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rous solicitations of the good-natured and inconsi- 
derate ; both of whom, though for opposite reasons, 
wish to make all mankind like themselves. One 
method of obtaining this end is to represent all 
mankind as being already so, to question the ex- 
istence of any virtue, and to talk of the appearance 
of it as grimace. This is done, more or less openly 
or artfully, by all who leave its paths. I have seen 
‘many such characters ; particularly one, since I 
came here, whose machinations I have carefully 
observed. The Italians say Volto sciolto e pensiert 
stretti: one may be as free and compliable as pos- 
‘sible in unimportarit matters, and yet inflexible in 
things of consequence, without incurring the charge 
of formality ; whereas hypocrites are always pecu- 
liarly nice about the smallest matters. 
But where am I going? How do I pester you with 
my scrawling! I wrote the above, in the fullness of 
my heart, immediately on the receipt of your letter, 
which I have read over and over with the greatest 
pleasure. 
Believe me yours, 
J. E. Smiru. 
These are specimens of his pure affections and 
high moral worth, at a period of life when they 
may be expected to show a vigorous growth; but 
that unsuspicious simplicity and depth of feeling 
which marked his early years was never obliterated; 
and if it was a failing, undoubtedly it was one 
- “which lean’d to virtue’s side.” Inclined by nature 
or a happy mental temperament to duty and inte- 
