vourably, are generally destitute of both, through the operation of prejudice. So truly disgusting is a suspicious disposition, that it is the preferable alternative to encounter a disadvantage by too favourable an opinion, than to suffer the unpleasing sensation of forming an unfavourable one. The candid mind enjoys a serenity unknown to a suspicious distrustful temper. Candour creates the admiration of the good. It is like one of those beautiful scenes of nature, which the eye rests upon with pleasure. When you re-peruse these admonitions, it will clearly appear to you, that no part of the government of temper deserves more attention than to keep your mind open to candour and humanity in judging of others. Mercy is a divine command, and almost the only attribute in which the created have the power of imitating the creator. The aged and unfortunate, who have perhaps toiled through an unsuccessful life, are apt to be the most severe in the opinion they entertain respecting the the world in general. F Their circumstances may be some apology; but the same suspicion often prevails in the minds of youth blessed with prosperity. They enter into life with the scruples of distrust, before they have reason to complain; from such characters, you must not expect the confidence so pleasing as in an amiable and candid disposition. Remember then, that in all the stages of life, candour is one of the most amiable traits in the human character. It is connected with magnanimity, justified by sense, and exemplifies the good will we ought to bear towards each other. Forgiveness to our enemies, and fidelity to our friends. In earlier days and calmer hours Where bloomed my native valleys-bowers, I AM truly happy your journey extends to his Majesty's Northern Realms, to Scotia's heath-clad mountains, my natal domain; for all with human feelings love their country. It is the old mansion of their earliest friends-you will be highly gratified with the diversity of highland scenery, and the natural beauties which the turning of the roads disclose on a sudden, to the delight and astonishment of persons not familiarized to the fascinating irregularities of a highland landscape, and will afford you opportunity to exercise your taste for the pencil. I often lament your deficiency in the pleasing art of portrait painting, that gives almost inexhaustible amusement to those who possess it. You remember that little elegant production, "The Pleasures of Memory," containing the beautiful apostrophe, "And hence the calm delight the portrait gives; We gaze on every feature till it lives. Still the fond mother sees the absent child." |