quintessence of wit: serving principally, to vent extraordinary affections; But I could wish all Poets followed these spiritual Patterns; For, that corrupt Subjects defraude Poetry of her due praise. Therefore saies One, Impious Poets make Clio, a Thais, Helicon a Brothell house: and themselves contemptible. Now as the Ancients chief Learning consisted in Poetry, so did they wisely improve that [Page]Talent of God to Sacred things; which indeed Adorned the use of it, commending it as lawfull; whereas, it seems now, so adulterated, as too many mens minds stand fixed to the ima­ginary part of wickedness; staining their souls, with contempla­tive vices; so strongly bent by their speculative lusts, that they on­ly want occasions to turn them into practice; Many good wits, have abused their better parts, by sophisticating this Noble In­stitution; fitting it only to serve the Devil, by being a pandor to all sorts of lusts and filthy drollery; lardeing their Writings with fictions, providing more poison than wholesome aliment. That as One saies:M^r Hall. Essa. If the rich fame of Poetry, which hath been improved in frothy love Stories, and fantastical Chimera's, had been bestowed on some rare Ideas, they might have produc't ex­treme advantage to mankind. But let's now turn to examine our actions, by the Royal Standerd of the

Law. Law: which is only distributive Justice; and a constant and perpetual Will, to render every man his own right, and that that according to Law, grounded on reason; and of what use Justice is, to the well ordering of men in peace and safety, who knows it not? and that the due execution of the Law, is the life and soul of it. God himself was the first Institutor of Laws: and Moses proved a conscionable pleader in Gods behalf. Those Cities, saies Plato, in which are no severe Laws for punishment of sinne, are rather to be accounted forrests for monsters, than places habitable for men. The Laws of this Nation are branched into Common, Statute, Civil, and Canon. Something only of the first, and a little of the last.

The Grounds of the Common Laws of England (saies the famous Lawyer)L^d Cooks Ep. to Reports. are beyond the limits of time, and not bound­ed in by any remembrance: that the Laws which W. the Con­queror sware too: Were Bonae & approbatae antiquae Regni L [...]ges. And those comprehended in Magna Charta. That as no Jewel is comparable to Learning, so none more excellent than the Knowledg of the Law; and none so necessary for preserving of life and goods, as the Common Laws of England: and indeed, it is so much the more noble, in that none can be Lawyer to any good purpose, or as they ought to be, but such as are Scholars: and not so, but also of very profound understandings; acute apprehensions, and strong parts. The [Page]Law is the Touchstone of truth. And it's will said by One:M^r Noy. That most studies are private, retired, the Law is publick for all. The first, fitted only for Universities, the other for Common-wealths; and therefore it is that the Civil Law calls the Coun­sellors and Interpreters of the Law, Honourable; to be free from publick charges, and to be wrote and sent unto as persons of special Worth and Dignity. Our Laws, saies L^d Cooke, seem dark and obscure, but they cannot bear the burden of that Imputation, it rather falls on their Ignorance, that understand them not; You shall (saies he) never find any strife arise a­bout the Law, but through Instruments, Conveyances, and Wills, made by ignorant men; and as often with Acts of Par­liament, overlaid with Proviso's; And really, if a man should speak truth, and as much reason as the Law speaks, there are none so great enemies to the Laws, as such as desire some liberty for their own advantage, which the Law denies; or such, as ha­ving plotted some crimes against the Law, are afraid of the hammer and force of it; and such like they are, that either through ignorance or malice, raise the dust of an envious cla­mour; which at last will reverberate, and blow into their own eyes. Reports (saies the grave Reporter)L [...] Cooke. opens the windows of the Law, shewing the beauty of it, in the great reason it stands on; breaking the shell of difficult cases, so that the kernell slips into ones hand. And another very famous in the Law, saies: Plead­ings are the most honourable, laudable, and profitable things in the Law. And this puts me in mind of an Antient custom of the Athenians (which might happily flow from this Opinion:) They put their young Gentlemen, to preferring cases in be­half of the people, or pleading for the poor; and this conside­ration may mind our Gentry, and stirre them up more to study the Law; in that they may not only be great helps (like some good Ladies with their Physick) to their poor Neighbours and Tenants, against oppression, (which the world cannot give more Honour) but also be able to keep themselves safe in their Estates. To be well read in the Law, is the greatest Orna­ment of a Gentleman. No Study more Noble, Honourable, and Profitable. Gentlemen are thereby fitted for any pub­lick imployment (for which the Gentry seem wholly above all others to be born to) for their Countrey, if suddainly call'd[Page]to it; and able to discharge it with publick Honour and Credit. It's recorded of the Bp of Hereford, that he was of a very profound Judgment in the Knowledg of the Law; Which was (saies a good Author) both safety and solace to himself. Without the Knowledg of it (in some measure) a Gentleman lies un­guarded, and open to the assaults of every base mechanick and troublesome fellow; and it's the reason many Gentle­men are abused by their vassals, as blind men are led by their Boyes; and are tormented and wrack't, at the pleasure of such, whose eyes and ears they borrow: and to all such as are pesti­lent in this case, I wish that Law might take hold; Charles the 9. France. That all that commenced any Actions, left a considerable Summe of Moneys in the Kings Exchequer, and to forfeit it, if it ap­peared, they had no just cause for what they did. We find (indeed) Zenas Tit. 3.13. to be a godly Lawyer, though now it seems a solecisme in Reason, which the bad practice of some hath made too great a Paradox to all. I durst almost distinguish, that he may be a godly man, that's not a godly Lawyer; but that touches not the Nobleness of the Science; the Law, is good and just: few follow it so, or according to conscience; the Name of it is enough to cast the scales, and be a general conviction to all. To say this is Law, is a word big enough to stop gainsayers. And he that wresteth any text, (saith a good Expositor)Ld Cooke. against his genuin sense, though to confirm a truth, doth against distributive Justice: which is to give every one his own. But I shall come short on brevity, if I treat so long on the Common Law, as to forget

