An Indian, hunting in the winter in order to rest in the summer, met a Frenchman who said he works in the summer to rest in the winter. People differ.
Custom has a mighty effect on mankind.
JBR Collection
An airy Frenchman happened to meet an Indian upon the Mississippi, as he went, with his bow and arrow, to seek provision for his family. Says Monsieur to the savage: “You have a very toilsome life of it, who, when other people sit by the fireside, enjoying the benefit of good food and good company, are obliged to traverse the woods, in the midst of snow and storms, to preserve a wretched existence.” “How come you by your food?” replied the Indian. “Does it rain from the clouds to you?” “No,” says the Frenchman, “we work in summer, and make provision for the winter; and during the cold months sit by the fire and enjoy ourselves.” “For the same reason,” says the Indian, “do we lay up provisions in winter, that we may rest in summer, while the days are hot. What you account pleasure would be none to us; and your manner of life appears ridiculous to the Indians, as ours appears to you.” The Frenchman could make no reply, and the Indian proceeded in his hunting. Custom has a mighty effect on mankind; and more difference arises in character from custom than from natural causes. Perhaps all men are in the state they should be in; therefore, they should live contented.
