| Citation |
NHG-P.766.026
13 Jun 1766:21,22 (506)
In our Gazette of the 21st of March last, some hints were
inserted, How posts may be well filled; and the public well
served; now follows some directions as to childrens natural
talents &c.
. . . [26 lines of discovering the talents of children]
If thy son be more diligent than ingenious, bring him up
to an art or trade, rather than to philosophy or divinity;
because it is better, and more reputable, to be a good
painter, or architect, than an ordinary philosopher, or
divine; better to be an able farmer, than a heavy senator.
Perhaps, as your son is of a good family, you may think it
too mean to make him a tradesman; but then consider which is
more honourable, a serviceable mechanic, or an incapable
scholar. Laudable ambition consists in filling a post, or
sustaining a character, with reputation.
The mischief is heightened by persons, who confer offices
more out of affection and party, than reason and justice.
This is fatal, for tho' a country should abound with persons
of great natural abilities, such a preposterous management
would not suffer one to appear; but render them all
incapable. If an able artist be made a weak senator; or if
a good senator be unsuitable made a judge; such a
metamorphosis turns two useful men into noxious animals.
The best set of comedians may act odiously, if they change
parts; and yet the actors not be blameable, but their
directors. Indeed the managers of theatre are careful in
the distribution of parts; so as to make each player shine
in his character. But tho' this be well observed on the
stage, it is strangely neglected in the world. . . [12
lines, 54 more lines]
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