Civil Law The Civil Law: whose body is thus epitomized. Hurt no body, live honestly, and give every man his due. The Civil Law was the Starre that led the wisest in the Roman Empire, to the due Government of that mighty Empire. And doubtless, the great success of that Monarchy, must a little reflect on their Laws, as the primum mobile of their great Fortune. His Excellen­cy of the Civil Law. It's a wise man, that saies, though other Nations have their peculiar Laws, yet beyond the Seas, no Law is accounted of, or used, but the Civil Law; none suffered to plead in their Courts, or sit as Judges, but Sudents in that faculty. And it's a study fit to be looked into, though not here practised. But[Page]let us now suffer our selves to mind our health, and look into the practice of

Physick. Physick It cannot be of ill reflection to the Doctors of this Profession, if on the front I place Luke as a man taken notice of, for a godly Physician; and if we ascend from the lesser to the greater, it's a glory that Christ is compared to a good Physician; and indeed was a gracious, and is still to soul, as well as then to the body. Physick, saies One, is a Noble Art, and according to the Poets, descended of a gene­rous Race; bringing in Apollo as the chief grace of Medicin, and Esculapius his Sonne, who was a God and Professor of Physick. Mithridates King of Pontus, was famous for Physick, and was the first compounder of Mithridate, which retains its Name from him. He was very Learned, and could through his Knowledg of twenty Languages, answer all Ambassadours in their own tongue. It must needs be a Noble Science, that's of so general a use to mankind; To see a well cut Herball, flourishing with all sorts of forreign and Dome­stick Plants, Flowers, Herbs: with the Virtues of each Vege­table, all which demonstrate the usefulness of this Art. Of what esteem ought such to be had, that with Galen or Hippo­crates, dead many years, yet stand alive to this day by their Learned Parts and Knowledg in Mysteries of this Art; and the great discoveries of those greater secrets contained in the Mysteries of God in Nature.

Alchimy and Chymistry.There are many Branches which flow from this, as the ge­neral; many Rivers fall into this One of Physick; as distil­lation, Alchimy, Chymistry, &c. The two last being very de­lectable, and profitable as well as the former: though such as know them not, cannot say so: and no wonder, if ignorance be the judg. There goes a good Story, which reflects on Alchimy and Chimistry, it's the Fable of Aesops Husbandman, who dying, bequeath'd to his Sonne a vast Treasure of Gold, hid in his Vineyard; but the absolute place whereabout it lay, he forgot: The Sonne diligently searcheth, turning over eve­ry place throughout the Vineyard, but finds nothing worthy of his vast toyl; yet as we say, It's an ill wind blows no body good; for, it proved of great good to the Vines, in a plentifull Harvest the year following. So, saies my Author,[Page] Ld Pac. Adv. The search for Gold, procures much advantage in fruitfull ex­periments, both of nature, and to the great use of mankind. And, it cannot swarve from reason, for that, though they make no Gold in Specie, yet virtually they get even the Phi­losophers Stone, which turns all into the golden Experiments, of incomparable value; for who reckons not extractions of Oyl, Sand, Salt, Spirits, Stones, &c. of great use, the sepa­ration and alteration of Mettals, &c. of great advantage? They are not few, but as well many, as rare Experiments, which might be produc't as the natural and proper effects of these occult Mysteries. But I cannot stay any longer from the Delectable Sweets, that are found in this Hive of the

