BIOGRAPHICAL MEMOIRS OF THE HONOURABLE SAMUEL HARRINGTON, ADMIRAL OF THE WHITE SQUADRON, AND GENERAL OF MARINES

Summary

When greatness is to goodness near allied,

The man that has them, is a man indeed!

Hurdis.

Be these thy honours, Barrington! and these

The liberal Muse, that never stain'd her page

With flattery, shall record.

Anon.

With whatever willingness the contemplative mind may join in the general shout which attends an hero's triumph, it not only dwells with very high and peculiar complacency but heartfelt satisfaction on the character in which the milder virtues are no less conspicuous than the martial. There is a particular species of goodness that the cynic may attribute to an indolence of mind, and of valour which the philosopher feels himself sometimes compelled to regard as ferocity; but when benevolence and bravery are found forming ingredients and qualities in the same person, the greatest sceptic dare not withhold his tribute of applause and admiration.

In regard to the man who is equally admirable “in glorious war, and still more glorious peace,” the reluctant praise of the cynic, and the hesitative determination of the philosopher, are completely done away. Praise, the just tribute of his high merit, is fairly and liberally bestowed by the common consent of all parties and descriptions of his countrymen.