“The man who first took advantage of the general curiosity that was excited by
a siege or battle to betray the readers of news into the knowledge of the shop,
where the best puffs and powder were to be sold, was undoubtedly a man of
great sagacity, and profound skill in the nature of man. But when he had once
shown the way, it was easy to follow him” - Dr. Johnson, The Idler No. 40
hey could you paraphrase this text to me ? because i dont undertsand the meaning
This man is very in tune with human nature and uses his abilities to sell things. He is very wise (sagacity - from sage), and skillful with people. It is easy to listen to and follow him because of his success.