Page:A Discourse of Constancy in Two Books Chiefly containing Consolations Against Publick Evils.pdf/133

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112
A Diſcourſe
Book I.

Chap. XIX.

The Fourth, true Fate explained. Of its Name, its Definition. How it differs from Providence.

But I have said enough of the Sentiments and dissents of the ancients, for why should I over curiously or subtilly search into the Mysteries of Hell? my business is with true Fate; this I shall now propound and illustrate. And I here call it, an eternal decree of Providence, which is as inseparable from things, as Providence it self. Nor let any one cavil at the Name; for I do confidently affirm that the Latine language doth not afford any other that is proper to the thing. Did the ancients abuse it? Let us use it nevertheless; and inlarging the word from the Prison of the Stoicks, let us bring

it