'First of all, consideration purifies the very
fountain, that is the mind, from which it springs. Then it governs the
affections, directs our actions, corrects excesses, softens the manners,
adorns and regulates the life, and, lastly, bestows the knowledge of
things divine and human alike. It is consideration that brings order out
of disorder, puts in the links, pulls things together, investigates
mysteries, traces the truth, weighs probabilities, exposes shams and
counterfeits. It is consideration which arranges beforehand what is to
be done, and ponders what is accomplished, so that nothing faulty, or
needing correction, may settle in the mind.'
