BOOK III PART I
shall we say upon that account, that the wine is
harmonious, or the music of a good flavour? In
like manner an inanimate object, and the char-
acter or sentiments of any person may, both of
them, give satisfaction; but as the satisfaction is
different, this keeps our sentiments concerning
them from being confounded, and makes us as-
cribe virtue to the one, and not to the other. Nor
is every sentiment of pleasure or pain, which
arises from characters and actions, of that pecu-
liar kind, which makes us praise or condemn.
The good qualities of an enemy are hurtful to
us; but may still command our esteem and re-
spect. It is only when a character is considered
in general, without reference to our particular
interest, that it causes such a feeling or senti-
ment, as denominates it morally good or evil.
It is true, those sentiments, from interest and
morals, are apt to be confounded, and naturally