Page:A Discourse of Constancy in Two Books Chiefly containing Consolations Against Publick Evils.pdf/152

Chap. 22. But I am yet tossed with the wave of one troubled thought, and this Langius I pray you calme: For if publick Evils are from Fate, and that can neither be overcome nor avoided: Why do we further concern our selves or labour for our Country? Why do we not resign up all, to that great and uncontroulable Governour, and (as they say) sit down with our hands folded? since as your self do confess; all contrivance and power is but vain, when the Fates do oppose. Obstinacy and perverseness said Langius smiling, have set thee at distance Young Man from that which is right and true. Is this to obey Fate, or to contemne and elude it? I will sit (say you) with my hands folded; 'tis well; I wish you had done so with your Lips too. For who ever assented, that Fate acts singly without the intervention of middle and assisting causes? It is Fate that your Children dye: Yet so, as that they shall first be begotten. It is Fate that Rh