Page:A Discourse of Constancy in Two Books Chiefly containing Consolations Against Publick Evils.pdf/260

Chap. 17. new equity is raised; and that is a merciful act of Justice towards many; which seems cruelty upon a few. Does not the School-master give the Ferula to some one of his wantonizing Scholars? And does not a General chastize his cowardly Army, by the decimation of them? And both these upon the safest considerations: because the punishment though but of those few does terrify and amend all. I have often seen the Physitian strike a vein in the Foot or Arm, when the whole body was distempered: how know I but it may be thus here. These are secrets Lipsius, secrets I say, and if we are wise let us presume no nearer unto this sacred fire, some sparkling emanations and bright emissions of which Men may possibly behold, but it self they cannot. As they lose their sight that too daringly gaze upon the Sun; So they all the light of their Minds, who too intentively fix it upon this more glorious light. Let Rh