[ 670] Knowledge not to be reserved.
IN a dark Lanthorn there is light indeed, but so shut up as if it were not, and when the side is most open, there is light enough to give direction to him that bears it,* 1.1 none to others: He can discern another man by that light, which is cast b••fore him, but another cannot discern him; Right such is, reserved knowledge; no man is the better for it but the owner, there is no difference betwixt concealed skill and ignorance; and when such hidden knowledge looks forth, it casts so sparing a light,* 1.2 as may onely argue it to have an unprofitable being; to have ability with∣out will to good; power to censure, none to benefit; so that the suppression of those gifts which God would have us to impart, is but a Thieve's Lanthorn in a true mans hand, and therefore to be communicated.