' JOHNSON. 'Why, Madam, strictly speaking, he is right.
All friendship is preferring the interest of a friend, to the neglect,
or, perhaps, against the interest of others; so that an old Greek
said, "He that has FRIENDS has NO FRIEND." Now Christianity recommends
universal benevolence, to consider all men as our brethren, which
is contrary to the virtue of friendship, as described by the ancient
philosophers. Surely, Madam, your sect must approve of this; for, you
call all men FRIENDS.' MRS. KNOWLES. 'We are commanded to do good to
all men, "but especially to them who are of the household of Faith."'
JOHNSON. 'Well, Madam. The household of Faith is wide enough.' MRS.
KNOWLES. 'But, Doctor, our Saviour had twelve Apostles, yet there was
ONE whom he LOVED. John was called "the disciple whom JESUS loved."'
JOHNSON. (with eyes sparkling benignantly,) 'Very well, indeed, Madam.
You have said very well.' BOSWELL. 'A fine application. Pray, Sir, had
you ever thought of it?' JOHNSON. 'I had not, Sir.
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