A61398:154
The trades-man's calling being a discourse concerning the nature, necessity, choice, &c. of a…
The trades-man's calling being a discourse concerning the nature, necessity, choice, &c. of a calling in general : and directions for the right managing of the tradesman's calling in particular / by Richard Steele ...
London: printed by J.D. for Samuel Sprint, 1684
Title page typeset from the transcription.
THE Tradesman's Calling. › Chapter 5 › Section 1: Of Prudence in a Trade.
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.
2. But all this gives no countenance, but rather reproves the Carnal Policy of Ungodly Tradesmen, who, resolving to be rich, will compass their Ends, tho it be by the undoing others, and of their own Souls. That have the subtlety of the Serpent without the innocence of the Dove; who have learned all the cunning tricks Satan or his instruments can inspire them withal, and so are able to turn and wind their easy and well-meaning Neighbour. This is Wisdom from beneath; and however you may thrive with it for a moment, yet ye fight against God, whose Justice will find you out; oftentimes in this World, Prov. 20. 21. An Inheritance may be gotten hastily at the beginning: but the end thereof shall not be blessed. But to be sure, without Repentance, in the never-ending World. And what will it profit a Man to gain the whole World, and lose his own Soul?
2. But all this gives no countenance, but rather reproves the Carnal Policy of Ʋngodly Tradesmen, who, resolving to be rich, will compass their Ends, tho it be by the undoing others, and of their own Souls. That have the subtilty of the Serpent without the innocence of the Dove; who have learned all the cunning tricks Satan or his instruments can inspire them withal, and so are able to turn and wind their easy and well-meaning Neighbour. This is Wisdom from beneath; and however you may thrive with it for a moment, yet ye fight against God, whose Justice will find you out; oftentimes in this World, Prov. 20. 21. An Inheritance may be gotten hastily at the beginning: but the end thereof shall not be blessed. But to besure, without Repentance, in the never-ending World. And what will it profit a Man to gain the whole World, and lose his own Soul?
Secondly; By way of Exhortation. Then labour (all Tradesmen) for this Godly Wisdom. It may stand you in more stead than all your Stock ⟨p. 75⟩and all your Friends. A Man's Wisdom maketh his face to shine: It makes him amiable, it makes him useful. But how shall we obtain it?