This fable is a warning to us not to deal hardly or injuriously by any
body. The consideration of our being in a high condition of life, and
those we hurt, far below us, will plead little or no excuse for us in
this case: for there is scarce a creature of so despicable a rank, but
is capable of avenging itself some way, and at some time or other. When
great men happen to be wicked, how little scruple do they make of
oppressing their poor neighbours! They are perched upon a lofty station,
and have built their nest on high; and, having outgrown all feelings of
humanity, are insensible of any pangs of remorse. The widow's tears, the
orphan's cries, and the curses of the miserable, like javelins thrown by
the hand of a feeble old man, fall by the way, and never reach their
heart. But let such a one, in the midst of his flagrant injustice,
remember, how easy a matter it is, notwithstanding his superior
distance, for the meanest vassal to be revenged of him. The bitterness
of an affliction, even where cunning is wanting, may animate the
poorest spirit with resolutions of vengeance; and, when once that fury
is thoroughly awakened, we know not what she will require before she is
lulled to rest again. The most powerful tyrants cannot prevent a
resolved assassination; there are a thousand different ways for any
private man to do the business, who is heartily disposed to it, and
willing to satisfy his appetite for revenge, at the expense of his life.
An old woman may clap a firebrand in the palace of a prince; and it is
in the power of a poor weak fool to destroy the children of the mighty.