Neither is the method or the nature of the tradition
material only to the use of knowledge, but likewise to the
progression of knowledge: for since the labour and life of one man
cannot attain to perfection of knowledge, the wisdom of the
tradition is that which inspireth the felicity of continuance and
proceeding. And therefore the most real diversity of method is of
method referred to use, and method referred to progression: whereof
the one may be termed magistral, and the other of probation.
(3) The latter whereof seemeth to be via deserta et interclusa. For
as knowledges are now delivered, there is a kind of contract of
error between the deliverer and the receiver. For he that
delivereth knowledge desireth to deliver it in such form as may be
best believed, and not as may be best examined; and he that
receiveth knowledge desireth rather present satisfaction than
expectant inquiry; and so rather not to doubt, than not to err:
glory making the author not to lay open his weakness, and sloth
making the disciple not to know his strength.
Pages:
241
242
243
244
245
246
247
248
249
250
251
252
253
254
255
256
257
258
259
260
261
262
263
264
265