<P_43>

<heading>

THE THIRD BOOKE . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,43.3)

I . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,43.4)

PROSE . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,43.5)

</heading>

Thus ended she her song , when greedy me & astond with lyfted eares ,
the doulcenes of her verse , perced . Wherfore a little after : " O
cheefest comfort , " quoth I , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,43.7)

" of wearyd myndes , how much hast thou reviued me , with waight of
sentence , or pleasantnes of song . so as heerafter I shall think me
not inferiour to fortunes strokes . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,43.8)

and so the remedyes that a little before thou saidst to sharp , not
only doo I not feare , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,43.9)

but ernest to heare of I greedely beseech . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,43.10)

Then she : (BOETHEL-E2-P2,43.11)

" I perceauid , " quoth she , " when silently our wordes with attentyue
care thou cacht , that this state of thy mynde eyther I lookt for , or
that is truer , my self haue made : (BOETHEL-E2-P2,43.12)

The rest that doth remayne , be such that tasted , smartes , but
inwardly received , sweetens . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,43.13)

But for that thou namest thy self ernest to heare , with what desyres
shouldest thou be inflamed , yf thou couldst know whither we meane to
bring the` ? " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,43.14)

" Whither ? " quoth I ; (BOETHEL-E2-P2,43.15)

" to true felicitie , which thy mynde dreames of , whose eyes being
vsed to pictures , it self can not beholde . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,43.16)

Than I : " doo , I besech the` , and without delay , shew what is the
true one {COM:sic} . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,43.17)

" Willingly shall I doo it , " quoth she , " for thy sake ,
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,43.18)

but cause that thou doost better know the same in woordes , I shall
describe and seeke to inform the` that she knowen , when eyes thou
turnst to contrary parte , the show of truest good , thou mayst knowe .
" {COM:verse_omitted} (BOETHEL-E2-P2,43.19)

<P_44>

<heading>

II . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,44.22)

PROSE . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,44.23)

</heading>

Than fixing her looke awhile , and as taken with straight conceite of
mynde , thus begyns : " All mortall care which labour of many studyes
vsith , goes on in diuers pathes , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,44.25)

and yet stryves to com to one end of bliss : (BOETHEL-E2-P2,44.26)

But that is right good which a man obtayning , no furder may desyre ,
which is of all the greatest good , & in it self contaynes them all ,
of which if any want , it can not be the moste , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,44.27)

for outwardly were left somthing to be wisht . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,44.28)

Playne then it is , that state of all good thinges perfect in his
gathering , is onely blisse . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,44.29)

This , as we sayde , by diuers path all mortall $mens {TEXT:men}
indeuors gett . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,44.30)

For nature hath ingraft in mens mynd desyre of truest good ,
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,44.31)

but strayeng errour to falshode doth seduce vs . Among whom som ,
beleeuing hit greatest good nothing to want , stryve <P_45> to be rych
: som , supposing honour best , when gotten they haue , seeke of their
Citizens honour . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,45.32)

Others ther be that settels greatest good in hyest powre .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,45.33)

such will or raigne themselves , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,45.34)

or stryve to cleave to such as doo . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,45.35)

But they that suppose honour greatest good , they eyther with warre or
peaces worth hast to inlarge a glorious name . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,45.36)

But many good men measure the frute of good with joy & mirth ,
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,45.37)

and they think it happyest to wallow in delytes . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,45.38)

Then be to , that enterchange ech end & care with other ,
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,45.39)

as they that riches & delyte for powres sake desyre , the other powre
for monnyes sake or glory doo desyre . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,45.40)

In these & such lyke humayne actes or desyres , intent abydes , as
Nobilitie & popular fame they seeme to get som show .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,45.41)

wyfe & children for plesure sake desyre , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,45.42)

but partaking of of frendes <paren> that holyest is </paren> not reckon
by fortune nor force , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,45.43)

The rest eyther-1 for powres sake or delyte be taken .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,45.44)

It is playne that bodyes good to hyer thinges be referd , whose
strength & bygnes it is that makes their woork commended .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,45.45)

Beauty & agilitie their fame , hath their delyte , to whom only bliss
they ad , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,45.46)

for that that ech man thinkes above the rest exceede , that greatest
good he thinkes . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,45.47)

And greatest we suppose blisse to be , which makes men think blessedst
thing , that ech man above the rest couetes . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,45.48)

Before thyn eyes thou hast the forme sett out of mans felicitie ,
Riches , honour , powre , glory , and delyte , which last only the
Epicure considering , hit followes that the greatest good he thought ,
for that delyte bringes all delytefull thing to mynde .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,45.49)

But let me retourn to mans study , whose mynde albeit with blynded
memory , yet seekes the greatest good , but as dronken man knowes not
the path to bring him home . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,45.50)

Doo they seeme to err that nothing to neede desyres ?
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,45.51)

for that nought can so well obtayne happynes as flowing state of all
good thinges , not needing others , contented with it self .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,45.52)

Be they deceaud that hit supposith best , that worthyest is of
Reuerente respecte ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,45.53)

<P_46>

No sure , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,46.55)

nether is that vyle to be despisde that the care of ech mans labour
couettes to gett . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,46.56)

Is not force to be nombred among good thinges ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,46.57)

What then , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,46.58)

is that weake and to be estemid feeble , that of all other thinges
exceedes ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,46.59)

Is not honour to be regarded ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,46.60)

It can not be denyed , but that that is most worth , ought be most
honord . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,46.61)

For carefull sorowfull , blisse we can not call , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,46.62)

nor subiecte to care & woe we may not saye , when in lest thinges that
is desyrd , that most delytes haue & enioye . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,46.63)

And these be those which men wold obtayne , & for their cause desyre
ryches , dignitie , Raygnes , glory , & delytes . for that by these
they beleeue they may gett ynough , honour , powre , glory , and Joye .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,46.64)

