The first title in this volume was originally published as Religio Stoici in 1663, while the second was originally published in 1665. In private Sir George Mackenzie was a learned gentleman with literary tendencies, best remembered as the author of essays such as these. His best-known work is probably the second item in this volume. Historically, however, he is remembered for his relentless persecution of the Scottish Covenanters, which gained him the nickname "Bloody Mackenzie."