The last conflicts and death of Mr. Thomas Peacock, bachelor of divinity, and fellow…The last conflicts and death of Mr. Thomas Peacock, batchelour of divinity, and fellow…

The Devil hath now winnowed you, and you think all is gone out, but God holdeth what is his. An Artificer can distinguish dross from the metal, cannot God his from yours? Well, with Job lay your hand on your mouth, and hold your peace, and so good rest have you: Only consider your comfort, though it be but small, whence it came, even from Gods Word and servants, no otherwise.

The Devil hath now winnowed you, and you think all is gone out, but God holdeth what is his. An Artificer can distinguish drosse from the metall, cannot God his from yours? Well, with Iob lay your hand on your mouth, and hold your peace, and so good rest have you: Onely consider your comfort, though it be but small, whence it came, even from Gods Word and servants, no otherwise.

¹When he returned again to take and give farewell, he began to complain: Oh, great and grievous! The Lord knoweth what power he hath given you: A father will put a greater burden upon a stronger son. But see the difference. When an ⟨p. 45⟩earthly father or master setteth his on wo•k, they must do it with their own strength; but the Lord setteth on work, and giveth strength to be not discouraged. You are now in your calling: Oh, mine heart is miserable! What then? A father loveth his son as well when he is sleeping, as when he is waking. Sir, I have known you heretofore, and although, if I were in your case, I might do as you do, yet I remain the servant of God, as you certainly are. The Holy Ghost calls to your remembrance what you have heretofore taught, and now heard: And although I shall be absent in body, yet shall I be present in mind. Be not too covetous to seek abundance by and by. If Jacob could say to Es•u, I have seen thy face, as though I had ⟨p. 46⟩seen the face of God, much more should you think so of the children of God that come to you. I thank God (saith he) he hath begun to ease me. He will in his good time. God grant. Thus he took his last farewell. Although we depart from our friends in the way, yet we shall meet at the end. One told Master Dod that he had uttered such words. Now the Lord hath made me a spectacle. Whereupon he counselled one that attended on him, to be sparing in admitting comers in, or speakers, left his brain should be too much heated. A friend of his coming to him, asked him, Dare your murmur and repine against God? Why should I so? God be blessed. It is a sign of grace. But I have no means. You have had them offered. But not given with