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Ancient Books ~ Politics, Philosophy & Liberty Some Fruits Of Solitude ~ FRUGALITY OR BOUNTY | < Last - Next > FRUGALITY OR BOUNTYFrugality is good, if liberality be joined with it. The first is leaving off superfluous expenses; the last bestowing them to the benefit of others that need. The first without the last begins covetousness; the last without the first begins prodigality. Both together make an excellent temper. Happy the place wherever that is found. Were it universal, we should be cured of two extremes, want and excess: and the one would supply the other, and so bring both nearer to a mean; the just degree of earthly happiness. It is a reproach to religion and government to suffer so much poverty and excess. Were the superfluities of a nation valued, and made a perpetual tax on benevolence, there were be more alms-houses than poor, schools than scholars; and enough to spare for government besides. Some Fruits Of Solitude ~ FRUGALITY OR BOUNTY | < Last - Next > |
