The Art of Being Agreeable
THE ART OF BEING AGREEABLE.—The true art of being agreeable is to appear well pleased with all the company, and rather to seem well entertained with them than to give entertainment to them. A man thus disposed, perhaps, may not have much learning, nor any wit; but if he have common sense, and something friendly in his behaviour, it concilliates men's minds more than the brightest talents without this disposition; and when a man of such a turn comes to old age, he is almost sure to be treated with respect. It is true, indeed, that we should not dissemble and flatter in company; but a man may be very agreeable, strictly consistent with truth and sincerity, by a prudent silence where he cannot concur and a pleasant assent where he can. Now and then you meet with a person so exactly formed to please that he will gain upon every one that hears or beholds him; this disposition is not merely the gift of nature, but frequently the effect of much knowledge of the world and a command over the passions.