There is perhaps, not a more evident mark of the vanity of the human Character, than the facility with which men flatter themselves, they can discover the train of reasoning, and the bias of judgment of others, by the smallest exertion of their own minds, or by little more than simple perception.

That mankind do, in various degrees, possess an intuitive knowledge of temper, from phisiognomy, will not be disputed; but we are continually reminded, in our intercourse with the world, of the fallacy of such impressions, and of the danger of forming connections on such unsubstantial and unreasonable cases. Under the most forbidding countenance is often found the best regulated mind, and he whose face, is a sufficient introduction wherever he enters, is frequently discovered to possess none of the qualities which insure the continuance of goodwill and respect, or that prevent ultimate disappointment.

If then, from various causes, the mind is altered from its original character, and can assume any other, it must be hazardous to form an estimate of man's opinions or principles, from a few sentences, or from a slight acquaintance—Yet how often do we perceive in Society, the ill effects of this premature decision; were youth the only cause, it might be considered in some degree excusable, for then prepossession is powerful, and credulity is generally the companion of inexperience; idle scandal, fancied matrimonial schemes, or a pretended dislike to them might perhaps be their principal topics, and from them we do not expect serious consequences. But on more important subjects, we often see the man condemned, who has not been tried, because he appears to doubt whether the opinions advanced are consistent with reason; and merely differing is made a sufficient crime to be punished by misrepresentation—Eugenius in the company of Bigots questioned the power of the king under some peculiar circumstances, and considered that a Monarch is but a Man, who is elevated to his rank by the general consent of his fellows not to debauch himself with the luxuries which his high station could command; but to be an example to others, the arm of power for the administration of the laws, and the fulfilling of justice, the source of honour to reward meritorious services done for the Country, and the fountain of mercy towards those, to whom, although condemned by the laws it was thought it might be extended.