FABLES. 



of our own sagacity, and inattention sometimes 

 induces us to make acknowledgments to wrong 

 persons. But if we would have our praises valued, 

 we should be cautious to direct them properly. 

 Our thanks are an indirect affront to those who 

 receive them without deserving them; and at the 

 same time an act of open ingratitude to those who 

 merit them without receiving them. In prosperity, 

 as well as in adversity, let us not forget the power 

 and goodness of Heaven ; and if we implore the aid 

 of the Almighty in our distress, we should not 

 neglect to send up our acknowledgments of his 

 goodness with the voice of gratitude. 



