Page:Romance & Reality 3.pdf/205

Rh ; but both were wrong in their judgments. Emily's was unjust, as a judgment formed under one overruling feeling always is; and Lady Mandeville erred in applying a general rule to a particular case. Which is it most difficult to judge for—others or ourselves? The judgment given in ignorance, or that biassed by passion—which is best? Alas, for human sagacity! and that which is to depend on it—human conduct! Look back on all the past occurrences of our lives;—who are there that, on reflection, would not act diametrically opposite to what they formerly acted on impulse? No one would do the same thing twice over. Experience teaches, it is true; but she never teaches in time. Each event brings its lesson, and the lesson is remembered; but the same event never occurs again.