The blessedness of the righteous discoursed from Psal. 17, 15 /The blessednesse of the righteous discoursed from Psal. 17, 15 /

3. There can be no allowable imitation of any §3one, but with an exception, as to some peculiarities, that may belong to his special station, relations, and other circumstances of the condition in which he is, or with limitation to such things as are of common concernment unto both. ¹'Tis commonly observed how naturally a people form their manners and fashions to the example of the Prince; and there is no well disposed ruler, but would take it well to be imitated in things that are of common concernment to him and his subjects,² that is, that concern him, not as he is a King; but as he is a man, or a Christian. To behold the transforming power of his own example; where it is such as begets a fair and unreproachful impress * how his virtues circulate (his justice, temperance, love of religion) and produce their likeness among his people twill be a glory,³ and cannot but be resented with some delight. We cast an honour upon them whom we imitate: for we acknowledge an excellency in them (which is all that honouring imports in the first notion of it) and that naturally is received with pleasure. But now should subjects aspire to a likeness to their Prince, in the proper appendages, and acts of sovereignty; and because he is a glorious King, they will be such too: and assume the peculiar cognisances of regality; ascend the Throne, sway the Sceptre, wear the Crown, enact Laws, &c. There cannot be more of dutifulness and observance, in the former imitation; than there is of disloyalty, and ⟨p. 54⟩treason in this. A Father is pleased to have his Son imitate him, within such limits beforementioned; but, if he will govern the Family, and fill up his room in all relations, this will never be endured.

3. There can be no allowable imitation of any §3one, but with an exception, as to some peculiarities, that may belong to his special station, relations, and other circumstances of the condition in which he is, or with limitation to such things as are of common concernment unto both.