He had read much for a person in his rank of life, and had pondered upon the ways of the world, until he had gained more wisdom than a whole library of books could have taught him.

Ben had a greater reverence for his father than for any other person in the world, as well on account of his spotless integrity as of his practical sense and deep views of things.
Consequently, after being released from the clutches of the law, Ben came into his father's presence with no small perturbation of mind.
"Benjamin, come hither," began Mr.Franklin, in his customary solemn and weighty tone.
The boy approached and stood before his father's chair, waiting reverently to hear what judgment this good man would pass upon his late offence.

He felt that now the right and wrong of the whole matter would be made to appear.
"Benjamin!" said his father, "what could induce you to take property which did not belong to you ?" "Why, father," replied Ben, hanging his head at first, but then lifting eyes to Mr.Franklin's face, "if it had been merely for my own benefit, I never should have dreamed of it.

But I knew that the wharf would be a public convenience.

If the owner of the stones should build a house with them, nobody will enjoy any advantage except himself.