chap, i.] THE COMPLETE ANGLER. 25 



And for that I shall tell you, that in ancient times 

 a debate hath risen, and it remains yet unresolved, 

 whether the happiness of man in this world doth 

 copsist more in contemplation or action. 



Concerning which, some have endeavoured to 

 maintain their opinion of the first, by saying, that 

 the nearer we mortals come to God by way of imi- 

 tation, the more happy we are. And they say, that 

 God enjovs himself only by a contemplation of his 

 own Infiniteness, Eternity, Power and Goodness, 

 and the like. And upon this ground, many cloisteral 

 men of great learning and devotion, prefer contem- 

 plation before action. And many of the fathers seem 

 to approve this opinion, as may appear in their 

 commentaries upon the words of our Saviour to 

 Martha: Luke x. 41, 42. 



And, on the contrary, there want not men of equal 

 authority and credit, that prefer action to be the 

 more excellent : as namely, experiments in physic, 

 and the application of it, both for the ease and 

 prolongation of man's life ; by which each man is 

 enabled to act and do good to others, either to 

 serve his country, or do good to particular per- 

 sons : and they say also, that action is doctrinal, 

 and teaches both art and virtue, and is a maintainer 

 of humane society; and for these, and other like 

 reasons, to be preferred before contemplation. 



Concerning which two opinions I shall forbear to 

 add a third by declaring my own, and rest myself 

 contented in telling you, my very worthy friend, 



