As for that precept of Aristotle's in the Third Book of his Rhetoric [Chap.

XVII] which you would like explained--'Use is to be made of maxims both in the narrative of a case and in the pleading, for it has a moral effect'-- I see not what it has in it that much needs explanation: only that the _narration_ and the _pleading_ (which last is usually also called the _proof_) are here understood to be such as the Orator uses, not the Historian; for the parts of the Orator and the Historian are different whether they narrate or prove, just as the Arts themselves are different.

What is suitable for the Historian you will have learnt more correctly from the ancient authors, Polybius, the Halicarnassian, Diodorus, Cicero, Lucian, and many others, who have handed down certain stray precepts concerning that subject.

For me, I wish you heartily all happiness in your studies and travels, and success worthy of the spirit and diligence which I see you employ on everything of high excellence.

Farewell.
"Westminster: December 16, 1657." "To the highly accomplished PETER HEIMBACH.
"I have received your letter dated the Hague.Dec.18 [foreign reckoning: the English would be Dec.