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AN
ESSAY[1]
ON
NATIONAL REWARDS;
BEING A PROPOSAL FOR BESTOWING THEM ON A PLAN MORE DURABLE AND RESPECTABLE.
Cuncti adsint, meritæque expectent præmia palmæ. Virg.
THERE is no maxim in politicks more indisputable, than that a nation should have many honours to reserve for those who do national services. This raises emulation, cherishes publick merit, and inspires every one with an ambition which promotes the good of his country. The less expensive these honours are to the publick, the more still do they turn to its advantage.
The Romans abounded with these little honorary rewards, that, without conferring wealth and riches, gave only place and distinction to the person who received them. An oaken garland, to be worn on
- ↑ This Essay was first printed in the Guardian, No. 96.
festivals
