beautifully calls the sanctity of manners.

12. Modesty is a polite accomplishment, and generally an attendant upon
merit. It is engaging to the highest degree, and wins the hearts of all
our acquaintance. On the contrary, none are more disgustful in company
than the impudent and presuming.

The man who is, on all occasions, commending and speaking well of
himself, we naturally dislike. On the other hand, he who studies to
conceal his own deserts, who does justice to the merit of others, who
talks but little of himself, and that with modesty, makes a favourable
impression on the persons he is conversing with, captivates their minds,
and gains their esteem.

13. Modesty, however, widely differs from an aukward bashfulness; which
is as much to be condemned as the other is to be applauded. To appear
simple is as ill-bred as to be impudent. A young man ought to be able to
come into a room and address the company without the least
embarrassment. To be out of countenance when spoken to, and not to have
an answer ready, is ridiculous to the last degree.

14. An aukward country fellow, when he comes into company better than
himself, is exceedingly disconcerted. He knows not what to do with his
hands or his hat, but either puts one of them in his pocket, and dangles
the other by his side: or perhaps twirls his hat on his fingers, or
perhaps fumbles with the button. If spoken to he is in a much worse
situation; he answers with the utmost difficulty, and nearly stammers;
whereas a gentleman who is acquainted with life, enters a room with
gracefulness and a modest assurance; addresses even persons he does not
know, in an easy and natural manner, and without the least