As for Baynard, neither his own good sense, nor the dread of
indigence, nor the consideration of his children, has been of
force sufficient to stimulate him into the resolution of breaking
at once the shameful spell by which he seems enchanted -- With a
taste capable of the most refined enjoyment, a heart glowing with
all the warmth of friendship and humanity, and a disposition
strongly turned to the more rational pleasures of a retired and
country life, he is hurried about in a perpetual tumult, amidst a
mob of beings pleased with rattles, baubles, and gewgaws, so void
of sense and distinction, that even the most acute philosopher
would find it a very hard task to discover for what wise purpose
of providence they were created -- Friendship is not to be found;
nor can the amusements for which he sighs be enjoyed within the
rotation of absurdity, to which he is doomed for life. He has
long resigned all views of improving his fortune by management
and attention to the exercise of husbandry, in which he
delighted; and as to domestic happiness, not the least glimpse of
hope remains to amuse his imagination. Thus blasted in all his
prospects, he could not fail to be overwhelmed with melancholy
and chagrin, which have preyed upon his health and spirits in
such a manner, that he is now threatened with a consumption.
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