The Greatest Wisdom From Benjamin Franklin #2
The Phrases in this Dictionary are not (like most of our Terms of Art) borrow’d from Foreign Languages, neither are they collected from the Writings of the Learned in our own, but gather’d wholly from the modern Tavern-Conversation of Tiplers. I do not doubt but that there are many more in use; and I was even tempted to add a new one my self under the Letter B, to wit, Brutify’d: But upon Consideration, I fear’d being guilty of Injustice to the Brute Creation, if I represented Drunkenness as a beastly Vice, since, ’tis well-known, that the Brutes are in general a very sober sort of People.
“The Drinker’s Dictionary, 13 January 1737,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 173–178.]
I think the Design excellent—and the Management of it in the Main, good; a short Summary of the Chapter plac’d at the Beginning, and little Summaries of each Paragraph in the Margin being only necessary, and what will in my Opinion sufficiently remove any Disgust that the Authors dilate Manner of Writing may give to some Readers; And the whole is so curious and entertaining, that I know not where any thing can be spared.
It seems to me that the Author is a little too severe upon Hobbes, whose Notion, I imagine, is somewhat nearer the Truth than that which makes the State of Nature a State of Love: But the Truth perhaps lies between both Extreams.
I think what is said upon Musick, might be enlarg’d to Advantage by showing that what principally makes a Tune agreeable, is the Conformity between its Air or Genius, and some Motion, Passion or Affection of the Mind, which the Tune imitates.
I should have been glad to have seen the Virtues enumerated, distinguish’d, and the proper Ideas affix’d to each Name; which I have not yet seen, scarce two Authors agreeing therein, some annexing more, others fewer and different Ideas to the Same Name. But I think there is some Incorrectness of Sentiment in what the Author has said of Temperance concerning which I have not time to explain myself in writing. [caetera desunt].
“From Benjamin Franklin to James Logan, 1737,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0033. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 184–185.]
Lo as a Giant strong, the lusty Sun
Multiply’d Rounds in one great Round doth run.
Twofold his Course, yet constant his Career
Changing the Day and finishing the Year.
Again when his descending Orb retires
And Earth perceives the Absence of his Fires
The Moon affords us her alternate Ray,
And with kind Beams distributes fainter Day.
“Poor Richard, 1738,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0035. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 190–198.]
Dick’s Wife was sick, and pos’d the Doctor’s Skill,
Who differ’d how to cure th’inveterate Ill.
Purging the one prescrib’d. No, quoth another,
That will do neither Good nor Harm, my Brother.
Bleeding’s the only Way; ’twas quick reply’d,
That’s certain Death;—But e’en let Dick decide.
Ise no great Skill, quo’ Richard, by the Rood;
But I think Bleeding’s like to do most good.
“Poor Richard, 1738,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0035. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 190–198.]
There are three faithful friends, an old wife, an old dog, and ready money.
Great talkers should be cropt, for they’ve no need of ears.
If you’d have your shoes last, put no nails in ’em.
Who has deceiv’d thee so oft as thy self?
“Poor Richard, 1738,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0035. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 190–198.]
In Christendom we all are Christians now,
And thus I answer, if you ask me how;
Where with Christ’s Rule our Lives will not comply,
We bend it like a Rule of Lead, say I;
Making it thus comply with what we be,
And only thus our Lives with th’ Rule agree.
But from our Fathers we’ve the Name (perchance)
Ay, so our King is call’d the King of France.
“Poor Richard, 1738,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0035. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 190–198.]
Is there any thing Men take more pains about than to render themselves unhappy?
Nothing brings more pain than too much pleasure; nothing more bondage than too much liberty, (or libertinism.)
Read much, but not many Books.
“Poor Richard, 1738,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0035. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 190–198.]
He that would have a short Lent, let him borrow Money to be repaid at Easter.
Write with the learned, pronounce with the vulgar.
Fly Pleasures, and they’ll follow you.
Squirrel-like she covers her back with her tail.
“Poor Richard, 1738,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0035. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 190–198.]
Caesar did not merit the triumphal Car, more than he that conquers himself.
Hast thou virtue? acquire also the graces and beauties of virtue.
Buy what thou has no need of; and e’er long thou shalt sell thy necessaries.
If thou has wit and learning, add to it Wisdom and Modesty.
“Poor Richard, 1738,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0035. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 190–198.]
A frugal Thought.
In an Acre of Land are 43560 square feet, In 100 Acres are 4356000 square feet; Twenty Pounds will buy 100 Acres of the Proprietor. In £20 are 4800 pence; by which divide the Number of Feet in 100 Acres; and you will find that one penny will buy 907 square Feet; or a Lot of 30 Feet square.—Save your Pence.
“Poor Richard, 1738,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0035. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 190–198.]
You may be more happy than Princes, if you will be more virtuous.
If you wou’d not be forgotten
As soon as you are dead and rotten,
Either write things worth reading,
Or do things worth the writing.
Sell not virtue to purchase wealth, nor Liberty to purchase power.
“Poor Richard, 1738,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0035. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 190–198.]
Epitaph on a talkative old Maid.
Beneath this silent Stone is laid,
A noisy antiquated Maid,
Who from her Cradle talk’d ’till Death,
And ne’er before was out of Breath.
Whither she’s gone we cannot tell;
For, if she talks not, she’s in Hell:
If she’s in Heaven, she’s there unblest,
Because she hates a Place of Rest.
“Poor Richard, 1738,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0035. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 190–198.]
Since I cannot govern my own tongue, tho’ within my own teeth, how can I hope to govern the tongues of others?
’Tis less discredit to abridge petty charges, than to stoop to petty Gettings.
Since thou art not sure of a minute, throw not away an hour.
“Poor Richard, 1738,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0035. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 190–198.]
While faster than his costive Brain indites
Philo’s quick Hand in flowing Nonsence writes,
His Case appears to me like honest Teague’s,
When he was run away with by his Legs.
Phaebus, give Philo o’er himself Command;
Quicken his Senses, or restrain his Hand;
Let him be kept from Paper, Pen and Ink;
So may he cease to write, and learn to think.
“Poor Richard, 1738,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0035. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 190–198.]
If you do what you should not, you must hear what you would not.
Defer not thy well doing; be not like St. George, who is always a horseback, and never rides on.
Wish not so much to live long as to live well.
“Poor Richard, 1738,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0035. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 190–198.]
Joy, Mirth, Triumph, I do defie;
Destroy me Death, fain would I die:
Forlorn am I, Love is exil’d,
Scorn smiles thereat; Hope is beguil’d;
Men banish’d bliss, in Woe must dwell,
Then Joy, Mirth, Triumph all farewell.
“Poor Richard, 1738,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0035. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 190–198.]
Wish a miser long life, and you wish him no good.
None but the well bred man knows how to confess a fault, or acknowledge himself in an error.
Drive thy business; let not that drive thee.
There is much difference between imitating a good man, and counterfeiting him.
“Poor Richard, 1738,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0035. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 190–198.]
A Monster in a Course of Vice grown old,
Leaves to his gaping Heir his ill-gain’d Gold;
The Preacher fee’d, strait are his Virtues shown;
And render’d lasting by the sculptur’d Stone.
If on the Stone or Sermon we rely,
Pity a Worth, like his, should ever die!
If Credit to his real Life we give,
Pity a Wretch like him, should ever live.
“Poor Richard, 1738,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0035. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 190–198.]
The Wiseman says, It is a Wiseman’s Part
To keep his Tongue close Prisoner in his Heart.
If he then be a Fool whose Thought denies
There is a God, how desp’rately unwise,
How much more Fool is he whose Language shall
Proclaim in publick, There’s no God at all:
What then are they, nay Fools in what degree
Whose Actions shall maintain ’t? Such Fools are we.
“Poor Richard, 1738,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0035. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 190–198.]
Wink at small faults; remember thou hast great ones.
Eat to please thyself, but dress to please others.
Search others for their virtues, thy self for thy vices.
Never spare the Parson’s wine, nor Baker’s Pudding.
Each year one vicious habit rooted out,
In time might make the worst Man good throughout.
“Poor Richard, 1738,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0035. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 190–198.]
As we must account for every idle word, so we must for every idle silence.
I have never seen the Philosopher’s Stone that turns lead into Gold; but I have known the pursuit of it turn a Man’s Gold into Lead.
Never intreat a servant to dwell with thee.
“Poor Richard, 1738,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0035. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 190–198.]
Besides the usual Things expected in an Almanack, I hope the profess’d Teachers of Mankind will excuse my scattering here and there some instructive Hints in Matters of Morality and Religion. And be not thou disturbed, O grave and sober Reader, if among the many serious Sentences in my Book, thou findest me trifling now and then, and talking idly. In all the Dishes I have hitherto cook’d for thee, there is solid Meat enough for thy Money. There are Scraps from the Table of Wisdom, that will if well digested, yield strong Nourishment to thy Mind. But squeamish Stomachs cannot eat without Pickles; which, ’tis true are good for nothing else, but they provoke an Appetite. The Vain Youth that reads my Almanack for the sake of an idle Joke, will perhaps meet with a serious Reflection, that he may ever after be the better for.
Some People observing the great Yearly Demand for my Almanack, imagine I must by this Time have become rich, and conesquently ought to call myself Poor Dick no longer. But, the Case is this, When I first begun to publish, the Printer made a fair Agreement with me for my Copies, by Virtue of which he runs away with the greatest Part of the Profit. However, much good may’t do him; I do not grudge it him; he is a Man I have a great Regard for, and I wish his Profit ten times greater than it is.
“Poor Richard, 1739,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0046. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 217–228.]
Lord, if our Days be few, why do we spend,
And lavish them to such an evil End?
Or, why, if they be evil, do we wrong
Our selves and thee, in wishing them so long?
Our Days decrease, our evils still renew,
We make them ill, thou kindly mak’st them few.
“Poor Richard, 1739,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0046. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 217–228.]
For’s Country Codrus suffer’d by the Sword,
And, by his Death, his Country’s Fame restor’d;
Caesar into his Mother’s Bosom bare
Fire, Sword, and all the Ills of civil War:
Codrus confirm’d his Country’s wholesome Laws;
Caesar in Blood still justify’d his Cause;
Yet following Kings ne’er ’dopted Codrus’ Name,
But Caesar, still, and Emperor’s the same.
“Poor Richard, 1739,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0046. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 217–228.]
Think, bright Florella, when you see
The constant Changes of the Year,
That nothing is from Ruin free,
And gayest Things must disappear.
Think of your Beauties in their bloom,
The Spring of sprightly Youth improve;
For cruel Age, alas, will come,
And then ’twill be too late to love.
“Poor Richard, 1739,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0046. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 217–228.]
Says George to William, Neighbour, have a Care,
Touch not that Tree—’tis sacred to Despair;
Two Wives I had, but, ah! that Joy is past!
Who breath’d upon those fatal Boughs their last.
The best in all the Row, without Dispute,
Says Will—Wou’d mine but bear such precious Fruit!
When next you prune your Orchard, save for me,
(I have a Spouse) one Cyon of that Tree.
“Poor Richard, 1739,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0046. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 217–228.]
A modern Wit is one of David’s Fools.
No Resolution of Repenting hereafter, can be sincere.
Pollio, who values nothing that’s within,
Buys Books as men hunt Beavers,—for their Skin.
Honour thy Father and Mother, i.e. Live so as to be an Honour to them tho’ they are dead.
“Poor Richard, 1739,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0046. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 217–228.]
If thou injurest Conscience, it will have its Revenge on thee.
Hear no ill of a Friend, nor speak any of an Enemy.
Pay what you owe, and you’ll know what’s your own.
Be not niggardly of what costs thee nothing, as courtesy, counsel, and countenance.
Thirst after Desert, not Reward.
“Poor Richard, 1739,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0046. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 217–228.]
The Sun now clear, serene the golden Skies,
Where’er you go, as fast the Shadow flies;
A Cloud succeeds; the Sunshine now is o’er,
The fleeting phantom fled, is seen no more;
With your bright Day, its Progress too does end:
See here vain Man! the Picture of thy Friend.
“Poor Richard, 1739,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0046. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 217–228.]
Beware of him that is slow to anger: He is angry for something, and will not be pleased for nothing.
No longer virtuous no longer free; is a Maxim as true with regard to a private Person as a Common-wealth.
When Man and Woman die, as Poets sung,
His Heart’s the last part moves, her last, the tongue.
“Poor Richard, 1739,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0046. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 217–228.]
What Legions of Fables and whimsical Tales
Pass current for Gospel where Priestcraft prevails!
Our Ancestors thus were most strangely deceiv’d,
What Stories and Nonsense for Truth they believ’d!
But we their wise Sons, who these Fables reject,
Ev’n Truth now-a-days, are too apt to suspect:
From believing too much, the right Faith we let fall;
So now we believe—’troth nothing at all.
“Poor Richard, 1739,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0046. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 217–228.]
Proclaim not all thou knowest, all thou owest, all thou hast, nor all thou canst.
Let our Fathers and Grandfathers be valued for their Goodness, ourselves for our own.
Industry need not wish.
Sin is not hurtful because it is forbidden but it is forbidden because it’s hurtful.4
“Poor Richard, 1739,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0046. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 217–228.]
Pinchall, possessing Heaps of Wealth,
Lives miserably poor;
He says, ’tis to preserve his Health,
But means by it, his Store.
Let Freeman but the Wretch invite
To dine on Good-Cheer gratis,
Then he will gorge, like half-starv’d Wight,
And cram his Nunquam satis.
“Poor Richard, 1739,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0046. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 217–228.]
In Travel, Pilgrims oft do ask, to know
What Miles they’ve gone, and what they have to go:
Their Way is tedious and their Limbs opprest,
And their Desire is to be at rest.
In Life’s more tedious Journey, Man delays
T’enquire out the Number of his Days:
He cares, not he, how slow his Hours spend,
The Journey’s better than the Journey’s End.
“Poor Richard, 1739,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0046. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 217–228.]
Seven wealthy Towns contend for Homer, dead,
Thro’ which the living Homer beg’d his Bread.
Great Beauty, great strength, and great Riches, are really and truly of no great Use; a right Heart exceeds all.
“Poor Richard, 1739,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0046. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 217–228.]
Nigh Neighbour to the Squire, poor Sam complain’d
Of frequent Wrongs, but no Amends he gain’d.
Each Day his Gates thrown down, his Fences broke,
And injur’d still the more, the more he spoke;
At last, resolv’d his potent Foe to awe,
A Suit against him he began in Law;
Nine happy Terms thro’ all the Forms he run,
Obtain’d his Cause—had Costs—and was undone.
“Poor Richard, 1739,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0046. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 217–228.]
My sickly Spouse, with many a Sigh
Once told me,—Dicky I shall die:
I griev’d, but recollected strait,
’Twas bootless to contend with Fate:
So Resignation to Heav’n’s Will
Prepar’d me for succeeding Ill;
’Twas well it did; for, on my Life,
’Twas Heav’n’s Will to spare my Wife.
“Poor Richard, 1740,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0053. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 245–256.]
To bear other Peoples afflictions, every one has Courage enough, and to spare.
No wonder Tom grows fat, th’ unwieldy Sinner,
Makes his whole Life but one continual Dinner.
An empty Bag cannot stand upright.
“Poor Richard, 1740,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0053. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 245–256.]
While the good Priest with eyes devoutly clos’d
Left on the book the marriage fee expos’d,
The new made bridegroom his occasion spies,
And pleas’d, repockets up the shining prize:
Yet not so safe, but Mr. Surplice views
The Frolick, and demands his pilfer’d dues.
No, quoth the man, good Doctor, I’ll nonsuit y’,
A plain default, I found you off your Duty?
More carefully the holy book survey;
Your Rule is, you should watch as well as pray.
“Poor Richard, 1740,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0053. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 245–256.]
When Pharoah’s Sins provok’d th’ Almighty’s hand
To pour his Wrath upon the guilty Land;
A tenfold Plague the great Avenger shed;
The King offended, and the Nation bled.
Had’st thou, unaided, Feria, but been sent,
Vial elect, for Pharoah’s Punishment,
Thro’ what a various Curse the Wretch had run,
He more than heaven’s ten Plagues had felt in one.
“Poor Richard, 1740,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0053. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 245–256.]
An open Foe may prove a curse;
But a pretended friend is worse.
A wolf eats sheep but now and then,
Ten Thousands are devour’d by Men.
Man’s tongue is soft, and bone doth lack;
Yet a stroke therewith may break a man’s back.
“Poor Richard, 1740,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0053. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 245–256.]
Says Roger to his Wife, my dear;
The strangest piece of News I hear!
A Law, ’tis said, will quickly pass,
To purge the matrimonial Class;
Cuckolds, if any such we have here
Must to a Man be thrown i’ th’ River.
She smiling cry’d, My dear, you seem
Surpriz’d! Pray han’t you learn’d to swim?
“Poor Richard, 1740,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0053. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 245–256.]
Many a Meal is lost for want of meat.
To all apparent Beauties blind
Each Blemish strikes an envious Mind.
The Poor have little, Beggars none;
The Rich too much, enough not one.
“Poor Richard, 1740,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0053. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 245–256.]
A Carrier ev’ry Night and Morn,
Would see his Horses eat their Corn:
This sunk the Hostler’s Vails, ’tis true;
But then his Horses had their Due.
Were we so cautious in all Cases,
Small Gain would rise from greater Places.
“Poor Richard, 1740,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0053. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 245–256.]
There are lazy Minds as well as lazy Bodies.
Tricks and Treachery are the Practice of Fools, that have not Wit enough to be honest.
Who says Jack is not generous? He is always fond of giving, and cares not for receiving.—What? Why; Advice.
“Poor Richard, 1740,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0053. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 245–256.]
How weak, how vain is human Pride!
Dares Man upon himself confide?
The Wretch who glories in his Gain,
Amasses Heaps on Heaps in vain.
Can those (when tortur’d by Disease)
Chear our sick Heart, or purchase Ease?
Can those prolong one Gasp of Breath,
Or calm the troubled Hour of Death?
The Man who with undaunted toils,
Sails unknown seas to unknown soils,
With various wonders feasts his Sight:
What stranger wonders does he write?
“Poor Richard, 1740,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0053. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 245–256.]
Promises may get thee Friends, but Nonperformance will turn them into Enemies.
Fear not Death; for the sooner we die, the longer shall we be immortal.
“Poor Richard, 1740,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0053. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 245–256.]
The Monarch of long regal Line,
Was rais’d from Dust as frail as mine:
Can he pour Health into his Veins,
Or cool the Fever’s restless Pains?
Can he (worn down in Nature’s Course)
New-brace his feeble Nerves with Force?
Can he (how vain is mortal Pow’r!)
Stretch Life beyond the destin’d Hour?
Those who in quarrels interpose,
Must often wipe a bloody nose.
“Poor Richard, 1740,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0053. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 245–256.]
In other men we faults can spy,
And blame the mote that dims their eye;
Each little speck and blemish find;
To our own stronger errors blind.
“Poor Richard, 1740,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0053. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 245–256.]
The Man of pure and simple Heart
Thro’ Life disdains a double part;
He never needs the screen of Lies
His inward Bosom to disguise.
In vain malicious Tongues assail,
Let Envy snarl, let Slander rail,
From Virtue’s shield (secure from Wound)
Their blunted venom’d shafts rebound.
“Poor Richard, 1740,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0053. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 245–256.]
We frequently misplace Esteem
By judging Men by what they seem.
With partial Eyes we’re apt to see
The Man of noble Pedigree.
To Birth, Wealth, Power we should allow
Precedence, and our lowest Bow:
In that is due Distinction shown:
Esteem is Virtue’s Right alone.
“Poor Richard, 1740,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0053. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 245–256.]
Thou hadst better eat salt with the Philosophers of Greece, than sugar with the Courtiers of Italy.
Seek Virtue, and, of that possest,
To Providence, resign the rest.
Marry above thy match, and thou’lt get a Master.
Fear to do ill, and you need fear nought else.
“Poor Richard, 1740,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0053. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 245–256.]
What’s Beauty? Call ye that your own,
A Flow’r that fades as soon as blown!
Those Eyes of so divine a Ray,
What are they? Mould’ring, mortal Clay.
Those Features cast in heav’nly Mould,
Shall, like my coarser Earth, grow old;
Like common Grass, the fairest Flow’r
Must feel the hoary Season’s Pow’r.
“Poor Richard, 1740,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0053. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 245–256.]
Can grave and formal pass for wise,
When Men the solemn Owl despise?
Some are justly laught at for keeping their Money foolishly, others for spending it idly: He is the greatest fool that lays it out in a purchase of repentance.
“Poor Richard, 1740,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0053. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 245–256.]
Old Socrates was obstinately Good,
Virtuous by force, by Inclination lewd.
When secret Movements drew his Soul aside,
He quell’d his Lust, and stemm’d the swelling Tide;
Sustain’d by Reason still, unmov’d he stood,
And steady bore against th’ opposing Flood.
He durst correct what Nature form’d amiss,
And forc’d unwilling Virtue to be his.
“Poor Richard, 1740,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0053. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 245–256.]
Who knows a fool, must know his brother;
For one will recommend another.
Avoid dishonest Gain: No price
Can recompence the Pangs of Vice.
When befriended, remember it:
When you befriend, forget it.
Great souls with gen’rous pity melt;
Which coward tyrants never felt.
“Poor Richard, 1740,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0053. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 245–256.]
O blessed Season! lov’d by Saints and Sinners,
For long Devotions, or for longer Dinners;
More grateful still to those who deal in Books,
Now not with Readers, but with Pastry-Cooks:
Learn’d Works, despis’d by those to Merit blind,
By these well weigh’d, their certain Value find.
Bless’d Lot of Paper, falsely called Waste,
To bear those Cates, which Authors seldom taste.
“Poor Richard, 1740,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0053. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 245–256.]
Employ thy time well, if thou meanest to gain leisure.
A Flatterer never seems absurd:
The Flatter’d always take his Word.
Lend Money to an Enemy, and thou’lt gain him, to a Friend and thou’lt lose him.
Neither praise nor dispraise, till seven Christmasses be over.
“Poor Richard, 1740,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0053. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 245–256.]
I know you Lawyers can, with Ease,
Twist Words and Meanings as you please;
That Language, by your Skill made pliant,
Will bend to favour ev’ry Client;
That ’tis the Fee directs the Sense
To make out either Side’s Pretence:
When you peruse the clearest Case,
You see it with a double Face;
For Scepticism’s your Profession;
You hold there’s Doubt in all Expression.
Hence is the Bar with Fees supply’d.
Hence Eloquence takes either Side.
Your Hand would have but paultry gleaning;
Could every Man express his Meaning.
Who dares presume to pen a Deed,
Unless you previously are feed?
’Tis drawn, and, to augment the Cost,
In dull Prolixity engrost:
And now we’re well secur’d by Law,
’Till the next Brother find a Flaw.
“Poor Richard, 1740,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0053. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 245–256.]
Your homely Face, Flippanta, your disguise,
With Patches, numerous as Argus’ Eyes:
I own that Patching’s requisite for you;
For more we’re pleas’d, if less your Face we view:
Yet I advise, if my Advice you’d ask,
Wear but one Patch;—but be that Patch a Mask.
Enjoy the present hour, be mindful of the past;
And neither fear nor wish the Approaches of the last.
“Poor Richard, 1741,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0066. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 292–300.]
Up, Sluggard, and waste not life; in the grave will be sleeping enough.
Well done, is twice done.
Clearly spoken, Mr. Fog! You explain English by Greek.
Lying rides upon Debt’s back.
They who have nothing to be troubled at, will be troubled at nothing.
At 20 years of age the Will reigns; at 30 the Wit; at 40 the Judgment.
Christianity commands us to pass by Injuries; Policy, to let them pass by us.
Joke went out, and brought home his fellow, and they two began a quarrel.
Learn of the skilful: He that teaches himself, hath a fool for his master.
“Poor Richard, 1741,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0066. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 292–300.]
Monkeys warm with envious spite,
Their most obliging Friends will bite;
And, fond to copy human Ways,
Practise new Mischiefs all their days.
“Poor Richard, 1741,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0066. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 292–300.]
Rash Mortals, e’er you take a Wife,
Contrive your Pile to last for Life:
On Sense and Worth your Passion found,
By Decency cemented round;
Let Prudence with Good-Nature strive
To keep Esteem and Love alive;
Then, come old Age when e’er it will,
Your Friendship shall continue still.
“Poor Richard, 1741,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0066. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 292–300.]
Let thy discontents be thy Secrets; if the world knows them, ’twill despise thee and increase them.
E’er you remark another’s Sin,
Bid your own Conscience look within.
Anger and Folly walk cheek by jole; Repentance treads on both their Heels.
“Poor Richard, 1741,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0066. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 292–300.]
Fair Decency, celestial Maid,
Descend from Heav’n to Beauty’s Aid:
Tho’ Beauty may beget Desire,
’Tis thou must fan the Lover’s Fire:
For, Beauty, like supreme Dominion,
Is best supported by Opinion:
If Decency bring no Supplies,
Opinion falls and Beauty dies.
“Poor Richard, 1741,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0066. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 292–300.]
Turn Turk, Tim, and renounce thy Faith in Words as well as Actions: Is it worse to follow Mahomet than the Devil?
Don’t overload Gratitude; if you do, she’ll kick.
Be always asham’d to catch thy self idle.
“Poor Richard, 1741,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0066. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 292–300.]
Nature expects Mankind should share
The Duties of the publick Care.
Who’s born for Sloth? To some we find
The Plough-share’s annual Toil assign’d;
Some at the sounding Anvil glow;
Some the swift sliding Shuttle throw;
Some, studious of the Wind and Tide,
From Pole to Pole our Commerce guide.
“Poor Richard, 1741,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0066. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 292–300.]
Some (taught by Industry) impart
With Hands and Feet the Works of Art;
While some, of Genius more refin’d,
With Head and Tongue assist Mankind:
Each aiming at one common End
Proves to the whole a needful Friend.
Thus, born each other’s useful Aid,
By Turns are Obligations paid.
“Poor Richard, 1741,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0066. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 292–300.]
All these, in Duty, to the Throne
Their common Obligations own.
’Tis he (his own and People’s Cause)
Protects their Properties and Laws:
Thus they their honest Toil employ,
And with Content the Fruits enjoy
In every Rank, or great or small,
’Tis Industry supports us all.
Formio bewails his Sins with the same heart,
As Friends do Friends when they’re about to part.
Believe it Formio will not entertain,
One chearful Thought till they do meet again.
“Poor Richard, 1741,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0066. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 292–300.]
Syl. dreamt that bury’d in his fellow Clay,
Close by a common Beggar’s Side he lay:
And, as so mean a Neighbour shock’d his Pride
Thus, like a Corpse of consequence, he cry’d:
Scoundrel, begone; and henceforth touch me not:
More manners learn; and, at a distance, rot.
How! Scoundrel! in a haughtier Tone cry’d he;
Proud Lump of Dirt, I scorn thy Words and thee;
Here all are equal; now thy Case is mine;
This is my Rotting Place, and that is thine.
Jack eating rotten cheese, did say,
Like Sampson I my thousands slay;
I vow, quoth Roger, so you do,
And with the self-same weapon too.
“Poor Richard, 1741,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0066. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 292–300.]
There are no fools so troublesome as those that have wit.
Quarrels never could last long,
If on one side only lay the wrong.
“Poor Richard, 1741,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0066. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 292–300.]
On a Bee, stifled in Honey.
From Flow’r to Flow’r, with eager Pains,
See the poor busy Lab’rer fly!
When all that from her Toil she gains
Is, in the Sweets she hoards, to die.
’Tis thus, would Man the Truth believe,
With Life’s soft Sweets, each fav’rite Joy:
If we taste wisely, they relieve;
But if we plunge too deep, destroy.
“Poor Richard, 1741,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0066. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 292–300.]
Let no Pleasure tempt thee, no Profit allure thee, no Ambition corrupt thee, no Example sway thee, no Persuasion move thee, to do any thing which thou knowest to be Evil; So shalt thou always live jollily: for a good Conscience is a continual Christmass. Adieu.
“Poor Richard, 1741,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0066. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 292–300.]
He that by Injury is griev’d,
And goes to Law to be reliev’d,
Is sillier than a sottish Chouse,
Who when a Thief has robb’d his House,
Applies himself to cunning Men
To help him to his Goods again:
When, all he can expect to gain,
Is but to squander more in vain.
For Lawyers, lest the Bear Defendant,
And Plaintiff Dog should make an End on’t,
Do stave and tail with Writs of Error,
Reverse of Judgment and Demurrer,
To let them breath a while, and then
Cry Whoop, and set them on again:
Until, with subtil cobweb Cheats,
They’re catch’d in knotted Law, like Nets,
In which, when once they are embrangl’d,
The more they stir the more they’re tangl’d:
For while their Purses can dispute,
There’s no End of th’ immortal Suit. Hud. [5]
“Poor Richard, 1741,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0066. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 292–300.] Note: [5] Samuel Butler, Hudibras, iii, iii, 529–36; i, ii, 161–6; ii, iii, 17–22.
