Sunday 20 May 2012

Ongar: An extract from the Commonplace Book of Edward Reeve c1860


Expression of ideas

A bud is generally a more elegant and complimentary offering than a full-blown or over-blown flower.  If you wish your idea to expand, do not let the whole process of expansion take place in your own writing, or conversation; leave part of it for the mind of the hearer or reader.  Especially if you wish to act upon a deep mind leave the gunpowder to explode within, and beneath, as in a mine – it is enough to light the train.  In connection with this may be quoted a passage from Bacon: “In a set speech in an assembly, it is expected a man should use all his reasons in the case he handleth but in private persuasions in great error”.

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