When a man has suffered his mind to become so debased as to be capable
to doing injuries to him who has showered benefits on his head, he can
scarcely be treated with too much severity. He deserves at least to
be scouted as an outcast to society. All the favours that are bestowed
upon men of this worthless disposition, are thrown away; for the envy
and malevolence of the ingrate, work him up into a hatred of his
benefactor. Generous men should therefore use a just circumspection in
the choice of the objects of their benevolence, before they give way
to the feelings of the heart, or waste its bountiful overflowings upon
those who, instead of making a grateful return, will bite them like a
drowning but spiteful dog. The Fable is also intended as an admonition
to servants, who owe an especial duty to their masters; whose kindness
should be met by their faithful exertions to serve them; and whose
interest they ever ought to make their own.
[Illustration]
[Illustration] [Page 315]