The Art of Worldly Wisdom(44)

Sympathy with great Minds. It is a heroic quality to agree with heroes. It is like a miracle of nature for mystery and for use. There is a natural kinship of hearts and minds: its effects are such that vulgar ignorance scents witchcraft. Esteem established, goodwill follows, which at times reaches affection. It persuades without words and obtains without earning. This sympathy is sometimes active, sometimes passive, both alike felicific; the more so, the more sublime. It is a great art to recognize, to distinguish and to utilize this gift. No amount of energy suffices without that favor of nature.