In the following passage, some of the words have been left out. Read the passage carefully and select the correct answer for the given blank out of the four alternatives.
Passage:

It is a delight _______________ the illuminating thoughts which came to the minds of these men; and, on the other hand, it is amusing to see how ________________ they launched ________________ on boundless seas when they were unprovided with chart and compass. They were _________ brilliant children, who know little of the dangers of the great world, but are ready to undertake anything. These philosophers regarded all knowledge as their province, and did __________ despair of governing so great a realm.