Every quality which is excellent and commendable, is not, however,
always a proper object for our imitation. We ought to state our own
account honestly and fairly, that we may see what our abilities are, and
how our circumstances stand; otherwise we may not only become ridiculous
to others, but prejudicial to ourselves, by some awkward and ill-judged
emulation, though it happen to be in a qualification truly laudable and
great. It behoves every man to exert a good share of industry towards
the advancement of his interest, or, if he pleases, of his reputation.
But then it is highly necessary that he does this with a true regard to
his own capacity, and without any danger of exposing or embarrassing
himself in the operation.