Good it is therfore that men by so many ways doo seeke ; In which ,
what force of nature ther is , is showed , that tho dyuers & sondry
opinyons , yet in looving goodnes end , they all consent . "
{COM:verse_omitted} (BOETHEL-E2-P2,46.65)

<P_48>

<heading>

III . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.68)

PROSE . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.69)

</heading>

" You allso o erthly wightes , though by single figure doo dreame of
your own begynning . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.71)

& that true end of blissednes perceaue , tho with no playne yet with
sour thought , vnderstand . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.72)

And thither bringes you a naturall instinct to true goodnes ,
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.73)

and increasing errour leades yo=u= from the same .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.74)

Consider therfore , whither men can obtayne their end desyrd , by those
meanes that men suppose gettes happynes . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.75)

For if eyther monny , honors , or such lyke can bring such thinges to
whom nothing is lacking of , best , let vs then confesse that som men
may be happy by their obteyning . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.76)

For if neyther they can doo that they promise & wantes greatest good ,
is it not euident that they haue but a false show of blessidnes ?
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.77)

First therfore let me ask the` that a little afore aboundedst in ryches
, (BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.78)

Among thy flowing heaps , did not conceyte of conceauid iniury amase
thy mynde ? " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.79)

" I can not remember , " quoth I , " that euer my mynde was so free but
somwhat greeuid it . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.80)

" Was it not because that was a waye that thou woldest not forgo , or
was with the` that thou caredst not for ? " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.81)

I answerd , " so it is . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.82)

" Then thou desyredst the ones presence , and the others want ? "
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.83)

I confesse . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.84)

" Does any man neede than , " quoth she , " that euery man wantes &
needes ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.85)

He that lackes is not wholly content . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.86)

No , sure . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.87)

When thou hadst welth ynough , hadst thou not this want ? "
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.88)

" What els ? " said I . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.89)

" Then Riches can not make a man lack nothing , nor yet content himself
. (BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.90)

And this is that promise they seemed . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.91)

This I suppose ought most be considered , that monny of his own nature
hath nothing that he can not be spoyled of that possesses it . "
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.92)

I confesse it . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.93)

" Why shouldst thou not confesse yt . Whan a mightyer takes it away
from the vnwilling . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.94)

Whence come these Courtes complayntes ? but that coyne is taken away
from the losers by force or guyle ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.95)

He shall haue neede therfore of outward help by which his monny he may
keepe . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.96)

Who can this deny ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.97)

He should not cede such help that possest of monny lose he wold not .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.98)

This is doutles . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.99)

The matter is fallen otherwise now , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,48.100)

for such <P_49> riches as were thought sufficient of them selves , are
needy of others ayde . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,49.101)

But what is the way to dryve away lack from ryches ?
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,49.102)

for rych men can they not honger , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,49.103)

Can they not thirst , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,49.104)

nor can not somtyme the cold wynter hurt the lymmes of the rich man ?
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,49.105)

But you will say , they haue ynough , thurst & colde to dryue away .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,49.106)

But by this meanes yo=u= may saye the lack of rich men may be comforted
, neuer $taken {TEXT:take} away . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,49.107)

For if she euer gape & serch for som thing els , tho fild with ryches
ynough , it must be that ther somthing remaynes that it should be filld
withall . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,49.108)

I neede not tell you that Nature with lest , & Auarice with nothing is
contented . Wherfore if nether Riches can take away their lack , & they
make their own neede , why should we think them sufficient ?
{COM:verse_omitted} (BOETHEL-E2-P2,49.109)

<heading>

IV . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,49.111)

PROSE . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,49.112)

</heading>

" But thou wilt say dignities makes honorable , reuerenced to whom they
hap . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,49.114)

Haue $then dignities this force ? that they can ingraff in vsers myndes
vertue , & expulse vice . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,49.115)

Nay , they are wont , not to chace iniquitie but to adorn it ; so as we
disdayne somtyme that they should hap to wickedst men : wherfore
Catullus , tho Nonius sate as Curule , calld him Lump of flesh .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,49.116)

Dost thou see how great a shame somtyme dignity receuith ? Which
indignitie should not be so euident , if honour should not show it .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,49.117)

You allso , could you <P_50> haue bene brought by so many perils to
accompany Decoratus in office , when in him you sawe a mynde of a
wicked Ruffin , and slanderer tongue ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,50.118)

For we can not for honors sake iudge them worthy Reuerence whom we
suppose vnworthy of their dignities . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,50.119)

But if thou sawest a wyse man , couldst thou not think him wourthy of
reuerence euin for that wisdom he enioyes ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,50.120)

Yes surely , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,50.121)

for ther is a peculiar dignitie for vertue , which alltogither is
bestowde on them to whom she haps . Which because they $can $not
{TEXT:cannot} euer haue popular honors , they may not enioy the beauty
of their worth : wherin this is to be noted , that if it be the lesse
worth , that it is dispised of many , when they can not make them
reuerenced , thorow the contempt that many makes it , Then honour makes
many wicked ; but yet not without punishment ; (BOETHEL-E2-P2,50.122)

for wicked men giues this good turn to dignitie , that they spot them
with their own infection . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,50.123)

And that thou mayst know that true honour can not hap by these shaded
dignities , gather it $thus {TEXT:this} : (BOETHEL-E2-P2,50.124)

Yf a man haue oft tymes bene Consul , & fortune to com to barbarous
Nations , shall there honour make him be esteemd ?
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,50.125)

Yf this be a naturall gyft to all dignities , whither euer they go ,
they should vse the self office , As the fyre in ech Country neuer
leaues to burne . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,50.126)

But because not their own force but false humayne opinion hath bred it
, straight they vanish , when to them they com that esteemes not such
dignities . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,50.127)

but thus much for foren Nations . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,50.128)