Mathematicks. Mathematicks: Which saies One,M^r Leigh. are most accurate and pro­fitable studies. And L^d Bacon saies, They make men wise and subtile. And to their Honour, Abraham was a famous teacher of them, amongst the Caldeans; and Alexander as good a Scholar. Many Princes and great men, are upon record for their diligent search into this Noble Study: which one properly calls, Rich Gemms. M^r Hall Essa. Burtons Mel. What more pleasing study than the Mathematicks (saies One?) A thing he much delighted in him­self. And Mr Diggs saies, Creds mihi extingui dulce erit Ma­thematicarum artium studio. I could live and die in these Studies; they are above the childish babies of Riches. Burton. Demo­critus Juniour observes, that Orontius the Mathematician, won­dered so much at Archimedes, that he breaks forth calling him Divinum & homine majorem. Seth, who lived in the first age of the world, is said to have been skil'd in the Ma­thematicks. It's somewhat prity that's said of Aristippus: whom, the adverse fortune of a stormy wind, and roaring Sea vomited out of the Ship, upon the banks of a forreign Countrey (who was you must think in great straits, to know whether his destiny was worse or better, than if a favourable Sea had given a quick and suddainer death, by sending him to the bottom, than to fall into the hands of wild Beasts, or savage men) whilst thus tortur'd with fear in his mind, he spies some Mathematical Figures drawn on the sandy Banks, (as the Antients then did use to do) suddainly he breaks forth: Salva inquit res est, amici, hominum vestigia conspicio. Concluding,[Page]there must be some City nigh for their comfort: that those marks were the steps of more civility, than they could have expected from so barbarous and silent a Coast. The Emperour Charles the fifth, was a great Studient in the Mathematicks, and sate close at it in his Tent, in the midst of his Army. There is a very remarkable Story, recorded of the Delians: Mr Stanly Hist. of Philosophy. who being much infected with the Pest, consulted with the Oracle of Apollo, and had this answer; that it should cease when they doubled their Altar, which was of a Cubick Figure. And you may at large read their endeavours, which effects pro­duc't not their desires: Wherefore again they repair to the O­racle: the answer was, They had not yet doubled their Cube, which their ignorance could not teach them: so they repair for advice in this great strait to Plato the Philosopher, who returns them this answer: The Gods derided the Greeks, for the neglect of Philosophy and Learning; Yet would he be willing to serve them, and did double the Cube, and banished the Plague. Other admirable effects, I find as the natural Children of this Knowledg: which I referre to the proper places of the Ma­thematicks. It's a Sudy, of late much engrossed by many in these parts, as well as other places of the Nation: and that it's somewhat kept under, for the want of variety of Books, which because of some small Knowledg, I have in some parts of them, I have inserted at large, whatever Books have come to my Knowledg; and shall reduce more to the obedience of this Catalogue, as they come either out, or to my Know­ledg. Let us now see it in the Branches of it: and if we would keep our Accounts right, we must begin first with

Arithmetick. Arithmetick, which Pythagoras is noysed to have reduced into an Art. Est Doctrina bene numerandi, saies One:Mr Leigh. Learning. Most parts of the Mathematicks hangs upon Arithmetick. It's as generally known to be profitable and usefull, as no less delight­full; for, having tasted considerably of this Science, I can therefore say its both. By this you may, ex ungue leonem, pro­portion the whole hody. By this (as One observes)Burt. Mel. from a little part, you may know the Dimensions of Domitians Amphitheatre, and vary the twenty four Letters, into more words than the world can contain. Here, by the Knowledg [Page]of the square and Cubick root (suppose it as small as imagi­nable) you may find the number of the sandy Mass, if even, the world were nothing else; if you know but the number con­tain'd in that small Cube. So for Algebra, which is a part of [...]t, of which One saies: Nothing can be more delicious to the mind, more bewitching and ravishing, abstruce and recondite; Yet so facile, as it swells it up to a perfect delight. Upon this hangs the Invention of

