Some men are as engaging in their ways as little dogs. They can fawn,
wheedle, cringe, or, if occasion requires, leap backward and forward
over a stick, to the great emolument of their master, and entertainment
of those that behold them. But these are qualifications to which every
body cannot pretend; and therefore none but those who have a genius for
it should aspire at the employment. Many a man envies the happiness of
these favourites, and would fain insinuate himself into the same good
graces, if he did but know the way; but, whoever has a tolerable share
of discretion, will distrust his abilities in this respect, and modestly
forbear the attempt, for fear he should miscarry and look like an Ass.
But, in short, the true moral of this fable is, that every one should
consider the just turn and temper of his parts, and weigh the talents by
which he hopes to be distinguished. After such an examination, he may
the more certainly know how to apply them to the most proper purposes;
at least, so as not to hurt, or even mortify himself, by any mistaken
address. Since there is such a variety of tempers in the world, and a no
less multiplicity of arts and studies to fit and tally with them, how
reasonable is it in general, and how much would it be for the true
interest of every one in particular, if men would but be directed, by
the natural bent of their genius, to such pursuits as are most agreeable
to their capacities, and to the rudiments of education which they have
most strongly imbibed.