I say
artificial, for true grace arises from some kind of independence of
mind.
Children, careless of pleasing, and only anxious to amuse
themselves, are often very graceful; and the nobility who have
mostly lived with inferiours, and always had the command of money,
acquire a graceful case of deportment, which should rather be termed
habitual grace of body, than that superiour gracefulness which is
truly the expression of the mind. This mental grace, not noticed by
vulgar eyes, often flashes across a rough countenance, and irradiating
every feature, shows simplicity and independence of mind.- It is
then we read characters of immortality in the eye, and see the soul in
every gesture, though when at rest, neither the face nor limbs may
have much beauty to recommend them; or the behaviour, any thing
peculiar to attract universal attention. The mass of mankind, however,
look for more tangible beauty; yet simplicity is, in general, admired,
when people do not consider what they admire; and can there be
simplicity without sincerity? But, to have done with remarks that
are in some measure desultory, though naturally excited by the
subject-
In declamatory periods Dr. Fordyce spins out Rousseau's eloquence;
and in most sentimental rant, details his opinions respecting the
female character, and the behaviour which woman ought to assume to
render her lovely.
He shall speak for himself, for thus he makes Nature address man.
'Behold these smiling innocents, whom I have graced with my fairest
gifts, and committed to your protection; behold them with love and
respect; treat them with tenderness and honour.
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