A ridiculous man is one who, whilst he is so, has the appearance of a blockhead.
A blockhead is always ridiculous, for that is his character; an intelligent man may sometimes be ridiculous, but will not be so long.
An error in conduct makes a wise man ridiculous.
Foolishness is a criterion of a blockhead, vanity of a coxcomb, and impertinence of an impertinent man; ridicule seems sometimes to dwell in those who are really ridiculous, and sometimes in the imagination of those who believe they perceive ridicule where it neither is nor can be.
(48.) Coarseness, clownishness, and brutality may be the vices of an intelligent man.
(49.) A stupid man is a silent blockhead, and is more bearable than a talkative blockhead.
(50.) What is often a slip of the tongue or a jest from a man of sense is a blunder when said by a blockhead.
(51.) If a coxcomb would be afraid of saying something not exactly right he would no longer be a coxcomb.
(52.) One proof of a commonplace intellect is to be always relating stories.