Geometry. Geometry. By the Aegyptians, which when Nile broke down their hedges of distinction, they were forced to this excellent Art of measuring Land. Thales of Melita, first brought it from thence to Greece; Since Arithmetica Geome­tria subsistere non potest, saies P. Ramus. It's said to be Ars omnium sine controversia certissima, the most sure of all Arts. And therefore it was that Plato wrote on his Study door: Let none ignorant of this Art enter here. He that shall see (saies One) the Geometricall Tower of Garsenda at Bollogne in Ita­ly: the Steeple and Clock at Strasburgh, will ever after admire Geometry; Or that Engine of Archimedes, able to remove the Globe from Atlas shoulders, could a place to fix it, be found. The rare Geometricall Instruments to make a Chariot move, sine animali: I'ts no impertinent Story wich I remem­ber is recorded of Alchimedes, the famous Syracusan Geomi­trician, who being surprised from his studious contemplation, and requested to discover what advantage his deep Studies could produce for the good of his Countrey: he quickly brings forth such Eng [...]nes of terrour, that by their strange effects, (they exceed almost belief; he only accounting it an essay to farre greater exploits. He it was that by his Geometricall In­struments, annoi'd the Romane Army, which had straitly be­girt Syracuse) more than all the City could do by Arms and force, Making great and small Stones, fly nigh hand, and at a distance, like Hail-stones, to the preservation of the City. This was he that to the wonder of the world fram'd a Brazen Heaven, wherein the seven Planets had their motion. And, with his hand drew after him five thousand Bushels of Grain. Infinite might be the Instances of this kind, but take one for all, to shut up this discourse: Ferdinand the Emperour sent to Soly­man the great Turk, the Heavens made of silver, wherein the [Page]motions had their true courses with those of the Heavens; the Starres arising and setting, the Planets keeping their oblique Motions; the Sun eclipsed at his just time and the changing every Moneth, with the same in the true Heavens; and this was carried before Solyman, by twelve men, and taken in pieces, and reunited a­gain by the Maker. Now though this be indeed a curious and admi­rable piece of Art, yet is it the less, considering the customary use of Watches and Clocks, no less rare, but not taken notice of in regard so common.

And the like Engines, with their terrible slaughter of men in the P. of Parma's Army, at the siege of Antwerp, Strada's Siege of Antwerp. is above a common wonder. I do not think it's to be paralell'd, that grave stones should fly in the air four miles; the Waters part (with the violence of this invention) to the discovering the bottom, the earth felt to move and tremble seven Miles off; it's tedious to relate the story at large. Have ye not read of Architas Ta­rentinus, who made a Dove of wood (to which by weights equally poised within the body, and a proportion of air) flew like a living Dove. Of no less wonder was that Eagle, which mounting into the air, flew before the Emperour to the gates of Norimberge; with that Iron Fly made by Art, to fly about the Table at a publick Feast. Divers Arts hang on Geometry: as Astronomy, Opticks, Musick, Dialling, Geography, Archi­tecture, and Mechanicks: as Husbandry, Navigation, Military Discipline, &c. A little of each: and first

Astronomy. Astronomy is a Science whereby one may examine and calculate the motion of the heavenly Bodies; B. Mel. Their Magnitudes, Apo­geums, and Perigeums, &c. their distance from the earth, with the bigness and compass of the Firmament; each Star with the Di­ameters, by the aid of Glasses, Astrolobes, Sextants, Qaudrants, &c. This Art, saies One,M^r Leigh. exceeds all other in this kind; That Thales was the first that studied it. Plinie. Atlas the Libian was so de­lighted with this Science, that he left the society of men, and lived upon the highest mountain of Africa, from whence it bore his Name; and from this ariseth the Poetical fiction, that he bore up the Heavens with his shoulders. And Endymion, spent his time upon Rocks and Mountains, studying the Starres and Moti­ons of the Heavens. Doubtless, it must needs be a sweet and pleasing study, to find out the wonderfull Works of Gods hand.[Page] David, sure was well studied in this Science, if we consider but how he spreads forth the glory of God, in the forming the Hea­vens, &c. As a fruit of this proceeds

Astrology. Astrology: which some say, is a profitable and usefull study, and not unlawfull, as others would affirm; For (saies One) Knowledg in the Starres and Caelestial Bodies, hindred not the wise men from coming to Christ. But I suppose it's judicial Astro­logy that's condemn'd by most men, especially the godly, who urge it strongly as a great sin, breaking the Holy Command of God; and they bring in no childish Reasons to prove it so.Famous M. Gats. and Others. There's a terrible example of Gods judgment, one who went about to calculate his future fortune from the judgment of the Heavens; Fox Acts. It's enough to bind our hands from fingering such unlawfull edge tools. And a neat Story goes recorded of an Augure in the Roman Army, who on their march espying a Bird hovering in the air, would needs by the chirping and flight prog­nosticate the event of their present undertaking; (a thing of great account at that time;) a Souldier more bold and wise then the rest, steps out, and with an Arrow kills it for which pre­sumption and contempt of the gods, he being call'd before the General, discreetly answered; how could they conclude, the Bird knew their fates so farre off, that could not it's one so nigh hand Chiromancy, is the neighbour of judicial Astrology; I cannot determine of what I know not fully, nor will I judg with blind Rashness but rather desire first to have some skill in the

Opticks. Opticks, which also is a dependant on Geometry; and is only ars bene videndi; we all account, seeing especially that of the mind, to be above all things; To see with our eyes, and discern with our understandings, so as to judg of things that differ, may well be rank't amongst the Divine Opticks. Perspectives, burn­ing and multiplying Glasses, (teaching (as One saies) to walk in the air) are not the less rare because of Old invented. A man had need of this skill in the Opticks, else he will be forced to see all things like a Staff in the Water, which only is crooked by a deception of the sight. But hearing the sweet melody of Or­pheus, quavering upon his Harp, and the ravishing voice of the Syrian charmes, I am forced to skip from the Optick sense, into that Sea of pleasure

