THE SECOND OBSERVATION.
SEcondly,* 1.1 we may observe that a will, forward to undergo labour, doth never stick at any difficulty, nor is at all dismaied with the losse of any pains: but is rather redoubled in courage and industrie; especially being edged on with a desire of revenge.* 1.2 Which (if Homer may have credit) doth alwaies adde a third part to a mans strength; as appeared by Diomedes,* 1.3 being hurt in the shoulder with one of Pindarus arrows: for revenge whereof, he exceeded himself in a sesqui∣terce proportion of valour, and slew more Tro∣jans by a third part then otherwise he could.
Howsoever,* 1.4 as there is nothing so hard, but is subject to the endeavour of the mind: so there is nothing so easie, as to disposses our selves of that intent care which is requisite in these imploy∣ments. For these Romans, that through the greatness of their spirits had made such first and second works,* 1.5 as the memorie thereof will last with the world, were surprised when they lay in the Interim, as it were unbent, in as great re∣misness and neglect (howsoever drawn unto it by deceit) as if they had been able to do no such matter as is here reported. And therefore it be∣hoveth a Commander, to keep his Armie al∣waies seasoned with labour;* 1.6 forasmuch as Exer∣citus labore proficit, otio consenescit, An ar∣my thrives by employment, but grows old by idleness.