is one and indivisible in its principle and essence, yet *in its
external manifestations presenting widely different aspects*, and
eliciting a corresponding diversity in specific traits of character. Thus,
though intrinsic fitness be equally the rule of conduct at a
pleasure-party and by a pauper's bed-side, the conduct of the virtuous man
will be widely different on these two occasions; and not only so, but with
the same purpose of fidelity to what is fitting and right, his
dispositions, aims, and endeavors on these two occasions will have little
or nothing in common except the one pervading purpose. Hence virtue may
under different forms assume various names, and may thus be broken up into
separate _virtues_. These are many or few, according as we distribute in
smaller or larger groups the occasions for virtuous conduct, or analyze
with greater or less minuteness the sentiments and dispositions from which
it proceeds.

*The cardinal*(*9*)* virtues* are the _hinge_-virtues, those on which the
character _hinges_ or turns, those, the possession of all which, would
constitute a virtuous character, while the absence of any one of them
would justly forfeit for a man the epithet _virtuous_. There are other
less salient and essential qualities--minor virtues--the possession of which
adds to the symmetry, beauty, and efficiency of the character, but which
one may lack, and yet none the less deserve to be regarded as a virtuous
man. Thus, justice is a cardinal virtue; gentleness, one of the lesser
rank.

We propose to adopt as a *division of the virtues* one which recognizes
four cardinal virtues, corresponding to four classes under which may be
comprehended all the fitnesses of man's condition in this world, and the
duties proceeding from them respectively.(10) There are fitnesses and
duties appertaining, first, to one's own being, nature, capacities, and
needs; secondly, to his relations to his fellow-beings; thirdly, to his
disposition and conduct with reference to external objects and events
beyond his control; and fourthly, to his arrangement, disposal, and use of
objects under his control. It is difficult to find names which in their
common use comprehend severally all the contents of each of these four
divisions; but yet they are all comprised within the broadest significance
of the terms Prudence, Justice, Fortitude, and Order. Thus employed,
Prudence, or providence, includes all the duties of self-government and
self-