predicable of the inferior animals. It is true that all of them
seem to be aware of the part in their structure, where lie their
main strength and means of hostility. Thus the bull attacks with
his horns, and the horse with his heels, the beast of prey with
his claws, the bird with his beak, and insects and other venomous
creatures with their sting. We know not by what impulse they are
prompted to the use of the various means which are so intimately
connected with their preservation and welfare; and we call it
instinct. We may be certain it does not arise from a careful
survey of their parts and members, and a methodised selection of
the means which shall be found most effectual for the
accomplishment of their ends. There is no premeditation; and,
without anatomical knowledge, or any distinct acquaintance with
their image and likeness, they proceed straight to their purpose.

Hence, even as men, they are more familiar with the figures and
appearance of their fellows, their allies, or their enemies, than
with their own.

Man is a creature of mingled substance. I am many times a day
compelled to acknowledge what a low, mean and contemptible being
I am. Philip of Macedon had no need to give it in charge to a
page, to repair to him every morning, and repeat, "Remember, sir,
you are a man." A variety of circumstances occur to us, while we
eat, and drink, and submit to the humiliating necessities of
nature, that may well inculcate into us this salutary lesson.
The wonder rather is, that man, who has so many things to put him
in mind to be humble and despise himself, should ever have been
susceptible of pride and disdain. Nebuchadnezzar must indeed
have been the most besotted of mortals, if it were necessary that