8o LIFE OF MYTTON. 



Rochester was eminent for the vigour of his col- 

 loquial wit. Mytton was deaf, and therefore could 

 not shine in conversation. He dealt, chiefly, in 

 practical jokes. 



Rochester is mentioned by Wood as the best 

 scholar of all the nobility. Mytton might have 

 harangued an Athenian mob, if he had gone steadily 

 throuo^h Harrow or Westminster School. 



Burnet says, " Rochester played many wild frolics, 

 which it is not for his honour that we should remem- 

 ber." Ditto John Mytton. 



Burnet " touched as tenderly as occasion would 

 bear" Rochester's faults. Mytton's spiritual adviser 

 never touched his at all, if he could avoid it. 



The good Bishop tells us. Dr. Balfour " drew 

 Rochester to read such books as were most likely to 

 bring him back to love learning and study." Mytton's 

 tutor recommended the "Racing Calendar" and the 

 " Stud Book " ; nevertheless, he was well read in the 

 classics, though perhaps not so well as Rochester 

 was. The natural talent of each was excellent ; 

 each was generous and kindhearted ; and "video 

 ameliora, proboque ; deteriora seqiior" — " I see what 

 is better, and approve it ; but follow what is 

 worse," would have been a suitable motto for both. 



