| Citation |
NHG-P.766.035
4 Jul 1766:11,12, (509)
Of the false Colours of Learning. The Art of Shining in
Conversation.
. . . [85 lines on whether learning makes a person rich]
Petty Practices of the half-Learned.
Some half-learned people excellent know how to take their
advantage; and get to the weak side of the enemy; for, these
people never enter into debate, unless they find a right
opportunity; nor talk upon learned subjects, or state
affairs, but before such persons, and in such places, as do
not subject them to questions and answers. [20 more about
what false learning is]
They may follow these rules if thought proper, for acquiring
a learned character,----(1.) Learn things superficially; and
endeavour to procure the reputation of learning, with a
slender stock of science. (2.) Observe time, place, and
persons; so as to engross the discourse, and be liable to no
question or reply. (3.) Talk upon learned subjects with
none but the lower people? or such as stand in need of
patronage & assistance. (4.) Get a smattering of the
fashionable discourse, the news, politics, plays, &c. by
frequenting chocolate houses, assemblies, and the theatre.
(5.) When any great occasion presents, as if a comet should
appear, read a little upon comets, and retail out your
reading in the polite circle. By these easy rules I have
known many procure themselves the reputation of polite
gentleman, great politicians, and excellent philosophers. .
. . [26 more lines]
|