Among them that made them , doo they euer last ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,50.129)

The Prefectures office was once a greate powre , now a vayne name , and
a combersom waight of Senators Censure . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,50.130)

He was wont be greate that cared for the peeples prouisions .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,50.131)

$Now , what baser than that office ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,50.132)

For as a little afore I said , That it had nothing in it self of his
own proper valure , that takes or loses luster <P_51> by the vsers
opinion . Yf then honors can not make men reuerenced , which are
despisd by wicked mens infection , if by change of tyme they leave to
be famous , yf by vulgar opinion despysd , what beauty haue they in
them selves , or can giue others ? {COM:verse_omitted}
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,51.133)

<heading>

V . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,51.135)

PROSE . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,51.136)

</heading>

" But kingdomes & kinges familieerities , can they not make a man happy
? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,51.138)

What els ? yf their felicitie euer last . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,51.139)

But full be old examples & of present age , that kinges haue changed
with misery their lott . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,51.140)

O noble powres , which is not able to keepe them selves . Yf this
Raigne of kinges be autour of felicytie , shall it not bring misery in
part that lackes , and so diminish Luck ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,51.141)

For tho mens dominions stretch furr , yet more peeple ther must needes
be , vnacquaynted with kinges Raigne . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,51.142)

For wher the making felicitie endith , there skanted is the force , &
wretched makes . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,51.143)

Thus must it needes follow that greatest portion of myserye kinges haue
. (BOETHEL-E2-P2,51.144)

The tyrant that proued the danger of his Lot , dissembled his Raignes
feare by sword hanging on his head . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,51.145)

What then is powre ? that can not chace bittes of Care , nor shun the
stinges of feare ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,51.146)

Will they haue to lyue secure , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,51.147)

but may not , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,51.148)

and <P_52> yet boast of their force ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,52.149)

Dost thou suppose him mighty , whom thou seest can not what he wold ,
performe ; (BOETHEL-E2-P2,52.150)

dost thou think him strong that fills his sydes with $gardes , that
whom he affrightes , himself doth feare ? who , that he may seeme
mighty , throwes himself to the handes of slaues ?
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,52.151)

What shall I speake of kinges fauorites , when the kingdoms themsellves
I haue shewde full of such weaknes ? whom ofttymes kinges force hath
preseruid , som tymes opprest ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,52.152)

Nero compeld Seneck his familiar & tutour to chose his own death .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,52.153)

Antony threw to soldiours glaiues Papinian , long in Courte , of Credit
. (BOETHEL-E2-P2,52.154)

And both wold willingly giue vp their autoritie .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,52.155)

Seneck offerd Nero all his goodes , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,52.156)

& straue to return to his own ease . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,52.157)

But while the waight it self thrust them downe , nether that he wold
obtayned . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,52.158)

What is this autoritie then ? which the hauers feare , such as when
thou woldst haue , art not safe , & seekest putt of , canst not shun ?
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,52.159)

Shall thy frendes be helpers , whom not vertue but fortune gat the` ?
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,52.160)

But whom felicitie made a frend , misery makes an ennemy .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,52.161)

What plague is there more of strength to harme than a familiar ennemy ?
{COM:verse_omitted} (BOETHEL-E2-P2,52.162)

<P_53>

<heading>

VI . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,53.165)

PROSE . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,53.166)

</heading>

" But glory how begyling , how fowle is she ? Wherfore the Tragik poet
wrongfully exclaymes not : O Glory , glory , on thousandes of men
nought worth , a greate name thou haste bestowed .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,53.168)

For many haue lost greate renoune through vulgar false opinion , than
which what can be worsse ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,53.169)

for they that falsely be praised , needes must they blush at their own
laude . Which if hit may be got by desart , what may they allow the
conscience of a wise man , who mesurith not his good by popular fame ,
but Conscience trouth ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,53.170)

And if to stretch $for {TEXT:fur} mens fame , seeme best , it followes
then , to skant the same is worst . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,53.171)

But since , as I haue afore tolde , it must nedes be that many Nations
ther ar to whom the fame of one man could neuer com , It followes then
, that whom $you thought most glorious , in the next climate of the
earth seemes vnspoken of . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,53.172)

Among all this I suppose not popular fauour woorthy of memoriall , whom
neyther Judgement bred , nor steddy lastes . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,53.173)

But now how vayne , how slippery is noble name . Who sees it not ?
which if to honour yo=u= refer , an other man makes it .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,53.174)

For nobilitie seemes to be a prayse proceeding of parentes desart .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,53.175)

And if the speche therof make it knowen , they must be noble that be
spoken of . Wherfore if thyne own thou have not , an other mans lawde
shall neuer make the` famous . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,53.176)

And if ther be any good thing in nobilitie , this I think it only-3 ,
that it breedes the hauers a constraynte , that they may not degenerate
from their auncestors vertue . {COM:verse_omitted}
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,53.177)

<P_54>

<heading>

VII . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,54.180)

PROSE . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,54.181)

</heading>

" But what should I speake of the bodye's pleasure , whose greedie
desyres be full of wo , and sacietie of repentance ?
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,54.183)

What diseases , how intollerable paynes is wont as frute of wickednes ,
hap to the enioyers body . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,54.184)

What pleasure soeuer their motions haue , I know not .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,54.185)

But who will remember his own delites , shall vnderstand what wofull
end those pleasures haue ; which if they could yeld men happy , ther is
no cause why beastes should not be lyke , whose wholle delite <P_55>
hyes to satisfy their lust . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,55.186)

