The study of law is valuable as a mental discipline, but the practice of pleading tends to make one petty, formal, and insincere. To be driven to look to legality rather than to equity blurs the view of truth and justice.

Summary

This quote suggests that while studying law can be intellectually stimulating and beneficial, actually practicing law can sometimes have negative effects on the individual. It argues that the act of pleading, or presenting legal arguments, can lead to the development of negative qualities such as pettiness, formality, and insincerity. Furthermore, relying solely on legality instead of considering equity, or fairness, can cloud one's understanding of truth and justice. In essence, the quote highlights the potential pitfalls of the legal profession.

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