l is her guilt, but God alone knows how
she may long to be free. Far greater is their guilt who for their own
selfish enjoyment do not hesitate to plunge deeper into ruin a soul for
whom Christ died. If men treated all women honourably--all, not simply
their relations and friends,--there would not be those who make their
living by sin. Such a state of things it may be hopeless to expect, so
long as cowards are to be found amongst men, but it is not too much to
expect from honourable men and Christians that they should treat all
women with such respect, that, as far as lies in their power, the stigma
of meanness and cowardice should not rest upon the men of this land.
Treat them with respect, not only in your intercourse with them, but in
your conversation about them, and your thoughts concerning them.

But to turn to a pleasanter subject, the honourable courtship of man and
maiden. Certain things should be taken into consideration in making your
choice. First, that the object of your choice should be one whom you can
thoroughly love and entirely trust. Secondly, that she should be one
whom you feel would be a real help in life. Thirdly, that she should be
of the same religion as yourself (otherwise difficulties in after life
are sure to arise) and a really religious woman. And Fourthly, that she
should be not merely, or even necessarily, a bright and pretty companion,
but should have such qualities as are necessary for a good wife and
mother--one who can manage a home as well as help to pass an hour or so
pleasantly.

Your courtship should be thoroughly open and above-board. The parents
consent should first be obtained, and remember that you are bound to
respect their wishes. Be careful also that she shall never in any way be
compromised by your conduct. I say no more because I have assumed at the
beginning that your courtship is honourable, that you love the girl of
your choice, and that as you would shield her from all injury from
others, so she will be safe under your protection. Take no ordinary
standard as the rule of your courtship, but determine from the very
beginning that it shall be so conducted, that when as man and wife you
look back upon it, it may be with feelings free from any taint of sorrow
or shame; that when you stand before God to be married it may be as
honest man and maiden, seeking for God's full blessing upon your married
life, as it has rested upon your unmarried days. One thing I w