Essay on the Nature and Conduct of the Passions (1728)

beside that general Consideration, that old Arguments may sometimes be set in such a Light by one, as will convince those who were not moved by them, even when better expressed by another; since, for every Class of Writers, there are Classes of Readers adapted, who cannot relish anything higher: Besides this, I say, the very Novelty of a Book may procure a little Attention, from those who overlook the Writings which the World has long enjoyed. And if by Curiosity, or any other means, some few can be engaged to turn their Thoughts to these important Subjects, about which a little Reflection will discover the Truth, and a thorough Consideration of it may occasion a great Increase of real Happiness; no Person need be ashamed of his Labors as useless, which do such Service to any of his Fellow-Creatures.