A44699:15
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.
It is obvious to common observation, how flagrant and intense a zeal, men are often wont to express for their personal reputation, the honour of their Families, yea or for the glory of their Nation; but how few are acted by that more laudable and enlarged zeal for the dignity of Mankind?
How few are they that resent the common and vile depression of their own species! Or that, while in things of lightest consideration they strive with emulous endeavour, that they and ⟨image 6⟩their relatives may excel other men, do reckon it a reproach if in matters of the greatest consequence they and all men should not excel Beasts! How few that are not contented to confine their utmost designs and expectations within the same narrow limits! Through a mean and inglorious self-despiciency, confessing in themselves (to the Truth's and their own wrong) an incapacity of greater things! and, with most injurious falsehood, proclaiming the same of all Mankind besides!
How few are they that resent the common and vile depression of their own species! Or that, while in things of lightest consideration they strive with emulous endeavour, that they and ⟨image 6⟩their relatives may excel other men, do reckon it a reproach if in matters of the greatest consequence they and all men should not excel Beasts! How few that are not contented to confine their utmost designs and expectations within the same narrow limits! Through a mean and inglorious self-despiciency, confessing in themselves (to the Truth's and their own wrong) an incapacity of greater things! and, with most injurious falshood, proclaiming the same of all Mankind besides!