BOOK II PART I
have the same effect. Now riches are to be con-
sidered as the power of acquiring the property
of what pleases; and it is only in this view they
have any influence on the passions. Paper will,
on many occasions, be considered as riches,
and that because it may convey the power of
acquiring money: And money is not riches, as
it is a metal endowed with certain qualities of
solidity, weight and fusibility; but only as it has
a relation to the pleasures and conveniences of
life. Taking then this for granted, which is in
itself so evident, we may draw from it one of
the strongest arguments I have yet employed
to prove the influence of the double relations
on pride and humility.
It has been observed in treating of the under-
standing, that the distinction, which we some-
times make betwixt a power and the exercise