Though there is no quality of the mind more graceful in itself, or that
renders it more amiable to others, than the having a tender regard to
those who are in distress; yet we may err, even in this point, unless we
take care to let our compassion flow out upon proper objects only. When
the innocent fall into misfortune, it is the part of a generous brave
spirit to contribute to their redemption; or, if that be impossible, to
administer something to their comfort and support. But, when wicked men,
who have been enemies to their fellow-subjects, are entrapped in their
own pernicious schemes, he that labours to deliver them, makes himself
an associate in their crimes, and becomes as great an enemy to the
public as those whom he would screen and protect.
When highwaymen and housebreakers are taken, condemned, and going to
satisfy justice, at the expense of their vile paltry lives; who are
they that grieve for them, and would be glad to rescue them from the
rope? Not honest men, we may be sure. The rest of the thieving
fraternity would, perhaps, commiserate their condition, and be ready to
mutiny in their favour: nay, the rascally solicitor, who had been
employed upon their account, would be vexed that his negociations had
succeeded no better, and be afraid of losing his reputation, among other
delinquents, for the future: but every friend to justice would have no
reason to be dissatisfied at any thing but a mournful reflection, which
he could not forbear making, that, while these little criminals swing
for some trifling inconsiderable rapine, others, so transcendently their
superiors in fraud and plunder, escape with a whole skin.