and observation have before furnished the mind. New thoughts also are frequently struck out in converse with learned men ; and we enjoy the advantage, at the same time, of unfolding our own opinions, and having their errors confuted, or their merits approved by a just criterion. Where young people have the ad- : vantage of receiving education, and yet remain ignorant, they must either be pitied as wanting intellect, or condemned for sloth. I have known some spoiled childrenwho have declined particular studies, under the pretence of the difficulty that attended the attainment;-let such remember "The wise and active conquer difficulties Though I recommend stady as the foundation of one of the greatest blessings in life, yet I would warn the young students to beware of falling into pedantry, or expressing their opinions in too positive and peremptory a style; as the wisest are occasionally liable to mistake, and time and reflection alone can authorize a decided judgment, which even then may sometimes prove erroneous. A dogmatical spirit ought to be subdued by every possible means, for it renders even learning disagreeable, and makes its possessor shunned and detested. If you enter into dispute respecting any subject, be careful to keep watch on your passions, that they may not enter into the controversy; which they are very apt to do, and rise into rancour and resentment, in which case, the voice of truth and sound judgment, is stifled and lost in noise and clamour.. clamour. Anger gains the ascendency of reason, and a subject which might have been a theme of amusement and improve ment, becomes the source of confusion and enmity. To write correctly, fluently, and fairly, is highly necessary for youth; for the best or most interesting subject, ill spelt, awkwardly related, blotted, or ill written, loses its effect on the person to whom it is addressed, who probably may not comprehend it, or throw it aside as unworthy perusal. Speaking ought also to be particularly. attended to, as a graceful address, modulation of voice, and correct language, are strong recommendations; and have such extensive influence over the minds of the hearers, that the orators Cicero and Demosthenes, made the Romans and Athenians believe almost whatever they pleased. Eloquence Eloquence renders even error interesting; and may be compared to a beautiful veil, through which only half the de-formity of the object is discovered. Though I recommend eloquence, yet if you possess it, never let it be exerted but in the cause of truth and justice; as otherwise it is polluting the gifts of your Creator, and disgracing the cares of those who have cultivated your talents. When you listen to it in others, be not beguiledby a fine voice, or by elegant action, but.. divesting the subject of the graces of eloquence, consider it attentively, and ever maintain a steady resolution to be the defender of truth in whatever form it may appear. ON ON ANGER. HUMAN nature is so very perverse and corrupt, that malice and . revenge usually mingle with our anger, and make us guilty of not only sinning against our neighbour, but against God. himself. We should, therefore, carefully guard against this evil, and constantly recal to our memories, the words of the blessed.. apostle," Let not the sun go down upon your wrath." Endeavour to govern your passions by the rules of moderation, and. religion; which will guard you against the effervescence of unrestrained anger, calm the |