This learned way of talking, though, for the most part, it is done merely out of ostentation:  yet, sometimes (which makes not the case much better), it is done in compliment and civility to the all-wise Patron, or all-understanding Justice of the Peace in the parish; who, by the common farmers of the town, must be thought to understand the most intricate notions, and the most difficult languages.

Now, what an admirable thing this is!  Suppose there should be one or so, in the whole church, that understands somewhat besides English:  shall I not think that he understands that better?  Must I (out of courtship to his Worship and Understanding; and because, perhaps, I am to dine with him) prate abundance of such stuff, which, I must needs know, nobody understands, or that will be the better for it but himself, and perhaps scarcely he?

This, I say, because I certainly know several of that disposition:  who, if they chance to have a man of any learning or understanding more than the rest in the parish, preach wholly at him! and level most of their discourses at his supposed capacity; and the rest of the good people shall have only a handsome gaze or view of the parson!  As if plain words, useful and intelligible instructions were not as good for an Esquire, or one that is in Commission from the King, as for him that holds the plough or mends hedges.

Certainly he that considers the design of his Office, and has a conscience answerable to that holy undertaking, must needs conceive himself engaged, not only to mind this or that accomplished or well-dressed person, but must have a universal care and regard of all his parish.  And as he must think himself bound, not only to visit down beds and silken curtains, but also flocks and straw [mattresses], if there be need:  so ought his care to be as large to instruct the poor, the weak, and despicable part of his parish, as those that sit in the best pews.  He that does otherwise, thinks not at all of a man’s soul:  but only accommodates himself to fine clothes, an abundance of ribbons, and the highest seat in the church; not thinking that it will be as much to his reward in the next worlds by sober advice, care, and instruction, to have saved one that takes collection [alms] as him that is able to relieve half the town.  It is very plain that neither our Saviour, when he was upon earth and taught the World, made any such distinction in his discourses.  What is more intelligible to all mankind than his Sermon upon the Mount!  Neither did the Apostles think of any such way.  I wonder, whom they take for a pattern!