In the execution of my plan, I experienced another advantage which I
had never thought of; this was, spending a great deal of time
profitably. Nature certainly never meant me for study, since attentive
application fatigues me so much that I find it impossible to employ
myself half an hour together intently on any one subject; particularly
while following another person's ideas, for it has frequently happened
that I have pursued my own for a much longer period with success.
After reading a few pages of an author with close application, my
understanding is bewildered, and should I obstinately continue, I tire
myself to no purpose, a stupefaction seizes me, and I am no longer
conscious of what I read; but in a succession of various subjects, one
relieves me from the fatigue of the other, and without finding respite
necessary, I can follow then with pleasure.
I took advantage of this observation in the plan of my studies,
taking care to intermingle them in such a manner that I was never
weary: it is true that domestic and rural concerns furnished many
pleasing relaxations; but as my eagerness for improvement increased, I
contrived to find opportunities for my studies, frequently employing
myself about two things at the same time, without reflecting that both
were consequently neglected.
In relating so many trifling details, which delight me, but
frequently tire my reader, I make use of the caution to suppress a
great number, though, perhaps, he would have no idea of this, if I did
not take care to inform him of it: for example, I recollect with
pleasure all the different methods I adopted for the distribution of
my time, in such a manner as to produce the utmost profit and
pleasure.
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