Foot, Horse and Waggons, now cross Rivers, dry,
And Ships unmov’d, the boistrous Winds defy,
In frozen Climes: where all conceal’d from Sight,
The pleasing Objects that to Verse invite;
The Hills, the Dales, and the delightful Woods,
The flowry Plains, and Silver-streaming Floods,
By Snow disguis’d, in bright Confusion lie,
And with one dazling Waste fatigue the Eye.
“Poor Richard, 1742,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0080. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–341.]
Strange! that a Man who has wit enough to write a Satyr; should have folly enough to publish it.
He that hath a Trade, hath an Estate.
Have you somewhat to do to-morrow; do it to-day.
“Poor Richard, 1742,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0080. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–341.]
James ne’er will be prefer’d; he cannot bow
And cringe beneath a supercilious Brow;
He cannot fawn, his stubborn Soul recoils
At Baseness, and his Blood too highly boils.
A Courtier must be supple, full of Guile,
Must learn to praise, to flatter, to revile
The Good, the Bad; an Enemy, a Friend;
To give false Hopes, and on false Hopes depend.
“Poor Richard, 1742,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0080. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–341.]
No workman without tools,
Nor Lawyer without Fools,
Can live by their Rules.
The painful Preacher, like a candle bright,
Consumes himself in giving others Light.
Speak and speed: the close mouth catches no flies.
“Poor Richard, 1742,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0080. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–341.]
As honest Hodge the Farmer, sow’d his Field,
Chear’d with the Hope of future Gain ’twould yield,
Two upstart Jacks in Office, proud and vain,
Come riding by, and thus insult the Swain.
You drudge, and sweat, and labour here, Old Boy,
But we the Fruit of your hard Toil enjoy.
Belike you may, quoth Hodge, and but your Due,
For, Gentlemen, ’tis Hemp I’m sowing now.
“Poor Richard, 1742,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0080. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–341.]
What knowing Judgment, or what piercing Eye,
Can Man’s mysterious Maze of Falshood try?
Intriguing Man, of a suspicious Mind,
Man only knows the Cunning of his Kind;
With equal Wit can counter-work his Foes,
And Art with Art, and Fraud with Fraud oppose.
Then heed ye Fair, e’er you their Cunning prove,
And think of Treach’ry, while they talk of Love.
“Poor Richard, 1742,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0080. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–341.]
Empty Free-booters, cover’d with Scorn:
They went out for Wealth, and come ragged and torn,
As the Ram went for Wool, and was sent back shorn.
Ill Customs and bad Advice are seldom forgotten.
He that sows thorns, should not go barefoot.
“Poor Richard, 1742,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0080. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–341.]
Sometimes a Man speaks Truth without Design,
As late it happen’d with a Friend of mine.
Two reverend Preachers talking, one declar’d,
That to preach twice each Sunday was full hard.
To you, perhaps (says t’other) for I suppose,
That all Men don’t with the same Ease compose:
But I, desiring still my Flock to profit,
Preach twice each Sunday, and make nothing of it.
“Poor Richard, 1742,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0080. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–341.]
Reniego de grillos, aunque sean d’oro [Abhor chains though they be of gold].
When Knaves fall out, honest Men get their goods: When Priests dispute, we come at the Truth.
“Poor Richard, 1742,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0080. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–341.]
He that riseth late, must trot all day, and shall scarce overtake his business at night.
He that speaks ill of the Mare, will buy her.
You may drive a gift without a gimblet.
Eat few Suppers, and you’ll need few Medicines.
“Poor Richard, 1742,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0080. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–341.]
Studious of Ease, and fond of humble Things,
Below the Smiles, below the Frowns of Kings:
Thanks to my Stars, I prize the Sweets of Life,
No sleepless Nights I count, no Days of Strife.
I rest, I wake, I drink, I sometimes love,
I read, I write, I settle, or I rove;
Content to live, content to die unknown,
Lord of myself, accountable to none.
You will be careful, if you are wise;
How you touch Men’s Religion, or Credit, or Eyes.
After Fish,
Milk do not wish.
“Poor Richard, 1742,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0080. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–341.]
They who have nothing to trouble them, will be troubled at nothing.
“Poor Richard, 1742,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0080. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–341.]
On him true Happiness shall wait
Who shunning noisy Pomp and State
Those little Blessings of the Great,
Consults the Golden Mean.
In prosp’rous Gales with Care he steers,
Nor adverse Winds, dejected, fears,
In ev’ry Turn of Fortune bears
A Face and Mind serene.
Against Diseases here, the strongest Fence,
Is the defensive Virtue, Abstinence.
“Poor Richard, 1742,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0080. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–341.]
If thou dost ill, the joy fades, not the pains;
If well, the pain doth fade, the joy remains.
“Poor Richard, 1742,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0080. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–341.]
To err is human, to repent divine, to persist devilish.
Money and Man a mutual Friendship show:
Man makes false Money, Money makes Man so.
Industry pays Debts, Despair encreases them.
Bright as the day and as the morning fair,
Such Cloe is, and common as the air.
“Poor Richard, 1742,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0080. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–341.]
Among the Divines there has been much Debate,
Concerning the World in its ancient Estate;
Some say ’twas once good, but now is grown bad,
Some say ’tis reform’d of the Faults it once had:
I say, ’tis the best World, this that we now live in,
Either to lend, or to spend, or to give in;
But to borrow, to beg, or to get a Man’s own,
It is the worst World that ever was known.
“Poor Richard, 1742,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0080. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–341.]
Honest Men often go to Law for their Right; when Wise Men would sit down with the Wrong, supposing the first Loss least. In some Countries the Course of the Courts is so tedious, and the Expence so high, that the Remedy, Justice, is worse than, Injustice, the Disease. In my Travels I once saw a Sign call’d The Two Men at Law; One of them was painted on one Side, in a melancholy Posture, all in Rags, with this Scroll, I have lost my Cause. The other was drawn capering for Joy, on the other Side, with these Words, I have gain’d my Suit; but he was stark naked.
“Poor Richard, 1742,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0080. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–341.]
Here comes Glib-tongue: who can out-flatter a Dedication; and lie, like ten Epitaphs.
Hope and a Red-Rag, are Baits for Men and Mackrel.
With the old Almanack and the old Year,
Leave thy old Vices, tho’ ever so dear.
“Poor Richard, 1742,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0080. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–341.]
Eat and drink such an exact Quantity as the Constitution of thy Body allows of, in reference to the Services of the Mind.
They that study much, ought not to eat so much as those that work hard, their Digestion being not so good.
The exact Quantity and Quality being found out, is to be kept to constantly.
Excess in all other Things whatever, as well as in Meat and Drink, is also to be avoided.
Youth, Age, and Sick require a different Quantity.
And so do those of contrary Complexions; for that which is too much for a flegmatick Man, is not sufficient for a Cholerick.
The Measure of Food ought to be (as much as possibly may be) exactly proportionable to the Quality and Condition of the Stomach, because the Stomach digests it.
That Quantity that is sufficient, the Stomach can perfectly concoct and digest, and it sufficeth the due Nourishment of the Body.
A greater Quantity of some things may be eaten than of others, some being of lighter Digestion than others.
The Difficulty lies, in finding out an exact Measure; but eat for Necessity, not Pleasure, for Lust knows not where Necessity ends.
Wouldst thou enjoy a long Life, a healthy Body, and a vigorous Mind, and be acquainted also with the wonderful works of God? labour in the first place to bring thy Appetite into Subjection to Reason.
“Poor Richard, 1742,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0080. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–341.]
If thou eatest so much as makes thee unfit for Study, or other Business, thou exceedest the due Measure.
If thou art dull and heavy after Meat, it’s a sign thou hast exceeded the due Measure; for Meat and Drink ought to refresh the Body, and make it chearful, and not to dull and oppress it.
If thou findest these ill Symptoms, consider whether too much Meat, or too much Drink occasions it, or both, and abate by little and little, till thou findest the Inconveniency removed.
Keep out of the Sight of Feasts and Banquets as much as may be; for ’tis more difficult to refrain good Cheer, when it’s present, than from the Desire of it when it is away; the like you may observe in the Objects of all the other Senses.
If a Man casually exceeds, let him fast the next Meal, and all may be well again, provided it be not too often done; as if he exceed at Dinner, let him refrain a Supper, &c.
A temperate Diet frees from Diseases; such are seldom ill, but if they are surprised with Sickness, they bear it better, and recover sooner; for most Distempers have their Original from Repletion.
Use now and then a little Exercise a quarter of an Hour before Meals, as to swing a Weight, or swing your Arms about with a small Weight in each Hand; to leap, or the like, for that stirs the Muscles of the Breast.
“Poor Richard, 1742,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0080. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–341.]
A temperate Diet arms the Body against all external Accidents; so that they are not so easily hurt by Heat, Cold or Labour; if they at any time should be prejudiced, they are more easily cured, either of Wounds, Dislocations or Bruises.
But when malignant Fevers are rife in the Country or City where thou dwelst, ’tis adviseable to eat and drink more freely, by Way of Prevention; for those are Diseases that are not caused by Repletion, and seldom attack Full-feeders.
A sober Diet makes a Man die without Pain; it maintains the Senses in Vigour; it mitigates the Violence of Passions and Affections.
It preserves the Memory, it helps the Understanding, it allays the Heat of Lust; it brings a Man to a Consideration of his latter End; it makes the Body a fit Tabernacle for the Lord to dwell in; which makes us happy in this World, and eternally happy in the World to come, through Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour.
“Poor Richard, 1742,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0080. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–341.]
From Georgia t’Augustine the General goes;
From Augustine to Georgia come our Foes;
Hardy from Charlestown to St. Simons hies,
Again from thence to Charlestown back he flies.
Forth from St. Simons then the Spaniards creep;
Say, Children, is not this your Play, Bo-peep?
“Poor Richard, 1743,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0089. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 365–374.]
How few there are who have courage enough to own their Faults, or resolution enough to mend them!
Men differ daily, about things which are subject to Sense, is it likely then they should agree about things invisible.
“Poor Richard, 1743,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0089. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 365–374.]
Democritus, dear Droll, revisit Earth;
And with our Follies glut thy heighten’d Mirth:
Sad Heraclitus, serious Wretch, return;
In louder Grief, our greater Crimes to mourn.
Between you both, I unconcern’d stand by:
Hurt, can I laugh? and honest, need I cry?
Mark with what insolence and pride,
Blown Bufo takes his haughty stride;
As if no toad was toad beside.
“Poor Richard, 1743,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0089. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 365–374.]
From bad Health, bad Conscience, and Parties dull Strife,
From an insolent Friend, and a termagant Wife,
From the Kindred of such (on one Side or t’other)
Who most wisely delight in plaguing each other;
From the Wretch who can cant, while he Mischief designs,
From old rotten Mills, bank’d Meadows and Mines;
From Curses like these if kind Heav’n defends me,
I’ll never complain of the Fortune it sends me.
In prosperous fortunes be modest and wise,
The greatest may fall, and the lowest may rise:
But insolent People that fall in disgrace,
Are wretched and no-body pities their Case.
“Poor Richard, 1743,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0089. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 365–374.]
Le sage entend a demi mot [The wise man knows how to take a hint].
“Poor Richard, 1743,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0089. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 365–374.]
The World is full of fools and faint hearts; and yet every one has courage enough to bear the misfortunes, and wisdom enough to manage the Affairs of his neighbour.
Beware, beware! he’ll cheat ’ithout scruple, who can without fear.
“Poor Richard, 1743,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0089. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 365–374.]
The Snows are gone, and genial Spring once more
New clothes the Meads with Grass, the Trees with Leaves;
And the proud Rivers that disdain’d a Shore
Within their Banks now roll their lessen’d Waves.
Nature seems all renew’d, youthful and gay,
Ev’n Luna doth her monthly Loss supply;
But Years and Hours that whirl our Time away,
Describe our State, and tell us we must die.
“Poor Richard, 1743,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0089. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 365–374.]
Every Man for himself, &c.
A Town fear’d a Siege, and held Consultation,
What was the best Method of Fortification:
A grave skilful Mason declar’d his Opinion,
That nothing but Stone could secure the Dominion.
A Carpenter said, Tho’ that was well spoke,
Yet he’d rather advise to defend it with Oak.
A Tanner much wiser than both these together,
Cry’d, Try what you please, but nothing’s like Leather.
“Poor Richard, 1743,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0089. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 365–374.]
Borgen macht sorgen [He that goes borrowing, goes sorrowing].
“Poor Richard, 1743,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0089. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 365–374.]
On buying a Bible.
’Tis but a Folly to rejoice, or boast,
How small a Price thy well-bought Purchase cost.
Until thy Death, thou shalt not fully know
Whether it was a Pennyworth or no;
And, at that time, believe me, ’twill appear
Extreamly cheap, or else extreamly dear.
’Tis vain to repine,
Tho’ a learned Divine
Will die this day at nine.
“Poor Richard, 1743,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0089. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 365–374.]
Good Death, said a Woman, for once be so kind
To take me, and leave my dear Husband behind,
But when Death appear’d with a sour Grimace,
The Woman was dash’d at his thin hatchet Face;
So she made him a Courts’y, and modestly sed,
If you come for my Husband, he lies there in Bed.
Dick told his spouse, he durst be bold to swear,
Whate’er she pray’d for, Heav’n would thwart her pray’r:
Indeed! says Nell, ’tis what I’m pleas’d to hear;
For now I’ll pray for your long life, my dear.
“Poor Richard, 1743,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0089. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 365–374.]
A Year of Wonders now behold!
Britons despising Gallic Gold!
A Year that stops the Spanish Plunders!
A Year that they must be Refunders!
A Year that sets our Troops a marching!
A Year secures our Ships from Searching!
A Year that Charity’s extended!
A Year that Whig and Tory’s blended!
Amazing Year! that we’re defended!
“Poor Richard, 1743,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0089. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 365–374.]
Hear what Jack Spaniard says,
Con todo el Mundo Guerra,
Y Paz con Ingalatierra. [Though all the world’s at war, there’s peace with England]
“Poor Richard, 1743,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0089. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 365–374.]
“Poor Richard, 1743,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0089. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 365–374.]
A Person threatning to go to Law, was dissuaded from it by his Friend, who desired him to consider, for the Law was chargeable. I don’t care, reply’d the other, I will not consider, I’ll go to Law. Right, said his Friend, for if you go to Law I am sure you don’t consider.
A Farmer once made a complaint to a Judge,
My Bull, if it please you, Sir, owing a Grudge,
Belike to one of your good Worship’s Cattle,
Has slain him out-right in a mortal Battle:
I’m sorry at heart because of the Action,
And want to know how must be made Satisfaction.
Why, you must give me your Bull, that’s plain
Says the Judge, or pay me the Price of the Slain.
But I have mistaken the Case, Sir, says John,
The dead Bull I talk of, and please you, ’s my own:
And yours is the Beast that the Mischief has done.
The Judge soon replies with a serious Face:
Say you so; then this Accident alters the Case.
“Poor Richard, 1743,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0089. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 365–374.]
Experience keeps a dear school, yet Fools will learn in no other.
Felix quem faciunt aliena pericula cautum [Happy is he whom others’ experiences make cautious].
“Poor Richard, 1743,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0089. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 365–374.]
How many observe Christ’s Birth-day! How few, his Precepts! O! ’tis easier to keep Holidays than Commandments.
Once on a Time it by Chance came to pass,
That a Man and his Son were leading an Ass.
Cries a Passenger, Neighbour, you’re shrewdly put to’t,
To lead an Ass empty, and trudge it on foot.
Nay, quoth the old Fellow, if Folk do so mind us
I’ll e’en climb the Ass, and Boy mount behind us:
But as they jogg’d on, they were laught at and hiss’d,
What, two booby Lubbers on one sorry Beast!
This is such a Figure as never was known;
’Tis a sign that the Ass is none of your own.
Then down gets the Boy, and walks by the Side,
Till another cries, What, you old Fool must you ride?
When you see the poor Child that’s weakly and young
Forc’d thro’ thick and thin to trudge it along.
Then down gets the Father, and up gets the Son;
If this cannot please them we ne’er shall have done.
They had not gone far, but a Woman cries out,
O you young graceless Imp, you’ll be hang’d, no doubt!
Must you ride an Ass, and your Father that’s grey
E’en foot it, and pick out the best of his Way?
So now to please all they but one Trick lack,
And that was to carry the Ass a pick-pack:
But when that was try’d, it appear’d such a Jest,
It occasion’d more Laughter by half than the rest.
Thus he who’d please all, and their Good-liking gain,
Shows a deal of Good-Nature, but labours in vain.
“Poor Richard, 1743,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0089. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 365–374.]
War begets Poverty,
Poverty Peace;
Peace makes Riches flow,
(Fate ne’er doth cease.)
Riches produce Pride,
Pride is War’s Ground;
War begets Poverty, &c.
The World goes round.
“Verses from A Pocket Almanack, 1744,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0101. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 400–401.]
Rules for computing Expence.
Compute the Pence but of One Day’s Expence;
So many Pounds, Angels, Groats and Pence,
Are spent in one whole Year’s Circumference. Or,
One Week’s Expence in Farthings, makes appear
The Shill. & Pence expended in a Year.
Virtue was reckon’d the chief Thing of Old;
Now lies all Merit in Silver and Gold:
Virtue has lost its Regard in these Times,
While Money, like Charity, covers all Crimes.
“Verses from A Pocket Almanack, 1744,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0101. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 400–401.]
Happy the Man whose Wish and Care
A few paternal Acres bound,
Content to breathe his native Air,
In his own Ground.
Whose Herds with Milk, whose Fields with Bread,
Whose Flocks supply him with Attire,
Whose Trees in Summer yield him Shade,
In Winter Fire.
Blest, who can unconcernedly find
Hours, Days and Years slide soft away,
In Health of Body, Peace of Mind,
Quiet by Day,
Sound Sleep by Night; Study and Ease
Together mixt; sweet Recreation;
And Innocence which most does please
With Meditation.
Thus let me live, unseen, unknown,
Thus unlamented let me die,
Steal from the World, and not a Stone
Tell where I lie.
“Poor Richard, 1744,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0100. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 393–400.]
Biblis does Solitude admire,
A wond’rous Lover of the Dark;
Each Night puts out her Chamber Fire,
And just keeps in a single Spark;
’Till four she keeps herself alive,
Warm’d by her Piety, no doubt;
Then, tir’d with kneeling, just at five,
She sighs—and lets that Spark go out.
He that drinks his Cyder alone, let him catch his Horse alone.
Who is strong? He that can conquer his bad Habits. Who is rich? He that rejoices in his Portion.
“Poor Richard, 1744,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0100. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 393–400.]
Our youthful Preacher see, intent on Fame;
Warm to gain Souls?—No, ’tis to gain a Name.
Behold his Hands display’d, his Body rais’d;
With what a Zeal he labours—to be prais’d.
Touch’d with each Weakness which he does arraign,
With Vanity he talks against the Vain;
With Ostentation does to Meekness guide;
Proud of his Periods form’d to strike at Pride.
He that has not got a Wife, is not yet a compleat Man.
“Poor Richard, 1744,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0100. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 393–400.]
Without Repentance none to Heav’n can go,
Yet what Repentance is few seem to know:
’Tis not to cry out Mercy, or to sit
And droop, or to confess that thou hast fail’d;
’Tis to bewail the Sins thou didst commit,
And not commit those Sins thou hast bewail’d.
He that bewails, and not forsakes them too,
Confesses rather what he means to do.
“Poor Richard, 1744,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0100. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 393–400.]
What you would seem to be, be really.
If you’d lose a troublesome Visitor, lend him Money.
Tart Words make no Friends: a spoonful of honey will catch more flies than Gallon of Vinegar.
“Poor Richard, 1744,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0100. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 393–400.]
With what a perfect World-revolving Power
Were first the unweildy Planets launch’d along
Th’illimitable Void! Thus to remain
Amid the Flux of many thousand Years,
That oft has swept the busy Race of Men,
And all their labour’d Monuments away:
Unresting, changeless, matchless, in their Course;
To Night and Day, with the delightful Round
Of Seasons, faithful, not eccentric once:
So pois’d, and perfect is the vast Machine!
“Poor Richard, 1744,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0100. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 393–400.]
Make haste slowly.
Dine with little, sup with less:
Do better still; sleep supperless.
Industry, Perseverance, and Frugality, make Fortune yield.
“Poor Richard, 1744,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0100. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 393–400.]
Irus tho’ wanting Gold and Lands,
Lives chearful, easy, and content;
Corvus, unbless’d, with twenty Hands
Employ’d to count his yearly Rent.
Sages in Wisdom! tell me which
Of these you think possesses more!
One with his Poverty is rich,
And one with all his Wealth is poor.
“Poor Richard, 1744,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0100. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 393–400.]
Of all the Causes which conspire to blind
Man’s erring Judgment, and misguide the Mind,
What the weak Head with strongest Biass rules,
Is Pride, that never-failing Vice of Fools.
Whatever Nature has in Worth deny’d,
She gives in large Recruits of needful Pride;
For as in Bodies, thus in Souls we find
What wants in Blood and Spirits, swell’d with Wind.
“Poor Richard, 1744,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0100. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 393–400.]
All-conq’ring Heat, oh intermit thy Wrath!
And on my throbbing Temples potent thus
Beam not so hard! Incessant still you flow,
And still another fervent Flood succeeds,
Pour’d on the Head profuse. In vain I sigh,
And restless turn, and look around for Night;
Night is far off; and hotter Hours approach.
Who can endure!—
“Poor Richard, 1744,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0100. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 393–400.]
God heals, and the Doctor takes the Fees.
Sloth (like Rust) consumes faster than Labour wears: the used Key is always bright.
Light Gains heavy Purses.
“Poor Richard, 1744,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0100. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 393–400.]
Would Men but follow what the Sex advise,
All things would prosper, all the World grow wise.
’Twas by Rebecca’s Aid that Jacob won
His Father’s Blessing from an elder Son.
Abusive Nabal ow’d his forfeit Life
To the wise Conduct of a prudent Wife.
At Hester’s suit, the persecuting Sword
Was sheath’d, and Israel liv’d to bless the Lord.
“Poor Richard, 1744,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0100. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 393–400.]
Keep thou from the Opportunity, and God will keep thee from the Sin.
Where there’s no Law, there’s no Bread.
As Pride increases, Fortune declines.
“Poor Richard, 1744,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0100. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 393–400.]
All other Goods by Fortune’s Hand are giv’n,
A Wife is the peculiar Gift of Heav’n.
Vain Fortune’s Favours, never at a Stay,
Like empty Shadows, pass, and glide away;
One solid Comfort, our eternal Wife,
Abundantly supplies us all our Life:
This Blessing lasts (if those that try say true)
As long as Heart can wish—and longer too.
Drive thy Business, or it will drive thee.
A full Belly is the Mother of all Evil.
“Poor Richard, 1744,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0100. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 393–400.]
The same man cannot be both Friend and Flatterer.
He who multiplies Riches multiplies Cares.
An old Man in a House is a good Sign.
“Poor Richard, 1744,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0100. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 393–400.]
Be Niggards of Advice on no Pretence;
For the worst Avarice is that of Sense.
Yet ’tis not all, your Counsel’s free and true:
Blunt Truths more Mischief than nice Falshoods do.
Men must be taught as if you taught them not,
And Things unknown propos’d as Things forgot;
Without Good-Breeding Truth is disapprov’d
That only makes superior Sense belov’d.
“Poor Richard, 1744,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0100. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 393–400.]
Those who are fear’d, are hated.
The Things which hurt, instruct.
The Eye of a Master, will do more Work than his Hand.
A soft Tongue may strike hard.
“Poor Richard, 1744,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0100. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 393–400.]
Sylvia while young, with ev’ry Grace adorn’d,
Each blooming Youth, and fondest Lover scorn’d:
In Years at length arriv’d at Fifty-nine,
She feels Love’s Passion as her Charms decline:
—Thus Oaks a hundred Winters old
Just as they now expire,
Turn Touchwood, doated, grey and old,
And at each Spark take Fire.—
“Poor Richard, 1744,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0100. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 393–400.]
If you’d be belov’d, make yourself amiable.
A true Friend is the best Possession.
Fear God, and your Enemies will fear you.
“Poor Richard, 1744,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0100. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 393–400.]
This World’s an Inn, all Travellers are we;
And this World’s Goods th’ Accommodations be.
Our Life is nothing but a Winter’s Day;
Some only break their Fast, and so away.
Others stay Dinner, and depart full fed.
The deepest Age but sups and goes to bed.
He’s most in Debt that lingers out the Day;
Who dies betimes has less and less to pay.
“Poor Richard, 1744,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0100. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 393–400.]
Two trav’ling Beggars, (I’ve forgot their Name)
An Oister found to which they both laid Claim.
Warm the Dispute! At length to Law they’d go,
As richer Fools for Trifles often do.
The Cause two Petty-foggers undertake,
Resolving right or wrong some Gain to make.
They jangle till the Court this Judgment gave,
Determining what every one should have.
Blind Plaintiff, lame Defendant, share
The friendly Law’s impartial Care:
A Shell for him, a Shell for thee;
The Middle’s Bench and Lawyer’s Fee.
“Poor Richard, 1744,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0100. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 393–400.]
A certain Freed-man of Cicero’s is reported to have said of a medicinal Well, discovered in his Time, wonderful for the Virtue of its Waters in restoring Sight to the Aged, That it was a Gift of the bountiful Gods to Men, to the end that all might now have the Pleasure of reading his Master’s Works. As that Well, if still in being, is at too great a Distance for our Use, I have, Gentle Reader, as thou seest, printed this Piece of Cicero’s in a large and fair Character, that those who begin to think on the Subject of Old-Age, (which seldom happens till their Sight is somewhat impair’d by its Approaches) may not, in Reading, by the Pain small Letters give the Eyes, feel the Pleasure of the Mind in the least allayed.
“Preface to Logan’s Cato Major, 29 February 1744,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0103. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 2, January 1, 1735, through December 31, 1744, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 404–405.]
Go, wond’rous Creature! mount where Science guides,
Go measure Earth, weigh Air, and state the Tides;
Shew by what Laws the wand’ring Planets stray,
Correct old Time, and teach the Sun his Way.
Go soar with Plato to th’empyreal Sphere,
To the first Good, first Perfect, and first Fair;
Or tread the mazy Round his Follow’rs trod,
And, quitting Sense, call imitating God,
As Eastern Priests in giddy Circles run,
And turn their Heads to imitate the Sun.
Go teach Eternal Wisdom how to rule,
Then drop into thyself, and be a Fool.
“Poor Richard, 1745,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0001. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 3–9.]
You may talk too much on the best of subjects.
A Man without ceremony has need of great merit in its place.
No gains without pains.
Vanity backbites more than Malice.
He’s a Fool that cannot conceal his Wisdom.
Great spenders are bad lenders.
All blood is alike ancient.
It’s common for Men to give 6 pretended Reasons instead of one real one.
Beware of little Expences, a small Leak will sink a great Ship.
Wars bring scars.
A light purse is a heavy Curse.
As often as we do good, we sacrifice.
Help, Hands;
For I have no Lands.
“Poor Richard, 1745,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0001. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 3–9.]
Self Love but serves the virtuous Mind to wake,
As the small Pebble stirs the peaceful Lake;
The Centre mov’d, a Circle strait succeeds,
Another still, and still another spreads,
Friend, Parent, Neighbour, first it will embrace,
His Country next, and next all human Race;
Wide and more wide, th’ o’erflowings of the Mind
Take every Creature in of every Kind.
“Poor Richard, 1745,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0001. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 3–9.]
Fame but from Death a Villain’s Name can save,
As Justice tears his Body from the Grave;
When what t’oblivion better were resign’d
Is hung on high to poison half Mankind.
All Fame is foreign but of true Desert,
Plays round the Head, but comes not to the Heart.
One Self-approving Hour whole Years outweighs
Of stupid Starers, and of loud Huzza’s.
“Poor Richard, 1745,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0001. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 3–9.]
’Tis not for Mortals always to be blest:
But him the least the dull and painful Hours
Of Life oppress, whom sober Sense conducts,
And Virtue, thro’ this Labyrinth we tread.
Virtue and Sense are one; and, trust me, he
Who has not Virtue, is not truly wise.
“Poor Richard, 1745,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0001. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 3–9.]
Virtue, (for meer Good-Nature, is a Fool)
Is Sense and Spirit, with Humanity:
’Tis sometimes angry, and its Frown confounds;
’Tis ev’n vindictive, but in Vengeance just.
Knaves fain would laugh at it; some great Ones dare;
But at his Heart, the most undaunted Son
Of Fortune, dreads its Name and awful Charms.
“Poor Richard, 1745,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0001. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 3–9.]
Unhappy Italy! whose alter’d State
Has felt the worst Severity of Fate;
Not that Barbarian Bands her Fasces broke,
And bow’d her haughty Neck beneath her Yoke;
Nor that her Palaces to Earth are thrown,
Her Cities desart, and her Fields unsown;
But that her ancient Spirit is decay’d,
That sacred Wisdom from her Bounds is fled.
That there the Source of Science flows no more,
Whence its rich Streams supply’d the World before.
“Poor Richard, 1745,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0001. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 3–9.]
