The Hind and the Panther.
49
Why all these wars to win the Book, if we
Must not interpret for our selves, but she?
Either be wholly slaves or wholly free.
For purging fires traditions must not fight;
But they must prove Episcopacy's right:
Thus those led horses are from service freed;
You never mount 'em but in time of need.
Like mercenary's, hir'd for home defence,
They will not serve against their native Prince.
Against domestick foes of Hierarchy
These are drawn forth, to make fanaticks fly;
But, when they see their countrey-men at hand,
Marching against 'em under church-command,
Streight they forsake their colours, and disband.
Must not interpret for our selves, but she?
Either be wholly slaves or wholly free.
For purging fires traditions must not fight;
But they must prove Episcopacy's right:
Thus those led horses are from service freed;
You never mount 'em but in time of need.
Like mercenary's, hir'd for home defence,
They will not serve against their native Prince.
Against domestick foes of Hierarchy
These are drawn forth, to make fanaticks fly;
But, when they see their countrey-men at hand,
Marching against 'em under church-command,
Streight they forsake their colours, and disband.
Thus she, nor cou'd the Panther well enlarge
With weak defence against so strong a charge;
But said, for what did Christ his Word provide,
If still his church must want a living guide?
And if all saving doctrines are not there,
Or sacred Pen-men cou'd not make 'em clear,
With weak defence against so strong a charge;
But said, for what did Christ his Word provide,
If still his church must want a living guide?
And if all saving doctrines are not there,
Or sacred Pen-men cou'd not make 'em clear,
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