Lipsius I have these things from the common discourses of the Vulgar, amongst whom nothing is more usuall than to say, this or that came to pass, by my Good or Evil Fate: This is the Fate of that Kingdom or City. But of Providence no man will speak after this manner: I mean none can attribute it to things themselves without impiety or folly. I have therefore justly said that Providence is in God: Fate is indeed from God, but is understood in things. I add further, that howsoever Providence is really inseparable from Fate, yet it seems to be something more excellent, and superiour to it, as we commonly say in the Schools, the Sun excells Light, Eternity Time; and the intellect Reason. Not to enlarge my self any farther about these serious (though uncommon matters) by what hath passed, you may readily apprehend the Reason of my distinction; as also of my retaining the old
