18 Jan y. 1810

Parl y. Reform

Ch.18 Sp. ?

'.3. Friendship continued

30

7

from the chair of authority, from the vice-pulpit

In proportion as the welfare of mankind has been dear to /an object with/ them and the course taken in pursuit of that object correct, all the endeavours of the leaders of nations /high-seated men/, whether in the character of rulers or in that of teachers have hitherto been directed to the object of counter acting and repressing /restricting/ not of promoting and inflaming in men's bosoms or [...?] the regard for self, and all other narrow interests to the prejudice of the more extended ones: in a word to engage them to the greatest extent possible, seeing how little danger there was of its being carried /pursued/ to too great an extent, to give to their conduct the maxim of Fenelon for its guide.

Such has been their task - their constant task: and in all history may be seen but too plain a proof how hard a task they have found in it.

Take care you dont prefer mankind to your own country /countrymen/. Take care you don't prefer your country to your friends and acquaintance at large - take care you don't prefer your friends and acquaintance at large to your own family - take care you don't prefer your family to yourself: - of any monitions and exhortations to any, such effect as the above it would not it is supposed be very easy to find examples any where, especially among persons so situated.