fect in itself, yet joined to another, being marked with two pricks. (:) A period is the distinction of a sentence, in all respects perfect, and is marked with one full prick over against the lower part of the last letter, thus If a sentence be with an interrogation, we use this note (?) Sir John Cheek: Who can perswade, where treason is above reason; and might ruleth right; and it is had for lawful, whatsoever is lustful; and commotioners are better than commissioners; and common woe is named commonwealth? Chaucer, 2d book of Fame: Loe, is it not a great mischance, Of things, that he cannot demain? Lidgate, lib. 1: For, if wives be found variable, Where shall husbands find other stable? If it be pronounced with an admiration, then thus (!) Sir Thomas More: O Lord God, the blindness of our mortal nature! Chaucer, Ist book of Fame: Alas! what harm doth apparence, When it is false in existence! These distinctions, as they best agree with nature, so come they nearest to the ancient stays of sentences among the Romans and the Grecians. An example of all four, to make the matter plain, let us take out of that excellent oration of Sir John Cheek against the rebels, whereof before we have made so often mention: When common order of the law can take no place in unruly and disobedient subjects; and all men will of wilfulness resist with rage, and think their own violence to be the best justice: then be wise magistrates compelled by necessity to seek an extreme remedy, where mean salves help not, and bring in the martial law where none other law serveth. |