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Should Justice proceed without Mercy, it would cease to be Justice, Man's frailty considered; for Mercy presupposeth the infirmity, or ne∣cessity of him to whom it is extended. God hath spoken once (saith Da∣vid) * 1.1 twice have I heard this, that Power belongeth unto God. To the Lord also belongeth Mercy; for thou renderest to every Man according to his Work. God takes notice of the Vertues that are found in Men, as well as of their Weakness, though he would in no wise justifie the Wicked, Psal. 82. 3, 4. Now the Mercy which lieth within the reach of the Magistrate, is in such things as these, viz. To defend the Poor and Fatherless, who cannot help themselves: Yea, to rid them out of the hand of the Wicked, who un∣der pretence, or rigour of Law, would devour them; for summam jus, is no less than summam injura. And though Humane Laws must be made with great exactness, yet sith the intent of all good Laws are to preserve Men from Ruine, the execution must be tempered with Mercy; as our Saviour shews in the Parable, Mat. 18. 23, to 35. And as there is forgiveness with the Lord, that he may be feared, else none could stand before him; so also must Men learn, that God will sometimes ac∣cept at their hands the exercise of Mercy, rather than Sacrifice. Mercy and Truth (saith Solomon) preserve the King; and his Throne is upholden by Mercy. Hence the Counsel is (or rather the Reproof upon the neg∣lect thereof) Prov. 24. 11, 12. recommended to our consideration, that such as can, are to deliver them that are drawn unto death, and those that are ready to be slain. Nor shall Men be excused by pretending they knew it not. For, Doth not he that pondereth the heart, consider it? And he that keepeth thy soul, doth he not know it? And shall not he render to every Man according to his works? Doubtless, Magistrates should tread the steps of Mercy, as holy Job did, who delivered the Poor that cried, and the Fa∣therless, and him that had no helper. And so, The blessing of him that was ready to perish came upon him, and he caused the Widows heart to sing for joy. He was Eyes to the Blind, Feet to the Lame, a Father to the Poor, and the cause which he knew not, he searched out, Job 29. Thus Mercy and Truth were sweetly combined.