36 
Mr, Smith to Mr. James Edward Smith. 
My dear Son, Norwich, Feb. 25, 1782. 
We are all much pleased that you spend your 
time so agreeably, and hope nothing I have said will 
convey the idea that I think you too profuse in 
your amusements: on the contrary, as you rightly 
say, it is a part of your education de vous appri- 
voiser a la grande foule; besides, I look upon diver- 
sions as useful, nay necessary, to relieve your mind 
and renew its vigour, to exhilarate the spirits and 
give a zest to life, for which end the beneficent Au- 
thor of our nature has given us the capacity of an 
almost innumerable variety of enjoyments, which 
are all lawful when they are expedient, when they 
promote our happiness and that of our friends and 
connections. I look upon the promotion or pro- 
duction of genuine true happiness to be the surest 
mark of virtue, if it is not virtue ztse/f. Some phi- 
losophers call a mediocrity in all things, virtue : 
however that be, medio tutissimus ibis is an excel- 
lent maxim, and I am in no fear you should trans- 
gress; on the contrary,I would rather urge you 
forward to take pleasure than restrain you, for I 
am not in the least afraid you should go beyond 
what will do you real good. So, my dear, go to as 
many diversions as you like, see everything you 
can, and push forward your acquaintance with gen- 
teel, valuable people; and be not under any con- 
cern whether you spend a few pounds more or less 
in the year. I would not have you neglect any ad- 
vantages, nor deny yourself any proper gratification 
