Ga. And so would I too, if a Monk's Hood carried in it as much Piety as it does Warmth.
Er. There is an old Saying, a young Saint and an old Devil.
Ga. But I believe that old Saying came from old Satan: I can hardly think an old Man to be truly religious, that has not been so in his young Days. Nothing is learn'd to greater Advantage, than what we learn in our youngest Years.
Er. What is that which is call'd Religion?
Ga. It is the pure Worship of God, and Observation of his Commandments.
Er. What are they?
Ga. It is too long to relate all; but I'll tell you in short, it consists in four Things.
Er. What are they?
Ga. In the first Place, that we have a true and pious Apprehension of God himself, and the Holy Scriptures; and that we not only stand in Awe of him as a Lord, but that we love him with all our Heart, as a most beneficent Father. 2. That we take the greatest Care to keep ourselves blameless; that is, that we do no Injury to any one. 3. That we exercise Charity, i.e. to deserve well of all Persons (as much as in us lyes). 4. That we practise Patience, i.e. to bear patiently Injuries that are offered us, when we can't prevent them, not revenging them, nor requiting Evil for Evil.
Er. You hold forth finely; but do you practise what you teach?