ay be well applied to the Corsicans. "There is a certain period in the
progress of society in which mankind appear to the greatest advantage.
In this period, they have the bodily powers, and all the animal
functions remaining in full vigour. They are bold, active, steady,
ardent in the love of liberty and their native country. Their manners
are simple, their social affections warm, and though they are greatly
influenced by the ties of blood, yet they are generous and hospitable to
strangers. Religion is universally regarded among them, though disguised
by a variety of superstitions."[110]

[Footnote 109: John Gregory, M.D., born 1724, Professor of the Practice
of Physic in Edinburgh. "It is stated that no less than sixteen members
of this family have held British Professorships, chiefly in the Scotch
Universities."--Chalmers' "Biog. Dict.," p. 289.--ED.]

[Footnote 110: Preface to "Comparative View," p. 8.]

Paoli was very desirous that I should study the character of the
Corsicans. "Go among them," said he, "the more you talk with them, you
will do me the greater pleasure. Forget the meanness of their apparel.
Hear their sentiments. You will find honour, and sense, and abilities
among these poor men."

His heart grew big when he spoke of his countrymen. His own great
qualities appeared to unusual advantage, while he described the virtues
of those for whose happiness his whole life was employed. "If," said he,
"I should lead into the field an army of Corsicans against an army
double their number, let me speak a few words to the Corsicans, to
remind them of the honour of their country and of their brave
forefathers, I do not say that they would conquer, but I am sure that
not a man of them would give way. The Corsicans," said he, "have a
steady resolution that would amaze you. I wish you could see one of them
die. It is a proverb among the Genoese, 'I Corsi meritano la furca e la
sanno soffrire. The Corsicans deserve the gallows, and they fear not to
meet it.' There is a real compliment to us in this saying."

He told me, that in Corsica, "criminals are put to death four and twenty
hours after sentence is pronounced against them. This," said he, "may
not be over catholick, but it is humane."

He went on, and gave me several instances of the Corsican spirit.

"A sergeant," said he, "who fell in one of our desperate actions, when
just a dying, wrote to me thus. 'I salute you. Take care of my aged
father. In two hour