Page:Petty 1660 Reflections.djvu/130

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Have I not Lett all at under rates? and to English at one fourth part less then to Irish; and promised abatement of rent to such Papists as will come to Church? Did I make waste upon the Land or Woods that were now intended to be torn from me? Have I been clamorous or solicitous to be spared in publique Rates or Assessments? Let in brief, any demonstration of sordidness or covetousness, other then that of my activity and industry in my Calling, be produced against me.

As for my pride and ambition; Did I affect a long train of Servants, or Suitors? Did I seek the employments put upon me, otherwise then to be discharged of them? Did I use to Jack and Tom the great men, affect giving or receiving entertainments from them, to hold forth and insinuate my equality with them? When Knighthoods were in fashion, and obtainable (and when my partners and such as were ranked with me, and others whom the world thought below me in dignity and estate, did not refuse that Honour) did I make any way for it? Was the Magnificence of my House-furniture, Attendance, Aparel, &c. arguments of my