The Nature and Effects of DES- : INTRODUCTION. ON THE HAPPINESS OF A DESPOTIC SOVEREIGN. F all the passions which possess the human heart, none is more infatuating, none more despotic in its empire, than the lust of power; and none has brought greater or more numerous evils on the human race. If a man be immoderate in his love of pleasure, he may lofe his B . his time, waste his substance, and destre his health: if he be too eager in pursu of wealth, he may use some dishonourab means of acquiring it; and if he be mifer, he may be unwilling to enjoy when acquired: if he be fond of th bubble honour, he may seek it even in th cannon's mouth. But what are all thef evils, when compared with those which have been brought upon mankind by the restless ambition of unhappy mortals, hurried away by their inordinate love of power? Blinded by this passion, they have grasped the pillars of the state, brought down destruction on themselves, and buried nations in the ruins. Such wretches, though admired by fools, must be held in execration by all good men; while, on the other hand, they whose highest ambition is to subdue their passions, to govern all their actions, words, and thoughts by the rules of reason and religion; who with only for the power of doing good to - all mankind; these are worthy of our highest reverence and esteem. These are the truly happy; in whatsoever stations of life |