CHAP. XXV.
Of Signes.
TO the place of Axioms appertain likewise Signes.a 1.1 Signe is an axiom antecedent, in a true connex, and having power to detect the consequent.
b 1.2 Signe is taken two waies: Commonly, for whatsoever fal∣leth under any sence, and signifieth something that proceedeth from it: and Properly, for that which declareth a thing, which is not manifest.
Things which are certain require no signe,* 1.3 for they are com∣prehended of themselves; neither those which are wholly un∣certain, for they can no way be comprehended;* 1.4 but, those only, which are uncertain in time, or by nature, may be comprehen∣ded by signes, but not by the same. Things that are uncertain in time, are comprehended by commemorative signes; things un∣certain by nature, are comprehended by demonstrative.
Of signes therefore, some are demonstrative, others communi∣cative. A communicative signe is that which is so neer to the thing, that together with the signe the thing it selfe appeareth, into the knowledge whereof the signe bringeth us, as smoak, which when we see, we know it proceeds from fire. A demon∣strative signe is that, which not being observed before with an evident signe, leads us by that to the knowledge of the thing; as when a female hath milk, we presently know that she hath brought forth.