he best construction upon the conduct of others. Do not
attach more meaning to their language and conduct than they properly
express. If at any time you really believe yourself slighted, take no
notice of it. Yet be careful never to intrude yourself into society
where you have good reason to believe your company is not desired.

10. _Be cautious in the formation of intimate friendships._ Christians
should always regard one another as friends. Yet peculiar circumstances,
together with congeniality of sentiment and feeling, may give rise to a
personal attachment much stronger than the common bond which unites all
Christians. Of this, we have a most beautiful example in the case of
David and Jonathan. This appears to be a perfect pattern of Christian
friendship. They both doubtless loved other pious people. But there was
existing between them a peculiar personal attachment. Their souls were
"_knit together_." Friendships of this kind should not be numerous, and
the objects of them should be well chosen. Long acquaintance is
necessary that you may be able to repose unlimited confidence in the
friend to whom you unbosom your whole heart. Form no such friendships
hastily. Think what would have been the consequence if David had been
deceived in this friend. He would most certainly have lost his life.

11. _Before going into company, visit your closet._ Pray that the Lord
would so direct your steps that you may do all things for his glory;
that he would enable you to spend the time profitably to yourself and
others; that he would keep you from evil speaking, levity, and foolish
jesting, and every impropriety; and that he would enable you to exert a
religious influence over those with whom you may meet. Be assured, if
you go out without observing this precaution, you will return with a
wounded soul.

Your affectionate Brother.

LETTER XVI.

_Charity._

"Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity
vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, doth not behave itself
unseemly; seeketh not her own; is not easily provoked; thinketh no
evil; rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;
beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things,
endureth all things."--1 Cor. 13:4-7.

MY DEAR SISTER:

Although I have often alluded, in the course of these letters, to the
work of the Holy Spirit, and his blessed fruit in the heart and life