On Conversation (1782) [ Concepts ]
… balk your listening ear, He makes one useful point exceeding clear; Howe'er ingenious on his darling theme A sceptic in philosophy may seem, Reduced to practice, his beloved rule Would only prove him a consummate fool; Useless in him alike … occasion justified its use, Had wit as bright as ready to produce, Could fetch from records of an earlier age, Or from philosophy's enlighten'd page, His rich materials, and regale your ear With strains it was a privilege to hear: Yet above … that speaks The soul's sure interest in the good she seeks, Who deal with scripture, its importance felt, As Tully with philosophy once dealt, And, in the silent watches of the night, And through the scenes of toil-renewing light, The social …
Conversation | Crime
Anthology