MAXIME LXV.

The quaint and critical Judgment.

The judgment is cultivated as well as the wit. The excellence of understan∣ding refines the desire, and then the plea∣sure of enjoyment. The extent of the capacity is measured by the niceness of the judgment. A great capacity stands in need of a great object to give it con∣tent, as a large stomach requires propor∣tionable food, so high minds demand elevated matters. The noblest objects are afraid of a delicate judgment, perfec∣tions Page  64 that are generally esteemed, dare not hope to please it. Seeing there is but very little without defect, one ought to be very sparing of esteem. Judgments are formed in conversation, and we make another man's judgment our own by fre∣quenting his company. It is then a great happiness to have commerce with per∣sons of an excellent judgment. Yet we must not make profession of esteeming nothing at all. For that is an extreme folly, and an affectation more odious than a depraved palate. Some would have God to make another world, and other beauties to satisfie their extravagant and whimsical fancies.