f a single course.
Mixed dishes are more likely to be injurious; and a second course will
almost certainly lead to excess.

But, do not give your attention so much to this subject as to become
_splenetic_. The imagination has a great influence upon animal feeling;
and if you are always watching the digestion of your food, you will be
sure to find dyspeptic symptoms; and if you humor your stomach too much,
you will weaken its capacity of accommodating itself to the kind of
nutriment it receives. Having fixed your principles of regimen, adhere
to them as rigidly as you can without inconvenience to others; but
having done this, let your mind dwell as little as possible on the
subject, and do not make it a matter of frequent conversation.
Especially, do not make trouble to the friends who entertain you, when
away from home, by excessive particularity. You may find some wholesome
dish on the most luxurious table; and if the table is _lean_, you need
not fear.

As we are commanded, whether we eat or drink, or whatsoever we do, to do
all to the glory of God, it may not be amiss to inquire how we may
_glorify God in eating and drinking_. 1. We may eat for the purpose of
strengthening our bodies, to enable us to engage in the active service
of the Lord. 2. When we partake in moderation of the bounties of
Providence, it is right that our animal appetites should be feasted with
the delicious taste of the fruits of the earth. But we must see the
glory of God in it. Here the benevolence of his character shines forth,
in the wonderful provision which he has made for the gratification of
our earthly appetites. Hence we may argue the ineffable sweetness of the
bread of life--the food of the soul. This mortal body is but a tent
pitched in the wilderness, for the residence of the soul during its
pilgrimage. If, then, God has opened the treasures of the animal and
vegetable kingdoms to please the taste of this meaner part, how much
more abundant the provision for feasting the soul with pure spiritual
food; with eternally increasing knowledge of the divine character and
perfections! But we cannot so partake of those rich and hurtful dainties
invented by man. The delight thus experienced is the glory of man, not
of God. And the effect produced is the destruction of those delicate
organs of taste which he has provided, that we may discern the exquisite
sweetness of the natural fruits of the earth. By the same means, also,
we destroy our he