Those canons all the needful points contain;
Their sense so obvious, and their words so plain,
That no disputes about the doubtful text
Have hitherto the labouring world perplexed.
If any should in after-times appear,
New councils must be called, to make the meaning clear;
Because in them the power supreme resides,
And all the promises are to the guides.[149]
This may be taught with sound and safe defence;
But mark how sandy is your own pretence,