THE LIFE OF A SPORTSMAN 



single life. For example, the splendour of Thebes commenced 

 with the public character of the celebrated Epaminondas, and 

 declined from the moment of his death. In fact, the maxims 

 by which their Governments were supported are impracticable 

 in a populous country, such as England. They afford too 

 many opportunities for caballing, and betray the mass of the 

 people into rebellion and outrage. Between the patrician and 

 plebeian orders the struggle is ardent and unceasing, and then 

 look to the result. When the former prevail, despotism 

 ensues; and if the latter succeed, anarchy is the inevitable 

 consequence. Who but a madman would expect to revive the 

 stern politics of ancient nations, without their genius, their 

 extreme austerity, their rigid discipline, and their severe 

 morality ? But one lesson is given us in the construction and 

 proceedings of some of those celebrated commonwealths, which 

 were the wonder and admiration of the world for a long period 

 of years. They preserved their purity and vigour, and reached 

 the summit of unrivalled excellence, not only by instituting 

 the best laws, and executing them in the best manner, but by 

 delegating the power of the community to none hut the best 

 onen. Let us not, then, surrender a form of government 

 which has made us happy at home, and respected abroad, for 

 one which cannot, under present circumstances, be realised 

 without having a contrary effect. We should substantiate the 

 fable of chasing Juno, and plunging into a cloud. The 

 old family mansion which our forefathers have inhabited so 

 long, may want repair, but those who would level it with 

 the ground, or change it for another, would soon find their 

 mistake.' 



' But tlie taxes ' ' says a care-worn elector, the father of eleven 

 children. 



' I have an answer for you,' said our hero, ' in a few words. 

 Without taxes you could have no protection, because you 

 could have no Government; and with reflecting persons, the 

 (jpportunities affbrded them to rise in the world, in a country 

 whose revenue is so large as ours, are fully equivalent to all 

 they pay. But as to the system of their distribution, com- 

 plaints will ever be made against it, inasmuch as people are 

 apt to imagine that official duty is never honestly performed 

 but by virtues and abilities above humanity. Now, as you 

 have pressed me to deliver my sentiments, I will tell 3'ou what 



342 



