that though the Experiment was but the private Task of one or two, or some such small number; yet the conjecturing, and debating on its Consequences, was still the Imployment of their full and solemn Assemblies. I have already, upon several Occasions, preferr'd Companies before single Endeavours in philosophical Matters; and yet I am not asham'd here to repeat it again; especially, seeing in this place it is most apparent, to which of them the Prerogative of Freedom, and Clearness of Judging belongs. To this Purpose I shall affirm, that there can never be found, in the Breast of any particular Philosopher, as much Wariness, and Coldness of Thinking, and rigorous Examination, as is needful, to a solid Assent, and to a lasting Conclusion, on the whole Frame of Nature. How can it be imagin'd, that any single Mind can comprehend and sustain long enough the Weight of so many different Opinions, and infinite Observations; when even the best Mathematicians are soon tir'd with a long Train of the most delightful Propositions, which were before made to their Hands? Or, if there could be a Man of that Vastness of Soul; yet, how can we be assur'd, that he would hold the Scale even? Where have we ever had an Example of so much Streightness and Impartiality of Judgment, to persuade us, that the calmest Philosopher will not be insensibly inclin'd to prefer his own Doctrines, before those of a Stranger? We see all the World flatter themselves in their Strength, Beauty, nay, even (as some have noted) in their very Statures; the lowest Men scarce believing, but that they are tail enough. Why then should they be singly trusted in their Votes about their own Thoughts; where the Comparison of Wit makes them more eagerly concern'd? If we follow the Philosopher home
