A series of witty, reflective essays examines human foibles, moral pretensions, and the social habits of reformers with gentle irony. Individual pieces range from a sketch of a charlatan seller of indulgences and meditations on misplaced virtue to analyses of common fallacies, the difficulties faced by peacemakers, and the habits of generous airs. The writer mixes humor, personal anecdote, and moral observation to criticize affectation, temper zeal with tolerance, and invite readers to recognize and forgive ordinary imperfections.