— all I can say of the matter, is — That he has either a pumkin for his head — or a pippin for his heart, — and whenever he is dissected 'twill be fo… - Laurence Sterne

And what of this new book the whole world makes such a rout about? — Oh ! 'tis out of all plumb, my lord, — quite an irregular thing!

As for the clergy — No — If I say a word against them, I'll be shot. — I have no desire, — and besides, if I had, — I durst not for my soul touch upon the subject, — with such weak nerves and spirits, and in the condition I am in at present, 'twould be as much as my life was worth, to deject and contrist myself with so bad and melancholy an account, — and therefore, 'tis safer to draw a curtain across, and hasten from it, as fast as I can, to the main and principal point I have undertaken to clear up, — and that is, How it comes to pass, that your men of least wit are reported to be men of most judgment.

I begin with writing the first
sentence — and trusting to Almighty
God for the second.