PREFACE. XIX 



w fragments of sciences, invite others to contribute 

 &quot; and add something ; whereas methodical delivery 

 &quot; carrying shew of a total and perfect knowledge 

 &quot; forthwith secureth men as if they were at the 

 &quot; furthest.&quot; 



Again, &quot; science is much injured by the over 

 &quot; early and peremptory reduction of knowledge into 

 se arts and method ; from which time commonly 

 &quot; sciences receive small or no augmentation. But as 

 &quot; young men, when they knit and shape perfectly, 

 &quot; do seldom grow to a further stature ; so know- 

 &quot; ledge, while it is in aphorisms and observations, it 

 &quot; is in growth ; but when it once is comprehended in 

 &quot; exact methods, it may perchance be further po- 

 &amp;lt;e lished and illustrated, and accommodated for use 

 &quot; and practice ; but it increaseth no more in bulk 

 &quot; and substance.&quot;* 



Again : &quot; And as for the overmuch credit that 

 &quot; hath been given unto authors in sciences, in making 

 &quot; them dictators, that their words should stand, and 

 &quot; not consuls, to give advice ; the damage is infinite 

 &quot; that sciences have received thereby, as the prin- 

 &quot; cipal cause that hath kept them low, at a stay, 

 &quot; without growth or advancement. For hence it 

 &amp;lt;( hath come, that in arts mechanical the first devisor 

 &quot; comes shortest, and time addeth and perfected! ; 

 &quot; but in sciences the first author goeth farthest, and 

 &quot; time leeseth and corrupteth. So, we see, artillery, 

 &quot; sailing, printing, and the like, were grossly ma- 

 &quot; naged at the first, and by time accommodated 



* Vol. II. of this Work, 48. f Ibid. 203. 



