deem of this sentiment. None will then banter words with her upon
her sacred affections; for there will be that in her air and language,
when this topic is referred to, which shall convince every one that she
holds it a consecrated theme.

In summing up my general remarks on the view to be taken of love, I
would say, talk little with your companions about it; and resolve, if
the topic can only be introduced by a jest, that you will preserve upon
it a profound silence. This would at first make you appear singular. But
such a course would soon commend itself to every considerate friend and
acquaintance in your circle. Or, if some should persist in importuning
and teazing you in regard to it, you would be sustained by the
consciousness of exerting all your influence for the elevation of
society in their views, and conversation, on the most holy of human
connections.

Nor should the mind be permitted to dwell constantly upon this subject.
Some are perpetually imagining themselves in love; others are dreaming
over the philosophy of the affections, and wasting precious hours upon
that which adds nothing to their happiness, and does little to prepare
them for married life. Let the mind be kept tranquil on this subject;
the heart will then be preserved in its soundness. No good affection
will die or decay, but, in the time and method ordained by Providence,
advances will be made, and the heart addressed, and the hand solicited
for marriage. Let the young maiden bide the passing months in
cheerfulness, and prepare herself for a Christian life. A character thus
matured will give hope of the happiest results in new relations, and
amid all the coming and unknown scenes that await her.

Chapter VII.

SINGLE LIFE.

A wrong idea. Some designed for Single Life. The "Old Maid's"
reproach. Addison. Two errors, Reserve, and Forwardness. Virtues
of Single women. Humanity. Modesty. Economy. Neatness. Usefulness.
Hannah More. Miss Sedgwick. Miss Porter's "Aunt Rebecca." Avoid
affectation. Advice of Mrs. Hall. Two essentials, Mental
Cultivation, and Industry.

Marriage is not seldom regarded as "our being's end and aim;" hence a
young woman is often filled with a feverish anxiety to form this
connection, or at least to enter on its preliminaries, at an early
period of her life. We believe there are thousands, who never so much as
ask themselves the question, "Is it certain that I must be married, or
be miserable?"