Pagina 467 di 483

My duties towards the beings of my own species had greater claims

to my attention because they included a greater proportion of

happiness or misery. Urged by this view, I refused, and I did

right in refusing, to create a companion for the first creature.

He showed unparalleled malignity and selfishness in evil; he

destroyed my friends; he devoted to destruction beings who

possessed exquisite sensations, happiness, and wisdom; nor do I

know where this thirst for vengeance may end. Miserable himself

that he may render no other wretched, he ought to die. The task

of his destruction was mine, but I have failed. When actuated by

selfish and vicious motives, I asked you to undertake my

unfinished work, and I renew this request now, when I am only

induced by reason and virtue.