Be that as it may, his _Observations_ are the most pungent and dashing effusion he ever allowed himself.

It was his first effort in English prose, and it is doubtful whether he ever managed his mother tongue better, if indeed he ever managed it so well.

The little tract is written with singular spirit and rapidity of style.

It is clear, trenchant, and direct to a fault.

It is indeed far less critical than polemical, and shows no trace of lofty calm, either moral or intellectual.