gentleman, the subject of a nation, with which he is now in so strict an alliance. But the other kingdoms and states of Europe have treated me with more candour and generosity. If I had leave to print the Latin letters transmitted to me from foreign parts, they would fill a volume, and be a full defence against all that Mr. Partridge, or his accomplices of the Portugal inquisition, will be ever able to object; who, by the way, are the only enemies my predictions have ever met with at home or abroad. But I hope I know better what is due to the honour of a learned correspondence, in so tender a point. Yet some of those illustrious persons will perhaps excuse me, for transcribing a passage or two in my vindication[1]. The most learned monsieur Leibnitz thus addresses to me his third letter: illustrissimo Bickerstaffio astrologiæ instauratori, &c. Monsieur le Clerc, quoting my Predictions in a treatise he published last year, is pleased to say, ita nuperrimè Bickerstaffius magnum illud Angliæ sidus. Another great professor writing of me, has these words: Bickerstaffius, nobilis Anglus, astrologorum hujusce sæculi facile princeps. Signior Magliabecchi, the great duke's famous library keeper, spends almost his whole letter in compliments and praises. It is true, the renowned professor of astronomy at Utrecht seemed to differ from me in one article; but it is after the modest manner that becomes a philosopher; as, pace tanti viri dixerim: and page 55, he seems to lay the errour upon the printer, (as indeed it ought) and says,
- ↑ The quotations here inserted are in imitation of Dr. Bentley, in some part of the famous controversy between him and Mr. Boyle.