Most laudable shuld be delite of wyfe & childe , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,55.187)

but I know not how somtyme against nature it haps that children haue
tormented them , whose state how wearing it is , I neede not now tell
the` , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,55.188)

but knowst it well ynough , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,55.189)

and nedest not now wayle it . Which makes me allow Euripides opinion ,
who said , he was happy in mishap that lackt ofspring .
{COM:verse_omitted} (BOETHEL-E2-P2,55.190)

<heading>

VIII . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,55.192)

PROSE . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,55.193)

</heading>

" Doubte then ther is none , but that these to blesse , be crooked
steps , nor thither can any man bring , whither they promise leade him
. (BOETHEL-E2-P2,55.195)

How wrapt they be in euills , shortly I can shew you .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,55.196)

For what , wilt thou snatch moony ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,55.197)

Thou must take it from the hauer . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,55.198)

Woldst thou shyne with dignities ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,55.199)

Thou wilt pray the giuer ; (BOETHEL-E2-P2,55.200)

& thou that desyrst to aduaunce others in honour , with lowlynes of
request , art dasht . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,55.201)

Dost thou desyre powre ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,55.202)

to subjectes ambusshes thou shalt lye in danger .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,55.203)

Dost thou seeke glory ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,55.204)

Thou leauest to be sure , that art drawen by so sharp wayes .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,55.205)

Pleasurable lyfe dost thou desyre ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,55.206)

But who wold not despise & throwe away the bodyes bondage so frayle &
vile ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,55.207)

But now , such as cares for bodyes strength , on how frayle & meane a
possession doo they trust ! (BOETHEL-E2-P2,55.208)

Can you in force exceede the Elephantes <P_56> waight , or bulls
strength ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,56.209)

Shall yo=u= forego the Tigres swiftnes ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,56.210)

Looke thou on heauens compasse , stabilitie and speede ,
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,56.211)

& leave to wonder at that is base . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,56.212)

A marveil in reason it were that Skye it selfe were better than he by
whom it is guided . Whose forme is so much the fayrer as it is caryed
with soudain & speedy change of Springes floures ?
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,56.213)

Yf , as Aristotle sayes , men could vse Linxes eyes , to peirce throw
that they sawe , wold they not whan bowells all were seene , suppose
that that fayre body whose covering Alcibiades spake of , should
fowlest seeme ? Wherfore not thy nature but weaknes of vewars sight
makes the` seeme fayre . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,56.214)

Esteeme how much you will of bodyes goodes , when this yo=u= knowe ,
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,56.215)

whatso yo=u= wonder , a fyre of a Tercian may dissolue . Of which all ,
this in somme yo=u= may gather , that these which neyther can performe
that they promise be good , nor when they are alltogither can be
perfecte , These nether can add strength to bliss , nor make them blest
that haue them . {COM:verse_omitted} (BOETHEL-E2-P2,56.216)

<P_69>

<heading>

XII . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,69.219)

PROSE . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,69.220)

</heading>

Than I : " I agree well to Plato , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,69.222)

for twise thou hast remembred me of it . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,69.223)

First , when memory I lost thorow bodyes syn , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,69.224)

next , prest with sorowes burden . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,69.225)

Then she : " yf the abouesaid <P_70> thou hast regarded , thou wilt not
be long ere thou remember that lately thou hast confest thou knewest
not . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.226)

" $What $'s {TEXT:What's} that ? " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.227)

" thou meanest by what Raynes the world is guided , " sayd she .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.228)

" I remember it , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.229)

& that my ignorance confessed shewes , Albeit I see what thou has
brought me , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.230)

yit playnlier of the` to heare it I desyre . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.231)

" A little before , " quoth she , " Thou thoughtst ther was no doute
but that the wourld by God was ruled . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.232)

" Nether now nor euer will I doute it , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.233)

and what therfore be my reasons , in short I will tell yo=u= .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.234)

This world had neuer com togither into one forme of so diuers &
contrarious partes , without one it were that so diuers thinges doth
Joyne . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.235)

And being so knytt , the diuersitie of their own natures among
themselves disagreeing , should vncouple & breake them , without one it
were that held that so he knytt . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.236)

For so certain an order of nature should not contynue , nor should show
so many diuers motions in their place , tyme , woork , space , &
quality , without one it were alone that euer byding himself ,
disposeth their mutable varietye . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.237)

What euer this is , wherby the made remayns , & be wrought , by vsuall
name of all men , God is calld . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.238)

Then she : " Since this thou thinkst , I shall haue but little labour
that thou , that comprehendst felicities , as an inhabiter should renew
thy Countrey . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.239)

But let vs looke on our own propositions . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.240)

Have we not set sufficiency in nomber of blisse , and so graunte that
God it is ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.241)

And to rule the world he needith no other help . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.242)

For els , yf ought he needed , full sufficiency he had not . "
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.243)

" That must needes be . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.244)

" Then by him self all he disposes alone . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.245)

And God is he that only we haue showed to be the good .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.246)

By goodnes therfore all he doth dispose , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.247)

for by himself he rulith all , whom we haue graunted the only good .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.248)

And he is the key & helm wherby this worldes molde stable & vncorrupt
is kepte . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.249)

" I agree to this , " quoth I , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.250)

" and with a slender suspicion I sawe afore what yo=u= wold saye . "
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.251)

" I beleeue it well . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.252)

For euin now , as I think more heedely to looke , to truth thou hast
turnd thyne eye , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,70.253)

And that I say is playne now that thou <P_71> with me may see . "
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,71.254)

" $What $'s {TEXT:Whats} that ? " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,71.255)

" When rightly we beleeue that God all Rules by goodnes order , & that
all thinges as I have taught you , by naturall instinct hyes to the
hiest good , Can any man doute , but that willingly they are so rulde ,
& turnes themselfes to the beck of the disposer , as Ruler of meetest &
best agreeing ? " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,71.256)

" It must needes be , " quoth I , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,71.257)