Musick. Musick: which indeed, awakens all the Senses. Musick. [Page](saies One) is the Loadstone of fellowship, and delightfull Socie­ty. It's (saies Another) a roaring-megge against melancholy, affects the very vital and animal spirits, cheares the countenance, expels austerity, abateth heaviness. The cheerfull mind of a Soul­dier, can tell you, that death disheartens not so much, as Musick encourages against all f [...]ar It even ravishes Reginam sensuum, the very soul it self. Some say Whales at the noise of a Trumpet, will appear dancing upon the liquid waves. The Rhodian Mu­sician could say, His Musick would make a melancholy man mer­ry, and a Religious man devout. 'Twas a prety fancy of One taken with Instrumental Musick, who thought the soul to be in the fingers. And Musick used moderately, (saies One) is the bodies best recreation. Vocall, is the daily Harmony of Saints and Angels, that which God delights in, Psal. 149.150. David commends all sorts of Instrumental Musick, as well as vocall, for which he calls upon the Angels, the Sun and Moon, Beasts, Birds, and other creatures that God had made; And, shall not man be in love with that which God delights in? It's the most proper end of Musick to praise God. Amongst all the beasts of the Field, the Asse only was found grazing, whilst the rest were gazing about, with admiration at Orpheus Harp; All sorts of Creatures almost, are affected with it. Many men there are, which stand upon record as rare Artists; and it's affirmed by some, that there's no one Science more delectable, and innocently recreative, to free and generous spirits, nor more stirres up the mind to commendable actions; Read 1 Sam. 16 23. And Physicians tell us, it lengthens the life, by reviving the spirits, holding a secret sympathy with them That deathfull and venomous bite of the Tarantula in Italy, is only cured by Musick. Plato calls it a Divine and Heavenly practice. It's reported that in Arcadia, the people forgetting this laudable practice, grew into sedition; and upon this it's supposed, that Order came forth, for every one to practice and learn Musick for thirty years. Nay, the rude Gaules, lost their babarity, by the delight they took in Musick▪ It's observed,L. Bacon. that in the Age before the Flood, those few Memorials in Scrip­ture of those times, usher in the honour of Musick. Gen. 5. And they say, it was first found out by Pythagoras from the noise of the Smiths Hammers; However these be, or be not true, yet sure I am, from my own experience, it conduces much to the[Page]exhilarating of the spirits, and even as the mind tends proper­ly to good or evil, so will it be wrought up in contemplation; See 2 King. 3 Ch. 15 Vae. if a mans soul be principled from above, his thoughts are very much screwed up towards Heaven by Divine thoughts; and it will (if a mans mind be so set, and his soul so [...]un'd) create carnal and vain rejoycings; so that it's in this, as in other sublunary things, temptations to evil, if our hearts are not byassed ano­ther way. But it's not good to harpe too much on one string; therefore I conclude with Others, that my Musick hangs by Ge­ometry, as well as doth

Architecture. Architecture. Which though indeed it stands on it's own Ba­sis, yet leanes upon Geometry; which as well as other parts of the Mathematicks, is accounted pleasant and profitable, and is (so much the more pity,) more esteemed and practised be­yond the Seas, than in England: and that's the reason such rare Artists are in Italy, and other places; whereas ours, that should be Artists indeed, endeavour not by their study or desire to ex­ceed; but if they can live, it matters not for their honour or credit. Some there are not thus culpable, but too few: but there may be somewhat in the sloth of such, as should be the foundations of Architecture for their encouragement; in that a rare Piece is admired and applauded by them that know any thing of Gentile Education, yet desire not to have any thing of this kind themselves worthy to be wondered at, or stand as a Monument to posterity. Had our Predecessors been so, many Palaces had tumbled into Graves, and we might have lived like Indians, who build such houses as stand one day, and fall the next. But it's time improved to spend it well; therefore let us look upon the front of this Architect, which should be acquainted with the usefull and necessary Ornament of a.

