The best way to become boring is to say everything. If we do not find anything very pleasant, at least we shall find something new. We are rarely proud when we are alone. Verses which do not teach men new and moving truths do not deserve to be read. To rely upon conviction, devotion, and other excellent spiritual qualities - that is not to be taken seriously in politics. To announce truths is an infallible receipt for being persecuted. The sentiment of justice is so natural, and so universally acquired by all mankind, that it seems to be independent of all law, all party, all religion. The instruction we find in books is like fire. We fetch it from our neighbours, kindle it at home, communicate it to others, and it becomes the property of all. The infinitely little have a pride infinitely great. It is better to risk saving a guilty man than to condemn an innocent one. |