When we call to mind the humiliating necessities of human nature as far as the body is concerned, and in our intellectual resolves the meanness or paltriness of many of our motives to action, we may well be surprised that man who has so much cause to be humble should indulge for a moment in pride. It is not so easy as philosophers tell us to lay aside our prejudices; mere volition cannot enable us to divest ourselves of long established feelings, and even reason is averse to laying aside theories it has once been taught to admire. A man may start at impending danger or wince at the sensation of pain: and yet he may be a true philosopher and not be afraid of death. The epicure, the drunkard, and the man of loose morals are equally contemptible: though the brutes obey instinct, they never exceed the bounds of moderation; and besides, it is beneath the dignity of man to place felicity in the service of his senses. A passionate man should be regarded with the same caution as a loaded blunderbuss, which may unexpectedly go off and do us an injury. There are many fools in the world and few wise men; at any rate there are more false than sound reasoners; wherefore it would seem more politic to adopt the opinion of the minority on most occasions. Those who are deficient in any particular accomplishment usually contrive either openly or indirectly to express their contempt for it: thus removing that obstacle which removes them from the same level. (_To be concluded in our next._) * * * * * TRANSLATION OF DELLA CASA'S SONNET TO THE CITY OF VENICE. (_For the Mirror_.) Where these rich palaces and stately piles Now rear their marble fronts, in sculptur'd pride, Stood once a few rude scatter'd huts, beside The desert shores of some poor clust'ring isles. Yet here a hardy band, from vices free, In fragile barks, rode fearless o'er the sea: Not seeking over provinces to stride, But here to dwell, afar from slavery. They knew not fierce ambition's lust of power, And while their hearts were free from thirst of gold, Rather than falsehood--death they would behold. If heaven hath granted thee a mightier dower, I honour not the fruits that spring from thee With thy new riches:--Death and Tyranny. E.L.J. * * * * * THE HOUSE OF UNDER. (_For the Mirror._)