"
The following on "Castles in the Air" is interesting, as Steele himself
seems to have been addicted to raising such structures,--
"A castle-builder is even just what he pleases, and as such I have
grasped imaginary sceptres, and delivered uncontrollable edicts
from a throne to which conquered nations yielded obeisance. I have
made I know not how many inroads into France, and ravaged the very
heart of that kingdom; I have dined in the Louvre, and drunk
champagne at Versailles; and I would have you take notice I am not
only able to vanquish a people already 'cowed' and accustomed to
flight, but I could Almanzor-like, drive the British general from
the field, were I less a Protestant, or had ever been affronted by
the confederates. There is no art or profession whose most
celebrated masters I have not eclipsed. Wherever I have afforded my
salutary presence, fevers have ceased to burn and agues to shake
the human fabric. When an eloquent fit has been upon me, an apt
gesture and a proper cadence has animated each sentence, and gazing
crowds have found their passions worked up into rage, or soothed
into a calm. I am short, and not very well made; yet upon sight of
a fine woman, I have stretched into proper stature, and killed with
a good air and mien.
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