"You would recommend to me your temptations under the colour of
knowlege. Has knowlege any charms for the debauched and luxurious? You
tell me we ought to enlarge our sphere of sensation, and to extend the
sources of happiness. Wisdom indeed, and mental improvements are
desirable. But the sage Druids have always taught me, that the mind is
the nobler part, that the body is to be kept in subjection, and that it
is not our business to seek its gratification beyond the bounds of
necessity and temperance. If I allowed myself to think that I wanted
more than I have, might not the possession of that more extend my
desires, till, from humble and bounded, they became insatiable? Were I
to dismiss those industrious pursuits by means of which my time now
glides so pleasantly, how am I sure that indolence and vacancy would
make me happier?
"To succour indeed the necessitous, and particularly my parents and
relations, is a consideration of more value. But ah, Roderic! though you
talk it so well, I am afraid it is a consideration foreign to your
character. For my parents, they are as yet healthful and active; and
while they continue so, they wish, no more than myself for repose and
indolence. If ever they become incapable of industry, their little flock
will still contribute to their support.
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