Page:Four Dissertations - David Hume (1757).djvu/85

 gion (meaning the catholic; for he knew no other) which recommend only passive courage and suffering, had subdued the spirit of mankind, and had fitted them for slavery and subjection. And this observation would certainly be just, were there not many other circumstances in human society, which controul the genius and character of a religion.

seized a mouse, and being bit by it, let it go. There is nothing so contemptible, says he, but what may be safe, if it has but courage to defend itself. Bellarmine, patiently and humbly allowed the fleas and other odious vermin to prey upon him. We shall have heaven, says he, to reward us for our sufferings: But these poor creatures have nothing but the enjoyment of the present life. Such difference is there betwixt the maxims of a Greek hero and a Catholic saint.