The Morning exercise [at] Cri[ppleg]ate, or, Several cases of conscience practically resolved

5. Such as are in extreme debt, and owe more than they are worth; We showed that mercy and justice must go together, yea, justice must go before mercy, and be satisfied before mercy be showed. They who owe more than they are worth, have nothing at all to give for Alms, such join Arrogancy to Injustice, to make show of a great estate, and yet have none.

5. Such as are in extream debt, and owe more than they are worth; Wee shewed that mercy and justice must go together, yea, justice must go before mercy, and bee satisfied before mercy bee shewed. They who owe more than they are worth, have nothing at all to give for Alms, such joyne Arrogancy to Injustice, to make shew of a great estate, and yet have none.

I shall close this with a word of advice to such as have a merciful and charitable disposition, above their outward condition and ability; ⟨p. 277⟩That they use the best diligence they can, by all lawful and warrantable means, to get something to bestow upon charitable uses. Let poor labouring men take so much the more pains, that they may have somewhat to give; let servants spare out of their wages;¹ let such as have no propriety in any thing, but are wholly maintained by them under whom they live, as Children, apprentices, and others, do what they can to obtain something of their Parents, or other governors, even for this very end, that they may have something to give. Let such as are in debt, first pay their debts, and then give Alms. Let such as have any way defrauded others, first make restitution, and then relieve them that are in need. Finally, let such as live at the extent of their estate, and much more, such as live beyond their means, well weigh wherein they may cut off some of their expenses to bestow on the Poor.

I shall close this with a word of advice to such as have a merciful and charitable disposition, above their outward condition and ability;