The Compleat ^Angler 



which I labour to possess my own soul : that is, a meek and thankful 

 heart. And to that end, I have showed you that riches, without 

 them, do not make any man happy. But let me tell you, that 

 riches, with them, remove many fears and cares ; and therefore my 

 advice is, that you endeavour to be honestly rich, or contentedly 

 poor : but be sure that your riches be justly got, or you spoil all. 

 For it is well said by Caussin, " He that loses his conscience, has 

 nothing left that is worth keeping." Therefore be sure you look to 

 that. And, in the next place, look to your health : and if you have 

 it, praise God, and value it next to a good conscience ; for health is 

 the second blessing that we mortals are capable of ; a blessing that 

 money cannot buy, and therefore value it, and be thankful for it. 

 As for money (which may be said to be the third blessing) neglect it 

 not : but note, that there is no necessity of being rich ; for I told 

 you there be as many miseries beyond riches, as on this side them : 



244 



