Æsculapius , as we commonly speak, has prescrib'd such a one ¹ Riding out, Walking in his Slippers, or a Cold Bath ; Now much to the same meaning we may affirm, that Providence, or the Soul of the Universe, has ordered this or that Person a Disease, loss of Limbs or Estate, or some such other Calamity. For as in the first cafe, the word Prescribed, signifies a Direction for the Health of the Patient : so in the latter it means an Application, proper for the Constitution and Benefit of Fate. And thus these harsher Events may be counted fit for us; as Freestone which is well joyn'd, and lies Snug in a Building, may be said to fit it. Indeed, the whole of Nature, consists of an Harmony and Congruity of Parts; For as the World has its Form and Entireness from that univerfal Matter of which it consists; So the Character, and Distinction of Fate, results from the Quality and Concurrence of all other Causes contained in it. The Common People understand this Notion very well ; Their way of speaking is, This was sent him by Destiny : Say you so; was there not then somewhat of Purpose and Design in it? Let us then comply with our Doom, as we do with the Prescriptions of a Celebrated Physician : These Doses are often unpalatable and rugged ; and yet the define of Health makes them go merrily down. Now that which Nature esteems Profit and Convenience, should be no less valued than your own Health : And therefore when any cross Accident happens, take it quietly to you, 'tis for the good of the Universe, and Jupiter himself is the better for't. ² Depend upon't, This had never been sent you, if the World had not found it's Account in't: Neither does Nature act at Random, or order any thing which is not suitable to those Beings under her Government. You have two reasons therefore to be contented with your Condition: First, bccause you were Born, and singled out for't: 'Twas assign'd you from the beginning by the highest and most antient Causes. Secondly, 'Tis for the Interest of him that governs' the World; ³ It perfects his Nature in some Meafure, and continues his Happiness : For it holds in Causes, no less than in Matter and Quantity; If you lop off any part of the Continuity and Connexion, you Maim the Whole. Now if you are displeas'd with your Circumstances, you dismember Nature, and pull the World in pieces, as much as lies in your power.