XXXVIII.
Many persons who are possessed of much information have a tedious and unconnected way of imparting it. Such men are like dictionaries, very instructive if opened in the right place, but rather fatiguing to read throughout.
XXXIX.
The foundation of good breeding is the absence of selfishness. By acting always on this principle—by showing forbearance and moderation in argument when you feel sure that you are right, and a becoming diffidence when you are in doubt, you will avoid many of the errors which other men are apt to fall into.
XL.
Artists, medical men, and engineers are much to be feared by those persons who are apt to talk a little sometimes on matters which they do not very well understand. If, reader, you are, like me, subject to this infirmity, mind what you are about when any professional men are present.
R. P.
Whitehall, February, 1842.
London: Printed by William Clowes and Sons, Stamford Street