The most servile are frequently the most arrogant. The possessor of
these qualities will display the one or the other according to the
condition of the person whom he encounters. For an individual who in
the estimation of society holds a rank above him, he will be ready to
perform any office, however menial: while to another, whose situation
in life is more humble, he will be in the highest degree haughty and
assuming. No man of proper feeling can entertain the least respect for
such a character. How very different from that of Urbanus. His manner
always shows a consideration for those whose station in society may be
less desirable than his own. He feels the disposition to oblige, and
never fails to indulge it when a proper occasion is presented. Let any
individual of correct deportment be in want of aid which Urbanus can
give, and no matter how humble his condition, that aid will be
extended. Not so, however, when the man who wishes his services assumes
a superiority over him. A laudable pride and a proper self-respect will
then forbid what otherwise might be done. Urbanus will be courteous and
polite to all, but in a state of subjection to none. He will take a
pleasure in yielding, of his own free will, to talents, attainments,
and high character, their just due. But this must be the result of his
own opinion as to what is right, and not the effect of base submission
to another's will.