Page:Vivian Grey, Volume 1.djvu/68

From Wikisource
Jump to navigation Jump to search
This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
58
VIVIAN GREY.

ful adventures, the God bore no indication of the Thunderer's glory; but was a man of low estate, a herdsman, or other hind; and often even an animal. A mighty spirit has in Tradition, Time's great moralist, perused 'the wisdom of the ancients.' Even in the same spirit, I would explain Jove's terrestrial visitings. For, to govern man, even the God appeared to feel as a man; and sometimes as a beast, was apparently influenced by their vilest passions. Mankind, then, is my great game.

"At this moment, how many a powerful noble wants only wit to be a Minister; and what wants Vivian Grey to attain the same end? That noble's influence. When two persons can so materially assist each other, why are they not brought together? Shall I, because my birth baulks my fancy—shall I pass my life a moping misanthrope in an old château? Supposing I am in contact with this magnifico, am I prepared? Now, let me probe my very soul.