126 The Life of William, Duke of Newcastle 



taken lest any degree or profession whatsoever, swell too big, 

 or grow too numerous, it being not only a hindrance to those 

 of the same profession, but a burden to the commonwealth, 

 which cannot be well if it exceeds in extremes. 



XXVIII 



That the taxes should not be above the riches of the common- 

 wealth, for that must upon necessity breed factions and civil 

 wars, by reason a general poverty united, is far more dangerous 

 than a private purse ; for though their wealth be small, yet 

 their unity and combination makes them strong, so that, 

 being armed with necessity, they become outrageous with 

 despair. 



XXIX 



That heavy taxes upon farms ruin the nobility and gentry ; 

 for if the tenant be poor, the landlord cannot be rich, he 

 having nothing but his rents to live on. 



XXX 



That it is not so much laws and religion, nor rhetoric, that 

 keeps a state or kingdom in order, but arms ; which if they 

 be not employed to an evil use, keep up the right and privileges 

 both of Crown, Church, and State. 



XXXI 



That no equivocation should be used either in Church or 

 Law ; for the one causes several opinions, to the disturbance 

 of men's consciences ; the other long and tedious suits, to the 

 disturbance of men's private affairs : and both do oftentimes 

 ruin and impoverish the state. 



XXXII 



That in cases of robberies and murders, it is better to be 

 severe than merciful ; for the hanging of a few will save the 

 lives and purses of many. 



