The harmony of the divine attributes in the contrivance and accomplishment of man's redemption…

¹1. From necessity; that we are born to Sufferings, the Laws of humanity, which are unchangeable, subject ⟨p. 353⟩us to them. But this consideration is not only ineffectual to cause true contentment, but produces the contrary effect. As the strength of Egypt is described to be like a reed that will pierce the hand instead of supporting it. For our desires after freedom from miseries are inviolable: so that every evil the more fatal and inevitable 'tis, the more it afflicts us. If there be no way of escape, the Spirit is overcome by impatience, or despair.

¹1. From necessity; that we are born to Sufferings, the Laws of humanity, which are unchangeble, subject ⟨p. 353⟩us to them. But this consideration is not only ineffectual to cause true contentment, but produces the contrary effect. As the strength of Egypt is decribed to be like a reed that will pierce the hand instead of suporting it. For our desires after freedom from miseries are inviolable: so that every evil the more fatal and inevitable 'tis, the more it afflicts us. If there be no way of escape, the Spirit is overcome by impatience, or dispair.

1. 1Pati necesse est mult• mortalem mala. Nae•ius.

2. From reflection upon the miseries that befall others.¹ But this kind of consolation is vicious in its cause, proceeding from secret envy and uncharitableness. There is little difference between him that regards another's misery to lessen his own, and those who take pleasure in other afflictions. And it administers no real comfort; If a thousand drink of the waters of Marah, they are not less bitter.