So he gave unto Christiana physic for herself, and her boys, and for Mercy; and bid Matthew take heed how he ate any more green plums; and kissed them, and went his way. It was told you before, that Prudence bid the boys, that if at any time they would, they should ask her some questions that might be profitable, and she would say something to them.
Then Matthew, who had been sick, asked her, Why for the most part, physic should be bitter to our palates?
Prud. To show how unwelcome the word of God, and the effects thereof, are to a carnal heart.
Mat. Why does physic, if it does good, purge and cause to vomit?
Prud. To show that the word, when it works effectually, cleanseth the heart and mind. For look, what the one cloth to the body, the other doth to the soul.
Mat. What should we learn by seeing the flame of our fire go upwards; and by seeing the beams and sweet influences of the sun strike downwards?
Prud. By the going up of the fire, we are taught to ascend to heaven by fervent and hot desires. And by the sun's sending his heat, beams, and sweet influences downward, we are taught that the Saviour of the world, though high, reacheth down with his grace and love to us below.
Mat. Where have the clouds their water?
Prud. Out of the sea.
Mat. What may we learn from that?
Prud. That ministers should fetch their doctrine from God.
Mat. Why do they empty themselves upon the earth?
Prud. To show that ministers should give out what they show of God to the world.
Matt. Why is the rainbow caused by the sun?
Prud. To show that the covenant of God's grace is confirmed to us in Christ.
