they are extremely engaging; and carelessness in these points is much more unpardonable in a young fellow than affectation. It shows an offensive indifference about pleasing. I am told by one here, who has seen you lately, that you are awkward in your motions, and negligent of your person. I am sorry for both; and so will you, when it will be too late, if you continue so some time longer. Awkwardness of carriage is very alienating, and a total negligence of dress and air is an impertinent insult upon custom and fashion. [Same date.]
Desert and Reward.—Deserve a great deal, and
you shall have a great deal; deserve little, and you
shall have but a little; and be good for nothing at
all, and I assure you, you shall have nothing at all.
Solid knowledge, as I have often told you, is the first and great foundation of your future fortune and character; for I never mention to you the two much greater points of religion and morality, because I cannot possibly suspect you as to either of them. [July 1, 1748.]
No One Contemptible.—Be convinced that
there are no persons so insignificant and inconsiderable,
but may some time or other, and in something
or other, have it in their power to be of use to
