A61398:288
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 4: Of Truth or Veracity 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.
And you will find that frequent recedings from your Word, will endanger to forfeit your Credibility, and it were much better and easier for Men to be at a word in their Bargains; unless upon a stricter Observation of the Commodity, there is visible cause to alter it. Say not, there is no trading without this Custom; for we see, that de facto considerable trading is dispatched by divers Persons, without either many Prices, or many ⟨p. 153⟩Words, which shows that the thing is possible, and surely should be endeavoured by all discreet and conscientious Persons.
And you will find that frequent recedings from your Word, will indanger to forfeit your Credibility, and it were much better and easier for Men to be at a word in their Bargains; unless upon a stricter Observation of the Commodity, there is visible cause to alter it. Say not, there is no trading without this Custom; for we see, that de facto considerable trading is dispatch'd by divers Persons, without either many Prices, or many ⟨p. 153⟩Words, which shews that the thing is possible, and surely should be endeavoured by all discreet and consciencious Persons.
IV. And here let us make Application of this Point.
1. Let all Tradesmen reflect upon and take due Cognizance of their own Behaviour in this matter. Have you in the foresaid Particulars lived in all good Conscience to this day? Have you always spoken the Truth in your Hearts? Have you been cunning Hunters, as Esau, or plain Men as Jacob? have you set a watch before the Door of your Lips, and kept your Mouth with a Bridle? have you never made Lies your Refuge? nor affirmed any thing, which your Consciences have contradicted? O judg your selves, that ye may not be judged of the Lord! Erect a just Tribunal in your own Breasts, and call over your Behaviour in your several Callings; let matters have a fair Trial, and pronounce righteous Judgment. And if you find your selves faulty, make your Atonement with God; and make what possible Amends you can, to those that have been deceived by you. Make true Confessions of your false Equivocations, and rest not, till you have obtained Pardon through the Blood of Jesus Christ.