i] 
made for relaxation as truly as for labour; and by 
a law of his nature, he finds perhaps no relaxation 
so restorative as that in which he reverts to his 
childhood; seems to forget his wisdom ; leaves the 
imagination to exhilarate itself by sportive inven- 
tions; talks of amusing incongruities in conduct 
and events; smiles at the innocent eccentricities 
and odd mistakes of those whom he most esteems; 
allows himself in arch allusions or kind-hearted 
satire, and transports himself into a world of ludi- 
crous combinations. It may be said that on these 
occasions the mind seems to put off its wisdom; 
but the truth is, that ina pure mind wisdom re- 
treats, if we may so say, to its centre, and there 
unseen keeps guard over this transient folly, draws 
delicate lines, which are never to be passed in the 
freest moments, and, like a judicious parent watch- 
ing the sports of childhood, preserves a stainless in- 
nocence of soul in the very exuberance of gaiety.” 
Whoever recollects his love of fun and drollery 
may perceive that it was an original part of his 
disposition ; but at all times joined to such a sweet- 
ness of temper and true humanity as left no sting 
behind: a quick perception of the ridiculous, and 
especially the grave affectation of wisdom, was 
always irresistible. 
Enough, and perhaps it may be said more than 
enough, has been bestowed upon this juvenile game; 
yet it may be considered as the embryo appearance 
of a taste, or rather passion, for historical records, 
which was at all times the relaxation most salutary 
to his spirits, and to which he daily looked forward 
