BOOK the First.
BackCHAP. I. Shews, in the example of Natura, how from our very birth, the passions, to which the human soul is incident, are discoverable in us; and how far the organs of sense, or what is called the constitution, has an effect over us.
CHAP. II. Contains some proofs by what swift degrees the passions gain an ascendant over the mind, and grow up in proportion with our reason.
CHAP. III. The early influence which the difference of sex excites, is here exemplified in the fond but innocent affection of Natura and Delia.
CHAP. IV. Shews, that till we arrive at a certain age, the impressions made on us are easily erased; and also that when those which bear the name of love are once rooted in the mind, there are no lengths to which we may not be transported by that passion, if great care is not taken to prevent its getting the ascendant over reason.
CHAP. V. That to indulge any one fault, brings with it the temptation of committing others, is demonstrated by the behaviour of Natura, and the misfortunes and disgrace which an ill-judged shame had like to have involved him in.
CHAP. VI. Shews the great force of natural affection and the good effects it has over a grateful mind.
Back