Divine Dialogues

on behalf of such a pleasing monster original: "Monster"; likely referring to the character of the Atheist or the arguments for materialism presented in the dialogues, so that once it is shown to be entirely weak and frivolous, the mind of man might be more firmly rooted and established in what is good. Furthermore, it is intended that evil men might also take notice that those who are strictly virtuous are not ignorant of the cleverest pleas and excuses they can frame for their adherence to sin, nor are they at all at a loss for how to utterly defeat them. Therefore, those who are sincerely good are not so out of simplicity or ignorance (as those who falsely consider themselves "wits" foolishly imagine), but out of a clear and rational discernment of what is best, and out of a holy sense and relish for the most divine things. While those conceited wits lay no claim to the latter, it is equally manifest that they have as little right or title to the former; for no man willingly continues in wickedness except out of a base stupidity of mind and weakness of reason original: "Imbecility of Reason".

But these things, Reader, you will best understand by perusing the Dialogues themselves, from which I have too long detained you by an overly tedious preface. I must entreat you to attribute this length to my desire that you might reap a clear satisfaction without the least doubt or distaste, rather than to any suspicion I have of either your kindness or your judgment.