drawn into an opinion, but with difficulty retained in it. And measures ought to be so taken with respect to them, that at the moment when they cease to believe we may force them to continue it. Moses, Cyrus, Theseus, and Romulus, would not so long have been able to obtain an observance of the constitutions they severally formed, had they been without arms. This has been evinced in our days by Brother Jerome Savonarole, who beheld his designs frustrated from the moment the multitude ceased to have faith in him; for he found himself destitute of the means of compelling belief, and of inspiring the most incredulous. The former experience, it is true, great obstacles and dangers at every step, and both talent and courage are necessary to surmount them: but these difficulties once overcome, and having shaken off the envious, they begin to be venerated, and live tranquil, honoured, and powerful. (Vide Appendix A.)
After these examples furnished by such great personages, I will cite one of less note, but which bears, however, some proportion to those which precede it, and which will suffice instead of many similar instances that I could adduce. I allude to Hiero of Syracuse, who, from a private individual, became Prince of Syracuse, and was beholden to no other fortune than opportunity. In fact, the people of Syracuse being oppressed, chose
