are so unfortunate as to fall into those weaknesses. "I cannot see
persons suffer," says one of his cast, "without relieving them; though
my circumstances are very unable to afford it--I cannot avoid speaking
truth; though it is often very imprudent;" and so on.

23. This angling for praise is so prevailing a principle, that it
frequently stoops to the lowest object. Men will often boast of doing
that, which, if true, would be rather a disgrace to them than otherwise.
One man affirms that he rode twenty miles within the hour: 'tis probably
a lie; but suppose he did, what then? He had a good horse under him,
and is a good jockey. Another swears he has often at a sitting, drank
five or six bottles to his own share. Out of respect to him, I will
believe _him_ a liar; for I would not wish to think him a beast.

24. These and many more are the follies of idle people, which, while
they think they procure them esteem, in reality make them despised.

To avoid this contempt, therefore, never speak of yourself at all,
unless necessity obliges you; and even then, take care to do it in such
a manner, that it may not be construed into fishing for applause.
Whatever perfections you may have, be assured, people will find them
out; but whether they do or not, nobody will take them upon your own
word. The less you say of yourself, the more the world will give you
credit for; and the more you say, the less they will believe you.




_Affectation_.