It is obviously from hence, that the _Character_ of Sir _Roger_ de
_Coverly_ in the _Spectators_ is so extremely agreeable. His _Foibles_
are all derived from some amiable Cause.--If he believes that _one
Englishman_ can conquer _two Frenchmen_, you laugh at his _Foible_,
and are fond of a _Weakness_ in the Knight, which proceeds from his
high Esteem of his _own Country-men_.--If he chuses you should employ
a _Waterman_ or _Porter_ with _one_ Leg, you readily excuse the
Inconvenience he puts you to, for his worthy regard to the Suffering
of a brave _Soldier_.--In short, though he is guilty of continual
Absurdities, and has little Understanding or real Abilities, you
cannot but _love_ and _esteem_ him, for his _Honour_, _Hospitality_,
and universal _Benevolence_.
It is indeed true, that his _Dignity_, _Age_, and _Rank_ in his
Country, are of constant Service in _upholding_ his Character.
These are a perpetual _Guard_ to the Knight, and preserve him from
_Contempt_ upon many Occasions.--All which corresponds entirely with
the fore-going _Remark_. For you would be fond of Sir _Roger's_
Acquaintaince and Company in _real Life_, as he is a Gentleman of
_Quality_ and _Virtue_; You love and admire him in the _Spectators_
for the _same_ Reasons; And for these also he would become, if he was
rightly exhibited, a _favorite_ Character in the _Theatre_.
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