78 On the Institution of Literary 
should chance to become the subject of discourse. 
They imagine, in short, that a broad line is now 
drawn between ignorance and knowledge; and they 
perceive themselves on the wrong side. Hence 
they insensibly view things with other eyes. In pro- 
portion as the value of mental improvement ad- 
vances in their estimation, their repugnance to 
books and reflection diminishes. | Persuaded of the 
worth of the object, they no longer refuse to em- 
ploy the means necessary for its accomplishment, 
They begin to discern that to- be proficients in the 
science of dress, to be connoisseurs in the dainties 
of the table, to run the never-ceasing round of fri- 
volous amusements, to vie in habits of luxury and 
in the ostentatious display of wealth, do not render 
a man quite so respectable as they formerly believ- 
ed: and discover ere long, at first with some sur 
prise, but with a surprise of short continuance, that 
such characteristics render him deservedly con- 
temptible. This change of sentiments is followed 
by its natural effects. Information, taste, a love of 
literature, of liberal arts, of philosophical enquiry, 
are qualifications which grow more and more allur- 
ing; and are counted among the most desirable in- 
gredients in contracting intimacies and friendships. 
Some of the individuals, in whom the establishment 
of the society has wrought so fortunate an alteration, 
become, in process of time, both members and or- 
naments of the institution itself, And those who in 