’Tis easier to prevent bad habits than to break them.
Many complain of their Memory, few of their Judgment.
One Man may be more cunning than another, but not more cunning than every body else.
There are no fools so troublesome as those that have wit.
Idleness is the greatest Prodigality.
Old young and old long.
Punch-coal, cut candle, and set brand on end,
Is neither good house-wife, nor good house-wife’s friend.
“Poor Richard, 1745,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0001. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 3–9.]
Has God, thou Fool! work’d solely for thy Good,
Thy Joy, thy Pastime, thy Attire, thy Food?
Who for thy Table feeds the wanton Fawn,
For him as kindly spread the flow’ry Lawn.
Is it for thee the Lark descends and sings?
Joy tunes his Voice, Joy elevates his Wings.
Is it for thee the Mock-bird pours his Throat?
Loves of his own, and Raptures, swell the Note.
“Poor Richard, 1745,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0001. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 3–9.]
For Forms of Government let Fools contest,
Whate’er is best administer’d is best:
For Modes of Faith let graceless Zealots fight,
His can’t be wrong, whose Life is in the right:
All must be false, that thwart this one great End,
And all of God, that bless Mankind, or mend.
The good or ill hap of a good or ill life,
Is the good or ill choice of a good or ill wife.
“Poor Richard, 1745,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0001. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 3–9.]
Fair Summer’s gone, and Nature’s Charms decay.
See gloomy Clouds obscure the chearful Day!
Now hung with Pearls the dropping Trees appear,
Their faded Honours scatter’d here and there.
Behold the Groves that shine with silver Frost,
Their Beauty wither’d, and their Verdure lost.
Sharp Boreas blows, and Nature feels Decay,
Time conquers all and we must Time obey.
“Poor Richard, 1745,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0001. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 3–9.]
Every Man has Assurance enough to boast of his honesty, few of their Understanding.
Interest which blinds some People, enlightens others.
“Poor Richard, 1745,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0001. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 3–9.]
These Blessings, Reader, may Heav’n grant to thee;
A faithful Friend, equal in Love’s degree;
Land fruitful, never conscious of the Curse,
A liberal Heart and never-failing Purse;
A smiling Conscience, a contented mind;
A temp’rate Knowledge with true Wisdom join’d;
A Life as long as fair, and when expir’d,
A kindly Death, unfear’d as undesir’d.
An ounce of wit that is bought,
Is worth a pound that is taught.
“Poor Richard, 1745,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0001. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 3–9.]
The Christian Doctrine teaches to believe
It’s every Christian’s Duty, to forgive.
Could we forgive as fast as Men offend
The Laws slow Progresses would quickly end.
Revenge of past Offences is the Cause
Why peaceful Minds consented to have Laws.
Yet Plaintiffs and Defendants much mistake
Their Cure, and their Diseases lasting make;
For to be reconcil’d, and to comply,
Would prove their cheap and shortest Remedy.
“Poor Richard, 1745,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0001. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 3–9.]
Thanks to kind Readers and a careful Wife,
With Plenty bless’d, I lead an easy Life;
My Business Writing; hers to drain the Mead,
Or crown the barren Hill with useful Shade;
In the smooth Glebe to see the Plowshare worn,
And fill the Granary with needful Corn.
Press nectarous Cyder from my loaded Trees,
Print the sweet Butter, turn the drying Cheese.
Some Books we read, tho’ few there are that hit
The happy Point where Wisdom joins with Wit;
That set fair Virtue naked to our View,
And teach us what is decent, what is true.
The Friend sincere, and honest Man, with Joy
Treating or treated oft our Time employ.
Our Table neat, Meals temperate; and our Door
Op’ning spontaneous to the bashful Poor.
Free from the bitter Rage of Party Zeal,
All those we love who seek the publick Weal.
Nor blindly follow Superstition’s Lore,
Which cheats deluded Mankind o’er and o’er.
Not over righteous, quite beyond the Rule,
Conscience perplext by every canting Tool.
Nor yet when Folly hides the dubious Line,
Where Good and Bad their blended Colours join;
Rush indiscreetly down the dangerous Steep,
And plunge uncertain in the darksome Deep.
Cautious, if right; if wrong resolv’d to part
The Inmate Snake that folds about the Heart.
Observe the Mean, the Motive and the End;
Mending our selves, or striving still to mend.
Our Souls sincere, our Purpose fair and free,
Without Vain Glory or Hypocrisy:
Thankful if well; if ill, we kiss the Rod;
Resign with Hope, and put our Trust in God.
“Poor Richard, 1746,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0025. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 60–67.]
Nothing exceeds in Ridicule, no doubt,
A Fool in Fashion, but a Fool that’s out;
His Passion for Absurdity’s so strong
He cannot bear a Rival in the Wrong.
Tho’ wrong the Mode, comply; more Sense is shewn
In wearing others Follies than your own.
If what is out of Fashion most you prize,
Methinks you should endeavour to be wise.
“Poor Richard, 1746,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0025. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 60–67.]
Man’s rich with little, were his Judgment true,
Nature is frugal, and her Wants are few;
Those few Wants answer’d, bring sincere Delights,
But Fools create themselves new Appetites.
Fancy and Pride seek Things at vast Expence,
Which relish not to Reason nor to Sense.
Like Cats in Airpumps, to subsist we strive
On Joys too thin to keep the Soul alive.
A good Wife and Health,
Is a Man’s best Wealth.
“Poor Richard, 1746,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0025. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 60–67.]
O sacred Solitude! divine Retreat!
Choice of the Prudent! Envy of the Great!
By thy pure Stream, or in thy waving Shade,
We court fair Wisdom, that celestial Maid:
The genuine Offspring of her lov’d Embrace,
(Strangers on Earth) are Innocence and Peace.
There blest with Health, with Business unperplext,
This Life we relish and ensure the next.
Wide will wear,
But Narrow will tear.
“Poor Richard, 1746,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0025. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 60–67.]
A true great Man will neither trample on a Worm, nor sneak to an Emperor.
Take Courage, Mortal; Death can’t banish thee out of the Universe.
The Sting of a Reproach, is the Truth of it.
Do me the Favour to deny me at once.
What’s proper, is becoming: See the Blacksmith with his white Silk Apron!
The Tongue is ever turning to the aching Tooth.
Want of Care does us more Damage than Want of Knowledge.
Dost thou love Life? then do not squander Time; for that’s the Stuff Life is made of.
Good Sense is a Thing all need, few have, and none think they want.
A Plowman on his Legs is higher than a Gentleman on his Knees.
Virtue and Happiness are Mother and Daughter.
The generous Mind least regards money, and yet most feels the Want of it.
For one poor Man there are an hundred indigent.
All Mankind are beholden to him that is kind to the Good.
“Poor Richard, 1746,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0025. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 60–67.]
What’s Man’s Reward for all his Care and Toil?
But One; a female Friend’s endearing Smile:
A tender Smile, our Sorrow’s only Balm,
And in Life’s Tempest the sad Sailor’s Calm.
How have I seen a gentle Nymph draw nigh,
Peace in her Air, Persuasion in her Eye;
Victorious Tenderness, it all o’ercame,
Husbands look’d mild, and Savages grew tame.
“Poor Richard, 1746,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0025. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 60–67.]
Can Wealth give Happiness? look round and see,
What gay Distress! What splendid Misery!
Whatever Fortune lavishly can pour,
The Mind annihilates, and calls for more.
Wealth is a Cheat, believe not what it says;
Greatly it promises, but never pays.
Misers may startle, but they shall be told,
That Wealth is Bankrupt, and insolvent Gold.
“Poor Richard, 1746,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0025. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 60–67.]
From Earth to Heav’n when Justice fled,
The Laws decided in her Stead;
For Heav’n to Earth should she return,
Lawyers might beg, and Law books burn.
“Poor Richard, 1746,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0025. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 60–67.]
To show the Strength, and Infamy of Pride,
By all ’tis follow’d, and by all deny’d.
What Numbers are there, which at once pursue
Praise, and the Glory to contemn it too?
To praise himself Vincenna knows a Shame,
And therefore lays a Stratagem for Fame;
Makes his Approach in Modesty’s Disguise,
To win Applause, and takes it by Surprize.
“Poor Richard, 1747,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0045. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 100–106.]
There’s a time to wink as well as to see.
Honest Tom! you may trust him with a house-full of untold Milstones.
There is no Man so bad, but he secretly respects the Good.
Strive to be the greatest Man in your Country, and you may be disappointed; Strive to be the best, and you may succeed: He may well win the race that runs by himself.
“Poor Richard, 1747,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0045. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 100–106.]
See Wealth and Pow’r! Say, what can be more great?
Nothing—but Merit in a low Estate.
To Virtue’s humblest Son let none prefer
Vice, tho’ a Croesus or a Conqueror.
Shall Men, like Figures, pass for high, or base,
Slight, or important, only by their Place?
Titles are Marks of honest Men, and Wise;
The Fool, or Knave that wears a Title, lies.
’Tis a strange Forest that has no rotten Wood in’t
And a strange Kindred that all are good in’t.
“Poor Richard, 1747,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0045. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 100–106.]
Girls, mark my Words; and know, for Men of Sense
Your strongest Charms are native Innocence.
Shun all deceiving Arts; the Heart that’s gain’d
By Craft alone, can ne’er be long retain’d.
Arts on the Mind, like Paint upon the Face,
Fright him, that’s worth your Love, from your Embrace.
In simple Manners all the Secret lies.
Be kind and virtuous, you’ll be blest and wise.
“Poor Richard, 1747,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0045. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 100–106.]
O, form’d Heav’n’s Dictates nobly to rehearse,
Preacher Divine! accept the grateful Verse.
Thou hast the Power, the harden’d Heart to warm,
To grieve, to raise, to terrify, to charm;
To fix the Soul on God, to teach the Mind
To know the Dignity of Human Kind;
By stricter Rules well-govern’d Life to scan,
And practise o’er the Angel in the Man.
Pride and the Gout,
Are seldom cur’d throughout.
“Poor Richard, 1747,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0045. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 100–106.]
Courage would fight, but Discretion won’t let him.
Delicate Dick! whisper’d the Proclamation.
Cornelius ought to be Tacitus.
“Poor Richard, 1747,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0045. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 100–106.]
Men drop so fast, ere Life’s mid Stage we tread,
Few know so many Friends alive as dead;
Yet, as immortal, in our uphill Chace,
We press coy Fortune with unslacken’d Pace;
Our ardent Labours for the Toy we seek,
Join Night to Day, and Sunday to the Week,
Our very Joys are anxious, and expire
Between Satiety and fierce Desire.
“Poor Richard, 1747,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0045. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 100–106.]
Men drop so fast, ere Life’s mid Stage we tread,
Few know so many Friends alive as dead;
Yet, as immortal, in our uphill Chace,
We press coy Fortune with unslacken’d Pace;
Our ardent Labours for the Toy we seek,
Join Night to Day, and Sunday to the Week,
Our very Joys are anxious, and expire
Between Satiety and fierce Desire.
“Poor Richard, 1747,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0045. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 100–106.]
I envy none their Pageantry and Show;
I envy none the Gilding of their Woe.
Give me, indulgent Heav’n, with Mind serene,
And guiltless Heart, to range the Sylvan Scene.
No splendid Poverty, no smiling Care,
No well bred Hate, or servile Grandeur there.
There pleasing Objects useful Thoughts suggest,
The Sense is ravish’d, and the Soul is blest,
On every Thorn delightful Wisdom grows,
In every Rill a sweet Instruction flows.
“Poor Richard, 1747,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0045. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 100–106.]
Old Age will come, Disease may come before,
Fifteen is full as mortal as Threescore.
Thy Fortune and thy Charms may soon decay;
But grant these Fugitives prolong their Stay;
Their Basis totters, their Foundation shakes,
Life that supports them, in a Moment breaks.
Then, wrought into the Soul, let Virtue shine,
The Ground eternal, as the Work divine.
“Poor Richard, 1747,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0045. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 100–106.]
From Earth to Heav’n when Justice fled,
The Laws decided in her Stead;
From Heav’n to Earth should she return,
Lawyers might beg, and Lawbooks burn.
“Poor Richard, 1747,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0045. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 100–106.]
Time enough, always proves little enough.
It is wise not to seek a Secret, and Honest not to reveal it.
A Mob’s a Monster: Heads enough, but no Brains.
The Devil sweetens Poison with Honey.
“Poor Richard, 1747,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0045. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 100–106.]
May it please the Honourable Bench to indulge me in a few Words: I am a poor unhappy Woman, who have no Money to fee Lawyers to plead for me, being hard put to it to get a tolerable Living. I shall not trouble your Honours with long Speeches; for I have not the Presumption to expect, that you may, by any Means, be prevailed on to deviate in your Sentence from the Law, in my Favour. All I humbly hope is, That your Honours would charitably move the Governor’s Goodness on my Behalf, that my Fine may be remitted. This is the Fifth Time, Gentlemen, that I have been dragg’d before your Court on the same Account; twice I have paid heavy Fines, and twice have been brought to Publick Punishment, for want of Money to pay those Fines. This may have been agreeable to the Laws, and I don’t dispute it; but since Laws are sometimes unreasonable in themselves, and therefore repealed, and others bear too hard on the Subject in particular Circumstances; and therefore there is left a Power somewhat to dispense with the Execution of them; I take the Liberty to say, That I think this Law, by which I am punished, is both unreasonable in itself, and particularly severe with regard to me, who have always lived an inoffensive Life in the Neighbourhood where I was born, and defy my Enemies (if I have any) to say I ever wrong’d Man, Woman, or Child.
“The Speech of Miss Polly Baker, 15 April 1747,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0057. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 120–125.]
Abstracted from the Law, I cannot conceive (may it please your Honours) what the Nature of my Offence is. I have brought Five fine Children into the World, at the Risque of my Life; I have maintain’d them well by my own Industry, without burthening the Township, and would have done it better, if it had not been for the heavy Charges and Fines I have paid. Can it be a Crime (in the Nature of Things I mean) to add to the Number of the King’s Subjects, in a new Country that really wants People? I own it, I should think it a Praise-worthy, rather than a punishable Action. I have debauched no other Woman’s Husband, nor enticed any Youth; these Things I never was charg’d with, nor has any one the least Cause of Complaint against me, unless, perhaps, the Minister, or Justice, because I have had Children without being married, by which they have missed a Wedding Fee. But, can ever this be a Fault of mine? I appeal to your Honours. You are pleased to allow I don’t want Sense; but I must be stupified to the last Degree, not to prefer the Honourable State of Wedlock, to the Condition I have lived in. I always was, and still am willing to enter into it; and doubt not my behaving well in it, having all the Industry, Frugality, Fertility, and Skill in Oeconomy, appertaining to a good Wife’s Character.
“The Speech of Miss Polly Baker, 15 April 1747,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0057. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 120–125.]
I defy any Person to say, I ever refused an Offer of that Sort: On the contrary, I readily consented to the only Proposal of Marriage that ever was made me, which was when I was a Virgin; but too easily confiding in the Person’s Sincerity that made it, I unhappily lost my own Honour, by trusting to his; for he got me with Child, and then forsook me: That very Person you all know; he is now become a Magistrate of this Country; and I had Hopes he would have appeared this Day on the Bench, and have endeavoured to moderate the Court in my Favour; then I should have scorn’d to have mention’d it; but I must now complain of it, as unjust and unequal, That my Betrayer and Undoer, the first Cause of all my Faults and Miscarriages (if they must be deemed such) should be advanc’d to Honour and Power in the Government, that punishes my Misfortunes with Stripes and Infamy. I should be told, ’tis like, That were there no Act of Assembly in the Case, the Precepts of Religion are violated by my Transgressions. If mine, then, is a religious Offence, leave it to religious Punishments. You have already excluded me from the Comforts of your Church-Communion. Is not that sufficient? You believe I have offended Heaven, and must suffer eternal Fire: Will not that be sufficient? What Need is there, then, of your additional Fines and Whipping? I own, I do not think as you do; for, if I thought what you call a Sin, was really such, I could not presumptuously commit it.
“The Speech of Miss Polly Baker, 15 April 1747,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0057. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 120–125.]
But, how can it be believed, that Heaven is angry at my having Children, when to the little done by me towards it, God has been pleased to add his Divine Skill and admirable Workmanship in the Formation of their Bodies, and crown’d it, by furnishing them with rational and immortal Souls. Forgive me, Gentlemen, if I talk a little extravagantly on these Matters; I am no Divine, but if you, Gentlemen, must be making Laws, do not turn natural and useful Actions into Crimes, by your Prohibitions. But take into your wise Consideration, the great and growing Number of Batchelors in the Country, many of whom from the mean Fear of the Expences of a Family, have never sincerely and honourably courted a Woman in their Lives; and by their Manner of Living, leave unproduced (which is little better than Murder) Hundreds of their Posterity to the Thousandth Generation. Is not this a greater Offence against the Publick Good, than mine? Compel them, then, by Law, either to Marriage, or to pay double the Fine of Fornication every Year.
“The Speech of Miss Polly Baker, 15 April 1747,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0057. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 120–125.]
What must poor young Women do, whom Custom have forbid to solicit the Men, and who cannot force themselves upon Husbands, when the Laws take no Care to provide them any; and yet severely punish them if they do their Duty without them; the Duty of the first and great Command of Nature, and of Nature’s God, Encrease and Multiply. A Duty, from the steady Performance of which, nothing has been able to deter me; but for its Sake, I have hazarded the Loss of the Publick Esteem, and have frequently endured Publick Disgrace and Punishment; and therefore ought, in my humble Opinion, instead of a Whipping, to have a Statue erected to my Memory.
“The Speech of Miss Polly Baker, 15 April 1747,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0057. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 120–125.]
Hail Night serene! thro’ Thee where’er we turn
Our wond’ring Eyes, Heav’n’s Lamps profusely burn;
And Stars unnumber’d all the Sky adorn.
But lo!—what’s that I see appear?
It seems far off a pointed flame;
From Earthwards too the shining Meteor came:
How swift it climbs th’ etherial Space!
And now it traverses each Sphere,
And seems some knowing Mind, familiar to the Place.
Dame, hand my Glass, the longest, strait prepare;—
’Tis He—’tis Taylor’s Soul, that travels there.
O stay! thou happy Spirit, stay,
And lead me on thro’ all th’ unbeaten Wilds of Day;
Where Planets in pure Streams of Ether driven,
Swim thro’ the blue Expanse of Heav’n.
There let me, thy Companion, stray
From Orb to Orb, and now behold
Unnumber’d Suns, all Seas of molten Gold,
And trace each Comet’s wandring Way.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1748,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0103. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–263.]
Luke, on his dying Bed, embrac’d his Wife,
And begg’d one Favour: Swear, my dearest Life,
Swear, if you love me, never more to wed,
Nor take a second Husband to your Bed.
Anne dropt a Tear. You know, my dear, says she,
Your least Desires have still been Laws to me;
But from this Oath, I beg you’d me excuse;
For I’m already promis’d to J—n H—s.
Robbers must exalted be,
Small ones on the Gallow-Tree,
While greater ones ascend to Thrones,
But what is that to thee or me?
Lost Time is never found again.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1748,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0103. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–263.]
On the 19th of this Month [January], Anno 1493, was born the famous Astronomer Copernicus, to whom we owe the Invention, or rather the Revival (it being taught by Pythagoras near 2000 Years before) of that now generally receiv’d System of the World which bears his Name, and supposes the Sun in the Center, this Earth a Planet revolving round it in 365 Days, 6 Hours, &c. and that Day and Night are caused by the Turning of the Earth on its own Axis once round in 24 h. &c. The Ptolomean System, which prevail’d before Copernicus, suppos’d the Earth to be fix’d, and that the Sun went round it daily. Mr. Whiston, a modern Astronomer, says, the Sun is 230,000 times bigger than the Earth, and 81 Millions of Miles distant from it: That vast Body must then have mov’d more than 480 Millions of Miles in 24 h. A prodigious Journey round this little Spot! How much more natural is Copernicus’s Scheme! Ptolomy is compar’d to a whimsical Cook, who, instead of Turning his Meat in Roasting, should fix That, and contrive to have his whole Fire, Kitchen and all, whirling continually round it.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1748,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0103. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–263.]
Don’t after foreign Food and Cloathing roam,
But learn to eat and wear what’s rais’d at Home.
Kind Nature suits each Clime with what it wants,
Sufficient to subsist th’ Inhabitants.
Observing this, we less impair our Health,
And by this Rule we more increase our Wealth:
Our Minds a great Advantage also gain,
And more sedate and uncorrupt remain.
To lead a virtuous Life, my Friends, and get to Heaven in Season,
You’ve just so much more Need of Faith, as you have less of Reason.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1748,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0103. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–263.]
The Sun, whose unexhausted Light
Does Life and Heat to Earth convey;
The Moon, who, Regent of the Night,
Shines with delegated Ray;
The Stars, which constant seem to Sight,
And Stars that regularly stray:
All these God’s plastick Will from Nothing brought,
Assign’d their Stations, and their Courses taught.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1748,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0103. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–263.]
On Education all our Lives depend;
And few to that, too few, with Care attend:
Soon as Mamma permits her darling Joy
To quit her Knee, and trusts at School her Boy,
O, touch him not, whate’er he does is right,
His Spirit’s tender, tho’ his Parts are bright.
Thus all the Bad he can, he learns at School,
Does what he will, and grows a lusty Fool.
Life with Fools consists in Drinking;
With the wise Man Living’s Thinking.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1748,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0103. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–263.]
Eilen thut selten gut [Hurry seldom does well].
“Poor Richard Improved, 1748,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0103. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–263.]
Read much; the Mind, which never can be still,
If not intent on Good, is prone to Ill.
And where bright Thoughts, or Reas’nings just you find,
Repose them careful in your inmost Mind.
To deck his Chloe’s Bosom thus the Swain
With pleasing Toil surveys th’ enamel’d Plain,
With Care selects each fragrant flow’r he meets,
And forms one Garland of their mingled sweets.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1748,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0103. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–263.]
Of all the Charms the Female Sex desire,
That Lovers doat on, and that Friends admire,
Those most deserve your Wish that longest last,
Not like the Bloom of Beauty, quickly past;
Virtue the Chief: This Men and Angels prize,
Above the finest Shape and brightest Eyes.
By this alone, untainted Joys we find,
As large and as immortal as the Mind.
Alas! that Heroes ever were made!
The Plague, and the Hero, are both of a Trade!
Yet the Plague spares our Goods which the Heroe does not;
So a Plague take such Heroes and let their Fames rot. Q.P.D.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1748,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0103. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–263.]
I pluck’d this morn these beauteous flow’rs,
Emblem of my fleeting hours;
’Tis thus, said I, my life-time flies,
So it blooms, and so it dies.
And, lo! how soon they steal away,
Wither’d e’er the noon of day.
Adieu! well-pleas’d my end I see,
Gently taught philosophy:
Fragrance and ornament alive,
Physic after death they give.
Let me, throughout my little stay,
Be as useful and as gay;
My close as early let me meet,
So my odour be as sweet.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1748,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0103. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–263.]
When great Augustus rul’d the World and Rome,
The Cloth he wore was spun and wove at Home,
His Empress ply’d the Distaff and the Loom.
Old England’s Laws the proudest beauty name,
When single, Spinster, and when married, Dame,
For Housewifery is Woman’s noblest Fame.
The Wisest houshold Cares to Women yield,
A large, an useful, and a grateful Field.
To Friend, Lawyer, Doctor, tell plain your whole Case;
Nor think on bad Matters to put a good Face:
How can they advise, if they see but a Part?
’Tis very ill driving black Hogs in the dark.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1748,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0103. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–263.]
To make the cleanly Kitchen send up Food,
Not costly vain, but plentifully Good.
To bid the Cellar’s Fountain never fail,
Of sparkling Cyder, or of well-brew’d Ale;
To buy, to pay, to blame, or to approve,
Within, without, below-stairs, and above;
To shine in every Corner, like the Sun,
Still working every where, or looking on.
Suspicion may be no Fault, but shewing it may be a great one.
He that’s secure is not safe.
The second Vice is Lying; the first is Running in Debt.
The Muses love the Morning.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1748,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0103. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–263.]
Muschitoes, or Musketoes, a little venomous fly, so light, that perhaps 50 of them, before they’ve fill’d their bellies, scarce weigh a grain, yet each has all the parts necessary to life, motion, digestion, generation, &c. as veins, arteries, muscles, &c. each has in his little body room for the five senses of seeing, hearing, feeling, smelling, tasting: How inconceivably small must their organs be! How inexpressibly fine the workmanship! And yet there are little animals discovered by the microscope, to whom a Musketo is an Elephant! In a scarce summer any citizen may provide Musketoes sufficient for his own family, by leaving tubs of rain-water uncover’d in his yard; for in such water they lay their eggs, which when hatch’d, become first little fish, afterwards put forth legs and wings, leave the water, and fly into your windows. Probatum est [It is tried, tested, or proved].
“Poor Richard Improved, 1748,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0103. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–263.]
One glorious Scene of Action still behind,
The Fair that likes it is secure to find;
Cordials and Med’cines gratis to dispense,
A beauteous Instrument of Providence;
Plaisters, and Salves, and Sores, to understand,
The Surgeon’s Art befits a tender Hand,
To friendless Pain unhop’d-for Ease to give,
And bid the Hungry eat, and Sickly live.
Two Faults of one a Fool will make;
He half repairs, that owns and does forsake.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1748,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0103. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–263.]
And thus, if we may credit Fame’s Report,
The best and fairest in the Gallic Court,
An Hour sometimes in Hospitals employ,
To give the dying Wretch a Glimpse of Joy;
T’ attend the Crouds that hopeless Pangs endure,
And soothe the Anguish which they cannot cure;
To clothe the Bare, and give the Empty Food;
As bright as Guardian Angels, and as good.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1748,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0103. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–263.]
Half Wits talk much but say little.
If Jack’s in love, he’s no judge of Jill’s Beauty.
Most Fools think they are only ignorant.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1748,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0103. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–263.]
The great Art of succeeding in Conversation (saith Mons. St. Evremond) is, To admire little, to hear much, always to distrust our own reason, and sometimes that of our friends; never to pretend to wit; but to make that of others appear as much as possibly we can; to hearken to what is said, and to answer to the purpose.
Ut jam nunc dicat jam nunc debentia dici.
Observe, the precept is hear much, not speak much. Herbert, the poet, says,
——a well bred guest,
Will no more talk all than eat all the feast.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1748,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0103. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–263.]
How happy is he who can satisfy his hunger with any food, quench his thirst with any drink, please his ear with any musick, delight his eye with any painting, any sculpture, any architecture, and divert his mind with any book or any company! How many mortifications must he suffer, that cannot bear any thing but beauty, order, elegance and perfection! Your man of taste, is nothing but a man of distaste.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1748,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0103. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–263.]
Nor be the Husband idle, tho’ his Land
Yields plenteous Crops without his lab’ring Hand:
Tho’ his collected Rent his Bags supply,
Or honest, careful Slaves scarce need his Eye.
Let him whom Choice allures, or Fortune yields,
To live amidst his own extended Fields,
Diffuse those Blessings which from Heav’n he found,
In copious Streams to bless the World around;
Pardoning the Bad, is injuring the Good.
He is not well-bred, that cannot bear Ill-Breeding in others.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1748,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0103. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–263.]
To thy lov’d haunt return, my happy muse,
For now behold the joyous winter-days
Frosty, succeed; and thro’ the blue serene
For sight too fine, th’ etherial nitre flies,
Killing infectious damps, and the spent air
Storing afresh with elemental life.
Close crouds the shining atmosphere; and binds
Our strengthen’d bodies in its cold embrace,
Constringent; feeds and animates our blood;
Refines our spirits, thro’ the new-strung nerves
In swifter sallies darting to the brain;
Where sits the soul, intense, collected, cool,
Bright as the skies, and as the season keen.
All nature feels the renovating force
Of Winter, only to the thoughtless eye
Is Ruin seen——.
Muse, Shoes; Days, Stays; Serene, between; Air, Fair; Life, Wife, Strife, &c. &c. Rhimes, you see, are plenty enow; he that does not like blank verse, may add them at his leisure, as the poets do at Manhatan.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1748,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0103. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–263.]
Open to all his hospitable Door,
His Tennent’s Patron, Parent to the Poor:
In Friendships dear, discording Neighbours bind,
Aid the distress’d, and humanise Mankind:
Wipe off the sorrowing Tear from Virtue’s Eyes,
Bid Honesty oppress’d, again arise:
Protect the Widow, give the Aged Rest,
And blessing live, and die for ever blest.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1748,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0103. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–263.]
In Christmas feasting pray take care;
Let not your table be a Snare;
But with the Poor God’s Bounty share.
Adieu my Friends! till the next Year.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1748,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0103. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–263.]
Advice to Youth.
First, Let the Fear of Him who form’d thy Frame,
Whose Hand sustain’d thee e’er thou hadst a Name,
Who brought thee into Birth, with Pow’r of Thought
Receptive of immortal Good, be wrought
Deep in thy Soul. His, not thy own, thou art;
To him resign the Empire of thy Heart.
