4. CHAP. IV.
IT is not for the sake of any moral,
that I have related this scuffle that took
place between the Irishman and the hostler;
but for the sake of shewing in what
manner incidents are to be related; that
is, with great simplicity of stile, and minuteness
of description. That part of Livy
which contains the combat of the Horatii,
and Curatii, is frequently given to the students
at a college to translate, that by this
means they may be taught to imitate the
like delicacy in the choice of words, and
particularity of the recital. The above
may answer the same purpose. It is true
there is not the like incidents in this combat,
as in that described by Livy; nevertheless,
the same art is therein discovered, as
the sound critic will observe. I know it will
be thought by any one who reads it, that
he could use the very same words, and
give the same liveliness of picture, were
he to attempt it. Should he try it, he
will find himself disappointed.——
Sudet
multum, frustraque laboret, ausus idem.—
It may be thought, that though stile is
my object, yet I might now and then bring
along a thought to entertain the reader,
and introduce some subject of moment,
rather than the fisty-cuffs of two raggamuffins.
I would just ask this question;
Is not the talent of the artist shewn as much
in painting a fly, as a waggon-wheel. If
this were intended as a book of morals,
or physiology, and not as a mere belles
lettres composition, there might be something
said;—as the case is, critics must be
silent.
