The works of George Swinnock, M.A

Were he at any time absent (though I fear he never is, but watcheth us night and day more narrowly then ever Keeper did his Prisoner, for whose escape he was to die) our own wicked hearts are his Deputy to supply his place, and dispatch his business effectually for him. Occasion, and our own corrupt natures seldom meet, but like two inordinate lovers, they sin and defile themselves together. The flesh is instead of a thousand traitors within the Garrison, conspiring to deliver it up into the enemies hands, who is resolved to give no quarter; and is it not time for the Soldiers to be upon the guard, and to keep strict watch? Though both Satan and the flesh should grant a truce or cessation for a few hours (which they never did nor ever will) yet the world like an Harlot is always ⟨p. 516⟩watching, with her fair breasts of pleasure and profit, to allure us to folly. Like the Whore the wise man mentions, She is subtle of heart, and lieth in wait at every corner; She catcheth the careless sinner and kisseth him, and with an impudent face, saith unto him, I have decked my bed with coverings of Tapestry, with carved work, with fine linen of Egypt;¹ I have perfumed my bed with Myrrh, Aloes, and Cinnamon; Come let us take our fill of love until the morning, let us solace our selves with loves; With much fair speech she causeth him to yield, with the flattering of her lips she enticeth him. He goeth after her straight way, as an Ox goeth to the slaughter, or as a Fool to the correction of the stocks; Till a dart strike through his liver, as a Bird hasteth to the snare, and knoweth not that it is for his life. O what reason hast thou, Reader, to watch, who hast so many and such crafty and mighty adversaries, every moment to encounter with! Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. Believe it, if thou sleepest, the enemy will sow tares.

Were he at any time absent (though I fear he never is, but watcheth us night and day more narrowly then ever Keeper did his Prisoner, for whose escape he was to die) our own wicked hearts are his Deputy to supply his place, and dispatch his business effectually for him. Occasion, and our own corrupt natures seldom meet, but like two inordinate lovers, they sin and defile themselves together. The flesh is instead of a thousand traytours within the Garrison, conspiring to deliver it up into the enemies hands, who is resolved to give no quarter; and is it not time for the Souldiers to be upon the guard, and to keep strict watch? Though both Satan and the flesh should grant a truce or cessation for a few hours (which they never did nor ever will) yet the world like an Harlot is always