Dyalling. Sun-Dyal; Which Art, some say, is very Antient; 2 King. 20. the Lord turning the Sun back ten degrees for Hezekiah's sake, whereby it had gone down in the Dyal of Ahaz, who was then King of Jerusalem in the first Olympiad, and in the 3200 years after the Creation. Mellesius found out the reason and proportion of shadows. The Caldeans were the first that divided the day into twelve hours. The Aegyptians had a hand in this Science, who called the Sun Horus, which by motion limits the time of every hour; and it seems, a 100 years before Cicero's time, they[Page]were common in Rome, for that the Parasite in a Comedy, envied against the many Clocks and Dyals. Optans ut suus enique ven­ter sit Horologium. And it must needs be confessed by all, that it's no less rare and pleasant, than necessary; And oh! that we could tell how to number our daies, that we might apply our hearts to Wisdom; and I think it's not ill shadowed, if I set the Word of God as the best Hand-Dyal, to point us out the improvement of time. Let us now take a measure of what we have done, by the golden Rule of

Geography. Geography: which saies One, should please any man, for to measure the World in Ones Study, know the distances, extent and site of remote Provinces, and all by the scale and compass. It's said Charles the Great took much delight in this study, and for that end, had three Tables of Silverion: on one, was cut the Map of Constantinople, the other Rome, and third of the whole World, all exquisitely and neatly done. Suavi animum delecta­tione allicere, ob incredibilem rerum varietatem & jucunditatem, & ad pleniorem sui cogitationem excitare, saies a skilfull and Learned Geographer.Hondius Prefat Merat. Indeed, he that knows it, will assent to this, that it's a study exceeding delightfull to the mind, and of incredible sweetness and variety, provoking and stirring up ma­ny profitable searchers in the bowels of History. We may know with freedom, the situations of the rich and opulent Cities, and Kingdoms in the world; their commodious advantages, to runne over a Map, and be more exact than those that have bought less Knowledg at a dearer rate; and from my own experience, I assure thee a world of pleasure, and of great ad­vantage, especially if thou tracest thy History, with a Map ly­ing before thee, it takes a double impression in thy mind; first of the History thou readest, and then of the remembrance of all circumstances about both, not without a deep impression of the situation of all places. But least I digress, by directing to the use of what I intend not; let's now come to answer part of Geometry, which is the

Husbandry and Gardening. Mechanicks. Il'e touch at three of them only, and first of Husbandry, which is no less profitable, than very necessary; though the pleasantest part thereof be Gardening, an Art so courted with delightfull contemplation, that though a man be in a wilfull sweat, he shall not feel it; the recreation sweetens[Page]all his labour, like Adams first task, who is observed to have delight in the greatest toyl. L. Bacon. Many by reading Books of this Art, may advance their Knowledg very much, when they walk into a Garden, discoursing fully, freely, and skilfully of any Plant or Flower, more then a Gardener himself, who in a manner grows there, and dwells night and day. Besides, there's infi­nite variety and delight, to see a rarity Spring out of our own labour, even provoking nature to play. To see how nature in the Spring puts on her new cloathes, and appearing in a rich dress, to tempt the eye and ravish the contemplation. When Flora and her Children come dressed to this solemn As­sembly, at which time (saies One) if a cunning Herauld saw the variety of colours, he would condemn her Coat to be of no Ancient bearing. From hence may we magnifie the great Crea­tor of all things. This hath been the practice of Kings, without the least infringent upon their greatness, or straitning their more important affairs. And very much delight there is known to be found amongst the several tribes and kindred of Natures Beauty; many profitable Advantages to be snacht from this plentifull Treasury of Natures Store, as well for use as plea­sure. Let's now put to Sea, and lanch into the depths of

Navigation. Navigation: which, though in Solomons time it was but in the Embrio, yet now it is at its full growth Nor is it amongst o­ther things of value, to be accounted small, that enriches the whole world with Treasures, which is the supports of King­doms and Empires. We had not been able to boast of such strong Bulworks, as blessed be God we repo [...]se our selves in, if Navigation were not in its perfection; the invention, is by all accounted both noble and admirable: by which, the Riches of the world, is by transportation, brought from farre Coun­tries; does, as One saies, consociate the most remote Regions, in participation of their fruits and commodities, and may I adde Countries; breeds acquaintance; without which many places had lyen hid with Terra incognita to this day. Many wonders of the Lord have been discovered in the deep waters; those that have gone into the depths can best experience this. But dis­covering danger by the foresight of a suspected enemy, I must make ready to understand and use the Art.

[Page] Art Millitary. Military: for Mars and Minerva are no enemies, nay are oft found nigh friends: as in Caesar, Xenophon, Alexander, &c. I never was a Practitioner in earnest of this polemicall Art, so cannot properly be a Judg of it; yet this I sadly know, that by our Civil and Bloody Warres, it hath been anvil'd into the braines of so many, that I fear 'twill hardly out again; Ma­ny have been taught the Art of taking up Arms, that forgets to lay them down; and many have learnt to advance what they cannot order; I wish this Nation, that hath paid so much Blood and Treasure, to learn both the Theory and Practice, may have a good occasion to forget both. For

