688 



ON RURAL IMPROVEMENT, AND BOOK III. 



site effect, and to awaken that which the other entirely pre- 

 vented — reflection : hence it is plain, and no votary for these 

 things can deny it, that such as are remarkable for indulging 

 in city entertainments one half the year, are miserable the other 

 half*. 



The effects of rural scenery are every where, upon all its ad- 

 mirers, and at all times, the same; they bring every noble 

 principle of the mind into action, and allay the vicious or selfish 

 passions and inclinations, by promoting good nature, and every 

 social virtue : thus the pleasures of the country elevate man 

 to his proper dignity, while by continued beneficence to man- 

 kind he enjoys and diffuses universal happiness. 



The effect of indulging in city amusements tends to the de- 

 struction of property, either by requiring the whole or more than 

 the annual income, or, even if less than that be applied, it tends 



* In youth, from natural gaiety and levity, a city life may amuse ; but what must 

 be the feelings of an aged votary to such things ? Supposing that from fortune and 

 tolerable health he is still able to witness them, yet what entertainment can he have 

 from pleasures in which he is unable to partake, and enjoyments which serve only 

 to remind him of his age and condition. — But what must be the state of those whom 

 these things have left in poverty, disease, and involuntary retirement ? The old 

 age and grey hairs of such are never venerable, but always despised, even by those 

 equally devoted, and speedily approaching to the same end. View either the aged 

 and healthy or the aged and infirm votaries to these pursuits in a relative capacity 

 as a parent, husband, friend; view his children, his wife, their society, manners, 

 and practices ! ! 



