It is a common sentiment applied to a state of doubt or hesitation that to make a beginning is often more than half accomplishing an undertaking, in conformity to this maxim it will give me pleasure if I can prove that it has some foundation. I shall endeavour to find out the cause of my own hesitation in the present case which if accomplished may in part do away with the difficulty in future.

Altho’ we may be convinced that “resolutions will not execute themselves” and although we may have every inclination necessary to commence the pursuit of a laudable object yet there is a much greater difficulty in following up an idea which reason teaches us is for our benefit, than that which is spontaneously dictated by the imagination.

The imagination is continually supplied by means of our senses either at the time or by recollection of what has passed through them I suppose the ideas are merely formed from the simple appearance of things which the imagination delights in transforming or exchanging however devoid of truth, to endless variety—But Judgement by ratiocination will endeavour to find out the cause by the effects centre its exertions and allow of no deviation from its object except that which it feels is necessary for its accomplishment. Suppose for instance I watch the flitting of the summer clouds their fantastic forms and beautiful variety I may continue to gaze with secret satisfaction in a state nearly allied to thoughtlessness or I may by Fancy led wander in the realms of Fairy land and see shepherds with their flocks, woods castles mountains of snow and as great a variety as there are changes in the scene.