A mere index hunter, who held the eel of science by the tail. Index-hunter is a term used mockingly, meaning one who acquires superficial knowledge merely by consulting indexes. The '[holding] the eel of science by the tail' allusion was used in 1728 by Alexander Pope (q.v.).

Nature and wisdom are not, but should be, companions.

Ridiculous modes, invented by ignorance, and adopted by folly.

The capital is become an overgrown monster; which, like a dropsical head, will in time leave the body and extremities without nourishment and support.

A mere index hunter, who held the eel of science by the tail.

I think for my part one half of the nation is mad - and the other not very sound.

Who bravely dares must sometimes risk a fall.