William Cowper

Biography

(1731-1800)

Essays by William Cowper

Complaints of an old bachelor

The female part of my acquaintance entertain an odd opinion, that a bachelor is not in fact a rational creature.

On conversation

Every one endeavours to make himself as agreeable to society as he can: but it often happens, that those who most aim at shining in conversation, overshoot their mark.

On keeping secrets

Confidants, in general, are like crazy fire-locks, which are no sooner charged and cocked, than the spring gives way, and the report immediately follows.

A letter from Mr. Village

If I was concerned to see several distressed pastors, as well as many of our country-churches in a tottering condition, I was more offended with the indecency of worship in others.
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