" for els it could not be a blessed raigne , yf it should be the yoke
of drawers back , not the favour of the obeyeng .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,71.258)

And so nothing can conserve nature that stryves to gaynesay his God .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,71.259)

but what if he went about it , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,71.260)

Can any thing euer prevail against him whom all men graunte by lawe of
bliss , the mightyest ? " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,71.261)

" It should nought prevayle , " said I , " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,71.262)

for ther is nothing that eyther can or may resist the greatest good . "
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,71.263)

" Then that is the top of felicitie , that stowtly rules & gently all
disposith . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,71.264)

" How much , " quoth I , " these thinges not only that are concluded by
great Reason , but thy wordes themselves much more delytes me , So as a
man may be ashamd of him self , that foolishly hath babled so much . "
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,71.265)

" You haue hard er now , " sayd she , " in fables how Gyantes haue
clamard to the hevens , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,71.266)

but them to as hit was meete , the gentle force hath deposd .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,71.267)

But will yo=u= haue me make a comparison ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,71.268)

Perchance thorow such debate , som cleere sparkell of trouth shall
leape out . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,71.269)

Thy Judgement hath made the` suppose that no man doutes but God is of
all thing the mightyest . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,71.270)

No man will doubte therof , without he be mad . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,71.271)

and he that Rulith all , nothing ther is that doo he can not . "
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,71.272)

" Nothing , " quoth I . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,71.273)

" can God do yll then ? " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,71.274)

" No , " quoth I . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,71.275)

" For yll is nothing , when he can not make it , that can do all . "
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,71.276)

" Do you dally with me , " quoth I , " & wrap me in vndooing laberinth
of Reason , in which thou entrest in , whence thou wentst out , & now
goest out where thou camst in ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,71.277)

So hast thou not thus wrapt a Rondell of dyuine sinceritie ?
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,71.278)

For a little afore begynning from bliss , thou saydst she was <P_72>
greatest good , which only abode in the greatest God .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,72.279)

Then thou saydst that God himself was the greatest good & blisse , of
whom no man was made blessed , but he that was lyke to him , And that
thou gauest for a reward . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,72.280)

Then thou saydst that the shape of good was the substance of God &
bliss , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,72.281)

$and {TEXT:&_and} so didst saye , that he alone was greatest good ,
which Naturally ech man desyrd ; (BOETHEL-E2-P2,72.282)

and didst dispute that God was he that ruld the vniuersalitie by the
raynes of goodnes , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,72.283)

& all thinges willingly did obey , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,72.284)

And so ther was no euill in Nature . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,72.285)

And didst show how all thinges , not by outward , but one from an other
lynking beleefe , had ingraft prooues and their own . "
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,72.286)

Then she , " We doo not sporte , as godes gyftes the greatest doo
require , that thing that of late we so much desyrd .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,72.287)

For such is the shape of divine substance that neyther it slyppith to
outward cause , nor inwardly doth take for him self any thing without
him . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,72.288)

But as Parmenides sayth : A lyke compasse in Roundnes ech Circle caryes
. (BOETHEL-E2-P2,72.289)

Then if we have so well compast , that we have not-2 gatherd our
reasons out of the matter , but agreing with that that we have treated
, ther is no cause then why thou shouldst doute , when thou hast lernt
by Plato , that all talke should agree as neere of kyn to matter that
we speake of . " {COM:verse_omitted} (BOETHEL-E2-P2,72.290)

<P_75>

<heading>

THE FOURTH BOOKE . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,75.293)

I . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,75.294)

PROSE . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,75.295)

</heading>

Thus when Philosophy her stately looke & graue countenance keeping , In
mylde & sweete sorte had song , Then I , not forgetting my late
ingraven woe , burst out to tell som part of my intent . "
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,75.297)

O , " quoth I , " Thou , the guide of true light , such thinges as thy
talke hitherto hath vtterd , by diuine speculation & Reason thyne , are
showed inuincible . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,75.298)

And though the same of late my iniuryes sorowe forgate , yet altogither
of them I was not ignorant . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,75.299)

But this was the self & greatest cause of all my woe , that when the
Righter of all thing is good , eyther at all euills can be , or
vnpunished pas . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,75.300)

That , how worthy wonder it is , consider I pray yo=u= .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,75.301)

But to this a greater mater is added . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,75.302)

For wickednes ruling & florishing , not only vertue wantes rewarde ,
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,75.303)

but subiect to the feete of wicked men , is troden downe
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,75.304)

& suffers payne that wicked folkes deserue . Which happening in a
Raigne of him that all knowes , all $may , and such a god that wills
but only that is good , No man can but mervell and complayne . "
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,75.305)

" It should be worthy mervell , " quoth she , " And horrible more than
any monster , if , as thou supposest , in a house guyded by such a
master , base vessells should be esteemd , & precious are despisd .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,75.306)

But so it is not . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,75.307)

For if such thinges be kepte which we of late concluded , & be kepte
togither , he being the maker of whose kingdom we spake , thou shalt
knowe that euer good men be mighty , yll men slaues & weake . And how
vice is neuer without punishment , nor vertue without rewarde . And how
prosperitie to the good , yll luck to euill betydes . And such lyke ,
which may leaving quarrels , strengthen the` with steddy soundnes .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,75.308)

And for that thou haste seene the picture of true blisse , which I
shewed the` , and haste knowen where hit is placed , passing all those
thinges that necessary I think not , I will show the` the way that home
to thy house may bring the` and stick fethers in thy mynde , <P_76>
wherby thou mayst sore up on hye , so as woe trode down , homedweller
in thy country by my guyding path & Charyot mayst return . "
{COM:verse_omitted} (BOETHEL-E2-P2,76.309)

<P_77>

<heading>

II . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,77.312)

PROSE . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,77.313)

