Page:Romance & Reality 1.pdf/95

Rh

pleasantest, indeed the only pleasant parties, at their house, were the small dinners, in which Mr. Delawarr excelled: it was said he rather piqued himself upon them. Among the many distinguished in mind, body, and estate, whose countenances were most frequently reflected in the covers to the dishes (most unprepossessing mirrors they are), was a Mr. Morland, a self-acting philosopher, i.e. one whose philosophy was exerted for his own benefit—that philosophy we are so apt only to exert for others. He was a widower—had eschewed politics—never gave advice, but often assistance—read much, but wrote not at all—bought a few pictures—had the perfection of a cook