A44699:142
The vanity of this mortal life, or, Of man, considered only in his present…
The vanity of this mortal life, or, Of man, considered only in his present mortal state by J. Howe ...
London: printed by A. Maxwell for Sa. Gellibrand, 1673
Modern spelling is a reading aid: the words are the author’s, only the spelling is modernized. Original shows the page as printed, with the transcription marks.
Nor is a design for an immortal state so mean and inglorious, or so irrational and void of a solid ground, that we have any cause either to decline or conceal it; either not to retain, or to be ashamed of our hope.
Nor is there any thing to be done in prosecution of it, so unworthy as to need a corner, or merit to be done as a work of darkness.
Neither yet is it a vain-glorious ostentation, or the affectation of making show of an excellency above the vulgar pitch that I persuade to: But a modest sober avowing of our high design and hope; neither making any near approach to a proud arrogance on the one hand; nor a mean pusillanimity ⟨p. 92⟩on the other. Truly great and generous spirits know how to carry under Secular Honour with that prudent and graceful decorum as shall signify a just owning of themselves without insolence towards others. Real worth though it do not vaunt, will show it self; and while it doth not glare, yet cannot forbear to shine.
Neither yet is it a vain-glorious ostentation, or the affectation of making shew of an excellency above the vulgar pitch that I perswade to: But a modest sober avowing of our high design and hope; neither making any near approach to a proud arrogance on the one hand; nor a mean pusillanimity ⟨p. 92⟩on the other. Truly great and generous spirits know how to carry under Secular Honour with that prudent and graceful decorum as shall signifie a just owning of themselves without insolence towards others. Real worth though it do not vaunt, will shew it self; and while it doth not glare, yet cannot forbear to shine.