to such Asserters of Publike Liberty, to say much of
the Popular Supremacy, which hath occasioned the great
Conquests and controversies of the world: Your Excellency
well knows, how this Fortification hath stood
strengthened against time, and nature in this point jealous
of her own interest, hath even in ordinary spirits
amongst us and others, opposed oppression. But we believe,
we shall have cause to bless Almighty God
for these mild and just Administrations of present
and expected power, wherein piety may prevail
above reason or policy, and prudence so moderate
Authority, as that it may both guard greatness,
and make goodness more good and great.
We are not able to offer much toward the modelling
of a new and necessary Representative, for the establishment
of a good and happy Government. Its true,
Popular place fits men for fame and business, but
such have neither freedom in person, act, or time,
and have onely an opinionative felicity, consisting
in much veneration, and little rest: yet we deny
not, but the discharge of duty is the end of all
things; and persons qualified with parts and piety,
put in great places or power, like heavenly bodies,
ought to have influence over us, and can
cause good or evil times, as God gives a gift, or
gives not the grace.
Indeed Ambition makes some set themselves
to Action or Consultation, yet such, if they rise
not with their service, do often make their service
fall with them. But those who seek business
upon Conscience, rather then for credit or profit,
can easily discern a busie nature, from a willing
minde, and will be active or passive, according