Preface to the Reader

THE PREFACE TO THE READER.

You see here that I have sent a short essay into the world; and I doubt not but it will be an evident conviction to all sober minds of the presaging nature of comets. That which I have to say in behalf of the piece is this, that I never met with so much on this theme in any writer, whether English or Latin, or of any other language. If I had, I protest to you seriously I would not have troubled you with this essay of mine. To be plain, if what is here presented be not the most rational and impartial, the fullest and best account that has hitherto been given of the doctrine of comets, and of judiciary astrology, I am sure it is that which I intended should look something like it. Nor do I pronounce this in ostentation, for I have considered the point itself, and I have likewise read other men's accounts. I may say with Seneca, (in the book where he purposely treats of comets) that I have searched and enquired nec cum fiducia inveniendi, nec sine Spe. I abandoned all confidence and presumption in this present inquisition, but withal I despaired not of attaining to true notions and sentiments in this matter. I hope it will not be looked upon as an unpardonable crime, that I have got out of the common road sometimes, or when I light into it, that I keep not pace with other travellers. I declare I am for a free and rational way of thinking and discoursing. I have a great fancy for Rabbi Achiva's advice, Ne coquas in eadem olla in qua socius tuus jam coxerit, Do not blindly adhere to what others have maintained. Brag not of other men's inventions, but show something of your own.

I might tell the reader that I have endeavoured to proceed with all caution and modesty, and have avoided the imputation which generally lies upon those who handle this subject, namely, their fond and idle way of pointing peremptorily at such and such particular events which shall certainly follow the appearance of comets. Besides, I have in other things studied to deliver myself with all moderation, which I am sure will not be displeasing to those who are masters of reason and prudence. I could have said much more upon the subject. The reader may perceive from the numerous heap of particulars here inserted, that I might have spun this discourse into a far greater length, and swelled it into a larger size. I have hinted arguments, and contracted some topics, which I could easily have enlarged. But I was unwilling to be tedious, and I had a mind the reader should rise with an appetite. As for the idle and envious, and such who resolve that none shall see any thing of theirs in public, I expect that they should cavil at my endeavours. They that sit still and cannot afford to write, are the dreadfullest objectors, the sorest critics of all. I have nothing to add now, but to bid defiance to them, and to wish the ingenuous and candid reader to do so too.