nderstand.

IN short, every one seems convinced, that the evil so much complained of
does really exist somewhere, though all are inwardly persuaded that it
is not with themselves. All desire a general reformation, but few will
listen to proposals of particular amendment; the body must be restored,
but each limb begs to remain as it is; and accusations which concern
all, will be likely to affect none. They think that sin, like matter, is
divisible, and that what is scattered among so many, cannot materially
affect any one; and thus individuals contribute separately to that evil
which they in general lament.

THE prevailing manners of an age depend more than we are aware, or are
willing to allow, on the conduct of the women; this is one of the
principal hinges on which the great machine of human society turns.
Those who allow the influence which female graces have, in contributing
to polish the manners of men, would do well to reflect how great an
influence female morals must also have on their conduct. How much then
is it to be regretted, that the British ladies should ever sit down
contented to polish, when they are able to reform, to entertain, when
they might instruct, and to dazzle for an hour, when they are candidates
for eternity!

UNDER the dispensation of Mahomet's law, indeed, these mental
excellencies cannot be expected, because the women are shut out from all
opportunities of instruction, and excluded from the endearing pleasures
of a delightful and equal society; and, as a charming poet sings, are
taught to believe, that

For their inferior natures
Form'd to delight, and happy by delighting,
Heav'n has reserv'd no future paradise,
But bids them rove the paths of bliss, secure
Of total death, and careless of hereafter.

IRENE.

THESE act consistently in studying none but exterior graces, in
cultivating only personal attractions, and in trying to lighten the
intolerable burden of time, by the most frivolous and vain amusements.
They act in consequence of their own blind belief, and the tyranny of
their despotic masters; for they have neither the freedom of a present
choice, nor the prospect of a future being.

BUT in this land of civil and religious liberty, where there is as
little despotism exercised over the minds, as over the persons of women,
they have every liberty of choice, and every opportunity of improvement;
and how greatly does this increase their obliga