His Will, thy Law; His Service, thy Employ;
His Frown, thy Dread, his Smile be all thy Joy.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
Content makes poor men rich; Discontent makes rich Men poor.
Too much plenty makes Mouth dainty.
’Tis a well spent penny that saves a groat.
Many Foxes grow grey, but few grow good.
Presumption first blinds a Man, then sets him a running.
Wealth and Content are not always Bed-fellows.
Wise Men learn by others harms; Fools by their own.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
Wak’d by the Call of Morn, on early Knee,
Ere the World thrust between thy God and thee,
Let thy pure Oraisons, ascending, gain
His Ear, and Succour of his Grace obtain,
In Wants, in Toils, in Perils of the Day,
And strong Temptations that beset thy Way.
Thy best Resolves then in his Strength renew
To walk in Virtue’s Paths, and Vice eschew.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
On the 18th of this month [February], anno 1546 died that famous reformer, Luther: who struck the great blow to papal tyranny in Europe. He was remarkably temperate in meat and drink, sometimes fasting four days together; and at other times, for many days eating only a little bread and a herring. Cicero says, There was never any great man who was not an industrious man;9 to which may, perhaps, be added, There was never any industrious man who was not a temperate man: For intemperance in diet, abates the vigour and dulls the action both of mind and body.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
To Him intrust thy Slumbers, and prepare
The fragrant Incense of thy Ev’ning Prayer.
But first tread back the Day, with Search severe,
And Conscience, chiding or applauding, hear.
Review each Step; Where, acting, did I err?
Omitting, where? Guilt either Way infer.
Labour this Point, and while thy Frailties last,
Still let each following Day correct the last.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
Life is a shelvy Sea, the Passage fear,
And not without a skilful Pilot steer.
Distrust thy Youth, experienc’d Age implore,
And borrow all the Wisdom of Threescore.
But chief a Father’s, Mother’s Voice revere;
’Tis Love that chides, ’tis Love that counsels here.
Thrice happy is the Youth, whose pliant Mind
To all a Parent’s Culture is resign’d.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
On the 7th of this month [April], 1626, died that great little man, Sir Francis Bacon; great in his prodigious genius, parts and learning; and little, in his servile compliances with a little court, and submissive flattery of a little prince.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
O, well begun, Virtue’s great Work pursue,
Passions at first we may with Ease subdue;
But if neglected, unrestrain’d too long,
Prevailing in their Growth, by Habit strong,
They’ve wrapp’d the Mind, have fix’d the stubborn Bent,
And Force of Custom to wild Nature lent;
Who then would set the crooked Tree aright,
As soon may wash the tawny Indian white.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
A Man has no more Goods than he gets Good by.
Welcome, Mischief, if thou comest alone.
Different Sects like different clocks, may be all near the matter, tho’ they don’t quite agree.
If Passion drives, let Reason hold the Reins.
Neither trust, nor contend, nor lay wagers, nor lend;
And you’ll have peace to your Lives end.
Drink does not drown Care, but waters it, and makes it grow faster.
Who dainties love, shall Beggars prove.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
Industry’s bounteous Hand may Plenty bring,
But wanting frugal Care, ’twill soon take wing.
Small thy Supplies, and scanty in their Source,
’Twixt Av’rice and Profusion steer thy Course.
Av’rice is deaf to Want’s Heart-bursting Groan,
Profusion makes the Beggar’s Rags thy own:
Close Fraud and Wrong from griping Av’rice grow,
From rash Profusion desp’rate Acts and Woe.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
Hast thou not yet propos’d some certain end,
To which thy life, thy every act may tend?
Hast thou no mark at which to bend thy bow?
Or like a boy pursu’st the carrion crow
With pellets and with stones, from tree to tree,
A fruitless toil, and liv’st extempore?
Watch the disease in time: For when, within
The dropsy rages, and extends the skin,
In vain for helebore the patient cries,
And sees the doctor, but too late is wise:
Too late for cure, he proffers half his wealth;
Ten thousand doctors cannot give him health.
Learn, wretches, learn the motions of the mind,
Why you were mad, for what you were design’d,
And the great moral end of human kind.
Study thy self; what rank or what degree,
The wise creator has ordain’d for thee:
And all the offices of that estate,
Perform, and with thy prudence guide thy fate.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
Honour the softer Sex; with courteous Style,
And Gentleness of Manners, win their Smile;
Nor shun their virtuous Converse; but when Age
And Circumstance consent, thy Faith engage
To some discreet, well-natur’d chearful Fair,
One not too stately for the Houshold Care,
One form’d in Person and in Mind to please,
To season Life, and all its Labours ease.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
All would live long, but none would be old.
Declaiming against Pride, is not always a Sign of Humility.
Neglect kills Injuries, Revenge increases them.
’Tis a laudable Ambition, that aims at being better than his Neighbours.
The wise Man draws more Advantage from his Enemies, than the Fool from his Friends.
If your head is wax, don’t walk in the Sun.
Pretty and Witty,
Will wound if they hit ye.
Having been poor is no shame, but being ashamed of it, is.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
’Tis raging Noon, and, vertical, the Sun
Darts on the Head direct his forceful rays.
All-conqu’ring Heat, oh intermit thy wrath!
And on my throbbing temples potent thus
Beam not so fierce! Incessant still you flow,
And still another fervent flood succeeds,
Pour’d on the head profuse. In vain I sigh,
And restless turn, and look around for night;
Night is far off; and hotter hours approach.
Thrice happy he! that on the sunless side
Of a romantick mountain, forest-crown’d,
Beneath the whole collected shade reclines:
Or in the gelid caverns, woodbine-wrought,
And fresh bedew’d with ever-spouting streams,
Sits coolly calm; while all the world without
Unsatisfy’d and sick, tosses in noon,
Emblem instructive of the virtuous man,
Who keeps his temper’d mind serene and pure,
And every Passion aptly harmoniz’d,
Amid a jarring world, with vice enflam’d
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
Gaming, the Vice of Knaves and Fools, detest,
Miner of Time, of Substance and of Rest;
Which, in the Winning or the Losing Part,
Undoing or undone, will wring the Heart:
Undone, self-curs’d, thy Madness thou wilt rue;
Undoing, Curse of others will pursue
Thy hated Head. A Parent’s, Houshold’s Tear,
A Neighbour’s Groan, and Heav’n’s Displeasure fear.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
Morose is sunk with shame, whene’er surpriz’d
In linnen clean, or peruke undisguis’d.
No sublunary chance his vestments fear,
Valu’d, like leopards, as their spots appear.
A fam’d surtout he wears, which once was blue,
And his foot swims in a capacious shoe.
One day his wife (for who can wives reclaim)
Level’d her barbarous needle at his fame;
But open force was vain; by night she went,
And while he slept, surpriz’d the darling rent;
Where yawn’d the frize, is now become a doubt,
And glory at one entrance quite shut out.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
Pride is said to be the last vice the good man gets clear of. ’Tis a meer Proteus, and disguises itself under all manner of appearances, putting on sometimes even the mask of humility. If some are proud of neatness and propriety of dress; others are equally so of despising it, and acting the perpetual sloven.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
Wouldst thou extract the purest Sweet of Life,
Be nor Ally nor Principal in Strife.
A Mediator there, thy Balsam bring,
And lenify the Wound, and draw the Sting;
On Hate let Kindness her warm Embers throw,
And mould into a Friend the melting Foe.
The weakest Foe boasts some revenging Pow’r;
The weakest Friend some serviceable Hour.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
It is the opinion of all the modern philosophers and mathematicians, that the planets are habitable worlds. If so, what sort of constitutions must those people have who live in the planet Mercury? where, says Sir Isaac Newton, the heat of the sun is seven times as great as it is with us; and would make our Water boil away. For the same person found by experiments, that an heat seven times as great as the heat of the sun in summer, is sufficient to set water a boiling.
In the machine at Derby in England for winding Italian silk, there are 26,586 wheels, 97,746 movements; 73,728 yards of silk wound every time the water-wheel goes round, which is three times every minute; 318,504,960 yards of silk in one day and night; and consequently 99,373,547,550 yards of silk in a year. One water-wheel communicates motion to all the rest of the wheels and movements, of which any one may be stopped separately, and independent of the rest. One fire-engine conveys air to every individual part of the machine, and one regulator governs the whole work.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
Numbers that are equal to the sum of all their aliquot parts, are called perfect numbers; such are 6, 28, 120, &c. Of these numbers Mr. Stone, in his Mathematical Dictionary, says, there are but ten, between 1 and 1,000000,000000.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
In quest of Gain be just: A Conscience clear
Is Lucre, more than Thousands in a Year;
Treasure no Moth can touch, no Rust consume;
Safe from the Knave, the Robber, and the Tomb.
Unrighteous Gain is the curs’d Seed of Woe,
Predestin’d to be reap’d by them who sow;
A dreadful Harvest! when th’avenging Day
Shall like a Tempest, sweep the Unjust away.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
A Man in a Passion rides a mad Horse.
Most of the Learning in use, is of no great Use.
Great Good-nature, without Prudence, is a great Misfortune.
Keep Conscience clear,
Then never fear.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
The 5th of this month, November, seems to be a lucky day to the English church and British liberty; for on that day 1604, the popish gunpowder treason was detected; and on the same day in 1688, our glorious deliverer from popery and slavery, King William, landed at Torbay. Eighty-eight seems likewise a lucky year; for in 1588 was the Spanish Armada defeated.
Numbers that are mutually equal to the Sum of each others aliquot Parts, are called Amicable Numbers; of these the first pair is 220 and 284; the second pair is 17296 and 18416. I shall be obliged to any of my Readers that will tell me the third pair.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
But not from Wrong alone thy Hand restrain,
The Appetite of Gold demands the Rein.
What Nature asks, what Decency requires,
Be this the Bound that limits thy Desires:
This, and the gen’rous godlike Pow’r to feed
The Hungry, and to warm the Loins of Need:
To dry Misfortune’s Tear, and scatter wide
Thy Blessings, like the Nile’s o’erflowing Tide.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
On the 25th of this month, anno 1642, was born the great Sir Isaac Newton, prince of the modern astronomers and philosophers. But what is all our little boasted knowledge, compar’d with that of the angels? If they see our actions, and are acquainted with our affairs, our whole body of science must appear to them as little better than ignorance; and the common herd of our learned men, scarce worth their notice. Now and then one of our very great philosophers, an Aristotle, or a Newton, may, perhaps, by his most refined speculations, afford them a little entertainment, as it seems a mimicking of their own sublime amusements. Hence Pope says of the latter,
Superior beings, when of late they saw
A mortal man unfold all nature’s law,
Admir’d such wisdom in a human shape,
And shew’d a Newton, as we shew an ape.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
The Art of getting Riches consists very much in Thrift. All Men are not equally qualified for getting Money, but it is in the Power of every one alike to practise this Virtue.
He that would be beforehand in the World, must be beforehand with his Business: It is not only ill Management, but discovers a slothful Disposition, to do that in the Afternoon, which should have been done in the Morning.
Useful Attainments in your Minority will procure Riches in Maturity, of which Writing and Accounts are not the meanest.
Learning, whether Speculative or Practical, is, in Popular or Mixt Governments, the Natural Source of Wealth and Honour.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
Precept I.
In Things of moment, on thy self depend,
Nor trust too far thy Servant or thy Friend:
With private Views, thy Friend may promise fair,
And Servants very seldom prove sincere.
Precept II.
What can be done, with Care perform to Day,
Dangers unthought-of will attend Delay;
Your distant Prospects all precarious are,
And Fortune is as fickle as she’s fair.
Precept III.
Nor trivial Loss, nor trivial Gain despise;
Molehills, if often heap’d, to Mountains rise:
Weigh every small Expence, and nothing waste,
Farthings long sav’d, amount to Pounds at last.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1749,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0143. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 331–350.]
The Hope of acquiring lasting Fame, is, with many Authors, a most powerful Motive to Writing. Some, tho’ few, have succeeded; and others, tho’ perhaps fewer, may succeed hereafter, and be as well known to Posterity by their Works, as the Antients are to us. We Philomaths, as ambitious of Fame as any other Writers whatever, after all our painful Watchings and laborious Calculations, have the constant Mortification to see our Works thrown by at the End of the Year, and treated as mere waste Paper. Our only Consolation is, that short-lived as they are, they out-live those of most of our Cotemporaries.
Yet, condemned to renew the Sisyphean Toil, we every Year heave another heavy Mass up the Muses Hill, which never can the Summit reach, and soon comes tumbling down again.
This, kind Reader, is my seventeenth Labour of the Kind. Thro’ thy continued Good-will, they have procur’d me, if no Bays, at least Pence; and the latter is perhaps the better of the two; since ’tis not improbable that a Man may receive more solid Satisfaction from Pudding, while he is living, than from Praise, after he is dead.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1750,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0176. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 437–456.]
Printers indeed should be very careful how they omit a Figure or a Letter: For by such Means sometimes a terrible Alteration is made in the Sense. I have heard, that once, in a new Edition of the Common Prayer, the following Sentence, We shall all be changed in a Moment, in the Twinkling of an Eye; by the Omission of a single Letter, became, We shall all be hanged in a Moment, &c. to the no small Surprize of the first Congregation it was read to.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1750,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0176. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 437–456.]
It has been computed in England, that the Colonies on the Continent, taken one with another, double the Number of their Inhabitants every Thirty Years. This quick Increase is owing not so much to natural Generation, as the Accession of Strangers. What the natural Increase of Mankind is, is a curious Question. In Breslaw, the Capital of Silesia, a healthy inland City, to which many Strangers do not come, the Number of Inhabitants was found to be generally about 34,000. An exact Register is kept there of the Births and Burials, which taken for 30 Years together, amount, as follows,
Births per Annum,- 1238
Deaths per Annum,- 1174
Yearly Increase but- 64
Let the expert Calculator say, how long it will be, before by an Increase of 64 per Annum, 34,000 People will double themselves?
Yet I believe People increase faster by Generation in these Colonies, where all can have full Employ, and there is Room and Business for Millions yet unborn. For in old settled Countries, as England for Instance, as soon as the Number of People is as great as can be supported by all the Tillage, Manufactures, Trade and Offices of the Country, the Overplus must quit the Country, or they will perish by Poverty, Diseases, and want of Necessaries. Marriage too, is discouraged, many declining it, till they can see how they shall be able to maintain a Family.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1750,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0176. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 437–456.]
So weak are human Kind by Nature made,
Or to such Weakness by their Vice betray’d,
Almighty Vanity! to thee they owe
Their Zest of Pleasure, and their Balm of Woe.
Thou, like the Sun, all Colours dost contain,
Varying like Rays of Light on Drops of Rain;
For every Soul finds Reason to be proud,
Tho’ hiss’d and hooted by the pointing Croud.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1750,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0176. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 437–456.]
Wouldst thou confound thine Enemy, be good thy self.
Pride is as loud a Beggar as Want, and a great deal more saucy.
Pay what you owe, and what you’re worth you’ll know.
There are three Things extreamly hard, Steel, a Diamond and to know one’s self.
Hunger is the best Pickle.
He is a Governor that governs his Passions, and he a Servant that serves them.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1750,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0176. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 437–456.]
We smile at Florists, we despise their Joy,
And think their Hearts enamour’d of a Toy;
But are those wiser, whom we most admire,
Survey with Envy, and pursue with Fire?
What’s he, who fights for Wealth, or Fame, or Power?
Another Florio, doating on a Flower,
A short-liv’d Flower, and which has often sprung,
From sordid Arts, as Florio’s out of Dung.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1750,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0176. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 437–456.]
Tho’ safe thou think’st thy Treasure lies,
Hidden in Chests from Human Eyes,
Thieves, Fire, may come, and it may be
Convey’d, my Friend, as far from thee.
Thy Vessel that yon Ocean sails,
Tho’ favour’d now with prosp’rous Gales,
Her Cargo which has Thousands cost,
All in a Tempest may be lost.
Cheats, Whores and Quacks, a thankless Crew,
Priests, Pickpockets, and Lawyers too,
All help by several Ways to drain,
Thanking themselves for what they gain;
The Liberal are secure alone,
For what they frankly give, for ever is their own.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1750,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0176. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 437–456.]
The Reason, says Swift, why so few Marriages are happy, is, because young Ladies spend their Time in making Nets, not in making Cages.
Why, Celia, is your spreading Waist
So loose, so negligently lac’d?
How ill that Dress adorns your Head;
Distain’d and rumpled from the Bed?
Those Clouds that shade your blooming Face,
A little Water might displace,
As Nature ev’ry Morn bestows
The chrystal Dew to cleanse the Rose.
Those Tresses as the Raven black,
That wav’d in Ringlets down your Back,
Uncomb’d, and injur’d by Neglect,
Destroy the Face that once they deck’d,
Whence this Forgetfulness of Dress?
Pray, Madam, are you marry’d? Yes.
Nay then indeed the Wonder ceases,
No matter now how loose your Dress is;
The End is won, your Fortune’s made,
Your Sister now may take the Trade.
Alas, what Pity ’tis to find
This Fault in Half the Female kind!
From hence proceed Aversion, Strife,
And all that sours the wedded Life.
Beauty can only point the Dart,
’Tis Neatness guides it to the Heart;
Let Neatness then, and Beauty strive
To keep a wav’ring Flame alive.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1750,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0176. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 437–456.]
Content let all your Virtues lie unknown,
If there’s no Tongue to praise them, but your own,
Of Boasting more than of a Bomb afraid,
Merit should be as modest as a Maid.
Fame is a Bubble the Reserv’d enjoy,
Who strive to grasp it, as they touch, destroy;
’Tis the World’s Debt to Deeds of high Degree;
But if you pay yourself, the World is free.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1750,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0176. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 437–456.]
What an admirable Invention is Writing, by which a Man may communicate his Mind without opening his Mouth, and at 1000 Leagues Distance, and even to future Ages, only by the Help of 22 Letters, which may be joined 5852616738497664000 Ways, and will express all Things in a very narrow Compass. ’Tis a Pity this excellent Art has not preserved the Name and Memory of its Inventor.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1750,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0176. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 437–456.]
Others behold each nobler Genius thrive,
And in their generous Labours long survive;
By Learning grac’d, extend a distant Light;
Thus circling Science has her Day and Night.
Rise, rise, ye dear Cotemporaries, rise;
On whom devolve these Seasons and these Skies!
Assert the Portion destin’d to your Share,
And make the Honour of the Times your Care.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1750,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0176. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 437–456.]
Those that have much Business must have much Pardon.
Discontented Minds, and Fevers of the Body are not to be cured by changing Beds or Businesses.
Little Strokes,
Fell great Oaks.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1750,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0176. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 437–456.]
Still be your darling Study Nature’s Laws;
And to its Fountain trace up every Cause.
Explore, for such it is, this high Abode,
And tread the Paths which Boyle and Newton trod.
Lo, Earth smiles wide, and radiant Heav’n looks down,
All fair, all gay, and urgent to be known!
Attend, and here are sown Delights immense,
For every Intellect, and every Sense.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1750,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0176. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 437–456.]
You may be too cunning for One, but not for All.
Genius without Education is like Silver in the Mine.
Many would live by their Wits, but break for want of Stock.
Poor Plain dealing! dead without Issue!
“Poor Richard Improved, 1750,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0176. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 437–456.]
The 3d of this Month [September], 1658, died Oliver Cromwell, aged 60 Years. A great Storm happen’d the Night he died, from whence his Enemies took Occasion to say, The D---l fetch’d him away in a Whirlwind: But his Poet Waller, in some Verses on his Death, gave that Circumstance quite a different Turn. He begins with these lofty Lines; viz.
We must resign, Heav’n his great Soul does claim,
In Storms as loud as his immortal Fame;
His dying Groans, his last Breath shakes our Isle,
And Trees uncut fall for his Fun’ral Pile, &c.
When the King came in, Waller made his Peace by a congratulatory Poem to his Majesty: And one Day ’tis said the King asked him jocularly, What is the Reason, Mr. Waller, that your Verses on Oliver are so much better than those you made on me? We Poets, my Liege, reply’d he, always succeed better in Fiction than in Truth.
Much Learning shows how little Mortals know;
Much Wealth, how little Worldlings can enjoy.
At best it baby’s us with endless Toys,
And keeps us Children ’till we drop to Dust.
As Monkies at a Mirror stand amaz’d,
They fail to find what they so plainly see;
Thus Men, in shining Riches, see the Face
Of Happiness, nor know it is a Shade;
But gaze, and touch, and peep, and peep again,
And wish, and wonder it is absent still.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1750,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0176. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 437–456.]
With Adoration think, with Rapture gaze,
And hear all Nature chant her Maker’s Praise;
With Reason stor’d, by Love of Knowledge fir’d,
By Dread awaken’d, and by Love inspir’d,
Can We, the Product of another’s Hand,
Nor whence, nor how, nor why we are, demand?
And, not at all, or not aright employ’d,
Behold a Length of Years, and all a Void?
You can bear your own Faults, and why not a Fault in your Wife.
Tho’ Modesty is a Virtue, Bashfulness is a Vice.
Hide not your Talents, they for Use were made.
What’s a Sun-Dial in the Shade!
“Poor Richard Improved, 1750,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0176. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 437–456.]
Happy, thrice happy he! whose conscious Heart,
Enquires his Purpose, and discerns his Part;
Who runs with Heed, th’ involuntary Race,
Nor lets his Hours reproach him as they pass;
Weighs how they steal away, how sure, how fast,
And as he weighs them, apprehends the last.
Or vacant, or engag’d, our Minutes fly;
We may be negligent, but we must die.
What signifies knowing the Names, if you know not the Natures of Things.
Tim was so learned, that he could name a Horse in nine Languages; So ignorant, that he bought a Cow to ride on.
The Golden Age never was the present Age.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1750,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0176. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 437–456.]
And thou supreme of Beings and of Things!
Who breath’st all Life, and giv’st Duration Wings;
Intense, O let me for thy Glory burn,
Nor fruitless view my Days and Nights return;
Give me with Wonder at thy Works to glow;
To grasp thy Vision, and thy Truths to know;
To reach at length thy everlasting Shore,
And live and sing ’till Time shall be no more.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1750,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0176. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 437–456.]
’Tis a Shame that your Family is an Honour to you! You ought to be an Honour to your Family.
Glass, China, and Reputation, are easily crack’d, and never well mended.
Adieu, my Task’s ended.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1750,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0176. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 437–456.]
Of Courts.
If any Rogue vexatious Suits advance
Against you for your known Inheritance:
Enter by Violence your fruitful Grounds,
Or take the sacred Land-mark from your Bounds;
Or if your Debtors do not keep their Day,
Deny their Hands, and then refuse to pay;
You must with Patience all the Terms attend,
Among the common Causes that depend,
Till yours is call’d:—And that long-look’d-for Day,
Is still encumber’d with some new Delay:
Your Proofs and Deeds all on the Table spread,
Some of the B------ch perhaps are sick a-bed;
That J---ge steps out to light his Pipe, while this
O’er night was boozy, and goes out to p---ss.
Some Witness miss’d; some Lawyer not in Town,
So many Rubs appear, the Time is gone,
For Hearing, and the tedious Suit goes on.
Then rather let two Neighbours end your Cause,
And split the Difference; tho’ you lose one Half;
Than spend the Whole, entangled in the Laws,
While merry Lawyers sly, at both Sides laugh.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1750,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-03-02-0176. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 3, January 1, 1745, through June 30, 1750, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 437–456.]
Your Business is to shine; therefore you must by all means prevent the shining of others, for their Brightness may make yours the less distinguish’d. To this End,
If possible engross the whole Discourse; and when other Matter fails, talk much of your-self, your Education, your Knowledge, your Circumstances, your Successes in Business, your Victories in Disputes, your own wise Sayings and Observations on particular Occasions, &c. &c. &c.
If when you are out of Breath, one of the Company should seize the Opportunity of saying something; watch his Words, and, if possible, find somewhat either in his Sentiment or Expression, immediately to contradict and raise a Dispute upon. Rather than fail, criticise even his Grammar.
If another should be saying an indisputably good Thing; either give no Attention to it; or interrupt him; or draw away the Attention of others; or, if you can guess what he would be at, be quick and say it before him; or, if he gets it said, and you perceive the Company pleas’d with it, own it to be a good Thing, and withal remark that it had been said by Bacon, Locke, Bayle, or some other eminent Writer: thus you deprive him of the Reputation he might have gain’d by it, and gain some yourself, as you hereby show your great Reading and Memory.
When modest Men have been thus treated by you a few times, they will chuse ever after to be silent in your Company; then you may shine on without Fear of a Rival; rallying them at the same time for their Dullness, which will be to you a new Fund of Wit.
“Rules for Making Oneself a Disagreeable Companion, 15 November 1750,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0021. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 73–74.]
Thus you will be sure to please yourself. The polite Man aims at pleasing others, but you shall go beyond him even in that. A Man can be present only in one Company, but may at the same time be absent in twenty. He can please only where he is, you whereever you are not.
“Rules for Making Oneself a Disagreeable Companion, 15 November 1750,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0021. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 73–74.]
It is expected that every Scholar to be admitted into this School, be at least able to pronounce and divide the Syllables in Reading, and to write a legible Hand. None to be receiv’d that are under [ ]* Years of Age.
“Idea of the English School, [7 January 1751],” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 101–108.] Note: *Left blank in the original. bf told Johnson he thought the boys in the English School would be between 8 and 16 years old (see above, p. 72); and to Jared Eliot (see below, p. 222) he spoke of “little Boys under 7” who were already in the Academy.
Let the first Class learn the English Grammar Rules, and at the same time let particular Care be taken to improve them in Orthography. Perhaps the latter is best done by Pairing the Scholars, two of those nearest equal in their Spelling to be put together; let these strive for Victory, each propounding Ten Words every Day to the other to be spelt. He that spells truly most of the other’s Words, is Victor for that Day; he that is Victor most Days in a Month, to obtain a Prize, a pretty neat Book of some Kind useful in their future Studies. This Method fixes the Attention of Children extreamly to the Orthography of Words, and makes them good Spellers very early. ’Tis a Shame for a Man to be so ignorant of this little Art, in his own Language, as to be perpetually confounding Words of like Sound and different Significations; the Consciousness of which Defect, makes some Men, otherwise of good Learning and Understanding, averse to Writing even a common Letter.
“Idea of the English School, [7 January 1751],” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 101–108.]
Let the Pieces read by the Scholars in this Class be short, such as Croxall’s Fables,4 and little Stories. In giving the Lesson, let it be read to them; let the Meaning of the difficult Words in it be explained to them, and let them con it over by themselves before they are called to read to the Master, or Usher; who is to take particular Care that they do not read too fast, and that they duly observe the Stops and Pauses. A Vocabulary of the most usual difficult Words might be formed for their Use, with Explanations; and they might daily get a few of those Words and Explanations by Heart, which would a little exercise their Memories; or at least they might write a Number of them in a small Book for the Purpose, which would help to fix the Meaning of those Words in their Minds, and at the same Time furnish every one with a little Dictionary for his future Use.
“Idea of the English School, [7 January 1751],” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 101–108.]
Reading with Attention, and with proper Modulations of the Voice according to the Sentiments and Subject.
Some short Pieces, not exceeding the Length of a Spectator, to be given this Class as Lessons (and some of the easier Spectators would be very suitable for the Purpose.) These Lessons might be given over Night as Tasks, the Scholars to study them against the Morning. Let it then be required of them to give an Account, first of the Parts of Speech, and Construction of one or two Sentences; this will oblige them to recur frequently to their Grammar, and fix its principal Rules in their Memory. Next of the Intention of the Writer, or the Scope of the Piece; the Meaning of each Sentence, and of every uncommon Word. This would early acquaint them with the Meaning and Force of Words, and give them that most necessary Habit, of Reading with Attention.
“Idea of the English School, [7 January 1751],” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 101–108.]
The Master then to read the Piece with the proper Modulations of Voice, due Emphasis, and suitable Action, where Action is required; and put the Youth on imitating his Manner.
Where the Author has us’d an Expression not the best, let it be pointed out; and let his Beauties be particularly remarked to the Youth.
Let the Lessons for Reading be varied, that the Youth may be made acquainted with good Stiles of all Kinds in Prose and Verse, and the proper Manner of reading each Kind. Sometimes a well-told Story, a Piece of a Sermon, a General’s Speech to his Soldiers, a Speech in a Tragedy, some Part of a Comedy, an Ode, a Satyr, a Letter, Blank Verse, Hudibrastick, Heroic, &c. But let such Lessons for Reading be chosen, as contain some useful Instruction, whereby the Understandings or Morals of the Youth, may at the same Time be improv’d.
“Idea of the English School, [7 January 1751],” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 101–108.]
