Chapter XX: Madam,

I am not of your opinion, That nice distinctions and Logistical arguments discover truth, dissolve doubts, and clear the understanding; but I say, they rather make doubts of truth, and blind-fold the understanding; Indeed, nice distinctions and sophistical arguments, are very pernicious both in Schools, Church, and State: As for the Church, although in Divinity there is but one Truth, yet nice distinctions, and Logistical sophistry, have made such confusion in it, as has caused almost as many several opinions as there are words in the Scripture; and as for natural Theology, which is moral Philosophy, they have divided vertues and vices into so many parts, and minced them so small, that neither can be clearly distinguished. The same in Government; they endeavour to cut between command and obedience to a hairs breadth. Concerning causes of Law, they have abolish'd the intended benefit, and banish'd equity; and instead of keeping Peace, they make War, causing enmity betwixt men: As for Natural Philosophy, they will not suffer sense and reason to appear in that study: And as for Physick, they have kill'd more men then Wars, Plagues, or Famine. Wherefore from nice distinctions and Logistical sophistry, Good God deliver us, especially, from those that concern Divinity; for they weaken Faith, trouble Conscience, and bring in Atheism: In short, they make controversies, and endless disputes. But least the opening of my meaning in such plain terms should raise a controversie also between you and me, I'le cut off here, and rest,

Madam,

_Your faithful Friend_

_and Servant._