By Maurice Wheeler, Late of Christ Church, Oxon.
Uncomfortable houses may be so altered as to be made comfortable,
424. In like manner, we may so change our personal habits as to
become agreeable to ourselves and others, 425. One habit needing
to be changed may be that of a vain curiosity, 425. Let us make a
thorough self-inspection, 426. Those who eagerly pry into the affairs
of others are apt to be ignorant of themselves, 427, 428. It is rude
and indecent to intrude into the private concerns of others, 429. It
is also attended with danger, 430. Curiosity may be wisely and safely
indulged by inquiries into the phenomena of nature and the history
of great events, 431. But such things do not satisfy a perverse
and prurient curiosity, 432. Such curiosity proceeds from spite or
envy, 432. People so inclined search into matters which men wish to
keep secret, 433. Such people cannot endure the quiet of a country
life, 434. They eagerly inquire for news, 434. We carefully guard
ourselves against inquisitive persons, 435. The practice procures
its own punishment, 437. To cure ourselves of the habit of idle
curiosity, forbear to notice little things, 438. Do not peep in at
doors and windows, 439. Do not mix with low people, 441. Do not look
at beautiful women, 442. Restrain the impulse of curiosity, even in
lawful things, 443. Spies and informers, even when employed by the
government, are always hated, 444.