It is requir’d that they should first study and understand the Lessons, before they are put upon reading them properly, to which End each Boy should have an English Dictionary to help him over Difficulties. When our Boys read English to us, we are apt to imagine they understand what they read because we do, and because ’tis their Mother Tongue. But they often read as Parrots speak, knowing little or nothing of the Meaning. And it is impossible a Reader should give the due Modulation to his Voice, and pronounce properly, unless his Understanding goes before his Tongue, and makes him Master of the Sentiment. Accustoming Boys to read aloud what they do not first understand, is the Cause of those even set Tones so common among Readers, which when they have once got a Habit of using, they find so difficult to correct: By which Means, among Fifty Readers we scarcely find a good One. For want of good Reading, Pieces publish’d with a View to influence the Minds of Men for their own or the publick Benefit, lose Half their Force. Were there but one good Reader in a Neighbourhood, a publick Orator might be heard throughout a Nation with the same Advantages, and have the same Effect on his Audience, as if they stood within the Reach of his Voice.
“Idea of the English School, [7 January 1751],” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 101–108.]
Speaking properly and gracefully, which is near of Kin to good Reading, and naturally follows it in the Studies of Youth. Let the Scholars of this Class begin with learning the Elements of Rhetoric from some short System, so as to be able to give an Account of the most usual Tropes and Figures. Let all their bad Habits of Speaking, all Offences against good Grammar, all corrupt or foreign Accents, and all improper Phrases, be pointed out to them. Short Speechs from the Roman or other History, or from our Parliamentary Debates, might be got by heart, and deliver’d with the proper Action, &c. Speeches and Scenes in our best Tragedies and Comedies (avoiding every Thing that could injure the Morals of Youth) might likewise be got by Rote, and the Boys exercis’d in delivering or acting them; great Care being taken to form their Manner after the truest Models.
“Idea of the English School, [7 January 1751],” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 101–108.]
For their farther Improvement, and a little to vary their Studies, let them now begin to read History, after having got by Heart a short Table of the principal Epochas in Chronology. They may begin with Rollin’s Antient and Roman Histories, and proceed at proper Hours as they go thro’ the subsequent Classes, with the best Histories of our own Nation and Colonies. Let Emulation be excited among the Boys by giving, Weekly, little Prizes, or other small Encouragements to those who are able to give the best Account of what they have read, as to Times, Places, Names of Persons, &c. This will make them read with Attention, and imprint the History well in their Memories. In remarking on the History, the Master will have fine Opportunities of instilling Instruction of various Kinds, and improving the Morals as well as the Understandings of Youth.
The Natural and Mechanic History contain’d in Spectacle de la Nature, might also be begun in this Class, and continued thro’ the subsequent Classes by other Books of the same Kind: For next to the Knowledge of Duty, this Kind of Knowledge is certainly the most useful, as well as the most entertaining. The Merchant may thereby be enabled better to understand many Commodities in Trade; the Handicraftsman to improve his Business by new Instruments, Mixtures and Materials; and frequently Hints are given of new Manufactures, or new Methods of improving Land, that may be set on foot greatly to the Advantage of a Country.
“Idea of the English School, [7 January 1751],” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 101–108.]
Composition. Writing one’s own Language well, is the next necessary Accomplishment after good Speaking. ’Tis the Writing-Master’s Business to take Care that the Boys make fair Characters, and place them straight and even in the Lines: But to form their Stile, and even to take Care that the Stops and Capitals are properly disposed, is the Part of the English Master. The Boys should be put on Writing Letters to each other on any common Occurrences, and on various Subjects, imaginary Business, &c. containing little Stories, Accounts of their late Reading, what Parts of Authors please them, and why. Letters of Congratulation, of Compliment, of Request, of Thanks, of Recommendation, of Admonition, of Consolation, of Expostulation, Excuse, &c. In these they should be taught to express themselves clearly, concisely, and naturally, without affected Words, or high-flown Phrases. All their Letters to pass through the Master’s Hand, who is to point out the Faults, advise the Corrections, and commend what he finds right. Some of the best Letters published in our own Language, as Sir William Temple’s, those of Pope, and his Friends, and some others, might be set before the Youth as Models, their Beauties pointed out and explained by the Master, the Letters themselves transcrib’d by the Scholar.
“Idea of the English School, [7 January 1751],” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 101–108.]
Dr. Johnson’s Ethices Elementa, or first Principles of Morality, may now be read by the Scholars, and explain’d by the Master, to lay a solid Foundation of Virtue and Piety in their Minds. And as this Class continues the Reading of History, let them now at proper Hours receive some farther Instructions in Chronology, and in that Part of Geography (from the Mathematical Master) which is necessary to understand the Maps and Globes. They should also be acquainted with the modern Names of the Places they find mention’d in antient Writers. The Exercises of good Reading and proper Speaking still continued at suitable Times.
“Idea of the English School, [7 January 1751],” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 101–108.]
Fifth Class.
To improve the Youth in Composition, they may now, besides continuing to write Letters, begin to write little Essays in Prose; and sometimes in Verse, not to make them Poets, but for this Reason, that nothing acquaints a Lad so speedily with Variety of Expression, as the Necessity of finding such Words and Phrases as will suit with the Measure, Sound and Rhime of Verse, and at the same Time well express the Sentiment. These Essays should all pass under the Master’s Eye, who will point out their Faults, and put the Writer on correcting them. Where the Judgment is not ripe enough for forming new Essays, let the Sentiments of a Spectator be given, and requir’d to be cloath’d in a Scholar’s own Words; or the Circumstances of some good Story, the Scholar to find Expression. Let them be put sometimes on abridging a Paragraph of a diffuse Author, sometimes on dilating or amplifying what is wrote more closely. And now let Dr. Johnson’s Noetica, or first Principles of human Knowledge, containing a Logic, or Art of Reasoning, &c. be read by the Youth, and the Difficulties that may occur to them be explained by the Master. The Reading of History, and the Exercises of good Reading and just Speaking still continued.
“Idea of the English School, [7 January 1751],” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 101–108.]
Sixth Class.
In this Class, besides continuing the Studies of the preceding, in History, Rhetoric, Logic, Moral and Natural Philosophy, the best English Authors may be read and explain’d; as Tillotson, Milton, Locke, Addison, Pope, Swift, the higher Papers in the Spectator and Guardian, the best Translations of Homer, Virgil and Horace, of Telemachus, Travels of Cyrus, &c.
Once a Year, let there be publick Exercises in the Hall, the Trustees and Citizens present. Then let fine gilt Books be given as Prizes to such Boys as distinguish themselves, and excel the others in any Branch of Learning; making three Degrees of Comparison; giving the best Prize to him that performs best; a less valuable One to him that comes up next to the best; and another to the third. Commendations, Encouragement and Advice to the rest; keeping up their Hopes that by Industry they may excel another Time. The Names of those that obtain the Prizes, to be yearly printed in a List.
“Idea of the English School, [7 January 1751],” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 101–108.]
The Hours of each Day are to be divided and dispos’d in such a Manner, as that some Classes may be with the Writing-Master, improving their Hands, others with the Mathematical Master, learning Arithmetick, Accompts, Geography, Use of the Globes, Drawing, Mechanicks, &c. while the rest are in the English School, under the English Master’s Care.
Thus instructed, Youth will come out of this School fitted for learning any Business, Calling or Profession, except such wherein Languages are required; and tho’ unaquainted with any antient or foreign Tongue, they will be Masters of their own, which is of more immediate and general Use; and withal will have attain’d many other valuable Accomplishments; the Time usually spent in acquiring those Languages, often without Success, being here employ’d in laying such a Foundation of Knowledge and Ability, as, properly improv’d, may qualify them to pass thro’ and execute the several Offices of civil Life, with Advantage and Reputation to themselves and Country.
“Idea of the English School, [7 January 1751],” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 101–108.]
Astrology is one of the most ancient Sciences, had in high Esteem of old, by the Wise and Great. Formerly, no Prince would make War or Peace, nor any General fight a Battle, in short, no important Affair was undertaken without first consulting an Astrologer, who examined the Aspects and Configurations of the heavenly Bodies, and mark’d the lucky Hour. Now the noble Art (more Shame to the Age we live in!) is dwindled into Contempt; the Great neglect us, Empires make Leagues, and Parliaments Laws, without advising with us; and scarce any other Use is made of our learned Labours, than to find the best Time of cutting Corns, or gelding Pigs. This Mischief we owe in a great Measure to ourselves: The Ignorant Herd of Mankind, had they not been encourag’d to it by some of us, would never have dared to depreciate our sacred Dictates; but Urania has been betray’d by her own Sons; those whom she had favour’d with the greatest Skill in her divine Art, the most eminent Astronomers among the Moderns, the Newtons, Halleys, and Whistons, have wantonly contemn’d and abus’d her, contrary to the Light of their own Consciences. Of these, only the last nam’d, Whiston, has liv’d to repent, and speak his Mind honestly.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
When these Predictions are accomplished, what glorious Proofs they will be of the Truth of our Art? And if they happen to fail, there is no doubt but so profound an Astronomer as Mr. Whiston, will be able to see other Signs in the Heavens, foreshowing that the Conversion of Infidels was to be postponed, and the Millennium adjourn’d. After these great Things can any Man doubt our being capable of predicting a little Rain or Sun-shine? Reader, Farewell, and make the best Use of your Years and your Almanacks, for you see, that according to Whiston, you may have at most, but sixteen more of them.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
Who rise to Glory, must by Virtue rise,
’Tis in the Mind all genuine Greatness lies:
On that eternal Base, on that alone,
The World’s Esteem you build, and more—your own.
For what avails Birth, Beauty, Fortune’s Store,
The Plume of Title, and the Pride of Pow’r,
If, deaf to Virtue, deaf to Honour’s Call,
To Tyrant Vice a wretched Slave you fall?
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
Pray don’t burn my House to roast your Eggs.
Some Worth it argues, a Friend’s Worth to know;
Virtue to own the Virtue of a Foe.
Prosperity discovers Vice, Adversity Virtue.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
The Romans were 477 Years, without so much as a Sun-dial to show the Time of Day: The first they had was brought from Sicily, by Valerius Messala: One hundred and eighteen Years afterwards, Scipio Nasica, produced to them an Invention for measuring the Hours in cloudy Weather, it was by the Dropping of Water out of one Vessel into another, somewhat like our Sand-Glasses. Clocks and Watches, to shew the Hour, are very modern Inventions. The Sub-dividing Hours into Minutes, and Minutes into Seconds, by those curious Machines, is not older than the Days of our Fathers, but now brought to a surprising Nicety.
Since our Time is reduced to a Standard, and the Bullion of the Day minted out into Hours, the Industrious know how to employ every Piece of Time to a real Advantage in their different Professions: And he that is prodigal of his Hours, is, in Effect, a Squanderer of Money. I remember a notable Woman, who was fully sensible of the intrinsic Value of Time. Her Husband was a Shoemaker, and an excellent Craftsman, but never minded how the Minutes passed. In vain did she inculcate to him, That Time is Money. He had too much Wit to apprehend her, and it prov’d his Ruin. When at the Alehouse among his idle Companions, if one remark’d that the Clock struck Eleven, What is that, says he, among us all? If she sent him Word by the Boy, that it had struck Twelve; Tell her to be easy, it can never be more. If, that it had struck One, Bid her be comforted, for it can never be less.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
If we lose our Money, it gives us some Concern. If we are cheated or robb’d of it, we are angry: But Money lost may be found; what we are robb’d of may be restored: The Treasure of Time once lost, can never be recovered; yet we squander it as tho’ ’twere nothing worth, or we had no Use for it.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
The Bell strikes One: We take no Note of Time,
But from its Loss. To give it then a Tongue
Is wise in Man. If heard aright
It is the Knell of our departed Hours;
Where are they? With the Years beyond the Flood:
It is the Signal that demands Dispatch;
How much is to be done? ——
Be wise To-day, ’tis Madness to defer;
Next day the fatal Precedent will plead;
Thus on, till Wisdom is push’d out of Life:
Procrastination is the Thief of Time,
Year after Year it steals till all are fled,
And to the Mercies of a Moment leaves
The vast Concerns of an eternal Scene.
If not so frequent, would not this be strange?
That ’tis so frequent, This is stranger still. [6]
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.] Note: [6] Edward Young, Night Thoughts, i, 55–62, 390–8 (omitting parts of 57 and 58).
Affect not that vain Levity of Thought,
Which sets Religion, Virtue, all at nought.
For true Religion like the Sun’s blest Beam,
Darts thro’ the conscious Mind a heav’nly Gleam,
Irradiates all the Soul, no Care allows,
Calms the blest Heart, and smooths the easy Brows.
Yet think it not enough what’s right to know,
But let your Practice that right Knowledge show.
To Christians bad rude Indians we prefer;
’Tis better not to know, than knowing err.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
He that is conscious of a Stink in his Breeches, is jealous of every Wrinkle in another’s Nose.
Love and Tooth-ach have many Cures, but none infallible, except Possession and Dispossession.
Many a Man would have been worse, if his Estate had been better.
We may give Advice, but we cannot give Conduct.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
Some sweet Employ for leisure Minutes chuse,
And let your very Pleasures have their Use.
But if you read, your Books with Prudence chuse.
Or Time mis-spent is worse than what you lose.
Be fully e’er you speak your Subject known,
And let e’en then some Diffidence be shown.
Keep something silent, and we think you wise,
But when we see the Bottom, we despise.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
On the 15th of this Month, Anno Romae 709, Julius Caesar was slain in the Senate-House: He fought! he conquer’d! he triumph’d! For what? For Fame.
And with what rare Inventions do we strive
Ourselves then to survive.
Some with vast costly Tombs would purchase it,
And by the Proofs of Death pretend to live.
Here lies the Great —— False Marble, where?
Nothing but small and sordid Dust lies there.
Some build enormous Mountain Palaces
The Fools and Architects to please:
A lasting Life in well hewn Stone they rear.
Caesar an higher Place does claim,
In the Seraphic Entity of Fame:
He, since that Toy his Death,
Does fill all Mouths, and breathes in all Men’s Breath;
——The two immortal Syllables remain;
But O ye learned Men explain,
What Essence, what Existence this
In six poor Letters is?
In those alone does the great Caesar live;
’Tis all the conquer’d World could give,
We Poets madder yet than all,
With a refin’d fantastick Vanity
Think we not only have but give Eternity.
Fain would I see that Prodigal
Who his To-morrow would bestow,
For all old Homer’s Life, e’er since he dy’d till now. Cowley. [7]
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
O barb’rous Waggoners, your Wrath asswage,
Why vent you on the generous Steed your Rage?
Does not his Service earn you daily Bread?
Your Wives, your Children by his Labour fed?
If, as the Samian taught, the Soul revives,
And, shifting Seats, in other Bodies lives,
Severe shall be the brutal Carter’s Change,
Doom’d in a Thill-horse o’er rough Roads to range;
Amd while transform’d the groaning Load he draws,
Some Horse turn’d Carter shall avenge the Cause.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
With ceaseless Streams a well-plac’d Treasure flows,
When spent increases, and by lessening grows.
Sarepta’s Widow, hoping no Supply,
Thought, on her little Store, to eat and die:
Soon as she welcom’d her prophetic Guest,
The Cruse flow’d liberal, and the Corn increas’d,
Th’ Almighty Pow’r unfailing Plenty sent,
The Oil unwasted, and the Meal unspent.
Fond Pride of Dress is sure an empty Curse;
E’re Fancy you consult, consult your Purse.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
If worldly Goods cannot save me from Death, they ought not to hinder me of eternal Life.
’Tis great Confidence in a Friend to tell him your Faults, greater to tell him his.
If your Riches are yours, why don’t you take them with you to the t’other World?
What more valuable than Gold? Diamonds. Than Diamonds? Virtue.
To-day is Yesterday’s Pupil.
Youth is pert and positive, Age modest and doubting: So Ears of Corn when young and light, stand bolt upright, but hang their Heads when weighty, full, and ripe.
’Tis easier to suppress the first Desire, than to satisfy all that follow it.
Don’t judge of Mens Wealth or Piety, by their Sunday Appearances.
Friendship increases by visiting Friends, but by visiting seldom.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
What will not Lux’ry taste? Earth, Sea, and Air,
Are daily ransack’d for the Bill of Fare.
Blood stuff’d in Guts is British Christian’s Food,
And France robs Marshes of the croaking Brood;
But he had sure a Palate cover’d o’er
With Brass or Steel, that on the rocky Shore,
First broke the oozy Oister’s pearly Coat,
And risk’d the living Morsel down his Throat.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
Vice luring, in the Way of Virtue lies,
God suffers This; but tempts not; tho’ He tries.
Go wrong, go right, ’tis your own Action still;
He leaves you to your Choice, of Good, or Ill.
Then chuse the Good! the Ill submisly bear!
The Man of Virtue is above Despair.
Safe on this Maxim with the Writer rest,
That all that happens, happens for the best.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
Ye Party Zealots, thus it fares with you,
When Party Rage too warmly you pursue;
Both Sides club Nonsense and impetuous Pride,
And Folly joins whom Sentiments divide.
You vent your Spleen as Monkeys when they pass,
Scratch at the mimic Monkey in the Glass,
While both are one; and henceforth be it known,
Fools of both Sides shall stand as Fools alone.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
Ah! What is Life? With Ills encompass’d round,
Amidst our Hopes, Fate strikes the sudden Wound;
To-day the Statesman of new Honour dreams,
To-morrow Death destroys his airy Schemes.
Is mouldy Treasure in thy Chest confin’d;
Think, all that Treasure thou must leave behind;
Thy Heir with Smiles shall view thy blazon’d Hearse,
And all thy Hoards, with lavish Hand disperse.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
Talking against Religion is unchaining a Tyger; The Beast let loose may worry his Deliverer.
Ambition often spends foolishly what Avarice had wickedly collected.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
Should certain Fate th’impending Blow delay,
Thy Mirth will sicken, and thy Bloom decay;
Then feeble Age will all thy Nerves disarm,
No more thy Blood its narrow Channels warm;
Who then would wish to stretch this narrow Span,
To suffer Life beyond the Date of Man?
The virtuous Soul pursues a nobler Aim,
And Life regards but as a fleeting Dream.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
Pillgarlic was in the Accusative Case, and bespoke a Lawyer in the Vocative, who could not understand him till he made use of the Dative.
Great Estates may venture more;
Little Boats must keep near Shore.
Nice Eaters seldom meet with a good Dinner.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
She longs to wake, and wishes to get free,
To launch from Earth into Eternity.
For while the boundless Theme extends our Thought,
Ten thousand thousand rolling Years are nought.
O endless Thought! divine Eternity!
Th’immortal Soul shares but a Part of thee;
For thou wert present when our Life began,
When the warm Dust shot up in breathing Man.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
Not to oversee Workmen, is to leave them your Purse open.
The Wise and Brave dares own that he was wrong.
Cunning proceeds from Want of Capacity.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
The Proud hate Pride—in others.
Who judges best of a Man, his Enemies or himself?
Drunkenness, that worst of Evils, makes some Men Fools, some Beasts, some Devils.
’Tis not a Holiday that’s not kept holy.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
Ere the Foundations of the World were laid,
Ere kindling Light th’Almighty Word obey’d,
Thou wert; and when the subterraneous Flame,
Shall burst its Prison, and devour this Frame,
From angry Heav’n when the keen Lightning flies,
When fervent Heat dissolves the melting Skies,
Thou still shalt be; still as thou wert before,
And know no Change when Time shall be no more.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
On the 6th of this Month [December], 1711, died in England, Mrs. Jane Schrimshaw, aged 127 Years: But England boasts some much longer Livers. James Sands, of Horburn, in the County of Stafford, near Birmingham, lived 140 Years, and his Wife 120, in a perfect State of Health till the Day of their Deaths. He out-liv’d 5 Leases of 21 Years each, all made after his Marriage. Thomas Parr, married his first Wife at 80 Years of Age, by whom he had two Children; his second Wife after he was 120 Years old, by whom he had one Child, and lived till he was something above 150. Henry Jenkins, of the Parish of Bolton, in Yorkshire, died the 8th of this same Month, 1670, aged 169 Years. In these American Parts we have no such very old Men; not that the Climate is unhealthy, but because the present Inhabitants were not born soon enough.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
The Day is of two Sorts, Mean and Solar; the Mean or equal Day is always 24 Hours exactly, and is the Day which all good Pendulum Clocks and Watches should exactly measure. The Solar, apparent, or natural Day, is pointed out by a good Sun Dial; or is that Space of Time that intervenes between the Sun’s leaving a given Meridian in the Heavens, and returning to it again; and does almost perpetually differ from the Mean or equal Day; as consequently a good Pendulum Clock, accurately adjusted, will almost perpetually differ from an exact Sun-Dial. In the preceding Table [see p. 100], you have the Quantity of this Difference in Minutes, for every Day in the Year; with the Titles Add. or Sub. which signifies thus much: If you can gain the exact apparent Time of the Day, either by the Sun’s Rising, Setting, transiting the Meridian, or by a good Sun-Dial, and would set your Clock or Watch to go with the exact equal Time, as it always should do; then, in this Table, find the Number of Minutes standing against the Day of the Month propos’d, and observe the Title above, if Add. or Sub. for according to the Title you must apply the said Minutes to the apparent Time, and the Sum or Difference will be the exact equal Time required; to which you must set your Clock or Watch.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0029. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 84–101.]
Thursday last, after a long Indisposition, died the honourable James Logan, Esq; in the 77th Year of his Age; and on Saturday his Remains were decently interr’d in the Friends Burying Ground, in this City, the Funeral being respectfully attended by the principal Gentlemen and Inhabitants of Philadelphia and the neighbouring Country. His Life was for the most Part a Life of Business, tho’ he had always been passionately fond of Study: He had borne the several Offices of Provincial Secretary, Commissioner of Property, Chief Judge of the Supreme Court, and for near two Years govern’d the Province as President of the Council, in all which publick Stations, as well as in private Life, he behav’d with unblemish’d Integrity: But some Years before his Death he retir’d from publick Affairs to Stenton, his Country Seat, where he enjoy’d among his Books that Leisure which Men of Letters so earnestly desire. He was thoroughly versed both in ancient and modern Learning, acquainted with the Oriental Tongues, a Master of the Greek and Latin, French and Italian Languages, deeply skilled in the Mathematical Sciences, and in Natural and Moral Philosophy, as several Pieces of his Writing witness, which have been repeatedly printed in divers Parts of Europe, and are highly esteemed by the Learned.
“Obituary of James Logan, 7 November 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0067. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, p. 207.]
But the most noble Monument of his Wisdom, Publick Spirit, Benevolence, and affectionate Regard to the People of Pennsylvania, is his Library; which he has been collecting these 50 Years past, with the greatest Care and Judgment, intending it a Benefaction to the Publick for the Increase of Knowledge, and for the common Use and Benefit of all Lovers of Learning. It contains the best Editions of the best Books in various Languages, Arts and Sciences, and is without Doubt the largest, and by far the most valuable Collection of the Kind in this Part of the World, and will convey the Name of Logan thro’ Ages, with Honour, to the latest Posterity.
“Obituary of James Logan, 7 November 1751,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0067. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, p. 207.]
The Vicissitude of Seasons seems to have given Occasion to the first Institution of the Year. Man naturally curious to know the Cause of that Diversity, soon found it was the Nearness and Distance of the Sun; and upon this, gave the Name Year to the Space of Time wherein that Luminary, performing his whole Course, returned to the same Point of his Orbit.
And hence, as it was on Account of the Seasons, in a great Measure, that the Year was instituted, their chief Regard and Attention was, that the same Parts of the Year should always correspond to the same Seasons; i.e. that the Beginning of the Year should always be when the Sun was in the same Point of his Orbit; and that they should keep Pace, come round, and end together.
This, different Nations aimed to attain by different Ways; making the Year to commence from different Points of the Zodiac; and even the Time of his Progress different. So that some of their Years were much more perfect than others, but none of them quite just; i.e. none of them but whose Parts shifted with regard to the Parts of the Sun’s Course.
It was the Egyptians, if we may credit Herodotus, that first formed the Year, making it to contain 360 Days, which they subdivided into twelve Months, of thirty Days each.
Mercury Trismegistus added five Days more to the Account. And on this Footing Thales is said to have instituted the Year among the Greeks. Tho’ that Form of the Year did not hold throughout all Greece. Add that the Jewish, Syrian, Roman, Persian, Ethiopic, Arabic, &c. Years, are all different.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1752,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0082. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–254.]
In effect, considering the poor State of Astronomy in those Ages, it is no Wonder different People should disagree in the Calculus of the Sun’s Course. We are even assured by Diodorus Siculus, Plutarch, and Pliny, that the Egyptian Year itself was at first very different from what it became afterwards.
According to our Account, the Solar Year, or the Interval of Time in which the Sun finishes his Course thro’ the Zodiac, and returns to the same Point thereof from which he had departed, is 365 Days, 5 Hours, 49 Minutes; tho’ some Astronomers make it a few Seconds, and some a whole Minute less; as Kepler, for Instance, who makes it 365 Days, 5 Hours, 48 Minutes, 57 Seconds, 39 Thirds. Ricciolus, 365 Days, 5 Hours, 48 Minutes. Tycho Brahe, 365 Days, 5 Hours, 48 Minutes.
The Civil Year is that Form of the Year which each Nation has contrived to compute Time by; or the Civil is the Tropical Year, considered as only consisting of a certain Number of whole Days; the odd Hours and Minutes being set aside, to render the Computation of Time in the common Occasions of Life more easy.
Hence as the Tropical Year is 365 Days, 5 Hours, 49 Minutes; the Civil Year is 365 Days. And hence also, as it is necessary to keep Pace with the Heavens, it is required that every fourth Year consist of 366 Days, which would for ever keep the Year exactly right, if the odd Hours of each Year were precisely 6.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1752,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0082. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–254.]
The ancient Roman Year, as first settled by Romulus, consisted of ten Months only; viz. I. March, containing 31 Days. II. April, 30. III. May, 31. IV. June 30. V. Quintilis, 31. VI. Sextilis, 30. VII. September, 30. VIII. October, 31. IX. November, 30. X. December, 30; in all 304 Days; which came short of the Solar Year, by 61 Days.
Hence the Beginning of Romulus’s Year was vague, and unfixed to any precise Season; which Inconvenience to remove, that Prince ordered so many Days to be added yearly, as would make the State of the Heavens correspond to the first Month, without incorporating these additional Days, or calling them by the Name of any Month.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1752,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0082. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–254.]
Numa Pompilius corrected this irregular Constitution of the Year, and composed two new Months, January and February, of the Days that were used to be added to the former Year. Thus, Numa’s Year consisted of twelve Months; viz. I. January, containing 29 Days. II. February, 28. III. March, 31. IV. April, 29. V. May, 31. VI. June, 29. VII. Quintilis, 31. VIII. Sextilis, 29. IX. September, 29. X. October, 31. XI. November, 29. XII. December, 29; in all 355 Days, which came short of the common Solar Year by ten Days; so that its Beginning was vague and unfixed.
Numa, however, desiring to have it fixed to the Winter Solstice, ordered 22 Days to be intercalated in February every second Year, 23 every fourth, 22 every sixth, and 23 every eighth Year.
But this Rule failing to keep Matters even, Recourse was had to a new Way of Intercalating; and instead of 23 Days every eighth Year, only 15 were added; and the Care of the whole committed to the Pontifex Maximus, or High Priest; who, neglecting the Trust, let Things run to the utmost Confusion. And thus the Roman Year stood till Julius Caesar made a Reformation.
The Julian Year is a Solar Year, containing commonly 365 Days; tho’ every fourth Year, called Bissextile, contains 366. The Names and Order of the Months of the Julian Year, and the Number of Days in each, are well known to us, having been long in Use.
The astronomical Quantity, therefore, of the Julian Year, is 365 Days, 6 Hours, which exceeds the true Solar Year by 11 Minutes; which Excess in 131 Years amounts to a whole Day. And thus the Roman Year stood, till the Reformation made therein by Pope Gregory.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1752,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0082. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–254.]
Julius Caesar, in the Contrivance of his Form of the Year, was assisted by Sosigenes, a famous Mathematician, called over from Egypt for this very Purpose; who, to supply the Defect of 67 Days which had been lost thro’ the Fault of the High Priests, and to fix the Beginning of the Year to the Winter Solstice, made that Year to consist of 15 Months, or 445 Days; which for that Reason is used to be called Annus Confusionis, the Year of Confusion.
This Form of the Year was used by all Christian Nations, till the Middle of the 16th Century; and still continues to be so by several Nations; among the Rest, by the Swedes, Danes, &c. and by the English till the second of September next, when they are to assume the Use of the Gregorian Year.
The Gregorian Year is the Julian Year corrected by this Rule; that whereas on the common Footing, every Secular or Hundredth Year, is Bissextile; on the new Footing, three of them are common Years, and only the fourth Bissextile.
The Error of eleven Minutes in the Julian Year, little as it was, yet, by being repeated over and over, at length became considerable; and from the Time when Caesar made his Correction, was grown into 13 Days, by which the Equinoxes were greatly disturbed. To remedy this Irregularity, which was still a growing, Pope Gregory the XIII. called together the chief Astronomers of his Time, and concerted this Correction; and to restore the Equinoxes to their Place threw out the ten Days that had been got from the Council of Nice, and which had shifted the fifth of October to the 15th.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1752,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0082. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–254.]
In the Year 1700, the Error of ten Days was grown to eleven; upon which the Protestant States of Germany, to prevent further Confusion, accepted the Gregorian Correction. And now in 1752, the English follow their Example.
