Such, and so differing is the character
Of the plebeian and philosopher.
Now the proficient, he that labours on
Towards perfection, by these signs is known;
He no man blames, he no man doth condemn,
He praiseth not himself, nor other men,
Boasts not the greatness of his parts, nor shews
On every light occasion all he knows;
Or if some rub or hinderance he find
In any enterprize he had design'd,
He blames himself; if prais'd, he can despise
The fulsome dawber, and his flatteries;
If blam'd, he doth not study a defence,
Lest he be carried on with vehemence:
As men, who lately have been sick, take care
Lest they relapse, and venture not too far,
Till they be perfectly restor'd; so he
Declines the making an apology,
Lest he should be too eagerly concern'd,
Before his strength of mind be well confirm'd.
All his desires and his aversions fall.
Only on things which he his own call;
And as to things, in his own choice and will,
His appetite he rules with caution still.
What the world judgeth him, he values not,
Whether philosopher or idiot;
In short, he o'er his actions keeps a watchful eye,
As he would watch a knave, or enemy.