you in perpetual
irresolution. One vice will frequently expel
another, without the least merit in the man, as
powers in contrary directions reduce each other to
rest."--Crisis, v.

"We owe it to the bounty of Providence that the
completest depravity of the heart is sometimes
strangely united with a confusion of the mind,
which counteracts the most favorite principles,
and makes the same man treacherous without art,
and a hypocrite without deceiving."--Let. 15.

The last parallel above will bear a moment's thought and study. Paine
says: "Without the least merit in the man." Junius says: "We owe it to
the bounty of Providence." They were both deeply read in the history of
the human heart. The following is of the same nature, showing the same
mental philosophy:

_Paine._

"Men whose political principles are founded on
avarice are beyond the reach of reason, and the
only cure of toryism of this cast is to tax it. A
substantial good drawn from a real evil, is of the
same benefit to society as if drawn from a virtue;
and when men have not public spirit to render
themselves serviceable, it ought to be the study
of government to draw the best possible use from
their vices. When the governing passion of any man
or set of men is once known, the method of
managing them is easy; for even misers, whom no
public virtue can impress, would become generous
could a heavy tax be laid upon covetousness."

_Junius._

"In public affairs there is the least chance of a
perfect concurrence of sentiment or inclination.
If individuals have no virtues, their vices may be
of use to us. I care not with what principle the
new-born patriot is animated if the measures he
supports are beneficial to the community. The
nation is interested in his conduct, the motives
are his own."--Let. 58.

"I am not so unjust as to reason from one crime to
another; though I think that, of all vices,
avarice is most apt to taint and corrupt the
heart."--Let. 27.

"Charity with them begins and ends at
home."--Exam. of Prophecies, Appendix.

"His charity has improved upon the prover