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Character indicated by Countenance

It is a common but fallacious idea, that in our intercourse with the world we can conceal our real characters from our fellow men. Although physiognomy is not, and perhaps may never be a science capable of being taught, there is nevertheless an instinct by which we judge, and judge correctly too, of the peculiarities of our acquaintances and friends. Very few of these there are, who do not, during their whole lives, endeavor to pass for something which they are not; but the only ones who are deceived in such attempts are the actors themselves.

 If people generally understood that every passion and emotion which they habitually cultivate, impresses its peculiar mark indelibly upon the countenance, there would be much less discrimination than we now witness.  One should not then perceive the arrogant, the selfish, and the proud affecting to be polite towards their associates.  Such qualities in action, are entirely incompatible with any true politeness, and unless a person heartily sympathises with his fellows, and is active in promoting their comfort, the affectation of politeness is as cross-out contemptible as it is hollow.