An Inquiry into their Cause, and their O Vitæ philofophia dux, virtutum indagatrix, expultrinque vitii! Cicero. By WILLIAM STUKELEY, M. D. Rector The SECOND EDITION. To which is added, PART II. on the fame Subject. LONDON: Printed for C. CORBET over-against St. Dunstan's MDCCL. L.C.-5-24-24-134. T To the READER. of HE Substance of the philofophical part this discourse was delivered at twice to the Royal Society, on March 15, and 22: The theological, in my own church. I could not refuse the folicitation of my friends, bearers in both places, to print it. I wish my intention, in the compliance, may any ways prove Successful; to show, how vain, and unmeaning, are all our philosophical inquiries, when destitute of their true view; to lead us into the more engaging paths of religion. That, from Speculation of material causes, we may become adepts in that wisdom which is from above. Otherwise, like Epicurus, and the ancient beathen philosophers, we barter away our immortal part, for a curiofity, that amuses us to no good purpose. Mean are these objects of our fenfes to be accounted, in comparison of our spiritual natures, A 2 natures, to which our principal regard is due! For we must rightly say with Job: Lo, these are parts of God's ways, but how little a portion is heard of him? and the thunder of his power, who can understand? To Sotheran 9980 Martin Folkes, Efq; LL.D. President of the Royal Society. W March 26, 1750. HEN so great and unusual a phænomenon, as an earthquake, and that repeated, happens among us; it will naturally excite a serious reflexion in every one that is capable of thinking. And we cannot help confidering it, both in a philosophical, and a religious view. Any mind will take the alarm, when we perceive a motion that affects the earth, that bears the whole city of London, and some miles round it. And at the same time while it gives us so sensible a shake, so gently sets us down again; without damage to any buildings, and without a life loft. 'Tis hard to say, which is the greater wonder. But alas in the works of nature, there are no degrees of great, and little; comparisons are incompatible. We indeed are more affected with what seems great in our own apprehenfions: I would rather say, what is rare and unusual. A 3 |