</heading>

Than I : " O Lord , how great thinges dost thou promis , nether doubt I
but that performe thou canst hit , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,77.315)

but stik not now at that thou hast begon . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,77.316)

" First therfor , thou must knowe , " quoth she , " that good men haue
euer power , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,77.317)

Iuel men lack euer strengh for good and yl , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,77.318)

being so contrary , yf powreful be the first , the last doth shewe his
Lack . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,77.319)

But that your Opinion may haue more Credit , by ether pathe I wyl
treade , and therby my propositions confirme . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,77.320)

Two thinges ther be by wiche the effecte of eache mans doings apere ,
wyl and power , of wiche if ether lacke , nothing may be perfourmed .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,77.321)

For wyl wanting , No man wyl go about that he wold not .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,77.322)

and power fayle , vain is wyl . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,77.323)

So hit folowes , that whan he wants that he wylz , no dout but power
failes to get the desired . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,77.324)

" That is plain , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,77.325)

and $can $not {TEXT:cannot} be denied . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,77.326)

" And whom thou seest $optaine {TEXT:optone} that he wold , dost thou
dout that he may not haue the power ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,77.327)

In that he prevailes , In that man is able , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,77.328)

but weke must nides be , in that he may not . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,77.329)

Dost thou remember that in our last arguments this was gathered that
the intent of eache man's wyl , thogh diuersly distracted , is <P_78>
only to hie to blis ? " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.330)

" I remember hit was so shewed . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.331)

" Dost thou cal to mynd that blis is the greatest good , and so whan
that is soght al best is got ? " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.332)

" I remember that well Inough , " quoth I , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.333)

" for that hold I fixd in mynde . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.334)

" Therfore all good men & yll stryve to com to the best by diuers
intentes ! " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.335)

" So it is . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.336)

But most sure it is they are made good men by obtayning good . "
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.337)

" But is it sure that good men doo allwayes obtayne that they desyre ?
" (BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.338)

" So it seems . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.339)

" But if yll men might obtayne good , they could not be yll . "
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.340)

" So it is . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.341)

" When they both desyre good , but the one gettes it , the other not ,
It is certain that good men be mighty & yll weake . "
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.342)

" Who euer , " quoth I , " doutes therof neyther can consider Natures
property , nor sequele of Reason . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.343)

" Then if twoo ther be that by nature requires one thing , one of them
naturally does that & performs , & the other no way can do it , nor can
agree to what Nature will , & so to fullfill his intent doo but follow
the fulfiller : which of them ij thinkest thou more of powre ? "
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.344)

" Though I coniecture what you wold , yet plainlyer I desyre to heare .
" (BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.345)

" The motion of walking , you can not deny but all men haue ,
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.346)

nor does not doute that is not the feetes office ?
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.347)

Yf any man , then that can go , & an other to whom the naturall
propertie of the feete is wanting , stryving with his handes , stryves
so to walke , which of these ij suppose yo=u= more worth ? "
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.348)

" Perform the rest if that you will , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.349)

for no man doutes but he is more of force that hath the vse of nature ,
than he that wantes it . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.350)

" But the greatest good , " said she , " that is set before yll & good
, the good desyre by naturall duty of vertue , the other by a scatterd
desyre , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.351)

& stryue to get that which is no proper gift , to such as will obtayne
the greatest good . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.352)

Doest thou think the contrary ? " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.353)

" No , " quoth I , " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.354)

for that is playne that followes . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.355)

For heerby may we gather that I graunted afore , good men to be mighty
, & yll men weake . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.356)

" Rightly hast thou discourst , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.357)

And so , as phisicians ought to hope , that it is a signe of a helthy &
Resisting Nature . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,78.358)

But for that I see the` redyest to understand , I will <P_79> heape vp
many reasons . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.359)

Beholde , how greate a weakenes is there appeers in vicious men that
can not obtayne that to which their naturall intent leades & well nye
compells . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.360)

And what if they be left of the greate & almost invincible help of his
precedent nature ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.361)

Consider how great a feblenes holdes wicked men .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.362)

For nether can they gett light & vayne rewardes , which they can not
obtayne , but fayles in the Top of height , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.363)

neither does good effect hap to the wretched , euen the same that night
& day they seeke . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.364)

And yet in self same thing we see the good mens strenghth excell .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.365)

For as a man that walkes to that place whence chefely he wold com ,
being such as has no way beyond , woldst thou not think him best
footeman ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.366)

so $shouldst {TEXT:shoulst} thou think him mightyest that can
comprehend the end , beyond which no furder is . Wherby it haps that
who contrary is , the same be wicked & weake of all strength .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.367)

For why doo they follow vice , leaving vertue behind them ?
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.368)

For ignorance of good ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.369)

But what is more feeble than ignorance blyndnes ?
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.370)

But they know what follow they ought ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.371)

But their lust doth ouerthrow them : (BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.372)

so doth intemperance the frayle men that in vice be delited .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.373)

But wittingly & knowing do they leave that is good , and so bend them
to vice ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.374)

This waye , not only without powre , but they leave to be .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.375)

For they that forsake the common end of all thinges that be , they
leave themselves to be . Which may seeme strange to men , that euill
men <paren> that many be </paren> we shall not-7 say to be ,
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.376)

but so the case standth . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.377)

For they that euill be , I deny them not to be yll ,
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.378)

but I deny that they be purely or simply . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.379)

For as we call a Carcas , a dead man , symply we can not call him man :
so vicious men we graunte them to be yll , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.380)

but absolutely to be , that can we not confesse .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.381)

For ther is that , that keps & retaynes Natures order :
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.382)

Ther is that fayles from that , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.383)

& leaves that in their Nature is grafted . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.384)

But thou wilt say , yll men may doo , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.385)

nether can I denye . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.386)

