are spoken be conceived and understood; and so the things that
are done, purpose after purpose, every one by itself likewise.
And as in matter of purposes and actions, we must presently see
what is the proper use and relation of every one; so of words must
we be as ready, to consider of every one what is the true meaning,
and signification of it according to truth and nature, however it
be taken in common use.
V. Is my reason, and understanding sufficient for this, or no?
If it be sufficient, without any private applause, or public
ostentation as of an instrument, which by nature I am provided of,
I will make use of it for the work in hand, as of an instrument,
which by nature I am provided of. if it be not, and that otherwise
it belong not unto me particularly as a private duty, I will either
give it over, and leave it to some other that can better effect it:
or I will endeavour it; but with the help of some other, who with
the joint help of my reason, is able to bring somewhat to pass,
that will now be seasonable and useful for the common good.
For whatsoever I do either by myself, or with some other, the only thing
that I must intend, is, that it be good and expedient for the public.
For as for praise, consider how many who once were much commended,
are now already quite forgotten, yea they that commended them,
how even they themselves are long since dead and gone.
Be not therefore ashamed, whensoever thou must use the help of others.
For whatsoever it be that lieth upon thee to effect, thou must
propose it unto thyself, as the scaling of walls is unto a soldier.
And what if thou through either lameness or some other impediment
art not able to reach unto the top of the battlements alone,
which with the help of another thou mayst; wilt thou therefore
give it over, or go about it with less courage and alacrity.
because thou canst not effect it all alone?