World: So that Now all Events must either be consequences of Decree, and Result from the first Measures ; or else the Soul of the Universe [1] fail'd in the Execution of her principal Design. Now the absurdity of this latter supposition, will go a great way towards the making a Man Easie.
BOOK VIII.
TO keep you Modest, and Mortified to vain Glory, remember that it has not been your good Fortune to spend your Life wholly in the pursuit of Virtue, and Wisdom : Your Friends and your self too, are sufficiently acquainted how much you fall short of Philosophy : And tho' Merit, and Character are sometimes parted, yet the bare Report of being a Philosopher, is no easie matter for you to compass: You are unqualified by your Station, and too much Embarrass'd for this Priviledge. However, since you know how to come at the thing, ne're be concerned about missing the Credit on't. Be satisfied therefore, and for the rest of your Life let your own Rational Nature direct you. Mind then what she would be at , and let nothing Foreign disturb you. You
- ↑ God.
