Place a coward out of the reach of danger, and then no man can put on
an appearance of greater courage. In his castle he makes a great deal
more bluster and threatening than a man of spirit and honour would
do, if placed in the same situation. A similar kind of overbearing
behaviour too often shews itself in the upstart worthless placeman,
who taking advantage of his situation, which protects him, and knowing
that he is out of the reach of our resentment, exhibits all the
“insolence of office:” but such should be put in mind, that a saucy
deportment is no sign of either courage, good sense, or good manners,
and that a gentleman and a man of spirit will use no ill or unbecoming
language to any person, however low in station.
[Illustration]
[Illustration] [Page 295]