profitable company, visits, &c. but endeavour to improve it for the purposes for which it was set aside, namely, as a day of rest and religious improvement. The last thing I would suggest, on this head, is, the frequent reading the holy Scriptures: fail not to be diligent in this exercise, which will, at most, occupy but a few minutes of your time, and these minutes, though daily thus employed, will not be missed from the day. For where, but in the sacred volume, can we find penned all those necessary instructions for our conduct, that direct us where to look for all the supports and aids the distresses of life call for. What excellent direc

en !

tions have we here to fit us for heavThe wisest philosophers, and the best men, have constantly declared, that the Scriptures are truly sublime and contain pure morality, important history, and impressive eloquence. Engage not too much in the controversial parts of religion, which is apt to make a man more busily inquisitive, than practically useful. Why break the golden chain of brotherly love for speculative points, which are very far outweighed by faith, and good works? Give a reason for the hope that is in you, with clearness, and coolness; but let your conduct be the best comment on

your belief. Espouse not any opinion, nor be led by it one step farther than the clear conviction of your own judgment will conduct you: for how manifestly unjust shall we be to the reason God has given us, to subject our understanding to the guidance of others. Esteem no man because he is of this or that opinion, but value every one who walks virtuously, according to the plain principles of piety, sobriety and justice, which are not disputed nor denied by any. For when the great Judge shall take account of all things, he will not ask, "are you of Paul, or of A

pollos, or of Cephas," but, "have you departed from all iniquity ?"

Never accustom yourself to the use of profane words; which is a habit readily acquired, but not so readily laid aside many young men fall very imperceptibly into this vice, through various causes, but chiefly through vanity. You will shun this, and every other vice, by attending to this precept; "pray without ceasing." Start not at what may appear impracticable to one whose time must be constantly employed very differently: the apostle who gave it laboured for his daily

bread, and therefore knew it to be practicable by all. He means by it, that your mind should ever be in such a state of purity, that you may be able to refer every event which befalls you, whether joyful or sorrowful to the great Disposer of all, either in gratitude, or in trust. When you pray, let not your prayers be a hasty or inconsiderate repetition of words impressed only upon the memory, for ye know not what to pray for as ye ought; but pray with that faith, affection, and earnest desire, which, whether in words, or only in fervent aspirations of the heart, is acceptable to the