The Idler (Volume 1); In Two Volumes. (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1761. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... DEGREES . .. N 36. Saturday, December 23. *ipHE great differences that disturb the peace of mankind, are not about ends but means. We have all the fame general desires, but how those desires shall be accomplished will for ever be disputed. The ultimate purpose of government is temporal, and that of religion is eternal happiness. Hitherto we agree; but here we must part, to try, acctjrding to the endless varieties of pafllon and understanding combined with one another, every possible form of Government, and every imaginable tenet of Religion. We are told by Cumberland, thatRefiiiud*t applied to action or contemplation, is merely metaphorical; and that as a right line describes the shortest passage from point to point, fo a right action effects a good design by the fewest means; and so likewise a right opinioi is that which. connects distant truths by the siiorteft train. of intermediate propositions. To find the nearest way from truth to truth, or from purpose to effect, not to use more instruments where fewer will be fufficir ent, not to move by wheels and levers what will give way to the naked hand, ' is the great proof of a healthful and vigorous mind, neither feeble with helpless ignorance, nor overburdened with unweildy knowledge. But there are men who seem to think nothing so much the characteristick of a genius, as to do common things in an uncommon manner; like Hudibras to tell the Clock by Algebra, or like the Lady in Dr. Young]s Satires, to drink Tea by Jlratagem. To quit the beaten track only because it is known, and take a new path, however crooked or rough, because the strait was found out before. Every man speaks and writes with intent to be understood, and it can seldom happen but he that understands himself might convey his notions to another, if, ..