Pagina 449 di 483

Our conversations are not always confined to his own history and

misfortunes. On every point of general literature he displays

unbounded knowledge and a quick and piercing apprehension. His

eloquence is forcible and touching; nor can I hear him, when he

relates a pathetic incident or endeavours to move the passions of

pity or love, without tears. What a glorious creature must he

have been in the days of his prosperity, when he is thus noble

and godlike in ruin! He seems to feel his own worth and the

greatness of his fall.