The civilization of the bulk of the people of Europe is very partial; nay,
it may be made a question, whether they have acquired any virtues in
exchange for innocence, equivalent to the misery produced by the vices
that have been plastered over unsightly ignorance, and the freedom which
has been bartered for splendid slavery. The desire of dazzling by riches,
the most certain pre-eminence that man can obtain, the pleasure of
commanding flattering sycophants, and many other complicated low
calculations of doting self-love, have all contributed to overwhelm the
mass of mankind, and make liberty a convenient handle for mock patriotism.
For whilst rank and titles are held of the utmost importance, before which
Genius "must hide its diminished head," it is,
with a few exceptions, very unfortunate for a nation when a man of
abilities, without rank or property, pushes himself forward to notice. --
Alas! what unheard of misery have thousands suffered to purchase a
cardinal's hat for an intriguing obscure adventurer, who longed to be
ranked with princes, or lord it over them by seizing the triple crown!
