BUT it is not from these descriptions, just and striking as they are,
that their characters are so perfectly known, as from an examination of
their conduct through the remainder of this divine work: in which it is
well worth while to remark the consonancy of their actions, with what
the above pictures seem to promise. It will also be observed, that the
contrast between them is kept up throughout, with the utmost exactness
of delineation, and the most animated strength of colouring. On a
review it will be found, that Belial _talked_ all, and Abdiel _did_ all.
The former,

With words still cloath'd in reason's guise,
Counsel'd ignoble ease, and peaceful sloth,
Not peace.

BOOK II.

IN Abdiel you will constantly find the eloquence of action. When tempted
by the rebellious angels, with what _retorted scorn_, with what honest
indignation he deserts their multitudes, and retreats from their
contagious society!

All night the dreadless angel unpursued
Through heaven's wide champain held his way.

BOOK VI.

NO wonder he was received with such acclamations of joy by the celestial
powers, when there was

But one,
Yes, of so many myriads fall'n, but one
Return'd not lost.

IBID.

AND afterwards, in a close contest with the arch fiend,

A noble stroke he lifted high
On the proud crest of Satan.

IBID.

WHAT was the effect of this courage of the vigilant and active seraph?

Amazement seiz'd
The rebel throne, but greater rage to see
Thus foil'd their mightiest.

ABDIEL had the superiority of Belial as much in the warlike combat, as
in the peaceful counsels.

Nor was it ought but just,
That he who in debate of truth had won,
Shou'd win in arms, in both disputes alike
Victor.

BUT notwithstanding I have spoken with some asperity against sentiment
as opposed to principle, yet I am convinced, that true genuine
sentiment, (not the sort I have been describing) may be so connected
with principle, as to bestow on it its brightest lustre, and its most
captivating graces. And enthusiasm is so far from being disagreeable,
that a portion of it is perhaps indispensably necessary in an engaging
woman. But it must be the enthusiasm of the heart, not of the senses. It
must be the enthusiasm which grows up with a feeling mind, and is
cherished by a virtuous education; not that whi