PART II.

We may observe that, in displaying the praises of any humane, beneficent man, there is one circumstance which never fails to be amply insisted on, namely, the happiness and satisfaction, derived to society from his intercourse and good offices.  To his parents, we are apt to say, he endears himself by his pious attachment and duteous care still more than by the connexions of nature.  His children never feel his authority, but when employed for their advantage.  With him, the ties of love are consolidated by beneficence and friendship.  The ties of friendship approach, in a fond observance of each obliging office, to those of love and inclination.  His domestics and dependants have in him a sure resource; and no longer dread the power of fortune, but so far as she exercises it over him.  From him the hungry receive food, the naked clothing, the ignorant and slothful skill and industry.  Like the sun, an inferior minister of providence he cheers, invigorates, and sustains the surrounding world.

If confined to private life, the sphere of his activity is narrower; but his influence is all benign and gentle.  If exalted into a higher station, mankind and posterity reap the fruit of his labours.

As these topics of praise never fail to be employed, and with success, where we would inspire esteem for any one; may it not thence be concluded, that the utility, resulting from the social virtues, forms, at least, a part of their merit, and is one source of that approbation and regard so universally paid to them?

When we recommend even an animal or a plant as useful and beneficial, we give it an applause and recommendation suited to its nature.  As, on the other hand, reflection on the baneful influence of any of these inferior beings always inspires us with the sentiment of aversion.  The eye is pleased with the prospect of corn-fields and loaded vine-yards; horses grazing, and flocks pasturing:  but flies the view of briars and brambles, affording shelter to wolves and serpents.

A machine, a piece of furniture, a vestment, a house well contrived for use and conveniency, is so far beautiful, and is contemplated with pleasure and approbation.  An experienced eye is here sensible to many excellencies, which escape persons ignorant and uninstructed.

Can anything stronger be said in praise of a profession, such as merchandize or manufacture, than to observe the advantages which it procures to society; and is not a monk and inquisitor enraged when we treat his order as useless or pernicious to mankind?

The historian exults in displaying the benefit arising from his labours.  The writer of romance alleviates or denies the bad consequences ascribed to his manner of composition.

In general, what praise is implied in the simple epithet useful!  What reproach in the contrary!

Your Gods, says Cicero [De Nat.  Deor. lib. i.], in opposition to the Epicureans, cannot justly claim any worship or adoration, with whatever imaginary perfections you may suppose them endowed.  They are totally useless and inactive.  Even the Egyptians, whom you so much ridicule, never consecrated any animal but on account of its utility.