The Fable of the Bees (Volume 2) - Tapa blanda

Book may have numerous typos, missing text, images, or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1732. Excerpt: ... multiplicity of Engines, that were all invented either to assist the Weakness of Man, to correct his many Imperfections, to gratify his Laziness, or obviate his Impatience. It is in Morality as it is in Nature, there is nothing so perfectly Good in Creatures that it cannot be hurtful to any one of the Society, nor any thing so entirely Evil, but it may prove beneficial to some part or other of the Creation: So that things are only Good and Evil in reference to something else, and according to the Light and Position they are placed in. What pleases us is good in that Regard, and by this Rule every Man wishes well for himself to the best of his Capacity, with little Respect to his. Neighbour. There never was any Rain yet, tho' in a very dry Season when Publick Prayers had been made for it, but somebody or other who wanted' to go abroad wished it might be Fair Weather only for that Day. When the Corn stands thick in the Spring, and the generality of the Country rejoice at the pleasing Object, the rich Farmer who kept his last Year's Crop for a better Market, pines at the sight, and inwardly grieves at the Prospect os a plentiful Harvest. Nay, we shall often hear your idle People openly wish for the Possessions, of others, and not to be injurious forsooth add this wise Proviso, that it should be without Detriment to the Owners: But I'm afraidthey often do it without any such Restriction in their Hearts. ft It is a Happiness that the Prayers as well as Wishes of most People are insignificant and good for nothing; or else the only thing that could keep Mankind fit for Society, and the World from falling into Confusion, would be the Impossibility that all the Petitions made to Heaven should be granted. A dutiful pretty young Gentleman newly come from his Travels lies at the Briel waiting w...