XXXII. ATTEND, ATTEND.

SOME of those whom they call Quakers are, to give them their due, very good moral men, and exactly just in their civil transactions. In proof whereof let me mention this passage, though chiefly I confess for the application thereof, which having done me (I praise God) some good, I am confident will do no hurt to any other.

A gentleman had two tenants, whereof one, being a Quaker, repaired to his landlord on the quarter-day: Here, thou, said he, tell out and take thy rent, without stirring his cap, or showing the least sign of respect.

The other came cringing and congeling: If it please your worship, said he, the times are very hard, and trading is dead, I have brought to your worship five pounds (the whole due being twenty) and shall procure the rest for your worship with all possible speed.

Both these tenants put together would make a perfect one, the rent-completing of the one, and tongue-compliments of the other. But seeing they were divided, I am persuaded that of the two the landlord was less offended with 220the former, imputing his ill manners to his folly, but ascribing his good dealing to his honesty.

God expecteth and requireth both good works and good words. We cannot make our addresses and applications unto him in our prayers with too much awe and reverence.

However, such who court God with luscious language, give him all his attributes, and (as King James said of a divine, who shall be nameless) compliment with God in the pulpit, will be no whit acceptable unto him, if they do not also endeavour to keep his commandments.

It is the due paying of God’s quit-rents which he expecteth; I mean, the realizing of our gratitude unto him for his many mercies, in leading the remainder of our lives according to his will and his word.