It is true from early habit, one must make love mechanically as one swims; I was once very fond of both, but now as I never swim unless I tumble into the water, I don't make love till almost obliged.

Summary

This quote suggests that habits and preferences can change over time. The speaker compares their earlier enjoyment of both swimming and making love, implying that they used to engage in these activities willingly and with enthusiasm. However, as they have grown older or experienced different circumstances, their approach has become more reactive and less voluntary. They compare not swimming unless they accidentally fall into water to not making love unless they feel almost obligated, emphasizing how their attitude and inclination towards these activities have fundamentally transformed.

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