Yet is the Gregorian Year far from being perfect, for we have shewn, that, in four Centuries, the Julian Year gains three Days, one Hour, twenty Minutes: But it is only the three Days are kept out in the Gregorian Year; so that here is still an Excess of one Hour, twenty Minutes, in four Centuries; which in 72 Centuries will amount to a whole Day.
As to the Commencement of the Year, the legal Year in England used to begin on the Day of the Annunciation; i.e. on the 25th of March; tho’ the historical Year began on the Day of the Circumcision; i.e. the first of January, on which Day the Italian and German Year also begins; and on which Day ours is to begin from this Time forward, the first Day of January being now by Act of Parliament declared the first Day of the Year 1752.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1752,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0082. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–254.]
Where never Science beam’d a friendly Ray,
Where one vast Blank neglected Nature lay;
From Publick Spirit there, by Arts employ’d,
Creation, varying, glads the chearless Void.
By Arts, which Safety, Treasure and Delight,
On Land, on Wave, in wondrous Works unite!
Myriads made happy, Publick Spirit bless,
Parent of Trade, Wealth, Liberty and Peace.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1752,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0082. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–254.]
Success has ruin’d many a Man.
The too obliging Temper is evermore disobliging itself.
Hold your Council before Dinner; the full Belly hates Thinking as well as Acting.
A Temper to bear much, will have much to bear.
Pride dines upon Vanity, sups on Contempt.
Mankind are very odd Creatures: One Half censure what they practise, the other half practise what they censure; the rest always say and do as they ought.
Severity is often Clemency; Clemency Severity.
’Tis more noble to forgive, and more manly to despise, than to revenge an Injury.
A Brother may not be a Friend, but a Friend will always be a Brother.
Meanness is the Parent of Insolence.
The Prodigal generally does more Injustice than the Covetous.
Generous Minds are all of kin.
For want of a Nail the Shoe is lost; for want of a Shoe, the Horse is lost; for want of a Horse the Rider is lost.
Observe old Vellum; he praises former Times, as if he’d a mind to sell ’em.
Kings have long Arms, but Misfortune longer: Let none think themselves out of her Reach.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1752,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0082. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–254.]
Unlike where Tyranny, the Rod maintains
O’er turfless, leafless and uncultur’d Plains,
Here Herbs of Food and Physic, Plenty showers,
Gives Fruits to blush, and colours various Flowers.
Where Sands or stony Wilds once starv’d the Year,
Laughs the green Lawn, and nods the golden Ear.
White shine the fleecy Race, which Fate shall doom,
The Feast of Life, the Treasure of the Loom.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1752,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0082. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–254.]
What tho’ no Arch of Triumph is assign’d
To laurel’d Pride, whose Sword has thinn’d Mankind;
Tho’ no vast Wall extends from Coast to Coast,
No Pyramid aspires sublimely lost.
Lo! stately Streets, lo! ample Squares invite
The salutary Gale that breathes Delight.
Lo! Structures mark the hospitable Strand,
Where Charity extends her tender Hand;
The busy Man has few idle Visitors; to the boiling Pot the Flies come not.
Calamity and Prosperity are the Touchstones of Integrity.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1752,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0082. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–254.]
Where the sick Stranger joys to find a Home,
Where casual Ill, maim’d Labour, freely come;
Those worn with Age, Infirmity or Care,
Find Rest, Relief, and Health returning fair.
There too the Walls of rising Schools ascend,
For Publick Spirit still is Learning’s Friend,
Where Science, Virtue, sown with liberal Hand,
In future Patriots shall inspire the Land.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1752,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0082. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–254.]
“No! By each honour’d Grecian Roman Name,
By Men for Virtue Deified by Fame,
Who peopled Lands, who model’d infant State,
And then bad Empire be maturely great,
By These I swear (be witness Earth and Skies!)
Fair Order here shall from Confusion rise,
Rapt I a future Colony survey!
Come then, ye Sons of Mis’ry! come away!
“Poor Richard Improved, 1752,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0082. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–254.]
The Brave and the Wise can both pity and excuse; when Cowards and Fools shew no Mercy.
Ceremony is not Civility; nor Civility Ceremony.
If Man could have Half his Wishes, he would double his Troubles.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1752,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0082. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–254.]
“Let Those, whose Sorrows from Neglect are known,
(Here taught compell’d empower’d) Neglect attone!
Let Those enjoy (who never merit Woes)
In Youth th’industrious Wish, in Age Repose!
Allotted Acres (no reluctant Soil)
Shall prompt their Industry, and pay their Toil.
Let Families, long Strangers to Delight,
Whom wayward Fate dispers’d, by Me unite;
It is ill Jesting with the Joiner’s Tools, worse with the Doctor’s.
Children and Princes will quarrel for Trifles.
Praise to the undeserving, is severe Satyr.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1752,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0082. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–254.]
“Here live enjoying Life, see Plenty, Peace;
Their Lands encreasing as their Sons increase!
As Nature yet is found in leafy Glades
To intermix the Walks with Lights and Shades;
Or as with Good and Ill, in chequer’d Strife,
Various the Goddess colours human Life;
So in this fertile Clime if yet are seen
Moors, Marshes, Cliffs, by Turns to intervene:
“Poor Richard Improved, 1752,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0082. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–254.]
Great Pride and Meanness sure are near ally’d;
Or thin Partitions do their Bounds divide.
“Where Cliffs, Moors, Marshes desolate the View,
Where haunts the Bittern, and where screams the Mew,
Where prowls the Wolf, where roll’d the Serpent lies,
Shall solemn Fanes, and Halls of Justice rise.
And Towns shall open (all of Structure fair!)
To bright’ning Prospects, and to purest Air,
Frequented Ports and Vineyards green succeed,
And Flocks encreasing whiten all the Mead;
On Science Science, Arts on Arts refine;
On these from high all Heav’n shall smiling shine,
And Publick Spirit here a People show,
Free num’rous pleas’d and busy all below.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1752,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0082. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–254.]
Learn future Natives of this promis’d Land,
What your Forefathers ow’d my saving Hand!
Learn when Despair such sudden Bliss shall see,
Such Bliss must shine from Providence thro’ me!
Do you the neighb’ring blameless Indian aid,
Culture what he neglects, not His invade;
Dare not, oh dare not, with ambitious View,
Force or demand Subjection never due;
Let by My specious Name no Tyrants rise,
And cry, while they enslave, they civilize!
Know, Liberty and I are still the same,
Congenial!—ever mingling Flame with Flame!
Nor let me Afric’s sable Children see,
Vended for Slaves tho’ form’d by Nature free;
If These you dare, albeit unjust Success
Empow’rs you now unpunish’d to oppress,
Revolving Empire you and yours may doom
(Rome all subdu’d, yet Vandals vanquish’d Rome)
Yes, Empire may revolve, give them the Day,
And Yoke may Yoke, and Blood may Blood repay.”
“Poor Richard Improved, 1752,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0082. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–254.]
Thus (Ah! how far unequall’d by my Lays,
Unskill’d the Heart to melt or Mind to raise)
Sublime benevolent deep sweetly clear,
Worthy a Thomson’s Muse, an ----’s Ear,
Thus spoke the Goddess. Thus I faintly tell
In what lov’d Works Heav’n gives her to excel.
But who her Sons, that to her Int’rest true,
Still plan with Wisdom, and with Zeal pursue?
These found most frequent in Life’s middle State,
Rich without Gold, and without Titles great:
Knowledge of Books and Men exalts their Thought,
In Wit accomplish’d tho’ in Wiles untaught,
Careless of Whispers meant to wound their Name,
Nor sneer’d nor brib’d from Virtue into Shame;
In Letters elegant, in Honour bright,
Form’d to give Happiness, their sole Delight.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1752,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0082. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–254.]
When Gifts like these conferr’d by bounteous Heav’n,
Talents and Will to the same Person giv’n,
The Man ennobled doth an Hero rise,
Fame and his Virtues lift him to the Skies.
While we admire what we can’t imitate,
Deny’d by Nature, and forbid by Fate.
O! were I form’d to share this heav’nly Fire,
In Parts and Pow’rs strong as in Desire,
Moses, Lycurgus, Numa I revere,
Their Wisdom great, their Love to Man sincere,
By Publick Spirit rank’d the first of Men,
Yet I’d not envy them, nor even P------.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1752,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0082. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 243–254.]
’Tis against some Mens Principle to pay Interest, and seems against others Interest to pay the Principal.
Philosophy as well as Foppery often changes Fashion.
Setting too good an Example is a Kind of Slander seldom forgiven; ’tis Scandalum Magnatum.
A great Talker may be no Fool, but he is one that relies on him.
When Reason preaches, if you won’t hear her she’ll box your Ears.
It is not Leisure that is not used.
The Good-will of the Governed will be starv’d, if not fed by the good Deeds of the Governors.
Paintings and Fightings are best seen at a distance.
If you would reap Praise you must sow the Seeds,
Gentle Words and useful Deeds.
Ignorance leads Men into a Party, and Shame keeps them from getting out again.
Haste makes Waste.
Many have quarrel’d about Religion, that never practis’d it.
Sudden Power is apt to be insolent, Sudden Liberty saucy; that behaves best which has grown gradually.
He that best understands the World, least likes it.
Anger is never without a Reason, but seldom with a good One.
He that is of Opinion Money will do every Thing, may well be suspected of doing every Thing for Money.
An ill Wound, but not an ill Name, may be healed.
When out of Favour, none know thee; when in, thou dost not know thyself.
A lean Award is better than a fat Judgment.
God, Parents, and Instructors, can never be requited.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1753,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0148. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 403–409.]
He that builds before he counts the Cost, acts foolishly; and he that counts before he builds, finds he did not count wisely.
Patience in Market, is worth Pounds in a Year.
Danger is Sauce for Prayers.
If you have no Honey in your Pot, have some in your Mouth.
A Pair of good Ears will drain dry an hundred Tongues.
Serving God is Doing Good to Man, but Praying is thought an easier Service, and therefore more generally chosen.
Nothing humbler than Ambition, when it is about to climb.
The discontented Man finds no easy Chair.
Virtue and a Trade, are a Child’s best Portion.
Gifts much expected, are paid, not given.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1753,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0148. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 403–409.]
How to secure Houses, &c. from Lightning.
It has pleased God in his Goodness to Mankind, at length to discover to them the Means of securing their Habitations and other Buildings from Mischief by Thunder and Lightning. The Method is this: Provide a small Iron Rod (it may be made of the Rod-iron used by the Nailers) but of such a Length, that one End being three or four Feet in the moist Ground, the other may be six or eight Feet above the highest Part of the Building. To the upper End of the Rod fasten about a Foot of Brass Wire, the Size of a common Knitting-needle, sharpened to a fine Point; the Rod may be secured to the House by a few small Staples. If the House or Barn be long, there may be a Rod and Point at each End, and a middling Wire along the Ridge from one to the other. A House thus furnished will not be damaged by Lightning, it being attracted by the Points, and passing thro the Metal into the Ground without hurting any Thing. Vessels also, having a sharp pointed Rod fix’d on the Top of their Masts, with a Wire from the Foot of the Rod reaching down, round one of the Shrouds, to the Water, will not be hurt by Lightning.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1753,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-04-02-0148. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 4, July 1, 1750, through June 30, 1753, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1961, pp. 403–409.]
The first Astrologers I think, were honest Husbandmen; and so it seems are the last; for my Brethren Jerman and Moore, and myself, the only remaining Almanack-makers of this Country, are all of that Class: Tho’ in intermediate Times our Art has been cultivated in great Cities, and even in the Courts of Princes; witness History, from the Days of King Nebuchadnezzar I. of Babylon, to those of Queen James I. of England. But you will ask, perhaps, how I prove that the first Astrologers were Countrymen? I own this is a Matter beyond the Memory of History, for Astrology was before Letters; but I prove it from the Book of the Heavens, from the Names of the twelve Signs, which were mostly given to remark some Circumstance relative to rural Affairs, in the several successive Months of the Year, and by that Means to supply the Want of Almanacks. Thus, as the Year of the Ancients began most naturally with the Spring, Aries and Taurus, that is, the Ram and the Bull, represented the successive Addition to their Flocks of Sheep and Kine, by their Produce in that Season, Lambs and Calves. Gemini were originally the Kids, but called the Twins, as Goats more commonly bring forth two than one: These follow’d the Calves. Cancer, the Crab, came next, when that Kind of Fish were in Season. Then follow’d Leo, the Lion, and Virgo, the Wench, to mark the Summer Months, and Dog-days, when those Creatures were most mischievous.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1754,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-05-02-0051. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 5, July 1, 1753, through March 31, 1755, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1962, pp. 181–185.]
In Autumn comes first Libra, the Ballance, to point out the Time for weighing and selling the Summer’s Produce; or rather, a Time of Leisure for holding Courts of Justice in which they might plague themselves and Neighbours; I know some suppose this Sign to signify the equal Poise, at that Time, of Day and Night; but the other Signification is the truer, as plainly appears by the following Sign Scorpio, or the Scorpion, with the Sting in his Tail, which certainly denotes the Paying of Costs. Then follows Sagittary, the Archer, to show the Season of Hunting; for now the Leaves being off the Trees and Bushes, the Game might be more easily seen and struck with their Arrows. The Goat accompanies the short Days and long Nights of Winter, to shew the Season of Mirth, Feasting and Jollity; for what can Capricorn mean, but Dancing or Cutting of Capers? At length comes Aquarius, or the Water-bearer, to show the Season of Snows, Rains and Floods; and lastly Pisces, or the two Shads, to denote the approaching Return of those Fish up the Rivers: Make your Wears, hawl your Seins; Catch ’em and pickle ’em, my Friends; they are excellent Relishers of old Cyder. But if you can’t get Shad, Mackrell may do better.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1754,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-05-02-0051. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 5, July 1, 1753, through March 31, 1755, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1962, pp. 181–185.]
I know, gentle Readers, that many of you always expect a Preface, and think yourselves slighted if that’s omitted. So here you have it, and much good may’t do ye. As little as it is to the Purpose, there are many less so, now-a-days. I have left out, you see, all the usual Stuff about the Importunity of Friends, and the like, or I might have made it much bigger. You think, however, that ’tis big enough o’Conscience, for any Matter of Good that’s in it; I think so too, if it fills the Page, which is the Needful at present, from Your loving Friend to serve,
R. Saunders
“Poor Richard Improved, 1754,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-05-02-0051. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 5, July 1, 1753, through March 31, 1755, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1962, pp. 181–185.]
The first Degree of Folly, is to conceit one’s self wise; the second to profess it; the third to despise Counsel.
Take heed of the Vinegar of sweet Wine, and the Anger of Good-nature.
The Bell calls others to Church, but itself never minds the Sermon.
Cut the Wings of your Hens and Hopes, lest they lead you a weary Dance after them.
In Rivers and bad Governments, the lightest Things swim at top.
The Cat in Gloves catches no Mice.
If you’d know the Value of Money, go and borrow some.
The Horse thinks one thing, and he that saddles him another.
Love your Neighbour; yet don’t pull down your Hedge.
When Prosperity was well mounted, she let go the Bridle, and soon came tumbling out of the Saddle.
Some make Conscience of wearing a Hat in the Church, who make none of robbing the Altar.
In the Affairs of this World Men are saved, not by Faith, but by the Want of it.
Friendship cannot live with Ceremony, nor without Civility.
Praise little, dispraise less.
The learned Fool writes his Nonsense in better Language than the unlearned; but still ’tis Nonsense.
A child thinks 20 Shillings and 20 years can scarce ever be spent.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1754,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-05-02-0051. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 5, July 1, 1753, through March 31, 1755, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1962, pp. 181–185.]
Don’t think so much of your own Cunning, as to forget other Mens: A cunning Man is overmatch’d by a cunning Man and a Half.
Willows are weak, but they bind the Faggot.
You may give a Man an Office, but you cannot give him Discretion.
He that doth what he should not, shall feel what he would not.
To be intimate with a foolish Friend, is like going to bed to a Razor.
Little Rogues easily become great Ones.
You may sometimes be much in the wrong, in owning your being in the right.
Friends are the true Sceptres of Princes.
Where Sense is wanting, every thing is wanting.
Many Princes sin with David, but few repent with him.
He that hath no ill Fortune will be troubled with good.
For Age and Want save while you may;
No Morning Sun lasts a whole Day.
Learning to the Studious; Riches to the Careful; Power to the Bold; Heaven to the Virtuous.
Now glad the Poor with Christmas Cheer;
Thank God you’re able so to end the Year.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1754,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-05-02-0051. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 5, July 1, 1753, through March 31, 1755, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1962, pp. 181–185.]
It is a common Saying, that One Half of the World does not know how the other Half lives. To add somewhat to your Knowledge in that Particular, I gave you in a former Almanack, an Account of the Manner of living at Hudson’s-Bay, and the Effects produced by the excessive Cold of that Climate, which seem’d so strange to some of you, that it was taken for a Romance, tho’ really authentick. In this, I shall give you some Idea of a Country under the Torrid Zone, which for the Variety of its Weather (where one would naturally expect the greatest Uniformity) is extreamly remarkable. The Account is extracted from the Journal of Monsieur Bouguer, one of the French Academicians, sent by their King to measure a Degree of Latitude under the Equinoctial, in order to settle a Dispute between the English and French Philosophers concerning the Shape of the Earth, others being at the same Time sent for the same Purpose to Lapland, under the Polar Circle. The Mountains in that Country are so lofty, that the highest we have, being compared to them, are mere Mole-hills. This Extract relates chiefly to the Country among those Mountains.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1755,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-05-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 5, July 1, 1753, through March 31, 1755, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1962, pp. 467–475.]
Happy the Man, who free from noisy Sports,
And all the Pomp and Pageantry of Courts:
Far from the venal World can live secure,
Be moral, honest, virtuous — tho’ but poor,
Who walking still by Equity’s just Rules,
Detesting sordid Knaves, and flatt’ring Fools:
Regarding neither Fortune, Pow’r, nor State,
Nor ever wishing to be vainly great,
Without Malevolence and Spleen can live,
And what his Neighbour wants, with Joy would give;
A Foe to Pride, no Passion’s guilty Friend,
Obeying Nature, faithful to her End;
Severe in Manners, as in Truth severe,
Just to himself, and to his Friends sincere;
His Temper even, and his steady Mind
Refin’d by Friendship, and by Books refin’d.
Some low-roof’d Cottage holds the happy Swain,
Unknown to Lux’ry, or her servile Train;
He studying Nature grows serenely wise,
Like Socrates he lives, or like him dies.
He asks no Glory gain’d by hostile Arms,
Nor sighs for Grandeur with her painted Charms.
With calm Indiff’rence views the shifting Scene,
Thro’ all magnanimous, resign’d, serene.
On Hope sustain’d he treads Life’s devious Road,
And knows no Fear, except the Fear of God.
Would Heav’n indulgent grant my fond Desire,
Thus would I live, and thus should Life expire.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1755,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-05-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 5, July 1, 1753, through March 31, 1755, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1962, pp. 467–475.]
Still like his Master, known by breaking Bread,
The Good he entertain’d, the Needy fed;
Of Humour easy, and of Life unblam’d,
The Friend delighted, while the Priest reclaim’d.
The Friend, the Father, and the Husband gone,
The Priest still lives in this recording Stone;
Where pious Eyes may read his Praises o’er,
And learn each Grace his Pulpit taught before.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1755,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-05-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 5, July 1, 1753, through March 31, 1755, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1962, pp. 467–475.]
Here lies, who need not here be nam’d,
For Theologic Knowledge fam’d;
Who all the Bible had by rote,
With all the Comments Calvin wrote;
Parsons and Jesuits could confute,
Talk Infidels and Quakers mute,
To every Heretick a Foe;
Was he an honest Man? —— So so.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1755,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-05-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 5, July 1, 1753, through March 31, 1755, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1962, pp. 467–475.]
O happy he! happiest of mortal Men!
Who far remov’d from Slavery, as from Pride,
Fears no Man’s Frown, nor cringing waits to catch
The gracious Nothing of a great Man’s Nod;
Where the lac’d Beggar bustles for a Bribe,
The Purchase of his Honour; where Deceit,
And Fraud, and Circumvention, drest in Smiles,
“Poor Richard Improved, 1755,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-05-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 5, July 1, 1753, through March 31, 1755, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1962, pp. 467–475.]
When the Wine enters, out goes the Truth.
If you would be loved, love and be loveable.
A Man without a Wife, is but half a Man.
Speak little, do much.
He that would travel much, should eat little.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1755,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-05-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 5, July 1, 1753, through March 31, 1755, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1962, pp. 467–475.]
Hold shameful Commerce, and beneath the Mask
Of Friendship and Sincerity, betray.
Him, nor the stately Mansion’s gilded Pride,
Rich with whate’er the imitative Arts,
Painting or Sculpture, yield to charm the Eye;
Nor shining Heaps of massy Plate, enwrought
With curious, costly Workmanship, allure.
Tempted nor with the Pride nor Pomp of Power,
“Poor Richard Improved, 1755,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-05-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 5, July 1, 1753, through March 31, 1755, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1962, pp. 467–475.]
Nor Pageants of Ambition, nor the Mines
Of grasping Av’rice, nor the poison’d Sweets
Of pamper’d Luxury, he plants his Foot
With Firmness on his old paternal Fields,
And stands unshaken. There sweet Prospects rise
Of Meadows smiling in their flow’ry Pride,
Green Hills and Dales, and Cottages embower’d,
The Scenes of Innocence, and calm Delight.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1755,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-05-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 5, July 1, 1753, through March 31, 1755, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1962, pp. 467–475.]
There the wild Melody of warbling Birds,
And cool refreshing Groves, and murmuring Springs,
Invite to sacred Thought, and lift the Mind
From low Pursuits, to meditate the God!
Rural Life in a higher Class.
But sing, O Muse! the Swain, the happy Swain,
Whom Taste and Nature leading o’er his Fields,
Where there is Hunger, Law is not regarded; and where Law is not regarded, there will be Hunger.
Two dry Sticks will burn a green One.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1755,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-05-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 5, July 1, 1753, through March 31, 1755, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1962, pp. 467–475.]
Conduct to every rural Beauty. See!
Before his Footsteps winds the waving Walk,
Here gently rising, there descending slow
Thro’ the tall Grove, or near the Water’s Brink,
Where Flow’rs besprinkled paint the shelving Bank,
And weeping Willows bend to kiss the Stream.
Now wand’ring o’er the Lawn he roves, and now
Beneath the Hawthorn’s secret Shade reclines;
The honest Man takes Pains, and then enjoys Pleasures; the Knave takes Pleasure, and then suffers Pains.
Think of three Things, whence you came, where you are going, and to whom you must account.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1755,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-05-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 5, July 1, 1753, through March 31, 1755, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1962, pp. 467–475.]
Where purple Violets hang their bashful Heads,
Where yellow Cowslips, and the blushing Pink,
Their mingled Sweets, and lovely Hues combine.
Here, shelter’d from the North, his ripening Fruits
Display their sweet Temptations from the Wall,
Or from the gay Espalier; while below,
His various Esculents, from glowing Beds,
Give the fair Promise of delicious Feasts.
Necessity has no Law; Why? Because ’tis not to be had without Money.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1755,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-05-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 5, July 1, 1753, through March 31, 1755, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1962, pp. 467–475.]
There was never a good Knife made of bad Steel.
The Wolf sheds his Coat once a Year, his Disposition never.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1755,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-05-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 5, July 1, 1753, through March 31, 1755, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1962, pp. 467–475.]
There from his forming Hand new Scenes arise,
The fair Creation of his Fancy’s Eye.
Lo! bosom’d in the solemn shady Grove,
Whose rev’rend Branches wave on yonder Hill,
He views the Moss-grown Temple’s ruin’d Tower,
Cover’d with creeping Ivy’s cluster’d Leaves,
The Mansion seeming of some rural God,
Whom Nature’s Choristers, in untaught Hymns
Who is wise? He that learns from every One.
Who is powerful? He that governs his Passions.
Who is rich? He that is content.
Who is that? Nobody.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1755,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-05-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 5, July 1, 1753, through March 31, 1755, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1962, pp. 467–475.]
Of wild yet sweetest Harmony, adore.
From the bold Brow of that aspiring Steep,
Where hang the nibbling Flocks, and view below
Their downward Shadows in the glassy Wave,
What pleasing Landscapes spread before his Eye!
Of scatter’d Villages, and winding Streams,
And Meadows green, and Woods, and distant Spires,
Seeming, above the blue Horizon’s Bound,
A full Belly brings forth every Evil.
The Day is short, the Work great, the Workmen lazy, the Wages high, the Master urgeth; Up, then, and be doing.
The Doors of Wisdom are never shut.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1755,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-05-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 5, July 1, 1753, through March 31, 1755, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1962, pp. 467–475.]
To prop the Canopy of Heaven. Now lost
Amidst a blooming Wilderness of Shrubs,
The golden Orange, Arbute ever green,
The early blooming Almond, feathery Pine,
Fair Opulus,* to Spring, to Autumn dear,
And the sweet Shades of varying Verdure, caught
Much Virtue in Herbs, little in Men.
The Master’s Eye will do more Work than both his Hands.
When you taste Honey, remember Gall.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1755,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-05-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 5, July 1, 1753, through March 31, 1755, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1962, pp. 467–475.]
From soft Acacia’s gently waving Branch,
Heedless he wanders; while the grateful Scents
Of Sweet-briar, Roses, Honeysuckles wild,
Regale the Smell; and to th’enchanted Eye
Mezareon’s purple Laurustinus’ white,
And pale Laburnum’s pendant Flow’rs display
Their diff’rent Beauties. O’er the smooth shorn Grass
His lingering Footsteps leisurely proceed,
Being ignorant is not so much a Shame, as being unwilling to learn.
God gives all Things to Industry.
An hundred Thieves cannot strip one naked Man, especially if his Skin’s off.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1755,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-05-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 5, July 1, 1753, through March 31, 1755, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1962, pp. 467–475.]
In Meditation deep: When, hark! the Sound
Of distant Water steals upon his Ear;
And sudden opens to his pausing Eye
The rapid rough Cascade, from the rude Rock
Down dashing in a stream of lucid Foam:
Then glides away, meand’ring o’er the Lawn,
A liquid Surface; shining seen afar,
At Intervals, beneath the shadowy Trees;
Diligence overcomes Difficulties, Sloth makes them.
Neglect mending a small Fault, and ’twill soon be a great One.
Bad Gains are truly Losses.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1755,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-05-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 5, July 1, 1753, through March 31, 1755, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1962, pp. 467–475.]
Till lost and bury’d in the distant Grove.
Wrapt into sacred Musing, he reclines
Beneath the Covert of embow’ring Shades;
And, painting to his Mind the bustling Scenes
Of Pride and bold Ambition, pities Kings.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1755,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-05-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 5, July 1, 1753, through March 31, 1755, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1962, pp. 467–475.]
A long Life may not be good enough, but a good Life is long enough.
Be at War with your Vices, at Peace with your Neighbours, and let every New-Year find you a better Man.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1755,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-05-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 5, July 1, 1753, through March 31, 1755, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1962, pp. 467–475.]
I suppose my Almanack may be worth the Money thou hast paid for it, hadst thou no other Advantage from it, than to find the Day of the Month, the remarkable Days, the Changes of the Moon, the Sun and Moon’s Rising and Setting, and to foreknow the Tides and the Weather; these, with other Astronomical Curiosities, I have yearly and constantly prepared for thy Use and Entertainment, during now near two Revolutions of the Planet Jupiter. But I hope this is not all the advantage thou hast reaped; for with a View to the Improvement of thy Mind and thy Estate, I have constantly interspers’d in every little Vacancy, Moral Hints, Wise Sayings, and Maxims of Thrift, tending to impress the Benefits arising from Honesty, Sobriety, Industry and Frugality; which if thou hast duly observed, it is highly probable thou art wiser and richer many fold more than the Pence my Labours have cost thee.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1756,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-06-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 6, April 1, 1755, through September 30, 1756, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 315–339.]
Astronomy, hail, Science heavenly born!
Thy Schemes the Life assist, the Mind adorn.
To changing Seasons give determin’d Space,
And fix to Hours and Years their measur’d Race
The pointing Dial, on whose figur’d Plane,
Of Time’s still Flight we Notices obtain;
The Pendulum, dividing lesser Parts,
Their Rise acquire from thy inventive Arts.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1756,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-06-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 6, April 1, 1755, through September 30, 1756, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 315–339.]
A Change of Fortune hurts a wise Man no more than a Change of the Moon.
There is no Virtue, the Honour whereof gets a Man more Envy, than that of Justice, because it procures great Authority among the common People; they only revere the Valiant, and admire the Wise, while they truly love Just Men; for in these they have intire Trust and Confidence, but of the former, they always fear one, and mistrust the other. They look on Valour as a certain natural Ferment of the Mind, and Wisdom as the Effect of a fine Constitution, or a happy Education; but a Man has it in his own Power to be just; and that is the Reason it is so dishonourable to be otherwise; as Waller handsomely expresses it,
Of all the Virtues, Justice is the best,
Valour, without it, is a common Pest;
Pirates and Thieves, too oft with Courage grac’d,
Shew us how ill that Virtue may be plac’d;
’Tis Constitution makes us chaste and brave,
Justice from Reason and from Heav’n we have;
Our other Virtues dwell but in the Blood,
That in the Soul, and gives the Name of Good.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1756,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-06-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 6, April 1, 1755, through September 30, 1756, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 315–339.]
