XXXV. MODERATE MAY MEET.

WHEN St. Paul was at Athens, Acts xvii. 18, then certain philosophers of the Epicureans and of the Stoics encountered him, &c.

Some will say, Why was there no mention here of the Peripatetics and Academics, both notable sects of philosophers, and then numerous in the city of Athens?

The answer is this: These being persons acted with more moderate principles, were contented to be silent, though not concurring in their judgments; whilst the Epicureans and 223Stoics were violent in the extremes, the first for the anarchy of Fortune, the other for the tyranny of Fate.

Peace in our land, like St. Paul, is now likely to be encountered with two opposite parties, such as are for the liberty of a commonwealth, and such as are for an absolute monarchy in the full height thereof; but I hope neither of both are so considerable in their number, parts, and influence on the people, but that the moderate party, advocates for peace, will prevail for the settling thereof.