An _example_, is either an example _properly so called_, as some action past; or a _similitude_, which also is called a parable; or a _fable_, which contains some action feigned. An example, _properly so called_, is this: _Darius came not into Greece till he had first subdued Egypt; Xerxes also conquered Egypt first; then afterwards crossed the Hellespont; we ought therefore to hinder the King of Persia from conquering Egypt_. A _similitude_, or _parable_, is such as followeth: _They who choose their magistrates by lot, are like them that choose for their champions those on whom the lot shall fall, rather than those who have the greatest strength; and for their pilot, not him that hath skill, but him whose name is drawn out of the urn_. A _fable_ is in this manner: _The horse desiring to drive out the stag from his common pasture, took a man to assist him; and having received into his mouth a bridle, and a rider upon his back, obtained his intent, but became subject to the man. So you of Himera, having, in hope to be revenged of your enemies, given unto Phalaris sovereign authority, that is to say, taken a bridle into your mouths; if you shall also give him a guard to his person, that is, let him get up upon your backs, you become his slaves presently, past recovery._ To find out _examples_, that is, actions done that may serve our purpose, is therefore hard, because not in our power. But to find _fables_ and _similitudes_, is easier; because, by conversing in philosophy, a man may feign somewhat in nature like to the case in hand. _Examples_, _similitudes_, and _fables_, where _enthymemes_ are wanting, may serve us in the beginning of an oration for inductions; otherwise are to be alleged after enthymemes, for testimonies. ========== CHAPTER XXII. OF A SENTENCE. A _sentence_ is an universal proposition concerning those things which are to be desired or avoided in the actions or passions of the common life. As, _A wise man will not suffer his children to be over-learned_. And is to an _enthymeme_ in _rhetoric_, as any proposition is to a _syllogism_ in _logic_. And therefore a _sentence_, if the reason be rendered, becomes a _conclusion_; and both together make an _enthymeme_. As for example: _To be over-learned, besides that it begets effeminacy, procures envy. Therefore he that is wise will not suffer his children to be over-learned._ Of _sentences_ there be four sorts. For they either require proofs or not, that is, are manifest or not. Such as are manifest, are either so as soon as they are uttered; as, _Health is a great good_. Or as soon as they are considered; as, _Men use to hate whom they have hurt_.