'
I am happy to mention another instance which I discovered of his SEEKING
AFTER a man of merit. Soon after the Honourable Daines Barrington had
published his excellent Observations on the Statutes, Johnson waited
on that worthy and learned gentleman; and, having told him his name,
courteously said, 'I have read your book, Sir, with great pleasure, and
wish to be better known to you.' Thus began an acquaintance, which was
continued with mutual regard as long as Johnson lived.
Talking of a recent seditious delinquent, he said, 'They should set him
in the pillory, that he may be punished in a way that would disgrace
him.' I observed, that the pillory does not always disgrace. And I
mentioned an instance of a gentleman who I thought was not dishonoured
by it. JOHNSON. 'Ay, but he was, Sir. He could not mouth and strut as he
used to do, after having been there. People are not willing to ask a man
to their tables who has stood in the pillory.'
Johnson attacked the Americans with intemperate vehemence of abuse.
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