Painting.Next is Painting which is a silent Poetry, as well as Poe­try is a speaking Picture; Zeuxis and Apelles were famous in this Art, and the story of the first, and Parrhasius, the one cosening the Birds, the other Zeuxis himself, is a known story to the ho­nour of that Art: It's a very laudable accomplishment of a Gen­tleman. It was in high esteem with the Romanes: and amongst the Grecians it was held too high to be taught to any, but the Children of Noble-men. Among the Ancients, it was held the first of the Liberal Arts; many Princes and Noble-men, might be introduc't as famous to their honour; and many rare Pieces there are to the eternal praise of the Authors. I remember a Story of two Dogs painted in Italy, striving for a bone, and it being set on the ground, a third Dog coming in, flew upon the Picture with such earnest violence, as he brake them in pieces. This is such a comely Ornament to a Gentleman, that without it he cannot arrive to the Noble and Gentile exercise of

Heraldry. Heraldry, which is a contemplation full of variety, and natu­rally Sympathizing with every generous mind; A great disho­nour it is to a Gentleman, not to blazon his own Coat. As it was for a Noble-man of France, who at an etertainment of some Friends, had at the last course served up a Marchpane, rich­ly gilded with his Arms: and when almost eaten up, he calling back his thoughts, saies, It was told me my Arms were represented in this, but I have looked about me, and perceive them not. To[Page]which one of his men replied, Your Lordship hath eaten them: at which he was angry, that he was not told of them before, that he might have known them. How shall greatness and No­bility of birth be distinguished and snacht from the pretences of ignoble persons without this? It's as necessary for Gentle­men as dividing Inheritances: What's the reason that other Nations are in confusion, and so poor, as one Coat must be borrowed to serve almost all, but for want of the due regula­tion of this Art? Peacham. For in France, every Peasant is a Moun­seir, and in some parts of that Kingdom, all claim an alliance to the greatest blood. In Spain, a Groom is Signour, and will not open a Note wherein he hath been indebted for his Bootes to the Shoomaker twelve Moneths, unless Don be superscribed. And my Authour saies, that in the Low Countries, his Host in Arnam changed his Coat and Crest three times in a fortnight; that a common Shop-keeper will have his Armes with a Beaver full fac't in his Glass-window, which is a Coat allowed only to Kings and Princes. This should, methinks, irritate the Gen­try, especially of these Parts in the North (where Antient and Honourable Families are plentifull) to outvie these Mechanicks, that boast only of their folly and impudence, where there's as little right as worth; and such Gentry as belong to Honourable Families (to which is annexed as an Inheritance, a rich Coat) may not by their lewd and unprofitable courses, dishonour their Families, blot and tear their Coat in pieces; that too oft to support their wickedness, morgage their Honours and Credits. And now I have done with all that concernes the Parts of Hu­mane Study, shewing how fit it is for the Gentry to be exem­plary in their Studies after Knowledg and Learning; how com­mendable, how profitable, how above Riches and vainer plea­sures, how fitting them to serve their Countries, &c. Let

The diffe­rence betwixt Ignorance and Knowledg.Therefore the mouths of the ignorant be stopt; If God ap­prove of Humane Learning, and Moral Knowledg, I account i [...] a plasphemy against discretion, for any to condemn them: and it's only the want of them surely, that opens mens mouths a­gainst them. It's the Devil that prompts men to think (and it's strange) themselves somebody, and only because, they suppose themselves above others in Knowledg, and yet will not grant preheminence to the most Knowing and Learned upon the same[Page]ground; And what's the Reason? oh, away with pluralities, they love to be singular. These men seem to me to be the De­vils shooing-horn, to pull contempt and scorn upon Learning and Knowledg, as well as upon wise men that possess them; If they did but know how the truly Learned and wise men thought of themselves, they would blush at their horrid thoughts and malice against them: suffering their own accusations to serve against them, and not with their father, devise lies for slander. For true Science (saies a studious and Learned Gentle man)Sir Rich Tempest Me­di [...]. is a solid thing, and carries rather to the bottom and depth of things, than to lift one up with aiery estimation. And I remember One undertakes to disparage Learning and Knowledg, but not in themselves, but in himself; which to me is a Testimony, it cometh nigh to grace; for it was no Mo­ses that saw his own face to shine; True Knowledg dimmes the sight of it in ones self; Ignorance is never known to be ignorance, till it be matcht with Knowledg, like to that wise Philosopher, who knew not any thing till he thought he knew nothing: or like another no less fam'd for Learning, that never answered to any question possitively, but rather, I think it's so, or it may be so. And if it were not thus, wise men would be otherwise; for the first step to Wisdom, is to be sensible of ignorance. Amongst wise men, he is wisest that knoweth much, and sheweth to know little; and he is wise that knoweth his Ignorance; It is the proper ecco of Wisdom to conclude with one that saies,—The perfect Seal of wit is wits distrust.

