f their own fancies, and have not, for the rule and
foundation of their faith, any permanent and solid truth."

In this manner spoke the king; and it was easy to judge by the vehemence
of his action, that he spoke from the abundance of his heart. There was
present a Bonza, very considerable in his sect, and of good knowledge,
but too presuming of his understanding, and as much conceited of his own
abilities as any pedant in the world. This Bonza, whose name was
Faxiondono, either jealous of the honour of his profession, or taking to
himself in particular what the king had said of all in general, was often
tempted to have interrupted him, yet he mastered his passion till the
king had done; but then losing all manner of respect, and not keeping any
measures of decency, "How dare you," said he, "decide matters relating to
religion; you who have never studied in the university of Fianzima, the
only place where the sacred mysteries of the gods are explicated? If you
know nothing of yourself, consult the learned. I am here in person to
instruct you."

The insolence of the Bonza raised the indignation of all the company, the
king excepted, who, smiling, commanded him to proceed, if he had more to
say. Faxiondono growing more arrogant by this moderation of his prince,
began raising his note by extolling the profession of a Bonza: "That
nothing was more certain than that the Bonzas were the favourites of
heaven, both observing the law themselves, and causing it to be observed
by others; that they passed the longest nights, and the severest colds,
in praying for their benefactors; that they abstained from all sensual
pleasures; that fresh fish never came upon their tables; that they
administered to the sick, instructed the children, comforted the
distressed, reconciled enemies, appeased seditions, and pacified
kingdoms; that, which was first and chiefest, they gave letters of
exchange for another life, by which the dead became rich in heaven;
that, in fine, the Bonzas were the familiar friends of the stars, and the
confidents of the saints; that they were privileged to converse with them
by night, to cause them to descend from heaven, to embrace them in their
arms, and enjoy them as long as they desired." These extravagancies set
all the company in a laughter; at which the Bonza was so enraged, that he
flew out into greater passion, till the king commanded his brother to
impose silence on him; after which, he caused his seat to b