The surest method of detecting ignorance and inability, is to put
arrogant pretenders to the test, and appreciate their claims by a fair
trial; and when those who assume the merit due to works of ingenuity,
refuse to prove their title by a display of their talents, we may well
conclude that their pretensions are unfounded, and that they are mere
impostors. When men, who are at the head of national affairs, will not
be at the pains to find out merit (for men of that character are too
modest to obtrude themselves) they will be surrounded by a swarm of
idle, impudent, good-for-nothing drones; and these too often succeed in
obtaining those benefits which should be the reward of men of parts,
integrity, and industry.
[Illustration] [Page 147]