the land was filled with them] Vers. 12. not the land of Egypt, but the Province or land of Goshen, (allotted to the Israelites for their habitation) This multiplication of so many (whereof see the generall Argument of this Book) from so few at first, in so short a space, (for it was from the death of Joseph to the beginning of their afflictions, as is diligently computed about, or not much above fiftie yeares) might come to passe, by beginning to be fruitfull sooner, and continuing longer then other women, by bringing forth many at a birth: and that might be the rather, because (as Philosophers and Physicians say) there are seven severall Cells for conception, wherein may be formed so many distinct Embryons, which proceeding to a perfect shape, may be so many children: and as (upon experience) it is reported, that some have brought forth five at a birth, foure times over, that is twentie, Arist. hist. animal. 50: 7. 100: 4. And as by such frequent conceptions their number might much increase, so also by Gods withholding of abortion, whereby that which was conceived, was happily brought on to a perfect birth.