Page:Convocation Addresses of the Universities of Bombay and Madras.djvu/535

 especially if they are acquainted with the subject of it. A scathing account of a man or of a measure is read with the greatest eagerness, a favourable account is passed over with indiiference. A sad confession for poor humanity; but so it is. And lastly reflect on this third fact—that nothing is so easy as to find fault. Combine these facts, and it is evident that the journalist is under constant temptation to write sarcasm and abuse, especially the journalist whose lines are cast in a small society. Yet to its great credit be it spoken the better part of the Press steadily resists this temptation. Do you resist it also. Consider this matter seriously for it is of the gravest moment. The line which costs you nothing to write may cost the victim much to read. Do not unlace a reputation in mere wantonness. It is no doubt excellent to have a giant's strength, but remember that it is tyrannous to use it like a giant. By no means refrain from lashing when the lash is deserved, but make sure that it is deserved. Be at the greatest pains to understand the actions and motives of the man you attack. And on this point let me refer you to a wise writer. Dr. Holmes happily says that when two persons are talking it is only natural there should be misunderstandings among the six; and in explanation he points out that when Thomas and John are together there is first Thomas as he really is, then Thomas as he exists in his own imagination, and lastly Thomas as John thinks him to be, all three very different persons—and that similarly there are three Johns, making a total of six. So when you, Journalist John, propose to scarify Thomas, remember that there are three of him and be quite sure you get hold of the right one; and if Thomas is an official remember also that there are behind him, unseen by you, other officials Peter and Paul pulling him different ways and that he is not a free agent.

And now to all of you, whatever your profession, a few words of homely counsel. Be independent. The plan of reaching the top of a hill by hanging on to the coat tails of a stronger brother is no doubt often successful, but it is never dignified. More satisfactory to climb to a lower level by your own unaided exertions. Go your own way in life. Respect yourself, and that you may do so respect others. Be ever courteous to inferiors and deferential to superiors. Be cheerfully submissive to those set over you in your work. One of the worst signs of the present age is impatience of Constituted authority. A large class of ill-conditioned persons take for their motto— Whatever is.