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Abstemius's Fables (Sir Roger L'Estrange)

272. (Abstemius 19) Seamen Praying to Saints.

It blew a terrible tempest at Sea once, and there was one Seaman took notice that the rest of his Fellows were praying severally to so many Saints. Have a care my Masters, says he, what you do; for what if we should all be drown'd now before the Messenger can deliver his Errand? Would it not be better without going so far about, to pray to Him that can save us without Help? Upon this, they turn'd their Prayers to God himself, and the Wind presently fell.
The Shortest and Surest Way of doing Business is Best.