For
instance; I have never seen him sit down at his own table, in the absence
of Dr. Bartlett, or some other clergyman, but he himself says grace; and
that with such an easy dignity, as commands every one's reverence; and
which is succeeded by a cheerfulness that looks as if he were the better
pleased for having shewn a thankful heart.
Dr. Bartlett has also told me, that he begins and ends every day, either
in his chamber, or in his study, in a manner worthy of one who is in
earnest in his Christian profession. But he never frights gay company
with grave maxims. I remember, one day, Mr. Grandison asked him, in his
absurd way, Why he did not preach to his company now and then? Faith,
Sir Charles, said he, if you did, you would reform many a poor ignorant
sinner of us; since you could do it with more weight, and more certainty
of attention, than any parson in Christendom.
It would be an affront, said Sir Charles, to the understanding, as well
as education, of a man who took rank above a peasant, in such a country
as this, to seem to question whether he knew his general duties, or not,
and the necessity of practising what he knew of them. If he should be at
a loss, he may once a week be reminded, and his heart kept warm. Let you
and me, cousin Everard, shew our conviction by our practice; and not
invade the clergyman's province.
I remember that Mr.
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