Page:The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift, Volume 10.djvu/159

of what is called a publick spirit. When I say the people, I mean the bulk or mass of the people; for I I have nothing to do with those in power.

Therefore I shall think my time not ill spent, if I can persuade most or all of you who hear me, to show the love you have for your country, by endeavouring, in your several stations, to do all the publick good you are able. For I am certainly persuaded, that all our misfortunes arise from no other original cause than that general disregard among us to the publick welfare.

I therefore undertake to show you three things:

First, That there are few people so weak or mean, who have it not sometimes in their power to be useful to the publick.

Secondly, That it is often in the power of the meanest among mankind to do mischief to the publick.

And, lastly, That all wilful injuries done to the publick, are very great and aggravated sins in the sight of God.

First, There are few people so weak or mean, who have it not sometimes in their power to be useful to the publick.

Solomon tells us of a poor wise man, who saved a city by his counsel. It hath often happened that a private soldier, by some unexpected brave attempt, hath been instrumental in obtaining a great victory. How many obscure men have been authors of very useful inventions, whereof the world now reaps the benefit! The very example of honesty and industry