169 



frequently leads to the commission of the jnost shameful fol- 

 lies, and even of atrocious crimes. 



Thus we see how miserably these are deceived whose idea 

 of happiness centers in compliance with those desires. Exer- 

 cise is necessary to health at all ages, but its violent exertions 

 are attended by dangers often fatal to human life. 



Amusements pursued with moderation are necessary relaxa- 

 tions from the more serious and interesting occupations ; but 

 when considered and sought as the sole business of life, they 

 occasion an irreparable neglect of its more important con- 

 cerns, and some of them, particularly gaming, with abso- 

 lute ruin, both of property and repute. 



Power is agreeable to all men, as far as it relates ta domi- 

 nion over their own actions ; in this sense it coincides with 

 the love of liberty and independence; but power over others 

 is most commonly the peculiar aim only of the opulent class 

 of society ; its acquisition is considered by them as the source 

 of the greatest happiness. It flatters their pride, fosters the 

 high estimation they entertain of their own talents and 

 dignity, and obliges or induces others to concur in the grati- 

 fication of their wishes. 



Its pursuit is however attended with circumstances much 

 more productive of pain than of pleasure; under despotic 

 monarchies it is generally attainable only by mean intrigue, 

 degrading servility, perfidious hypocrisy, profound dissimu- 



voL. XI. z lation 



