had that
day gained the most glorious conquest that had ever been achieved by
reason and philosophy, by inspiring with the love of virtue a mind that
had been hitherto plunged in folly and sensuality. Xenocrates embraced
the young man, and admitted him among his disciples. Nor had he ever
reason to repent of his facility; for Polemo, from that hour, abandoned
all his former companions and vices, and by his uncommon ardour for
improvement, very soon became celebrated for virtue and wisdom, as he
had before been for every contrary quality."

"Thus," added Mr Barlow, "you see how little reason there is to despair
of youth, even in the most disadvantageous circumstances. It has been
justly observed, that few know all they are capable of: the seeds of
different qualities frequently lie concealed in the character, and only
wait for an opportunity of exerting themselves; and it is the great
business of education to apply such motives to the imagination as may
stimulate it to laudable exertions. For thus the same activity of mind,
the same impetuosity of temper, which, by being improperly applied,
would only form a wild, ungovernable character, may produce the
steadiest virtues, and prove a blessing both to the individual and his
country."

"I am infinitely obliged to you for this story," said Mr Merton; "and as
my son will certainly find a _Xenocrates_ in you, I wish that you may
have reason to think him in some degree a _Polemo_. But since you are so
kind as to present me these agreeable hopes, do not leave the work
unfinished, but tell me what you think the best method of treating him
in his present critical situation." "That," said Mr Barlow, "must
depend, I think, upon the workings of his own mind. He has always
appeared to me generous and humane, and to have a fund of natural
goodness amid all the faults which spring up too luxuriantly in his
character. It is impossible that he should not be at present possessed
with the keenest shame for his own behaviour. It will be your first part
to take advantage of these sentiments, and instead of a fleeting and
transitory sensation, to change them into fixed and active principles.
Do not at present say much to him upon the subject. Let us both be
attentive to the silent workings of his mind, and regulate our behaviour
accordingly."

This conversation being finished, Mr Merton introduced Mr Barlow to the
company in the other room. Mrs Merton, who now began to be a little
stagge