Religion is so far from barring Men any innocent Pleasure, or Comfort of human Life, that it purifies the Pleasures of it, and renders them more grateful and generous; and besides this, it brings mighty Pleasures of its own, those of a glorious Hope, a serene Mind, a calm and undisturbed Conscience, which far outrelish the most studied artificial Luxuries. But hereafter,
How will the sensual Mind its Loss sustain,
When its gross Objects shall be sought in vain?
Incapable to act its darling Lust,
Yet spurr’d and prompted by a sharper Gust;
Pain’d for its Choice, would still its Choice resume,
Which (by sure Want) but more augments the Doom,
Made by wise Heav’n at one Conjunctive Time,
Its Wish and Grief, its Punishment and Crime.
Nought there the destin’d Wretched e’er shall find
To please the Senses, or relieve the Mind;
No luscious Banquet, or delicious Bowl,
To drown, in lewd Excess, th’intemperate Soul;
Nor gay Amusement more, nor jovial Throng,
That to their thoughtless Hours did once belong!
“Poor Richard Improved, 1756,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-06-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 6, April 1, 1755, through September 30, 1756, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 315–339.]
When frequent Travels had th’instructive Chart
Supply’d, the Prize of Philosophic Art!
Two curious mimic Globes, to crown the Plan,
Were form’d; by his Creator’S Image, Man.
The first, with Heav’n’s bright Constellations vast,
Rang’d on the Surface, with th’ Earth’s Climes the last.
Copy of this by human Race possest,
Which Lands indent, and spacious Seas invest.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1756,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-06-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 6, April 1, 1755, through September 30, 1756, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 315–339.]
Laws too gentle are seldom obeyed; too severe, seldom executed.
Trouble springs from Idleness; Toil from Ease.
Love, and be loved.
Be civil to all; serviceable to many; familiar with few; Friend to one; Enemy to none.
Vain-glory flowereth, but beareth no Fruit.
Love your Enemies, for they tell you your Faults.
He that has a Trade, has an Office of Profit and Honour.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1756,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-06-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 6, April 1, 1755, through September 30, 1756, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 315–339.]
The Wit of Conversation consists more in finding it in others, than shewing a great deal yourself. He who goes out of your Company pleased with his own Facetiousness and Ingenuity, will the sooner come into it again. Most Men had rather please than admire you and seek less to be instructed and diverted, than approved and applauded; and it is certainly the most delicate Sort of Pleasure, to please another.
But that Sort of Wit, which employs itself insolently in Criticising and Censuring the Words and Sentiments of others in Conversation, is absolute Folly; for it answers none of the Ends of Conversation. He who uses it, neither improves others, is improved himself, or pleases any one. How amiably contrary is Pope’s Character of a Critic.
——the Man who Counsel can bestow,
Still pleas’d to teach, and yet not proud to know?
Unbias’d, or by Favour, or by Spite;
Not dully prepossess’d, or blindly right;
Tho’ learn’d, well-bred; and tho’ well-bred, sincere;
Modestly bold, and humanly severe:
Who to a Friend his Faults can freely show,
And gladly praise the Merit of a Foe;
Blest with a Taste exact, yet unconfin’d,
A Knowledge both of Books and human Kind;
Gen’rous Converse, a Soul exempt from Pride,
And Love to praise, and Reason on its Side.
Such once were Critics, such the happy Few,
Athens and Rome in better Ages knew.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1756,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-06-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 6, April 1, 1755, through September 30, 1756, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 315–339.]
Fram’d on imaginary Poles to move,
With Lines, and different Circles mark’d above.
The pleasur’d Sense, by this Machine can tell,
In what Position various Nations dwell;
Round the wide Orb’s exterior Surface spread;
How side-ways some the solid Convex tread:
While a more sever’d Race of busy Pow’rs
Project, with strange Reverse, their Feet to ours.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1756,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-06-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 6, April 1, 1755, through September 30, 1756, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 315–339.]
So on the Apple’s smooth suspended Ball,
(If greater we may represent by small)
The swarming Flies their reptile Tribes divide,
And cling Antipodal on every Side.
Hence pleasant Problems may the Mind discern
Of ev’ry Soil their Length of Days to learn;
Can tell when round, to each fix’d Place, shall come,
Faint Dawn, Meridian Light, or Midnight Gloom.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1756,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-06-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 6, April 1, 1755, through September 30, 1756, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 315–339.]
These Gifts to Astronomic Art we owe,
Its Use extensive, yet its Growth but slow.
If back we look on ancient Sages Schemes,
They seem ridiculous as Childrens Dreams;
How shall the Church, that boasts unerring Truth,
Blush at the Raillery of each modern Youth,
When told her Pope,* of Heresy arraign’d
The Sage,† who Earth’s Rotation once maintain’d?
“Poor Richard Improved, 1756,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-06-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 6, April 1, 1755, through September 30, 1756, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 315–339.] Note: * Urban VIII. † Galileo.
Laziness travels so slowly, that Poverty soon overtakes him.
Sampson with his strong Body, had a weak Head, or he would not have laid it in a Harlot’s Lap.
A false Friend and a Shadow, attend only while the Sun shines.
To-morrow, every Fault is to be amended; but that To-morrow never comes.
A wise Man will desire no more, than what he may get justly, use soberly, distribute chearfully, and leave contentedly.
The diligent Spinner has a large Shift.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1756,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-06-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 6, April 1, 1755, through September 30, 1756, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 315–339.]
Lewis Cornaro, a Venetian of Quality and Learning, wrote a Book of the Benefits of a sober Life, and produced himself as a Testimony. He says, to the fortieth Year of his Age, he was continually perplex’d with Variety of Infirmities; at last he grew so careful of his Diet, that in one Year, he was almost freed from all his Diseases, and never after used Physick: He continued thus temperate all the rest of his Life, sound, chearful and vegete, and was so entire and perfect in his Strength at fourscore Years, as to be able to walk, ride, hunt, and perform every Office of Life as well as in his Youth. At length he died in his Chair, with very little Pain or Sickness, all his Senses being entire to the last, tho’ in the 120th Year of his Age.
——Mark, what Blessings flow
From frugal temperate Meals; ’tis they bestow
That prime of Blessings, health. All will confess
That various Meats the Stomach much oppress.
All may reflect how light, how well they were,
When plain and simple was their chearful Fare.
Who down to Sleep from a short Supper lies,
Can to the next Day’s Business chearful rise,
Or jovially indulge, when the round Year
Brings back the festal Day to better Chear,
Or when his wasted Strength he would restore
When Years approach, and Age’s feeble Hour
A softer Treatment claim. But if in Prime
Of Youth and Health, you take, before your Time,
The Luxuries of Life, where is their Aid
When Age and Sickness shall your Strength invade.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1756,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-06-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 6, April 1, 1755, through September 30, 1756, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 315–339.]
Vain Epicurus, and his frantic Class,
Misdeem’d our Globe a plane quadrangle Mass;
A fine romantic Terras, spread in State,
On central Pillars that support its Weight;
Like Indian Sophs, who this terrestrial Mould,
Affirm, four sturdy Elephants uphold:
The Sun, new ev’ry Morn, flat, small of Size,
Just what it measures to the naked Eyes.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1756,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-06-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 6, April 1, 1755, through September 30, 1756, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 315–339.]
It is observable that God has often called Men to Places of Dignity and Honour, when they have been busy in the honest Employment of their Vocation. Saul was seeking his Father’s Asses, and David keeping his Father’s Sheep when called to the Kingdom. The Shepherds were feeding their Flocks, when they had their glorious Revelation. God called the four Apostles from their Fishery, and Matthew from the Receipt of Custom; Amos from among the Herdsmen of Tekoah, Moses from keeping Jethro’s Sheep, and Gideon from the Threshing Floor, &c. God never encourages Idleness, and despises not Persons in the meanest Employments.
Learn of the Bees, see to their Toils they run
In clust’ring Swarms, and labour in the Sun:
See ’em instruct in Work their buzzing Race,
The Sweets to gather, and to form the Mass.
The busy Nation flies from Flow’r to Flow’r,
And hoards, in curious Cells, the golden Store.
The little Ant (Example too, to Man
Of Care and Labour) gathers all she can,
And brings it to enlarge her Heap at Home,
Against the Winter, which she knows will come.
Man’s Understanding, dull’d by Idleness,
Contracts a Rust, that makes it daily less.
Unless you often plow the fruitful Field,
No Grain, but mix’d with Thistles, will it yield.
Ill runs the Horse, and hindmost in the Race,
Who long has been unpractic’d in the Chace.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1756,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-06-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 6, April 1, 1755, through September 30, 1756, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 315–339.]
As pos’d the Stagyrite’s dark School appears,
Perplex’d with Tales devis’d of Chrystal Spheres,
Strange solid Orbs, and Circles oddly fram’d;
Who with Philosophy their Reveries nam’d.
How long did Ptolomy’s dark Riddle spread,
With Doubts deep puzzling each scholastic Head,
Till, like the Theban wise in Story fam’d,
Copernicus that Sphynxian Monster sham’d;
Plough deep, while Sluggards sleep;
And you shall have Corn, to sell and to keep.
He that sows Thorns, should never go barefoot.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1756,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-06-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 6, April 1, 1755, through September 30, 1756, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 315–339.]
Cornaro, among other Advantages arising from Temperance, mentions this as a material one, that a Man by outliving his Competitors, arrives at higher Dignities, and more profitable Employments, and by keeping his Mind clear, and his Body in Health, improves his Knowledge and Abilities, and can execute those Employments with greater Reputation. He might have added, That by living long, a Man long enjoys the Reputation and Fame he may have acquired. Aristotle was much more famous after his Death than during his Life; but Newton, who lived to the Age of 85, had been 60 Years a distinguish’d Philosopher, and many Years before he dy’d was universally esteem’d and admir’d. If Praise be, as Plato said, the sweetest Kind of Music, Newton long enjoy’d a Concert of that Music; and the following Lines were by many thought not too extravagant for his Epitaph.
Approach, ye wise of Soul, with Awe divine,
’Tis Newton’s Name that consecrates this Shrine!
That Sun of Knowledge, whose meridian Ray
Kindled the Gloom of Nature into Day!
That Soul of Science! That unbounded Mind!
That Genius, which exalted human Kind!
Confest supreme of Men! his Country’s Pride!
And half esteem’d an Angel, till he dy’d;
Who in the Eye of Heav’n like Enoch stood,
And thro’ the Paths of Knowledge walk’d with God;
Who made his Fame, a Sea without a Shore,
And but forsook one World to know the Laws of more.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1756,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-06-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 6, April 1, 1755, through September 30, 1756, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 315–339.]
He the true Planetary System taught,
Which the learn’d Samian first from Egypt brought;
Long from the World conceal’d, in Error lost,
Whose rich Recovery latest Times shall boast.
Then Tycho rose, who with incessant Pains,
In their due Ranks replac’d the starry Trains,
His Labours by a fresh Industry mov’d,
Hevelius, Flamstead, Halley, since improv’d.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1756,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-06-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 6, April 1, 1755, through September 30, 1756, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 315–339.]
Simplicity, Innocence, Industry, Temperance, are Arts that lead to Tranquility, as much as Learning, Knowledge, Wisdom and Contemplation. A noble Simplicity in Discourse is a Talent rare, and above the Reach of ordinary Men. Genius, Fancy, Learning, Memory, &c. are so far from helping, that they often hinder the Attaining of it.
By the Word Simplicity, is not always meant Folly or Ignorance; but often, pure and upright Nature, free from Artifice, Craft or deceitful Ornament. In this Sense Pope uses it, in the Epitaph he made for his Friend Gay, too beautiful and instructive to be here omitted.
Of Manners gentle, of Affections mild,
In Wit a Man, Simplicity a Child.
Words ever pleasing, yet sincerely true,
Satire still just, and Humour ever new.
Above Temptation, in a low Estate,
And uncorrupted, ev’n among the Great.
A safe Companion, and an easy Friend,
Belov’d thro’ Life, lamented in thy End:
These are thy Honours; Not that here thy Bust
Is mix’d with Heroes, or with Kings thy Dust;
But that the Worthy, and the Good shall say,
Striking their pensive Bosoms, Here lies Gay.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1756,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-06-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 6, April 1, 1755, through September 30, 1756, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 315–339.]
The Lyncean Galileo then aspires
Thro’ the rais’d Tube to mark the Stellar Fires!
The Galaxy with clustring Lights o’erspread,
The new-nam’d Stars in bright Orion’s Head,
The varying Phases circling Planets show,
The Solar Spots, his Fame was first to know.
Of Jove’s Attendants, Orbs till then unknown,
Himself the big Discovery claims alone.
When a Friend deals with a Friend
Let the Bargain be clear and well penn’d,
That they may continue Friends to the End.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1756,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-06-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 6, April 1, 1755, through September 30, 1756, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 315–339.]
Cassini next, and Huygens, like renown’d,
The Moons and wondrous Ring of Saturn found.
Sagacious Kepler, still advancing saw
Th’ elliptic Motion, Nature’s plainest Law,
That universal acts thro’ every Part:
This laid the Basis of Newtonian Art.
Newton! vast Mind! whose piercing Pow’rs apply’d
The secret Cause of Motion first descry’d;
Found Gravitation was the primal Spring,
That wheel’d the Planets round their central King.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1756,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-06-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 6, April 1, 1755, through September 30, 1756, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 315–339.]
An honest Man will receive neither Money nor Praise, that is not his Due.
Saying and Doing, have quarrel’d and parted.
Tell me my Faults, and mend your own.
To be proud of Knowledge, is to be blind with Light; to be proud of Virtue, is to poison yourself with the Antidote.
Get what you can, and what you get, hold;
’Tis the Stone that will turn all your Lead into Gold.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1756,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-06-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 6, April 1, 1755, through September 30, 1756, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 315–339.]
There is really a great Difference in Things sometimes where there seems to be but little Distinction in Names. The Man of Honour is an internal, the Person of Honour an external, the one a real, the other a fictitious, Character. A Person of Honour may be a profane Libertine, penurious, proud, may insult his Inferiors, and defraud his Creditors; but it is impossible for a Man of Honour to be guilty of any of these. The Person of Honour may flatter for Court Favours, or cringe for Popularity; he may be for or against his Country’s Good, as it suits his private Views. But the Man of Honour can do none of these. He
Upright and firm, and steady to his Trust,
Inflexible to Ill, and obstinately just;
The Fury of the Populace defies,
And dares the Tyrant’s threatning Frown despise.
Always himself, nought can his Virtue move,
Unsway’d by Party, Hatred, Gain, or Love.
So the tall Summit of Olympus knows,
Nor raging Hurricanes, nor hoary Snows;
But high, in the superior Skies, is seen,
Above the Clouds, eternally serene;
While at its steady Foot, the rushing Rain
And rattling Thunder spend their Force in vain.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1756,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-06-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 6, April 1, 1755, through September 30, 1756, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 315–339.]
Mysterious Impulse! that more clear to know,
Exceeds the finite Reach of Art below.
Forbear, bold Mortal! ’tis an impious Aim;
Own God immediate acting thro’ the Frame.
’Tis HE, unsearchable, in all resides;
He the First Cause their Operations guides,
Fear on his awful Privacy to press,
But, honouring Him, thy Ignorance confess.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1756,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-06-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 6, April 1, 1755, through September 30, 1756, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 315–339.]
Of Man’s miraculous Mistakes, this bears
The Palm, “That all Men are about to live,”
For ever on the Brink of being born.
How excellent that Life they mean to lead!
All Promise is poor dilatory Man,
And that thro’ every Stage. When young, indeed,
In full Content, we, sometimes, nobly rest,
Unanxious for ourselves; and only wish
As duteous Sons, our Fathers were more wise.
At Thirty Man suspects himself a Fool;
Knows it at Forty, and reforms his Plan;
At Fifty chides his infamous Delay,
Pushes his prudent Purpose to Resolve;
In all the Magnanimity of Thought
Resolves; and re-resolves; then dies the same.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1756,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-06-02-0136. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 6, April 1, 1755, through September 30, 1756, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 315–339.]
As no temporal Concern is of more Importance to us than Health, and that depends so much on the Air we every Moment breathe, the Choice of a good wholesome Situation to fix a Dwelling in, is a very serious Affair to every Countryman about to begin the World, and well worth his Consideration, especially as not only the Comfort of Living, but even the Necessaries of Life, depend in a great Measure upon it; since a Family frequently sick can rarely if ever thrive. The following Extracts therefore from a late Medical Writer, Dr. Pringle, on that Subject, will, I hope, be acceptable and useful to some of my Readers.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
Good Sense and Learning may Esteem obtain,
Humour and Wit a Laugh, if rightly ta’en;
Fair Virtue Admiration may impart;
But ’tis Good-Nature only wins the Heart:
It molds the Body to an easy Grace,
And brightens every Feature of the Face;
It smooths th’unpolish’d Tongue with Eloquence,
And adds Persuasion to the finest Sense.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
’Tis easier to build two Chimneys, than maintain one in Fuel.
Anger warms the Invention, but overheats the Oven.
He that would rise at Court, must begin by Creeping.
Many a Man’s own Tongue gives Evidence against his Understanding.
Nothing dries sooner than a Tear.
When a Man looks back upon his Day, Week or Year spent, and finds his Business has been worthy the Dignity of human Nature, it exhilerates and revives him, enables him to pass his own Approbation on himself, and, as it were, to anticipate the Euge, the Well done, good and faithful Servant, he shall one Day receive from his great Master. But he that gives himself only the idle Divertisements of a Child, cannot reflect on Time past without Confusion; and is forced to take Sanctuary in a total Inconsideration, or run from one Amusement to another, to avoid Thinking, or answering to himself the Question, What have I done? Idleness, and its Amusements are in the End more tiresome than Labour itself.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
Uneasy both in Country and in Town,
They search a Place to lay their Burthen down:
One, restless in his Parlour, walks abroad,
And vainly thinks to leave behind his Load;
But strait returns; for he’s as restless there,
And finds there’s no Relief in open Air.
To’s Country Seat another would retire,
And spurs as hard as if it were on Fire,
There soon begins to yawn, and stretch and snore,
And seeks the City which he left before.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
Would you both please, and be instructed too,
The Pride of shewing forth yourself subdue.
Hear ev’ry Man upon his fav’rite Theme,
And ever be more knowing than you seem.
The lowest Genius will afford some Light,
Or give a Hint that had escap’d your Sight.
Doubt, till he thinks you on Conviction yield,
And with fit Questions let each Pause be fill’d.
And the most knowing will with Pleasure grant,
You’re rather much reserv’d than ignorant.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
Is there any Duty in Religion more generally agreed on, or more justly required by God, than a perfect Submission to his Will in all Things? Can any Disposition of Mind, either please him more, or become us better, than that of being satisfied with all he gives, and content with all he takes away? None, certainly, can be of more Honour to God, nor of more Ease to ourselves; for if we consider him as our Maker, we dare not contend with him; if as our Father, we ought not to mistrust him; so that we may be confident whatever he does is for our Good, and whatever happens that we interpret otherwise, yet we can get nothing by Repining, nor save anything by Resisting.
’Tis done, O Lord, the Idol I resign,
Unfit to share a Heart so justly thine;
Nor can the Heav’nly Call unwelcome be,
That still invites my Soul more near to thee:
Ye Shades, ye Phantoms, and ye Dreams adieu!
With Smiles I now your parting Glories view.
I see the Hand; I worship, I adore,
And justify the great disposing Power.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
First, see the Land which thou intend’st to buy,
Within the Seller’s Title clear doth lie.
And that no Woman to it doth lay Claim,
By Dowry, Jointure, or some other Name,
That it may cumber. Know if bound or free
The Tenure stand, and that from each Feoffee
It be releas’d: That the Seller be so old
That he may lawful sell, thou lawful hold.
Have special Care that it not mortgag’d lie,
Nor be entailed on Posterity.
Then if it stand in Statute bound or no:
Be well advis’d what Quit Rent out must go;
What Custom, Service hath been done of old,
By those who formerly the same did hold.
And if a wedded Woman put to Sale,
Deal not with her, unless she bring her Male.
For she doth under Covert-Baron go,
Altho’ sometimes some also traffick so.
Thy Bargain being made, and all this done,
Have special Care to make thy Charter run
To thee, thine Heirs, Executors, Assigns,
For that beyond thy Life securely binds.
These Things foreknown and done, you may prevent
Those Things rash Buyers many times repent.
And yet, when as you have done all you can,
If you’d be sure, deal with an honest Man.
Very good Rules, these, and sweetly sung. If they are learnt by heart, and repeated often to keep them in Memory, they may happen to save the Purchaser more Pence than the Price of my Almanack. In Imitation of this old Writer, I have Thoughts of turning Coke’s Institutes, and all our Province Laws into Metre, hoping thereby to engage some of our young Lawyers and old Justices to read a little.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
The Rays of Wit gild wheresoe’er they strike,
But are not therefore fit for all alike;
They charm the lively, but the Grave offend,
And raise a Foe as often as a Friend;
Like the resistless Beams of blazing Light,
That chear the strong, and pain the weakly Sight.
If a bright Fancy therefore be your Share,
Let Judgment watch it with a Guardian’s Care.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
The way to be safe, is never to be secure.
Dally not with other Folks Women or Money.
Work as if you were to live 100 Years, Pray as if you were to die To-morrow.
He that would catch Fish, must venture his Bait.
Men take more pains to mask than mend.
One To-day is worth two To-morrows.
It is Ill-Manners to silence a Fool, and Cruelty to let him go on.
Scarlet, Silk and Velvet, have put out the Kitchen Fire.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
’Tis like a Torrent, apt to overflow,
Unless by constant Government kept low;
And ne’er inefficacious passes by,
But overturns or gladdens all that’s nigh.
Or else, like Trees, when suffer’d wild to shoot,
That put forth much, but all unripen’d Fruit;
It turns to Affectation and Grimace,
As like to Wit as Gravity to Grace.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
Since Man is but of a very limited Power in his own Person, and consequently can effect no great Matter merely by his own personal Strength, but as he acts in Society and Conjunction with others; and since no Man can engage the active Assistance of others, without first engaging their Trust; And moreover, since Men will trust no further than they judge one, for his Sincerity, fit to be trusted; it follows, that a discovered Dissembler can atchieve nothing great or considerable. For not being able to gain Mens Trust, he cannot gain their Concurrence; and so is left alone to act singly and upon his own Bottom; and while that is the Sphere of his Activity, all that he can do must needs be contemptible.
Sincerity has such resistless Charms,
She oft the fiercest of our Foes disarms:
No Art she knows, in native Whiteness dress’d,
Her Thoughts all pure, and therefore all express’d:
She takes from Error its Deformity;
And without her all other Virtues die.
Bright Source of Goodness! to my Aid descend,
Watch o’er my Heart, and all my Words attend.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
How hard soe’er it be to bridle Wit,
Yet Mem’ry oft no less requires the Bit:
How many, hurried by its Force away,
For ever in the Land of Gossips stray!
Usurp the Province of the Nurse, to lull,
Without her Privilege for being dull!
Tales upon Tales they raise, ten Stories high,
Without Regard to Use or Symmetry.
It is generally agreed to be Folly, to hazard the Loss of a Friend, rather than lose a Jest. But few consider how easily a Friend may be thus lost. Depending on the known Regard their Friends have for them, Jesters take more Freedom with Friends than they would dare to do with others, little thinking how much deeper we are wounded by an Affront from one we love. But the strictest Intimacy can never warrant Freedoms of this Sort; and it is indeed preposterous to think they should; unless we can suppose Injuries are less Evils when they are done us by Friends, than when they come from other Hands.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
Excess of Wit may oftentimes beguile:
Jests are not always pardon’d—by a Smile.
Men may disguise their Malice at the Heart,
And seem at Ease—tho’ pain’d with inward Smart.
Mistaken, we—think all such Wounds of course
Reflection cures;—alas! it makes them worse.
Like Scratches they with double Anguish seize,
Rankle in time, and fester by Degrees.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
A Story should, to please, at least seem true,
Be apropos, well told, concise, and new;
And whensoe’er it deviates from these Rules,
The Wise will sleep, and leave Applause to Fools.
But others, more intolerable yet,
The Waggeries that they’ve said, or heard, repeat;
Heavy by Mem’ry made, and what’s the worst,
At second-hand as often as at first.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
Tho’ the Mastiff be gentle, yet bite him not by the Lip.
Great-Alms-giving, lessens no Man’s Living.
The royal Crown cures not the Head-ach.
Pride breakfasted with Plenty, dined with Poverty, supped with Infamy.
Retirement does not always secure Virtue; Lot was upright in the City, wicked in the Mountain.
But sarcastical Jests on a Man’s Person or his Manners, tho’ hard to bear, are perhaps more easily borne than those that touch his Religion. Men are generally warm in what regards their religious Tenets, either from Tenderness of Conscience, or a high Sense of their own Judgments. People of plain Parts and honest Dispositions, look on Salvation as too serious a Thing to be jested with; and Men of speculative Religion, who profess from the Conviction rather of their Heads than Hearts, are not a bit less vehement than the real Devotees. He who says a slight or a severe Thing of their Faith, seems to them to have thereby undervalued their Understandings, and will consequently incur their Aversion, which no Man of common Sense would hazard for a lively Expression; much less a Person of good Breeding, who should make it his chief Aim to be well with all.
Like some grave Matron of a noble Line,
With awful Beauty does Religion shine.
Just Sense should teach us to revere the Dame,
Nor, by imprudent Jests, to spot her Fame.
In common Life you’ll own this Reas’ning right,
That none but Fools in gross Abuse delight:
Then use it here—nor think the Caution vain;
To be polite, Men need not be profane.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
But above all Things, Raillery decline,
Nature but few does for that Task design;
’Tis in the ablest Hand a dangerous Tool,
But never fails to wound the meddling Fool:
For all must grant it needs no common Art
To keep Men patient while we make them smart.
Not Wit alone, nor Humour’s self, will do,
Without Good nature, and much Prudence too.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
Idleness is the Dead Sea, that swallows all Virtues: Be active in Business, that Temptation may miss her Aim: The Bird that sits, is easily shot.
Shame and the Dry-belly-ach were Diseases of the last Age; this seems to be cured of them.
In studying Law or Physick, or any other Art or Science, by which you propose to get your Livelihood, though you find it at first hard, difficult and unpleasing, use Diligence, Patience and Perseverance; the Irksomness of your Task will thus diminish daily, and your Labour shall finally be crowned with Success. You shall go beyond all your Competitors who are careless, idle or superficial in their Acquisitions, and be at the Head of your Profession. Ability will command Business, Business Wealth; and Wealth an easy and honourable Retirement when Age shall require it.
Near to the wide extended Coasts of Spain,
Some Islands triumph o’er the raging Main;
Where dwelt of old, as tuneful Poets say,
Slingers, who bore from all the Prize away.
While Infants yet, their feeble Nerves they try’d;
Nor needful Food, till won by Art, supply’d.
Fix’d was the Mark, the Youngster oft in vain,
Whirl’d the misguided Stone with fruitless Pain:
’Till, by long Practice, to Perfection brought,
With easy Sleight their former Task they wrought.
Swift from their Arm th’unerring Pebble flew,
And high in Air, the flutt’ring Victim slew.
So in each Art Men rise but by Degrees,
And Months of Labour lead to Years of Ease.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
Of all the Qualities that help to raise
In Men the universal Voice of Praise,
Whether in Pleasure or in Use they end,
There’s none that can with Modesty contend.
Yet ’tis but little that its Form be caught,
Unless its Origin be first in Thought;
Else rebel Nature will reveal the Cheat,
And the whole Work of Art at once defeat.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
While free from Force the Press remains,
Virtue and Freedom chear our Plains,
And Learning Largesses bestows,
And keeps unlicens’d open House.
We to the Nation’s publick Mart
Our Works of Wit, and Schemes of Art,
And philosophic Goods, this Way,
Like Water carriage, cheap convey.
This Tree which Knowledge so affords,
Inquisitors with flaming Swords
From Lay-Approach with Zeal defend,
Lest their own Paradise should end.
The Press from her fecundous Womb
Brought forth the Arts of Greece and Rome;
Her Offspring, skill’d in Logic War,
Truth’s Banner wav’d in open Air;
The Monster Superstition fled,
And hid in Shades her Gorgon Head;
And lawless Pow’r, the long kept Field,
By Reason quell’d, was forc’d to yield.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
This Nurse of Arts, and Freedom’s Fence,
To chain, is Treason against Sense:
And Liberty, thy thousand Tongues
None silence who design no Wrongs;
For those that use the Gag’s Restraint,
First rob, before they stop Complaint.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
Hold forth upon yourself on no Pretence,
Unless invited, or in Self-Defence;
The Praise you take, altho’ it be your Due,
Will be suspected if it come from you.
