A man of moderate fortune, who is contented with what he has, and finds
he can live happily upon it, should be particularly guarded against
the ill-judged ambition of associating with the rich and powerful, for
what in them is œconomy, would in him be the height of extravagance;
and at the very time they honour him with their countenance, they are
leading him on to his ruin. People of equal conditions may float down
the current of life without hurting each other; but it is no easy
matter to steer one’s course in company with the great, so as to escape
without a bulge: neither is it desirable to live in the neighbourhood
of a very great man; for whether we ignorantly trespass upon him, or he
knowingly encroach upon us, we are sure to be the sufferers.
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