i
?• A state of equality , in the absence of the distinc-
0 tions of property, characterized the individuals of
a German tribe, and was the source of their pride*2 independence, and courage. Personal qualities were
alone the foundation of pre-eminence. The sons ofW a chief were not distinguished from those of the
simple warrior , by any superior advantages ofi® education. They lived among the fame cattle, and
1 * reposed on the same ground, till the promise of
it- worth , the symptoms of greatness, separated the
nt ingenuous from the vulgar , till valor claimed
lit them (a). Ignorant of the arts of peace, they
t, pursued, with keenness, the occupations of war.
k Where communities, perpetually inflamed with
M rivalshipand animosity, brought their disputes to the
mi decision of battles, and were agitated with revenge
xe and with glory , the opportunities of distinction
th were frequent. The only profession known to the
)f. Germans was that of arms. The ambitious and
jf ( enterprising courted dangers where they might ac-
quire renown, and display their conduct and theirbu. powess. To such a height did the military ardor
tit prevail, that, if a tribe happened at any time to
languish in ease, its youthful and impatient heroes;e d sought those nations who were then at war. Theydisdained to remain in inaction ; and could not so0 l easily be persuaded to till the earth , and to wait
, n its returns , as to challenge an enemy , and to
hazard their lives. They thought it mean and■ c ignoble to acquire by their labor, what they mightss i;_ purchase with their blood ( 3 ).
The animated temperament they displayed ira
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