I have discovered that we may be in some degree whatever character we choose. Besides, practice forms a man to anything.

I am now to offer some thoughts upon that sameness or familiarity which we frequently find between passages in different authors without quotation. This may be one of three things either what is called Plagiarism, or Imitation, or Coincidence.

[A]s a lady adjusts her dress before a mirror, a man adjusts his character by looking at his journal.

The scent of Sloth tempts a smug man.

I, who have no sisters or brothers, look with some degree of innocent envy on those who may be said to be born to friends.

My mind was, as it were, strongly impregnated with the Johnsonian ether.

Addison writes with the ease of a gentleman. His readers fancy that a wise and accomplished companion is talking to them; so thathe insinuates his sentiments and taste into their minds by an imperceptible influence. Johnson writes like a teacher. He dictates to his readers as if from an academical chair. They attend with awe and admiration; and his precepts are impressed upon them by his commanding eloquence. Addison's style, like a light wine, pleases everybody from the first. Johnson's, like a liquor of more body, seems too strong at first, but, by degrees, is highly relished.