Elements of Algebra

EULER. XXI impressions, and was remarkably fond of children. His manners were simple, without being singular, and seemed to flow naturally from a heart that could dispense with those habits, by which many must be trained to artificial mildness, and with the forms that are often necessary for concealment. Nor did the equability and calmness of his temper indicate any defect of energy, but the serenity of a soul that overlooked the frivolous provocations, the petulant caprices, and jarring humours of ordinary mortals. Possessing a mind of such wonderful comprehension, and dispositions so admirably formed to virtue and to happiness, Euler found no difficulty in being a Christian: accordingly, “his faith was unfeigned,” and his love “was that of a pure and undefiled heart.” The advocates for the truth of revealed religion, therefore, may rejoice to add to the bright catalogue, which already claims a Bacon, a Newton, a Locke, and a Hale, the illustrious name of Euler. But, on this subject, we shall permit one of his learned and grateful pupils* to sum up the character of his venerable master. “His piety was rational and sincere; his devotion “was fervent. He was fully persuaded of the “truth of Christianity; he felt its importance to “the dignity and happiness of human nature; “and looked upon its detractors, and opposers, as “the most pernicious enemies of man.” The length to which this account has been ex- * M. Fuss, Eulogy of M. L. Euler.