It is, I fear, but a vain show of fulfilling the heathen precept, Know thyself, and too often leads to a self-estimate which will subsist in the absence of that fruit by which alone the quality of the tree is made evident.

Summary

This quote suggests that the pursuit of self-knowledge can sometimes be an empty display, adhering to the pagan principle of "Know thyself." It warns that this self-awareness often forms into a self-perception that lacks any substantial evidence or positive qualities. The quote implies that true self-understanding can only be achieved through actions and tangible outcomes, like the fruits of a tree, rather than mere self-impressions or illusions.

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