[Commonplace book]

Manuscript on paper, in a single hand, containing brief quotations and maxims on approximately 500 primarily moral and philosophical subjects, arranged alphabetically under Latin headings. Sample headings include Ars, Consilio, Deus, Felicitas, Ingratitudo, and Veritas. Under Passio, the author writes, "There is noe heat of Affection but is joyn’d with some Impotence of brain"; under Vita, the author lists "Lives of persons written," including "Of Cowley, by Dr. Sprot, Of Mr. Herbert, Dr. Donne, Sr. Henry Wotton, & Mr. Hooker by Mr. Isaac Walton." The volume also includes commentary on the popes; the derivation of the phrase "Hocus Pocus"; and notes about political figures in Europe.