There be of those in every _Common-weale_, Whom to this _Emblem_ we resemble may; The _Name_ of none I purpose to reveale, But, their _Condition_, heere, I will display. Some, both by gifts of _Nature_, and of _Grace_, Are so prepared, that, they might be fit To stand as _Lights_, in profitable place; Yet, loose their _Talent_, by neglecting it. Some, to the _common Grace_, and _nat’rall parts_, (By helpe of _Nurture_, and good _Discipline_) Have added an accomplishment of _Arts_, By which, their _Light_ may much the brighter shine. Some others, have to this, acquired more: For, to maintaine their _Lampe_, in giving light, Of _Waxe_, and _Oyle_, and _Fatnesse_, they have store, Which over-flowes unto them, day and night. And, ev’n as _Lampes_, or _Candles_, on a Table, (Or, fixt on golden _Candlesticks_, on high) To light _Assemblies_, Great and Honourable, They, oft, have (also) place of _Dignitie_. By meanes of which, their _Splendor_ might become His praise, who those high favours did bequeath: They might encrease the _Light_ of _Christendome_, And, make them see, who sit in shades of _Death_. But, many of them, like those _Candles_ bee, That stand unlighted in a _Branch_ of gold: For, by their helpe wee nothing more can see, Than wee in grossest darknesse, may behold. If such there be, (as there bee such, I feare) The question is, _For what good use they are_. _The =Sacrifice=, God loveth best, Are =Broken-hearts=, for =Sin=, opprest._ [Illustration: SACRIFICIVM DEO COR CONTRIBVLATIM ILLVSTR. XV. _Book. 2_]