| Citation |
BNL.741.013
24-31 Dec 1741:11,12 (1961=1971])
Idleness either proceeds from an unwillingness to do those
things which are fit and proper to be done, the want of
ability to do them, or (having the power) thinking one's
condition above requiring them; the first of these is
burthensome to the province; the second and last the same
and disgrace of it: There are another sett of men who are
properly idle, tho' fully employed, and naturally
industrious; we find some of these in every condition of
life, from the merchant on the dock, to the humble retailer
of ballads and gilded ginger-bread: This may be understood
of those who are employ'd about that, which turns to no
account ' for altho' Solomon says, The souls of the diligent
shall be made fat; yet there is that is destroyed for want
of judgment: If these were enquired into, their number
would appear so considerable, that it would be dangerous
offending them; for which reason I say no more.
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