The Rat-Trap, Addressed to Sir J. Fielding (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1773 Excerpt: ...only observe, as in my last, that your story has touched me so sensibly, that I should esteem it the most pleasing incident of my life could I alleviate your distress--however, it affords me much satisfaction to understand your disposition is such as would anticipate my assistance, even could such assistance prove efficacious. I admire your system of reasoning--there is nothing so truly noble as a great mind struggling with misfortunes, and arming itself with fortitude to surmount them. The... stoicism stoicism of Diogenes, in his adverfity, create4 in the breast of Alexander the most ardent desire of imitating his greatness. It was upon that occasion the monarch exclaimed, Were 1 not Alexander and emperor of the world, I would be Diogenes in a dungeon; besides, in thus fortifying ourselves with resolution, we as surely exult over the tyranny of our enemies; for few men would be cruel, if cruelty did not operate to the misery of others; the tyrant too loses the enjoyment of torturing the innocent, when such tortures are endured without a groan--your time for releasement cannot be at any great distance, as I understand your commitment was only for one month--In the interim, I shall not fail to make myself thoroughly acquainted with the grounds on which you was not only committed, but apprehended. Perhaps there may be found virtue enough in this great city to attempt the obtaining redress for the unparallelled injuries you have sustained, as well as for the other miserable companions to your folly, and partners of your wretchedness. Indeed this consolatory prospect is but a dim one, for justice is lame as well as blind, and the laws seem perverted to the uses only of those who traffic in them. I applaud your resolution and conduct, and I hope your plan of ref...