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And from this, by the way, the question might be raised, whether

it is that they do in a manner take part of the weight of

calamities, or only that their presence, being pleasurable, and

the consciousness of their sympathy, make the pain of the

sufferer less.

However, we will not further discuss whether these which have

been suggested or some other causes produce the relief, at least

the effect we speak of is a matter of plain fact.