And according as the one kind of affection or the other beareth the
strength in our heart, so are we stronger or feebler against the
terror of death in this cause.
And therefore, cousin, will we essay to consider what things there
are for which we have cause in reason to master the fearful
affection and sensual. And though we cannot clean avoid it and put
it away, yet will we essay in such wise to bridle it at least that
it run not out so far like a headstrong horse that, in spite of our
teeth, it carry us out unto the devil.
Let us therefore now consider and well weigh this thing that we
dread so sore--that is, shameful and painful death.
XXII
And first I perceive well by these two things that you join unto
"death"--that is, "shameful" and "painful"--that you would esteem
death so much the less if it should come along without either shame
or pain.
VINCENT: Without doubt, uncle, a great deal the less. But yet,
though it should come without them both, by itself, I know well
many a man would be for all that very loth to die.
ANTHONY: That I believe well, cousin, and the more pity it is. For
that affection happeth in very few without the cause being either
lack of faith, lack of hope, or finally lack of wit.
Those who believe not the life to come after this, and think
themselves here in wealth, are loth to leave this life, for then
they think they lose all.
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