If to seem modest, you some Faults confess,
The World suspect yet more, and never less:
For each Man, by Experience taught, can tell
How strong a Flatterer does within him dwell.
These Aspects make it clear to me,
That rain and thunder there will be,
As sure as two and one make three.
Act uprightly, and despise Calumny; Dirt may stick to a Mud Wall, but not to polish’d Marble.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
I. The Christians observe the first Day of the Week for their Sunday, the Jews the Seventh for their Sabbath, the Turks the sixth Day of the Week for the Time of their Worship; but there is a particular Place of the Globe, to which if a Christian, Jew, and Turk sail in one and the same Ship, they shall keep the Time for their Worship on different Days, as above, all the Time they are sailing to that particular Place; but when they arrive at that Place, and during the Time they remain at it, they shall all keep their Sabbath on one and the same Day; but when they depart from that Place, they shall all differ as before.
II. There is a certain Port, from which if three Ships depart at one and the same time, and sail on three particular different Courses, till they return to the Port they departed from; and if in one of these Ships be Christians, in the second Jews, and in the third Turks, when they return to the Port they departed from, they shall differ so with respect to real and apparent Time, that they all shall keep their Sabbath on one and the same Day of the Week, and yet each of them separately shall believe that he keeps his Sabbath on the Day of the Week his Religion requires.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
No Part of Conduct asks for Skill more nice,
Tho’ none more common, than to give Advice:
Misers themselves, in this will not be saving,
Unless their Knowledge makes it worth the having.
And where’s the Wonder, when we will intrude,
An useless Gift, it meets Ingratitude?
Shun then, unask’d, this arduous Task to try;
But, if consulted, use Sincerity.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
The Borrower is a Slave to the Lender; the Security to both.
Singularity in the right, hath ruined many: Happy those who are Convinced of the general Opinion.
Ambition to be greater and richer, merely that a Man may have it in his Power to do more Service to his Friends and the Publick, is of a quiet orderly Kind, pleased if it succeeds, resigned if it fails. But the Ambition that has itself only in View, is restless, turbulent, regardless of publick Peace, or general Interest, and the secret Maker of most Mischiefs, between Nations, Parties, Friends and Neighbours.
Let Satyr blast, with every Mark of Hate,
The vain Aspirer, or dishonest Great.
Whom Love of Wealth, or wild Ambition’s Sway
Push forward, still regardless of the Way;
High and more high who aim with restless Pride
Where neither Reason nor fair Virtue guide;
And Him, the Wretch, who labours on with Pain
For the low Lucre of an useless Gain,
(Wise but to get, and active but to save)
May Scorn deserv’d still follow to the Grave.
But he who fond to raise a splendid Name,
On Life’s ambitious Heights would fix his Fame,
In active Arts, or ventrous Arms would shine,
Yet shuns the Paths which Virtue bids decline;
Who dignifies his Wealth by gen’rous Use,
To raise th’Oppress’d, or Merit to produce,
Reason’s impartial Voice shall ne’er condemn,
The glorious Purpose of so wise an Aim.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
Be rarely warm in Censure or in Praise;
Few Men deserve our Passion either ways:
For half the World but floats ‘twixt Good and Ill,
As Chance disposes Objects, these the Will;
’Tis but a see-saw Game, where Virtue now
Mounts above Vice, and then sinks down as low.
Besides, the Wise still hold it for a Rule,
To trust that Judgment most, that seems most cool.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
Proportion your Charity to the Strength of your Estate, or God will proportion your Estate to the Weakness of your Charity.
The Tongue offends, and the Ears get the Cuffing.
Some antient Philosophers have said, that Happiness depends more on the inward Disposition of Mind than on outward Circumstances; and that he who cannot be happy in any State, can be so in no State. To be happy, they tell us we must be content. Right. But they do not teach how we may become content. Poor Richard shall give you a short good Rule for that. To be content, look backward on those who possess less than yourself, not forward on those who possess more. If this does not make you content, you don’t deserve to be happy.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
Contentment! Parent of Delight,
So much a Stranger to our Sight,
Say, Goddess, in what happy Place
Mortals behold thy blooming Face;
Thy gracious Auspices impart,
And for thy Temple chuse my Heart.
They whom thou deignest to inspire,
Thy Science learn, to bound Desire;
By happy Alchymy of Mind
They turn to Pleasure all they find.
Unmov’d when the rude Tempest blows,
Without an Opiate they repose;
And, cover’d by your Shield, defy
The whizzing Shafts that round them fly;
Nor, meddling with the Gods Affairs,
Concern themselves with distant Cares;
But place their Bliss in mental Rest,
And feast upon the Good possest.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
Would you be well receiv’d where’er you go,
Remember each Man vanquish’d is a Foe:
Resist not therefore to your utmost Might,
But let the Weakest think he’s sometimes right;
He, for each Triumph you shall thus decline,
Shall give ten Opportunities to shine;
He sees, since once you own’d him to excel,
That ’tis his Interest you should reason well.
Sleep without Supping, and you’ll rise without owing for it.
When other Sins grow old by Time,
Then Avarice is in its prime,
Yet feed the Poor at Christmas time.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
Learning is a valuable Thing in the Affairs of this Life, but of infinitely more Importance is Godliness, as it tends not only to make us happy here but hereafter. At the Day of Judgment, we shall not be asked, what Proficiency we have made in Languages or Philosophy; but whether we have liv’d virtuously and piously as Men endued with Reason, guided by the Dictates of Religion. In that Hour it will more avail us, that we have thrown a Handful of Flour or Chaff in Charity to a Nest of contemptible Pismires, than that we could muster all the Hosts of Heaven, and call every Star by its proper Name. For then the Constellations themselves shall disappear, the Sun and Moon shall give no more Light, and all the Frame of Nature shall vanish. But our good or bad Works shall remain forever, recorded in the Archives of Eternity.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
Unmov’d alone the Virtuous now appear,
And in their Looks a calm Assurance wear.
From East, from West, from North and South they come,
To take from the most righteous Judge their Doom;
Who thus, to them, with a serene Regard;
(The Books of Life before him laid,
And all the secret Records wide display’d)
“According to your Works be your Reward:
Possess immortal Kingdoms as your Due,
Prepar’d from an eternal Date for you.”
“Poor Richard Improved, 1757,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0030. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 74–93.]
I have heard that nothing gives an Author so great Pleasure, as to find his Works respectfully quoted by other learned Authors. This Pleasure I have seldom enjoyed; for tho’ I have been, if I may say it without Vanity, an eminent Author of Almanacks annually now a full Quarter of a Century, my Brother Authors in the same Way, for what Reason I know not, have ever been very sparing in their Applauses; and no other Author has taken the least Notice of me, so that did not my Writings produce me some solid Pudding, the great Deficiency of Praise would have quite discouraged me.
I concluded at length, that the People were the best Judges of my Merit; for they buy my Works; and besides, in my Rambles, where I am not personally known, I have frequently heard one or other of my Adages repeated, with, as Poor Richard says, at the End on’t; this gave me some Satisfaction, as it showed not only that my Instructions were regarded, but discovered likewise some Respect for my Authority; and I own, that to encourage the Practice of remembering and repeating those wise Sentences, I have sometimes quoted myself with great Gravity.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
I stopt my Horse lately where a great Number of People were collected at a Vendue of Merchant Goods. The Hour of Sale not being come, they were conversing on the Badness of the Times, and one of the Company call’d to a plain clean old Man, with white Locks, Pray, Father Abraham, what think you of the Times? Won’t these heavy Taxes quite ruin the Country? How shall we be ever able to pay them? What would you advise us to? ——Father Abraham stood up, and reply’d, If you’d have my Advice, I’ll give it you in short, for a Word to the Wise is enough, and many Words won’t fill a Bushel, as Poor Richard says. They join’d in desiring him to speak his Mind, and gathering round him, he proceeded as follows;
“Friends, says he, and Neighbours, the Taxes are indeed very heavy, and if those laid on by the Government were the only Ones we had to pay, we might more easily discharge them; but we have many others, and much more grievous to some of us. We are taxed twice as much by our Idleness, three times as much by our Pride, and four times as much by our Folly, and from these Taxes the Commissioners cannot ease or deliver us by allowing an Abatement. However let us hearken to good Advice, and something may be done for us; God helps them that help themselves, as Poor Richard says, in his Almanack of 1733.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
It would be thought a hard Government that should tax its People one tenth Part of their Time, to be employed in its Service. But Idleness taxes many of us much more, if we reckon all that is spent in absolute Sloth, or doing of nothing, with that which is spent in idle Employments or Amusements, that amount to nothing. Sloth, by bringing on Diseases, absolutely shortens Life. Sloth, like Rust, consumes faster than Labour wears, while the used Key is always bright, as Poor Richard says. But dost thou love Life, then do not squander Time, for that’s the Stuff Life is made of, as Poor Richard says. How much more than is necessary do we spend in Sleep! forgetting that The sleeping Fox catches no Poultry, and that there will be sleeping enough in the Grave,8 as Poor Richard says. If Time be of all Things the most precious, wasting Time must be, as Poor Richard says, the greatest Prodigality, since, as he elsewhere tells us, Lost Time is never found again; and what we call Time-enough, always proves little enough: Let us then be up and be doing, and doing to the Purpose; so by Diligence shall we do more with less Perplexity. Sloth makes all Things difficult, but Industry all easy, as Poor Richard says; and He that riseth late, must trot all Day, and shall scarce overtake his Business at Night. While Laziness travels so slowly, that Poverty soon overtakes him, as we read in Poor Richard, who adds, Drive thy Business, let not that drive thee; and Early to Bed, and early to rise, makes a Man healthy, wealthy and wise.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
So what signifies wishing and hoping for better Times. We may make these Times better if we bestir ourselves. Industry need not wish, as Poor Richard says, and He that lives upon Hope will die fasting. There are no Gains, without Pains; then Help Hands, for I have no Lands, or if I have, they are smartly taxed. And, as Poor Richard likewise observes, He that hath a Trade hath an Estate, and He that hath a Calling hath an Office of Profit and Honour; but then the Trade must be worked at, and the Calling well followed, or neither the Estate, nor the Office, will enable us to pay our Taxes. If we are industrious we shall never starve; for, as Poor Richard says, At the working Man’s House Hunger looks in, but dares not enter. Nor will the Bailiff nor the Constable enter, for Industry pays Debts, while Despair encreaseth them, says Poor Richard. What though you have found no Treasure, nor has any rich Relation left you a Legacy, Diligence is the Mother of Good luck, as Poor Richard says, and God gives all Things to Industry. Then plough deep, while Sluggards sleep, and you shall have Corn to sell and to keep, says Poor Dick.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
Work while it is called To-day, for you know not how much you may be hindered To-morrow, which makes Poor Richard say, One To-day is worth two Tomorrows;8 and farther, Have you somewhat to do To-morrow, do it To-day. If you were a Servant, would you not be ashamed that a good Master should catch you idle? Are you then your own Master, be ashamed to catch yourself idle, as Poor Dick says. When there is so much to be done for yourself, your Family, your Country, and your gracious King, be up by Peep of Day; Let not the Sun look down and say, Inglorious here he lies. Handle your Tools without Mittens; remember that the Cat in Gloves catches no Mice, as Poor Richard says. ’Tis true there is much to be done, and perhaps you are weak handed, but stick to it steadily, and you will see great Effects, for constant Dropping wears away Stones, and by Diligence and Patience the Mouse ate in two the Cable; and little Strokes fell great Oaks, as Poor Richard says in his Almanack, the Year I cannot just now remember.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
Methinks I hear some of you say, Must a Man afford himself no Leisure? I will tell thee, my Friend, what Poor Richard says, Employ thy Time well if thou meanest to gain Leisure; and, since thou art not sure of a Minute, throw not away an Hour. Leisure, is Time for doing something useful; this Leisure the diligent Man will obtain, but the lazy Man never; so that, as Poor Richard says, a Life of Leisure and a Life of Laziness are two Things. Do you imagine that Sloth will afford you more Comfort than Labour? No, for as Poor Richard says, Trouble springs from Idleness, and grievous Toil from needless Ease. Many without Labour, would live by their wits only, but they break for want of Stock. Whereas Industry gives Comfort, and Plenty, and Respect: Fly Pleasures, and they’ll follow you. The diligent Spinner has a large Shift; and now I have a Sheep and a Cow, every Body bids me Good morrow;3 all which is well said by Poor Richard.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
But with our Industry, we must likewise be steady, settled and careful, and oversee our own Affairs with our own Eyes, and not trust too much to others; for, as Poor Richard says,
I never saw an oft removed Tree,
Nor yet an oft removed Family,
That throve so well as those that settled be.
And again, Three Removes is as bad as a Fire; and again, Keep thy Shop, and thy Shop will keep thee; and again, If you would have your Business done, go; If not, send. And again,
He that by the Plough would thrive,
Himself must either hold or drive.
And again, The Eye of a Master will do more Work than both his Hands;9 and again, Want of Care does us more Damage than Want of Knowledge;10 and again, Not to oversee Workmen, is to leave them your Purse open. Trusting too much to others Care is the Ruin of many; for, as the Almanack says, In the Affairs of this World, Men are saved, not by Faith, but by the Want of it; but a Man’s own Care is profitable; for, saith Poor Dick, Learning is to the Studious, and Riches to the Careful, as well as Power to the Bold, and Heaven to the Virtuous. And farther, If you would have a faithful Servant, and one that you like, serve yourself. And again, he adviseth to Circumspection and Care, even in the smallest Matters, because sometimes a little Neglect may breed great Mischief; adding, For want of a Nail the Shoe was lost; for want of a Shoe the Horse was lost; and for want of a Horse the Rider was lost, being overtaken and slain by the Enemy, all for want of Care about a Horse-shoe Nail.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
So much for Industry, my Friends, and Attention to one’s own Business; but to these we must add Frugality, if we would make our Industry more certainly successful. A Man may, if he knows not how to save as he gets, keep his Nose all his Life to the Grindstone, and die not worth a Groat at last. A fat Kitchen makes a lean Will, as Poor Richard says; and,
Many Estates are spent in the Getting,
Since Women for Tea forsook Spinning and Knitting,
And Men for Punch forsook Hewing and Splitting.
If you would be wealthy, says he, in another Almanack, think of Saving as well as of Getting: The Indies have not made Spain rich, because her Outgoes are greater than her Incomes.20 Away then with your expensive Follies, and you will not have so much Cause to complain of hard Times, heavy Taxes, and chargeable Families; for, as Poor Dick says,
Women and Wine, Game and Deceit,
Make the Wealth small, and the Wants great.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
And farther, What maintains one Vice, would bring up two Children. You may think perhaps, That a little Tea, or a little Punch now and then, Diet a little more costly, Clothes a little finer, and a little Entertainment now and then, can be no great Matter; but remember what Poor Richard says, Many a Little makes a Mickle; and farther, Beware of little Expences; a small Leak will sink a great Ship; and again, Who Dainties love, shall Beggars prove; and moreover, Fools make Feasts, and wise Men eat them.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
Here you are all got together at this Vendue of Fineries and Knicknacks. You call them Goods, but if you do not take Care, they will prove Evils to some of you. You expect they will be sold cheap, and perhaps they may for less than they cost; but if you have no Occasion for them, they must be dear to you. Remember what Poor Richard says, Buy what thou hast no Need of, and ere long thou shalt sell thy Necessaries. And again, At a great Pennyworth pause a while: He means, that perhaps the Cheapness is apparent only, and not real; or the Bargain, by straitning thee in thy Business, may do thee more Harm than Good. For in another Place he says, Many have been ruined by buying good Pennyworths. Again, Poor Richard says, ’Tis foolish to lay out Money in a Purchase of Repentance; and yet this Folly is practised every Day at Vendues, for want of minding the Almanack.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
Many a one, for the Sake of Finery on the Back, have gone with a hungry Belly, and half starved their Families; Silks and Sattins, Scarlet and Velvets, as Poor Richard says, put out the Kitchen Fire. These are not the Necessaries of Life; they can scarcely be called the Conveniencies, and yet only because they look pretty, how many want to have them. The artificial Wants of Mankind thus become more numerous than the natural; and, as Poor Dick says, For one poor Person, there are an hundred indigent. By these, and other Extravagancies, the Genteel are reduced to Poverty, and forced to borrow of those whom they formerly despised, but who through Industry and Frugality have maintained their Standing; in which Case it appears plainly, that a Ploughman on his Legs is higher than a Gentleman on his Knees, as Poor Richard says. Perhaps they have had a small Estate left them, which they knew not the Getting of; they think ’tis Day, and will never be Night; that a little to be spent out of so much, is not worth minding; (a Child and a Fool, as Poor Richard says, imagine Twenty Shillings and Twenty Years can never be spent) but, always taking out of the Meal-tub, and never putting in, soon comes to the Bottom; then, as Poor Dick says, When the Well’s dry, they know the Worth of Water. But this they might have known before, if they had taken his Advice; If you would know the Value of Money, go and try to borrow some; for, he that goes a borrowing goes a sorrowing; and indeed so does he that lends to such People, when he goes to get it in again. Poor Dick farther advises, and says,
Fond Pride of Dress, is sure a very Curse;
E’er Fancy you consult, consult your Purse.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
And again, Pride is as loud a Beggar as Want, and a great deal more saucy. When you have bought one fine Thing you must buy ten more, that your Appearance may be all of a Piece; but Poor Dick says, ’Tis easier to suppress the first Desire, than to satisfy all that follow it. And ’tis as truly Folly for the Poor to ape the Rich, as for the Frog to swell, in order to equal the Ox.
Great Estates may venture more,
But little Boats should keep near Shore.
’Tis however a Folly soon punished; for Pride that dines on Vanity sups on Contempt, as Poor Richard says. And in another Place, Pride breakfasted with Plenty, dined with Poverty, and supped with Infamy. And after all, of what Use is this Pride of Appearance, for which so much is risked, so much is suffered? It cannot promote Health, or ease Pain; it makes no Increase of Merit in the Person, it creates Envy, it hastens Misfortune.
What is a Butterfly? At best
He’s but a Caterpillar drest.
The gaudy Fop’s his Picture just,
as Poor Richard says.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
But what Madness must it be to run in Debt for these Superfluities! We are offered, by the Terms of this Vendue, Six Months Credit; and that perhaps has induced some of us to attend it, because we cannot spare the ready Money, and hope now to be fine without it. But, ah, think what you do when you run in Debt; You give to another Power over your Liberty. If you cannot pay at the Time, you will be ashamed to see your Creditor; you will be in Fear when you speak to him; you will make poor pitiful sneaking Excuses, and by Degrees come to lose your Veracity, and sink into base downright lying; for, as Poor Richard says, The second Vice is Lying, the first is running in Debt. And again, to the same Purpose, Lying rides upon Debt’s Back. Whereas a freeborn Englishman ought not to be ashamed or afraid to see or speak to any Man living. But Poverty often deprives a Man of all Spirit and Virtue: ’Tis hard for an empty Bag to stand upright, as Poor Richard truly says. What would you think of that Prince, or that Government, who should issue an Edict forbidding you to dress like a Gentleman or a Gentlewoman, on Pain of Imprisonment or Servitude? Would you not say, that you are free, have a Right to dress as you please, and that such an Edict would be a Breach of your Privileges, and such a Government tyrannical? And yet you are about to put yourself under that Tyranny when you run in Debt for such Dress! Your Creditor has Authority at his Pleasure to deprive you of your Liberty, by confining you in Goal for Life, or to sell you for a Servant, if you should not be able to pay him!
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
When you have got your Bargain, you may, perhaps, think little of Payment; but Creditors, Poor Richard tells us, have better Memories than Debtors; and in another Place says, Creditors are a superstitious Sect, great Observers of set Days and Times. The Day comes round before you are aware, and the Demand is made before you are prepared to satisfy it. Or if you bear your Debt in Mind, the Term which at first seemed so long, will, as it lessens, appear extreamly short. Time will seem to have added Wings to his Heels as well as Shoulders. Those have a short Lent, saith Poor Richard, who owe Money to be paid at Easter. Then since, as he says, The Borrower is a Slave to the Lender, and the Debtor to the Creditor, disdain the Chain, preserve your Freedom; and maintain your Independency: Be industrious and free; be frugal and free. At present, perhaps, you may think yourself in thriving Circumstances, and that you can bear a little Extravagance without Injury; but,
For Age and Want, save while you may;
No Morning Sun lasts a whole Day,
as Poor Richard says. Gain may be temporary and uncertain, but ever while you live, Expence is constant and certain; and ’tis easier to build two Chimnies than to keep one in Fuel, as Poor Richard says. So rather go to Bed supperless than rise in Debt.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
Get what you can, and what you get hold;
’Tis the Stone that will turn all your Lead into Gold,
as Poor Richard says. And when you have got the Philosopher’s Stone, sure you will no longer complain of bad Times, or the Difficulty of paying Taxes.
This Doctrine, my Friends, is Reason and Wisdom; but after all, do not depend too much upon your own Industry, and Frugality, and Prudence, though excellent Things, for they may all be blasted without the Blessing of Heaven; and therefore ask that Blessing humbly, and be not uncharitable to those that at present seem to want it, but comfort and help them. Remember Job suffered, and was afterwards prosperous.
And now to conclude, Experience keeps a dear School, but Fools will learn in no other, and scarce in that; for it is true, we may give Advice, but we cannot give Conduct, as Poor Richard says: However, remember this, They that won’t be counselled, can’t be helped, as Poor Richard says: And farther, That if you will not hear Reason, she’ll surely rap your Knuckles.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
Thus the old Gentleman ended his Harangue. The People heard it, and approved the Doctrine, and immediately practised the contrary, just as if it had been a common Sermon; for the Vendue opened, and they began to buy extravagantly, notwithstanding all his Cautions, and their own Fear of Taxes. I found the good Man had thoroughly studied my Almanacks, and digested all I had dropt on those Topicks during the Course of Five-and-twenty Years. The frequent Mention he made of me must have tired any one else, but my Vanity was wonderfully delighted with it, though I was conscious that not a tenth Part of the Wisdom was my own which he ascribed to me, but rather the Gleanings I had made of the Sense of all Ages and Nations. However, I resolved to be the better for the Echo of it; and though I had at first determined to buy Stuff for a new Coat, I went away resolved to wear my old One a little longer. Reader, if thou wilt do the same, thy Profit will be as great as mine. I am, as ever, Thine to serve thee,
Richard Saunders.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
I know, young Friend, Ambition fills your Mind,
And in Life’s Voyage is th’impelling Wind;
But at the Helm let sober Reason stand,
And steer the Bark with Heav’n-directed Hand:
So shall you safe Ambition’s Gales receive,
And ride securely, tho’ the Billows heave;
So shall you shun the giddy Hero’s Fate,
And by her Influence be both good and great.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
When Knaves betray each other, one can scarce be blamed, or the other pitied.
He that carries a small Crime easily, will carry it on when it comes to be an Ox.
One Nestor is worth two Ajaxes.
When you’re an Anvil, hold you still;
When you’re a Hammer, strike your Fill.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
She bids you first, in Life’s soft vernal Hours,
With active Industry wake Nature’s Powers;
With rising Years, still rising Arts display,
With new-born Graces mark each new-born Day.
’Tis now the Time young Passion to command,
While yet the pliant Stem obeys the Hand;
Guide now the Courser with a steady Rein,
E’er yet he bounds o’er Pleasure’s flow’ry Plain;
In Passion’s Strife, no Medium you can have;
You rule a Master, or submit a Slave.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
“For whom these Toils, you may perhaps enquire”;
First for yourself. Next Nature will inspire,
The filial Thought, fond Wish, and Kindred Tear,
Which make the Parent and the Sister dear:
To these, in closest Bands of Love, ally’d,
Their Joy or Grief you live, their Shame or Pride;
Hence timely learn to make their Bliss your own,
And scorn to think or act for Self alone;
Happy Tom Crump, ne’er sees his own Hump.
Fools need Advice most, but wise Men only are the better for it.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
Hence bravely strive upon your own to raise
Their Honour, Grandeur, Dignity and Praise.
But wider far, beyond the narrow Bound
Of Family, Ambition searches round;
Searches to find the Friend’s delightful Face,
The Friend at least demands the second Place.
And yet beware; for most desire a Friend
From meaner Motives, not for Virtue’s End.
There are, who with fond Favour’s fickle Gale
Now sudden swell, and now contract their Sail;
Silence in not always a Sign of Wisdom, but Babbling is ever a Mark of Folly.
Great Modesty often hides great Merit.
You may delay, but Time will not.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
This Week devour, the next with sickening Eye
Avoid, and cast the sully’d Play-thing by;
There are, who tossing in the Bed of Vice,
For Flattery’s Opiate give the highest Price;
Yet from the saving Hand of Friendship turn,
Her Med’cines dread, her generous Offers spurn.
Deserted Greatness! who but pities thee?
By Crowds encompass’d, thou no Friend canst see:
Virtue may not always make a Face handsome, but Vice will certainly make it ugly.
Prodigality of Time produces Poverty of Mind as well as of Estate.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
Or should kind Truth invade thy tender Ear,
We pity still; for thou no Truth can’st hear.
Ne’er grudg’d thy Wealth to swell an useless State,
Yet, frugal, deems th’Expence of Friends too great;
For Friends ne’er mixing in ambitious Strife,
For Friends, the richest Furniture of Life!
Be yours, my Son, a nobler, higher Aim,
Your Pride to burn with Friendship’s sacred Flame;
Content is the Philosopher’s Stone, that turns all it touches into Gold.
He that’s content, hath enough; He that complains, has too much.
Pride gets into the Coach, and Shame mounts behind.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
By Virtue kindled, by like Manners fed,
By mutual Wishes, mutual Favours spread,
Increas’d with Years, by candid Truth refin’d,
Pour all its boundless Ardours thro’ your Mind.
Be yours the Care a chosen Band to gain;
With them to Glory’s radiant Summit strain,
Aiding and aided each, while all contend,
Who best, who bravest, shall assist his Friend.
The first Mistake in publick Business, is the going into it.
Half the Truth is often a great Lie.
The Way to see by Faith, is to shut the Eye of Reason: The Morning Daylight appears plainer when you put out your Candle.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
Thus still should private Friendships spread around,
Till in their joint Embrace the Publick’s found,
The common Friend! Then all her Good explore;
Explor’d, pursue with each unbiass’d Power.
But chief the greatest should her Laws revere,
Ennobling Honours, which she bids them wear.
Ambition fills with Charity the Mind,
And pants to be the Friend of all Mankind.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
A full Belly makes a dull Brain: The Muses starve in a Cook’s Shop.
Spare and have is better than spend and crave.
Good-Will, like the Wind, floweth where it listeth.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
Her Country all beneath one ambient Sky:
Whoe’er beholds yon radiant Orbs on high,
To whom one Sun impartial gives the Day,
To whom the Silver Moon her milder Ray,
Whom the same Water, Earth, and Air sustain,
O’er whom one Parent-King extends his Reign
Are her Compatriots all, by her belov’d,
In Nature near, tho’ far by Space remov’d;
On common Earth, no Foreigner she knows;
No Foe can find, or none but Virtue’s Foes;
The Honey is sweet, but the Bee has a Sting.
In a corrupt Age, the putting the World in order would breed Confusion; then e’en mind your own Business.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
Ready she stands her chearful Aid to lend;
To Want and Woe an undemanded Friend.
Nor thus advances others Bliss alone;
But in the Way to theirs, still finds her own.
Their’s is her own. What, should your Taper light
Ten Thousand, burns it to yourself less bright?
“Men are ungrateful.” Be they so that dare!
Is that the Giver’s, or Receiver’s Care?
To serve the Publick faithfully, and at the same time please it entirely, is impracticable.
Proud Modern Learning despises the antient: Schoolmen are now laught at by Schoolboys.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
Oh! blind to Joys, that from true Bounty flow,
To think those e’er repent whose Hearts bestow!
Man to his Maker thus best Homage pays,
Thus peaceful walks thro’ Virtue’s pleasing Ways:
Her gentle Image on the Soul imprest,
Bids each tempestuous Passion leave the Breast:
Thence with her livid Self-devouring Snakes
Pale Envy flies; her Quiver Slander breaks:
Thus falls (dire Scourge of a distracted Age!)
The Knave-led, one-ey’d Monster, Party Rage.
Men often mistake themselves, seldom forget themselves.
The idle Man is the Devil’s Hireling; whose Livery is Rags, whose Diet and Wages are Famine and Diseases.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]
Ambition jostles with her Friends no more;
Nor thirsts Revenge to drink a Brother’s Gore;
Fiery Remorse no stinging Scorpions rears:
O’er trembling Guilt no falling Sword appears.
Hence Conscience, void of Blame, her Front erects,
Her God she fears, all other Fear rejects.
Hence just Ambition boundless Splendors crown,
And hence she calls Eternity her own.
Rob not God, nor the Poor, lest thou ruin thyself; the Eagle snatcht a Coal from the Altar, but it fired her Nest.
“Poor Richard Improved, 1758,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-07-02-0146. [Original source: The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 7, October 1, 1756 through March 31, 1758, ed. Leonard W. Labaree. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963, pp. 326–355.]