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The point which has to be considered, is the origin of this

corruption in nature. Every one will admit that the philosopher,

in our description of him, is a rare being. But what numberless

causes tend to destroy these rare beings! There is no good thing

which may not be a cause of evil-health, wealth, strength, rank,

and the virtues themselves, when placed under unfavourable

circumstances. For as in the animal or vegetable world the

strongest seeds most need the accompaniment of good air and soil,

so the best of human characters turn out the worst when they fall

upon an unsuitable soil; whereas weak natures hardly ever do any

considerable good or harm; they are not the stuff out of which

either great criminals or great heroes are made. The philosopher

follows the same analogy: he is either the best or the worst of

all men.