Samuel Johnson, in The Rambler no. 14, titled “On the Life of an Author vs. His Writing,” notes: It has long been the custom of the oriental monarchs to hide themselves in gardens and palaces, to avoid the conversation of mankind, and to be known to their subjects only by their edicts. The same policy [...]

A letter to Hester Thrale. Madam: The inequalities of human life have always employed the meditation of deep thinkers, and I cannot forebear to reflect on the difference between your condition and my own. You live upon Mock turtle, and stewed Rumps of Beef. I dined yesterday upon crumpets. You sit with parish officers, caressing [...]