It is indolence... Indolence and love of ease; a want of all laudable ambition, of taste for good company, or of inclination to take the trouble of being agreeable, which make men clergymen. A clergyman has nothing to do but be slovenly and selfish; read the newspaper, watch the weather, and quarrel with his wife. His curate does all the work and the business of his own life is to dine.

Summary

In this quote, the speaker suggests that laziness, a desire for an easy life, and a lack of ambition or social skills are the qualities that often lead men to become clergymen. The speaker claims that clergy members have no real responsibilities other than being untidy and self-centered, engaging in mundane activities like reading the newspaper, checking the weather, and arguing with their spouses. Their assistants or curates handle all the actual work, while their main concern is simply to enjoy meals. This quote criticizes a perceived lack of dedication and meaningful engagement from some clergymen.

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