But this powre to doo coms not of force , but of weaknes .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,79.387)

For they can doo yll , which they should not doo , if they wold remayn
in their creation of good . <P_80> Which possibilitie to doo , In not
dooing shewes they can doo nothing . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,80.388)

For yf , as we haue gatherd afore , euill be nothing , when but only
the yll they can doo , wicked men can doo nothing . "
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,80.389)

" $That $'s {TEXT:Thats} playne . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,80.390)

" And that you may understand what is the force of this powre , we haue
defynd afore , that nothing is fuller of force than the greatest good .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,80.391)

But that $can $not {TEXT:cannot} the wicked doo .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,80.392)

But what man is that thinkes man can doo all ? " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,80.393)

" None but a mad man will so think . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,80.394)

" And that the same can doo yll to ? " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,80.395)

" Wold God they could not , " quoth I . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,80.396)

" When then he is mightest that can do all good , & mightyest men in
yll , can not such thinges obtayne , then is it playne , that they can
lest doo that be wicked . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,80.397)

And so it haps , that rightly we haue showed , all powre to consist in
thinges to be obtaynd ; And all such referd to greatest good , as to
the top of Natures best . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,80.398)

But possibilitie of wicked acte can not be refered to good ,
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,80.399)

desyrd therfore it ought not be , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,80.400)

& all powre is to be desyrd : (BOETHEL-E2-P2,80.401)

It followes therfore , possibilitie of euill men is no powre . By all
which , the powre of good men plainly appeers , & makes vndouted the
weaknes of wicked men , veryfyeing Platoes sentence , to be true , that
only wise men can performe , that they desyre to doo .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,80.402)

But wicked men vse only that they will , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,80.403)

but what they most desyre can not obtayne . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,80.404)

For they doo certain thinges , in which delyting they suppose they haue
obtaynd the good that they desyre : (BOETHEL-E2-P2,80.405)

but obtayne it they can not , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,80.406)

for reproche neuer coms to blisse . " {COM:verse_omitted}
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,80.407)

<P_81>

<heading>

III . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,81.410)

PROSE . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,81.411)

</heading>

" See you not in what a great slowe , wicked thinges be wrapt in , &
with how great a light , godlynes shynith ? by which $'t $is {TEXT:tis}
playne , that neuer reward wantes to good , nor punishment to wicked
folke . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,81.413)

For it is no wrong that of thinges don , that be ech reward for which
ech thing is don : as a Runner in a race has a guarland for which he
ran , in rewarde . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,81.414)

But we haue shewed how blisse is that self good , for which all thinges
be don . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,81.415)

Then it followes that the only good is sett as the vniuersall reward to
men . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,81.416)

And this from good men can not be deuided , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,81.417)

for nether can he be iustly cald a good man by right , that wantith
true good . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,81.418)

Therfore good conditions can neuer want rewarde .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,81.419)

For though euill men afflicte them , a wise mans Garland shall not fall
nor wither . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,81.420)

For other <P_82> mens wickednes can not pluck away the true honour from
honest myndes . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,82.421)

For yf he reioyce at ought received from outward meane , som other man
or he that gaue it might take it awaye . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,82.422)

But because Godlynes it self suffisith , then shall he want reward ,
when he leaves so to be . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,82.423)

Lastly , since all rewarde is therfore desyrd , because it is beleeuid
good , who can think an honest man , without rewarde ?
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,82.424)

But of what ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,82.425)

Of that that is fayrest & greatest . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,82.426)

Remember this breefe that a little afore I gaue you to be the cheefest
, (BOETHEL-E2-P2,82.427)

& so conclude : When the greatest good is blisfulnes , they must needes
be happy that are good , because they are so . And they that be happy ,
must needes be lyke to God . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,82.428)

Therfore good mens reward is such as neyther any day drawes away , nor
powre minish , nor Ire darken , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,82.429)

but lyke to him they be . Which being true , no wise man may doute of
the wicked mans inseparable payne . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,82.430)

For where both good & yll , payne & reward be crosse one to an other ,
it followes that such reward as haps to goodnes , the same must needes
be of contrary sorte , for payne of wicked . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,82.431)

For as sinceritie to the honest is rewarde , so to the wicked their
vnhappynes is their plage . So as who euer is punisht must needes be
wicked . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,82.432)

Yf therfore they wold way well themselves , can they suppose them voyde
of payne , whose wickdnes in all ylls not only touchith them , but
greevously infectes ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,82.433)

See on thother syde , such parte as is to the good contrary ,
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,82.434)

what payne doth follow them . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,82.435)

I haue taught yo=u= afore that all that is , must be one , and that the
only good is one . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,82.436)

Then it followes , to what so that is , that seemes to be good .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,82.437)

Then whosoeuer faylith from that good he leaves to be : so that , when
euill they be , they leave to that they were ; (BOETHEL-E2-P2,82.438)

but to prove that men they were , the forme their humayne body shewith
, (BOETHEL-E2-P2,82.439)

but turned into malice , they haue left their humayne nature .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,82.440)

And since that true pietie alone may lift vp a man , it followes , that
whom wickednes hath throwen downe from state of man , hath cast him
downe beneth the merit of man . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,82.441)

So it haps , that whom transformed thou seest with vice , thou mayst
not suppose him a man . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,82.442)

<P_83>

The violent robber of others goodes is farvent in his robberyes ,
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,83.444)

swellith in coueting , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,83.445)

& mayst call him woolflyke , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,83.446)

feerce & contentious , exercises his tongue in bralles , euin lyke a
dog . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,83.447)

The secret lurker joyes with fraude to catche . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,83.448)

And so is foxlyke , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,83.449)

untemperate in ire he chafith , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,83.450)

& men beleeue him a lyar ; (BOETHEL-E2-P2,83.451)

but fearfull & flyeing , fearith & dredith that needes not ,
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,83.452)

