Drunkennesse a great punishment of it self. [ 1387]
THere is mention made of a Monk at Prague, who having heard at shrift the Confessions of many Drunkards,* 1.1 wondred at it, and for experiment would try his brain with this Sin; so accordingly stole himself drunk; Now after the vexation of three sick dayes; To all that confessed that Sin, he enjoyn∣ed no other penance but this; Go and be drunk again: Surely his meaning was like that of Seneca, Sceleris in scelere supplicium, that Drunkennesse was a torment and affliction to it self. And most certain it is,* 1.2 that besides all other plagues, Drunkennesse is a Woe to it self. When the Carowser pours in his Wine, it troubles him, and he would give somewhat to avoid it; when it offends the stomach, it troubles him worse;* 1.3 When it comes up again, it troubles hiw worst of all, so that the merry madnesse of a few hours is paid home with the afflictions of a tedious age.