tlemen have still mingled themselves in those gallant Actions; yet the Gross of our Fleets have consisted of common Men, and of Mariners who are bred up in the rude Toils of such a Life.
As this Observation may raise us to the greater admiration of their Valour, that such Magnanimity should be found amongst the meanest of the People; so it should also suggest to our Gentlemen, who by this means are at liberty from the Employments of greatest Danger, that they ought to undertake these, which will give them as great, though a securer Honour. Nor will it be a Disgrace to them, that the fighting for their Country is cast on Men of lower Ranks, if in the mean time they shall strive to enlighten and adorn, while the other defend it: for the same is ordain'd by Nature itself in the Order and Offices of her Works; the Heavenly Bodies appear to move quietly above, to give Light, and to cherish the World with a gentle Influence; while the Instruments of War and Offence are taken out of the Bowels of the Earth.
For the Improvement of these Arts of peaceable Fame, they have indeed another Privilege, which can scarce be equall'd by any Kingdom in Europe; and that is, the Convenience and Benefit of being scatter'd in the Country. And in truth, the usual Course of Life, of the English Gentlemen is so well plac'd between the troublesome Noise of pompous Magnificence, and the Baseness of avaricious Sordidness; that the true Happiness of living according to the Rules and Pleasures of uncorrupt Nature, is more in their power than any others. To them, in this way of Life, there can nothing offer itself which may not be turn'd to a Philosophical Use. Their Country Seats being remov'd from the Tumults of Cities, give them the best Oppor-
