1^93* hints on chivalry. ^2^ 



to extravagant enterprises. But thej deeply imprin- 

 ted on their mind, the principles of generosity and 

 honour. These were strengthened by every thing 

 that can iiiFcct the senses or touch the heart. The 

 wild exploits of those romantic knights who sallied 

 forth in quest of adventures, are well know;i ; and 

 have been treated with proper ridicule : The 

 political and permanent effects of the spirit of chi- 

 valry have been lefs observed. Perhaps the huma- 

 nity which accompanies all the operations of war, 

 the refinements of gallantry, and the poiiit of ho:iour, 

 the three chief circumstances which distingurh mo- 

 dern from ancient manners, may b^ ascribed in a 

 great manner to this in-.tituiion, which ha:, appeared 

 whimsical to superficial observers ; but by its eff^-cts 

 has proved of great benefit to mankind. The senti- 

 ments which chivalry inspired, had a wonderful influ- 

 ence on the manners and conduct of men during the 

 twelfth, thirteenth, fourteenth, and fifteenth centuries. 

 They were so deeply rooted that they continued to 

 operate after the vigour and reputation of the institu- 

 tion itielf began to decline. For some considerable 

 transactions of later ages, resemble the adventurous 

 exploits of chivalry, rather than the well regula- 

 ted operations of sound policy *. 



M. C. 



'••^Robertson's Charles v, vol i. pp. S4, S;. 



