and to obey their husbands: but on the other hand, husbands are enjoined to treat their wives with gentleness, tenderness and condefcenfion. When we reflect on the lasting duration as well as the intimate nature of this union, it is evident that it ought not to be formed hastily, rafhly and inconfiderately. It should be the refult of mature deliberation, and of as compleat a knowledge as poffible of each others natural temper, disposition and habits. There is nothing of fo great importance to us as the good qualities of the perfon to whom we are united for life. They not only make our prefent ftate agreeable, but often determine our happiness to all eternity. It is a great misfortune, however, that in forming this connection, the generality of both fexes are more attracted by wealth, fplendour and external appearances than by the qualities of the heart and mind. There are few in comparifon, who are fufficiently aware that the chief happiness of the married state depends upon the prudénce, difcretion, good temper and virtuous difpofitions of the partner of our lives. But whatever mistaken notions on this fubject may prevail in the world, nothing is more certain than this, that fortune and happiness are two very distinct ideas: a discovery made by too many, when alas! it is too late. Do we then look for happiness in the màrried state, let us be well fatisfied that the object of our choice is governed by the principles of virtue and religion. An inattention to this point is the chief fource of that unhappiness which clouds matrimonial life. Those who are led by religious principles have a pledge to give, and it is a pledge worthy of being trusted, that they will discharge their duty to their fellow creatures, according to the different relations in which they may be placed. Where this is wanting, there is little fecurity for happiness in the married ftate. But even when married perfons are governed by the best principles, perfection must not be looked for on either fide. In the progress of the matrimonial life, it is fcarcely poffible, but that the husband and the wife will difcover faults in each other which they had not previously D expected. This must be the refult of intimate connection and uninterrupted fociety. What then is to be done in confequence of fuch a discovery? Is affection to be repreffed? Is it to be permitted to grow cold and languid, because the object of it appears tinctured with fome defects which efcaped our notice in that hurry of spirits and that dazzled state of mind peculiar to the season of growing attachment ? By no means, my friends. The knot being tied, and a marriage covenant folemnly entered into, we must bear with one another's frailties and infirmities, and fo fulfil the law of Chrift. |