[Ap.XXV] (Ap25:1) Correctness of conduct (modestia), that is, the desire
of pleasing men which is determined by reason, is attributable
to piety (as we said in [xxxvii] Note. i.). (2) But, if it
spring from emotion, it is ambition, or the desire whereby, men,
under the false cloak of piety, generally stir up discords and
seditions. (Ap25:3) For he who desires to aid his fellows. either
in word or in deed, so that they may together enjoy the highest
good, he, I say, will before all things strive to, win them over
with love: not to draw them into admiration, so that a system
may be called after his name, nor to give any cause for envy.
(Ap25:4) Further, in his conversation he will shrink from talking
of men's faults, and will be careful to speak but sparingly of
human infirmity: but he will dwell at length on human virtue or
power, and the way whereby it may be perfected. (5) Thus will
men be stirred not by fear, nor by aversion, but only by the
emotion of joy, to endeavour, so far as in them lies, to live
in obedience to reason.
[Ap.XXVI] (1) Besides men, we know of no particular thing in nature in
whose mind we may rejoice, and whom we can associate with
ourselves in friendship or any sort of fellowship; therefore,
whatsoever there be in nature besides man, a regard for our
advantage does not call on us to preserve, but to preserve or
destroy according to its various capabilities, and to adapt
to our use as best we may.
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