_MADAM,_
I am not of your opinion, That nice distinctions and Logistical
arguments discover truth, dissolve doubts, and clear the understanding;
but I say, they rather make doubts of truth, and blind-fold the
understanding; Indeed, nice distinctions and sophistical arguments, are
very pernicious both in Schools, Church, and State: As for the Church,
although in Divinity there is but one Truth, yet nice distinctions, and
Logistical sophistry, have made such confusion in it, as has caused
almost as many several opinions as there are words in the Scripture;
and as for natural Theology, which is moral Philosophy, they have
divided vertues and vices into so many parts, and minced them so small,
that neither can be clearly distinguished. The same in Government; they
endeavour to cut between command and obedience to a hairs breadth.
Concerning causes of Law, they have abolish'd the intended benefit, and
banish'd equity; and instead of keeping Peace, they make War, causing
enmity betwixt men: As for Natural Philosophy, they will not suffer
sense and reason to appear in that study: And as for Physick, they have
kill'd more men then Wars, Plagues, or Famine. Wherefore from nice
distinctions and Logistical sophistry, Good God deliver us, especially,
from those that concern Divinity; for they weaken Faith, trouble
Conscience, and bring in Atheism: In short, they make controversies,
and endless disputes. But least the opening of my meaning in such plain
terms should raise a controversie also between you and me, I'le cut off
here, and rest,
Madam,
_Your faithful Friend_
_and Servant._