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Samuel Johnson's Essays

Monthly Archives: December 1750

No. 82. The virtuoso’s account of his rarities.

December 29, 1750

In collecting antiquities of every country, I have been careful to choose only by intrinsick worth, and real usefulness, without regard to party or opinions.

No. 81. The great rule of action.

December 25, 1750

The measure of justice prescribed to us, in our transactions with others, is remarkably clear and comprehensive.

No. 80. Variety necessary to happiness; a winter scene.

December 22, 1750

It cannot be expected of all to be poets and philosophers; it is necessary that the greater part of mankind should be employed in the business of common life.

No. 79. A suspicious man justly suspected.

December 18, 1750

Whoever commits a fraud is guilty not only of the particular injury to him whom he deceives, but of the diminution of that confidence which constitutes not only the ease but the existence of society.

No. 78. The power of novelty. Mortality too familiar to raise apprehensions.

December 15, 1750

The great incentive to virtue is the reflection that we must die; it will therefore be useful to accustom ourselves, whenever we see a funeral.

No. 77. The learned seldom despised but when they deserve contempt.

December 11, 1750

Of him, to whom much is given, much shall be required.

No. 76. The arts by which bad men are reconciled to themselves.

December 8, 1750

It is easy for every man, whatever be his character with others, to find reasons for esteeming himself, and therefore censure, contempt, or conviction of crimes, seldom deprive him of his own favour.

No. 75. The world never known but by a change of fortune. The history of Melissa.

December 4, 1750

It is impossible for those that have only known affluence and prosperity, to judge of themselves or others.

No. 74. Peevishness equally wretched and offensive. The character of Tetrica.

December 1, 1750

Men seldom give pleasure, where they are not pleased themselves; it is necessary, therefore, to cultivate an habitual alacrity and cheerfulness.

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