This Fable sets out the Malignity of some Spiteful People, that take
so much Pleasure in the Design of Hurting others, as not to Feel, and
Understand that they only Hurt themselves. This is the Case of those that
will be Trying Masteries with their Superiors, and Biting of that which
is too Hard for their Teeth. There’s no Contending with an Adversary
that’s either Insensible or Invincible: And the Rule holds, in Matters,
not only of Actual Force and Violence, but of Fortune and Good Name; for
’tis no better then Downright Madness, to strike where we have No Power
to Hurt, and to Contend where we are sure to be Worsted. The Doctrine is
this, That Every Man should Consider his Own Strength and Act accordingly.