Note 35 — Front matter

A character thus admirably depicted by Wycherly, in the scene between Manly and Plausible. Manly. I have more of the mastiff than the spaniel in me, I own it: I cannot fawn, and fetch and carry; neither will I ever practise that servile complaisance, which some people pique themselves on being masters of.—— I will not whisper my contempt or hatred; call a man fool or knave by signs and mouths, over his shoulder; while I have him in my arms: I will not, as you do—— Plausible. As I do! Heaven defend me! upon my honour! I never attempted to abuse or lessen any one in my life. Manly. What! you were afraid? Plausible. No: but seriously I hate to do a rude thing. No, faith, I speak well of all mankind. Manly. I thought so: but know that this is the worst sort of detraction, for it takes away the reputation of the few good men in the world by making all alike! Now I speak ill of many men, because they deserve it.