ABSTRACT
And should 1 fear those who have in them no fear of God? Do 1 back down from the mockery of men who would mock almighty God? May 1 not spum the contempt ofthose who vent their contempt on the highest good? There's no limit to the number of antagonistic opinions - held by those who quarrel not only with others but even among themselves. And what about those who secretly hold views which they keep to themselves or even disavow in public? They dread speaking out by reason of their foolish fear and self-centered degeneracy. I' m afraid that' s the characteristic shortcoming of the present age. Men are false to themselves, their standards, and their commander - neither good soldiers nor good subjects, and the worst imaginable citizens ofboth civil society and the Christian commonwealth - and subjects as they are of such a king, so weIl endowed with discemment, piety, and good sense. So let them do as they please. It doesn't matter. And let the ones who really deserve thanks and a favorable hearing not hesitate to proclaim in public what is right and what they believe to be right. For it's the purpose of doing right and the public declaration of what seems right that really deserve to be rewarded. Surely these are the distinguishing qualities offrank, loyal, and well-meaning men. On the other hand, a concealment of one' s thoughts, a refusal to speak up, a hypocritical acquiescence which is accompanied by whispered ridicule, mutterings of discontent, and carping criticism: that' s what you expect of the sort of people who are secretive, sly, and spiteful. This is a far cry from virtuous manhood and true philosophy. So hear me out, 0 best of kings, or rather hear with good grace this plan 1 propose. Under your good auspices let me freely sally forth against those crowds of adversaries.
