Page:The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift, Volume 18.djvu/190

176 was well moved; and, since it has been moved, every one should endeavour to find on which side of the argument the advantage lies; and I wonder that in this interval of parliament and business (the usual vacation of this kingdom) something has not been offered before this time for the quieting men's minds. It is a difference among his majesty's subjects, which it becomes every healing spirit to compose, and is a duty both of religion and loyalty.

I would ask, is precedence, or distinction of place, of no moment among men? Are women only concerned in it? Does society owe nothing of conveniency to it? Is it indifferent, whether a man sits at a lady's elbow, or her pert chaplain's? near a soup at the head of the table, or beef at the bottom? Is there no advantage in the first plate, or the earliest compliment of the glass, or the respect of waiters, or in ruling the books at a quarter sessions, and being honoured with the cushion in the face of one's country? Is it of no consequence to be in the eye of the government? and does not precedence contribute to that at a Tholsel entertainment? What are academical degrees so dearly purchased for, but place? and can a professor answer it to his trust or interest, to disparage precedence? For what other reason in nature but precedence, did a great man of my acquaintance lately become a double grand compounder for his degree? and another, undeceive mankind, or rather deceive women, and suffer himself to be pronounced a venerable man in spite of his youthful looks? Shall not the solemn doctor in his chariot take place of plain