Page:A Discourse of Constancy in Two Books Chiefly containing Consolations Against Publick Evils.pdf/216

Chap. 11. ther world would be able to contain them. The same may we imagine of the whole Creation. What wonder therefore is it if our Saturn doth sometimes thrust his Sickle into this over-grown Field; and reap thence some superfluous thousands, either by the pestilence or warr? Which if he should not do, what Country would be able to hold us, or what Land could afford us sustenance? It is therefore requisite that something should perish from the parts; that so the whole may be eternal. For as to Rulers in States the safety of the People is the supream Law: So is it to God in respect of the World. For the beauty or Ornament of the World I conceive calamities make two wayes. First, because I apprehend no beauty any where in this great frame without variety, and a distinct succession and change of things. I acknowledge the Sun is exceedingly beautiful, but he becomes more ac- Rh