"Nevertheless, work, intelligence, directness of thought and, above all, common sense, can exert a positive influence on the future superiority of the situation.
"Before everything else, it is indispensable that we should never delude ourselves about the position which we occupy.
"To define it exactly, one should call to mind the wise adage which says:
Know thyself.
"But this knowledge is rare.
"Presumptuous persons readily imagine that they attract the eyes of every one, even if they be in the last rank.
"Timid persons will hide themselves behind others and, notwithstanding, they are very much aggrieved not to be seen.
"Ambitious persons push away the troublesome ones, in order that they themselves may get the first places.
"Lazy persons just let them do it.
"Irresolute persons hesitate before sitting down in vacant places and are consumed with regrets from the time they perceive that others, better prepared, take possession of them; the more so as they no longer get back their own, for, during their hesitation, another has seated, himself there.
"Enthusiasts fight to reach the first rank, but are so fatigued by their violent struggles that they fall, tired out, before they have attained their object.