or a mistaken kind of filial piety.

Yet I by no means recommend the disregard of parental advice, in this
sacred transaction. Perhaps the dangers of this age lie chiefly in that
direction. There is often a false independence in this matter, an idea
that a certain individual must be a lady's companion for life. She may
believe that "the match was made in Heaven," and that it is a sin, in
parents and friends, to oppose it. Or, she may determine that, let what
will be the consequences, she will accept the overtures of the gentleman
before her. The tendencies of the times induce many parents to keep
silent, and take no part, and give no advice, when their daughters
receive proposals for marriage. It is thought that, let them advise as
they may, their children are resolved to do just as they please, and, to
preserve peace, they forbear to interfere in the least.

This state of things cannot be too deeply deplored. When a young woman
has an offer of addresses, it presents a solemn occasion, one which
demands of her great deliberation, thoughtfulness and discretion. The
instances are rare, in which an immediate decision can with propriety be
effected. Counsel and assistance are never more needed, than in this
important exigency. And to whom should one go, in preference to those
who best understand her character, and what traits are needed in another
to render her happy, and useful to him; and who feel also the deepest
interest in her welfare? The daughter should seek advice from this
quarter, and the parent ought promptly to give it.

In the other extreme, where parental partiality would coerce the
feelings of a child, and impel her to a step she would fain avoid, then
let the daughter mildly, but firmly, maintain her own purpose. I saw
recently an account of a couple who were married nearly three years
since, but owing to the opposition of friends, they lived separately,
and kept their secret, until circumstances permitted a disclosure. Here
must have been genuine affection, a true union of souls. "Stolen waters
are sweet," and none seem more so, than the draughts of a clandestine
marriage. Much as I deprecate the result of such elopements, I would
rather a young lady should be even guilty of this imprudence, if she
sincerely love her companion, than that she marry one she does not love,
nor can hope ever to love, for the sake of gratifying any individual in
the world. Let advice be sought, and let it be weighed and well he