LIFE OF WILSON* 
XXXIX 
of one who had been educated in the School of Wisdom. He 
humbly thought it would not be rendering an unacceptable service 
to the Great Master of Creation himself, to derive from 
objects that every where present themselves in our rural walks, 
not only amusement and instruction, but the highest incitements 
to piety and virtue. Moreover, self-gratification, that source of so 
many of our virtuous actions, had its share in urging him to com- 
municate his observations to others.* He examined the strength 
of his mind, and its resources; the undertaking seemed hazardous; 
he pondered it for a long while before he ventured to mention it to 
his friends. At length the subject was made known to Mr. Bar- 
tram, who freely expressed his confidence in the abilities and ac- 
quirements of Wilson; but, from a knowledge of the situation and 
circumstances of the latter, hinted his fears that the difficulties 
which stood in the way of such an enterprise were almost too great 
to be overcome. Wilson was not easily intimidated ; the very 
mention of difficulties suggested to his mind the means of sur- 
mounting them, and the glory which would accrue from such an 
achievement. He had a ready answer to every objection of his 
cautious friend ; and evinced such enthusiasm, that Mr, Bartram 
trembled lest his intemperate zeal should lead him into a situation, 
from the embarrassments of which he could not well be extricated. 
The scheme was unfolded to Mr. Lawson, and met with his 
cordial approbation. But he observed that there were several con- 
siderations which should have their weight, in determining in an 
affair of so much importance. These were frankly stated ; and 
followed by advice, which did not quadrate with the temperament 
of Wilson ; who, vexed that his friend would not enter into his 
feelings, expressed his scorn of the maxims of prudence with which 
he was assailed, by styling them the offspring of a co/^/, calculating. 
Introduction to vol. i. 
