ife.

Besides, the instances are very rare in which a female is required, for
the gratification of an importunate lover, to do what she feels must be
suicidal to her own peace. As a Christian, she is bound to love others
as herself, if you please, even as much as herself; but not more. If she
offer up all her self-love, and take a course intended exclusively for
the gratification of another, does she not go then beyond the gospel
command? There are cases in which this may be a duty, but let a young
woman ponder long and seriously, before concluding that hers is of that
number. It may call for great energy to withstand importunities. She may
sometimes feel that her resolution must give way; but let her consider
the future, a whole life of aversion from one ever at her side, and if
this seem her inevitable doom, did she now marry, she will remain firm
in her purpose to the last.

Nearly related to the class just described, are those who marry under
the impression that it is their Duty to form this connection with some
one. Public opinion demands it, as a matter of course; their parents
have always conducted, as if this was their view of the subject, and the
daughter conscientiously believes that she must conform to it. Now, if
what I have hitherto said is correct, there is no such thing as an
unconditional obligation to marry. It is a duty only when circumstances
favor it. If there be decided objections against the character of the
one, or the many, who may have made overtures of marriage to a young
lady, it has never yet become her duty to marry. On the contrary, she is
solemnly bound still to remain single, to wait until Providence
indicates to her a prospect of so changing her situation, as to enhance
her usefulness and happiness.

Marriage is regarded too often as a Business transaction. It is entered
upon for prudential reasons alone; the heart is not interested, nor, of
course, given at the altar. In our country, where all things take the
form of traffic, there is especial danger that the most sacred bond
which man can form, will bear a mercantile aspect, by being rudely
exposed in the market place. Let prudence have her office in this
matter, but let it always be subordinate to a higher principle.
Affection should prompt and impel; discretion ought only to act as a
guide, a light, and counsellor, never as an originator and master, in
matrimonial concerns. There is a wide chasm between imprudence and
rashness in