the publication of this harangue arises not so much from the
composition as out of the subject itself, which has something in it,
I am afraid, that will look too like ostentation and self-conceit. For,
be the style ever so plain and unassuming, yet, as the occasion
necessarily led me to speak not only of the munificence of my
ancestors, but of my own as well, my modesty will be seriously
embarrassed. A dangerous and slippery situation this, even when
one is led into it by plea of necessity! For, if mankind are not very
favourable to panegyric, even when bestowed upon others, how
much more difficult is it to reconcile them to it when it is a tribute
which we pay to ourselves or to our ancestors? Virtue, by herself,
is generally the object of envy, but particularly so when glory and
distinction attend her; and the world is never so little disposed to
detract from the rectitude of your conduct as when it passes
unobserved and unapplauded. For these reasons, I frequently ask
myself whether I composed this harangue, such as it is, merely
from a personal consideration, or with a view to the public as well;
and I am sensible that what may be exceedingly useful and proper
in the prosecution of any affair may lose all its grace and fitness
the moment the business is completed: for instance, in the case
before us, what could be more to my purpose than to explain at
large the motives of my intended bounty? For, first, it engaged my
mind in good and ennobling thoughts; next, it enabled me, by
frequent dwelling upon them, to receive a perfect impression of
their loveliness, while it guarded at the same time against that
repentance which is sure to follow on an impulsive act of
generosity. There arose also a further advantage from this method,
as it fixed in me a certain habitual contempt of money. For, while
mankind seem to be universally governed by an innate passion to
accumulate wealth, the cultivation of a more generous affection in