There is nothing more certain, then that the loyalest Sub­jects to ignorance, are the most perfect and stubborn re­bels to Knowledg; And this was the reason why Licinius (Constantines Colleague in weilding the Government of the Empire) finding a barren understanding to all Learning, calls it the publique plague and poyson of the Empire. And because this Ignis fatuus, this fatal ignorance, is the only ene­my to Learning and Knowledg, they are therefore to be the more valued; for fools hate Knowledg,Prov. 1.22. but ‘Justificata est sapientia à filijs suis.Mat. 11.9.’

[Page]Now, that I have in some weak measure unravel'd my fancy, and shewed what Treasures Knowledg and Learning are, it remains, that I speak of Books, which are the Cabinets of these rare Jewels; It's certainly concluded by all, that Books are the next helps to Gods Blessing upon all our stu­dies, and we shall find them greatly estimated by those that know best how to value true worth. Dionysius the Tyrant said of Plato, that he desired nothing but Books; And I remember a great Scholar said, all his Comfort was in his Books. Books (saies One) are the Instruments of Wisdom. To have the mind well dressed, where is it to be had, if not in these Learned Wardrobes? It's recorded, that Solomons Library was the feather in the Plume of his glorious Enjoy­ments: a part whereof, he thought as the choicest Present to the Queen of Sheba, for the recompence of her great paines in travelling to profit her self, and honour him. These are the dead Counsellours, which afford us the Know­ledg how to prepare and accomplish men. Zeno tells us, That it's good to live with the dead; to read Books. And Ptolomy was advised by one of the Interpreters, that reading of Books, which daily offer'd their service, was an exercise beyond exception; the profit above commendation. These are Minerva's Tower, where a Treasure lieth hid to igno­rance and idleness, but open to Industry and diligence. And seeing the variety of sorts (saies One)Burt. Me [...]l. he must needs be a block, that's affected with none. Reading of Books is not steril, but like a good steersman to the best Knowledg. King James, when he saw the Oxford Library, wished, that if ever it hapned he must be a prisoner, that there he might be kept, and that those chained Books might be his fellows, and the chaines his fetters. W. Es [...]a. These are the viaticum, the houshold-stuff of the mind; the magnes animorum, the irresistable attractives to Scholars, lifes best business. They are indeed, feeless Counsellours; whereas a Lawyers lips are lockt without a see; you cannot squeeze any advice from them, unless you boare your way with an Angelicall Instrument; or at least, pawn a Crown for their counsell: I gene­rally enquire after Books (saies One that knew how to use them.)Mont Essa.

[Page]Now what cau vulgar Societies, and sordid embraces afford to the advantages, that's to be got by studying Books; no Society is to be valued, without they comment upon these dead, yet living Authours. W. Essa. Therefore follow his ad­vice, that bids, Count thy Books, thy best Inventory Jewels, things, whose right use is the best Husbandry. Times capti­vated and snacht from them by incursions of affairs, and thefts of visitants, is by them redeem'd. Yon can only cut with your Sword, Titulum Sepulchri, when Books are their Au­thours Epitaphs. And One saies,M. [...]ur. where can a man be bet­ter accompanied then with wise men, or reading Books; Therefore Another saies, He is a wise man, that knoweth wise mens company. You may discourse with them though dead. For to keep company with them makes a man bet­ter. Xenophon saies, Good Consorts are worth my acquain­tance, and good Books my perusall. Corwallis speaking of Advice, saies,Essa. Thus let Books and Advice rectifie, and prepare us for the entertainment of all things. And this will be found to be true in fuch a9 read much, as they ought, that they shall upon occasion find their Arms to reach further, than they could expect or promise to them­selves. Banquet of Essa. Of all Companions, Books are the best, for there one may, solace himself, yet hear nothing but the echo of his own words; Of all Glosses Books are best, for being Inspe­ctive, are both prospective and reflective. L^d Cooke. He was a wise man, that in his vacaucy from publique Services, took his old acquaintance Industry, and so conversed with his Study and Books, as well as company. And who will not say, that good Books and good company are the very Epito­my of Heaven; a solace when the greatest adversity threatens. For my own part, I wish no other outward Enjoyment or Comfort in the world. (And to be free and ingenuous from the taint of profit or hope advantages) I do wonder, how so many men, as I have observed in the world, to be rich, and have occasions enough, nay and raised to places, which should force them to it; yet study not, nay read not any thing, but their own simple profits of this world, which how little to be valued to Knowledg, (if it were but in History or Humane Learning,) I have[Page]already discovered. Were I never to discourse in company, or frequent wiser society then my self, or appear upon the stage of my own Countrey in any publique Service, but lived to converse with my own thoughts: yet would I, (if no less then a good part of my Estate could purchase) then have a sufficient stock of choice Books for my private retire­ment; There's nothing comparable to the purchase of Knowledg, and when ever men begin to taste it, they will say I speak truth with a witness.