Page:A Discourse of Constancy in Two Books Chiefly containing Consolations Against Publick Evils.pdf/254

Chap. 17. do those mulcts and punishments, which are inflicted on him for his offences. In attaindours for treason or rebellion it is manifest that these are guilty; but others share in the punishment which humane cruelty doth so farr enlarge; as to make Lawes that follow the innocent Children with perpetual wants; such as make life a burthen, and death a comfort. Perverse Minds, who will permit that to be lawful to a Prince or Magistrate; which you forbid to God: Who yet if you examine it rightly hath a juster reason for his severity. For all of us in one have sinned, and rebelled against this great King; and through so many successive Generations that first blot hath been derived to the unhappy Children: So that there is to God a continued twist and chain of Crimes. For instance; my Father or yours did not begin to sin, but all the Fathers of our Fathers: What wonder then is it if he punish Rh