And he to deere is compared . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,83.453)

The sluggy & dullard languishith (BOETHEL-E2-P2,83.454)

& lyke an ass doth lyve . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,83.455)

The light & vnconstant man changes his intentes ,
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,83.456)

& differs so nought from the byrdes , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,83.457)

And is plunged in filthy & vncleane lustes , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,83.458)

And is kept in the delyte of his owne lewdnes . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,83.459)

And so it haps , that he that forsakyth honesty leaues to be a man ;
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,83.460)

for not to be able to attayne a dyuine state , is tournid to the bestly
. {COM:verse_omitted} (BOETHEL-E2-P2,83.461)

<P_89>

<heading>

V . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,89.464)

PROSE . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,89.465)

</heading>

Than I began : (BOETHEL-E2-P2,89.467)

" I se , " quoth I , " what felicitie or misery it is , that is sett in
the desertes of honest & wicked men . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,89.468)

But in common fortune I see , but little good or yll to be .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,89.469)

For no wise man wold rather choose to be exul , poore , dispisde , than
riche , reuerenced , mighty , & florishing abide in his own Citie .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,89.470)

For then more plainly & with better witnes , is the propertie of wisdom
seene , when the happines of Rulers be as it were skatterd among such
peeple as be straungers , When cheefely geayle , lawe & other tormentes
for due punishment rather pertayne to wicked Citizens ; for whom they
were first ordeynd . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,89.471)

But when these be turnd in wry sorte , & wickedest payne doo presse
good men , & yll doo snatch reward from vertue , I wonder much what may
seeme the reason of so vniust a confusion , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,89.472)

& doo desyre of the` to know . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,89.473)

For lest wold I maruell therat , if I beleeued all thinges were mixt by
chanceing luck . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,89.474)

Now , God the guide , my doute increasith ; which when oft tymes he
giues to good , delytes , to euill hard haps , somtyme agayne he giues
yll chance to good , & grauntes the yll their wish , without ther
<P_90> could a cause be founde , what hit should be that makes a
difference from chaunceing haps . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,90.475)

" It is no wonder , " quoth she , " if any thing rash & confounded be
beleuid when orders reason is vnknowen . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,90.476)

But thou , allthough thou knowest not the cause of so greate an order ,
yet because a good guyder the world tempers , doubte thou not all
thinges rightly orderd be . " {COM:verse_omitted}
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,90.477)

<P_98>

<heading>

VII . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,98.480)

PROSE . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,98.481)

</heading>

" Doo yo=u= see now what all these thinges we haue told may get ? "
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,98.483)

" What is that ? " said I . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,98.484)

" That all fortune may be good . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,98.485)

" And how may that be ? " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,98.486)

" Attend , " said she : " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,98.487)

When euery fortune eyther plesing or hard be made eyther to exercise &
reward the good , or to punish & correcte the yll , it is euident that
all is a good cause that eyther-4 is manifest to be iust or proffitable
. " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,98.488)

" I perceaue this reason to be most true , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,98.489)

and if I consider eyther prouidence or fate , that you haue afore tolde
, your opinion leanith I perceaue to steddyest ground .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,98.490)

But let vs set her yf please yo=u= , among such as we haue supposed to
be out of men's opinions . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,98.491)

" What is that ? " said she . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,98.492)

" For the common speche of men deceaues itself , (BOETHEL-E2-P2,98.493)

& oft supposith mens fortunes hard . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,98.494)

Will ye haue me a little draw neere to the vulgarest opinions ? "
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,98.495)

" As it please yo=u= , " said I . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,98.496)

" Doo yo=u= not suppose that to be good that avayles , <P_99> and such
thing as exercises or correctes , good therfore ? "
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,99.497)

" What els ? " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,99.498)

" But these belong to those which eyther vertuous jarre against
aduersitie , or strayeng from vice takes vertues waye . "
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,99.499)

" I can not deny it . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,99.500)

" May the common peeple deny that the rewarde is not good that good men
haue ? " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,99.501)

" No . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,99.502)

For it must needes be the best . " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,99.503)

" And what of all the rest ? (BOETHEL-E2-P2,99.504)

Will the common sorte think that that is not best that , tho it be
sharp , yet lymites wicked men by iust Payne ? " (BOETHEL-E2-P2,99.505)

" Yea , " quoth I . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,99.506)

" I think that to be the most misery of all . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,99.507)

Let vs beware lest following the common opinion we doo somthing
vnawares . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,99.508)

By this that we haue graunted we conclude that worsse is the state of
them that be eyther in the possibilitie , or in the aduaunce or
obtayning of vertue , and yet byde in their iniquitie . "
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,99.509)

" This is true , " said I , " tho no man dare confesse it . "
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,99.510)

" Wherfore , " said she , " so ought not a wise man beare with greefe ,
fortunes wrestell , as it becoms not a strong man to be mooued , when a
battell begyns . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,99.511)

For the hardnes is argument for bothe , eyther to inlarge his glory ,
or to confirme his witt . Wherby we call it force that stycking to his
owne strenght is not won by wo . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,99.512)

For you cam not to vs in the aduancement of vertue , to make vs
ouerflow with delites , or drownd in pleasure , but that we should make
a sharp battell against all fortune , and that neyther the sowre
oppresse yo=w= , nor pleasant corrupt yo=u= ; (BOETHEL-E2-P2,99.513)

the middle waye with steddy force maynteyne yo=u= .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,99.514)

For who so beneth this or beyond goes has but felicities contempte , no
trauells rewarde . (BOETHEL-E2-P2,99.515)

For in your hand it is what fortune yo=u= will frame you ,
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,99.516)

for what so seemith sharpest eyther invres , correctes , or punishith .
(BOETHEL-E2-P2,99.517)