Page:Life of William Shelburne (vol 2).djvu/518

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482
WILLIAM, EARL OF SHELBURNE

of those who may afford examples of it. All partaking in the good which they may have done, all are bound to acknowledge and encourage it.

Upon the same reasoning, some spot might be reserved for eminent foreigners, who are very properly, upon principles of the same general kind, while living, associated to the Royal Society and other learned bodies.

But none ought to be admitted in consequence of the wish or sole opinion of families or individuals.

It might, perhaps, be thought proper to leave it to the Royal Academy, to form a general plan; and they might class the several descriptions, allotting places to each.

It is surely of some consequence to whom the first monument in St. Paul's should be erected; and who can be so proper to begin this selection as Mr. Howard? He spent his life and fortune in services which were highly dangerous to himself, but beneficial to every country and every age. Though engaged in doing the most active good, he created no enemies, and excited no envy, even in his life-time; the purity of his intentions leaving him superior to all pursuits of vanity or ambition. His merits were of such a general and fundamental nature, as to serve for an example to all ranks, professions, and nations.

It belongs to the Committee to determine whether there is any thing in these reflections which can contribute to do that real justice to his memory which it deserves.