the disinterested women of the first century, who were "full of
good works, and alms-deeds, which they did," stands that of Dorcas. Her
example was not lost on the ages that followed. And in the Catholic
church, the kind, self-denying labors of the "Sisters of Charity," are
worthy of all commendation.

To whom, but to this sex, are we indebted for the sacred and
sympathetic services rendered by the multiplied Benevolent Associations
and Institutions of our own age? So long as the Orphan has a tongue to
tell of her deeds, or the sick-bed of Poverty can show a gleam of
gratitude, or the Seaman's heart shall beat and glow, they will testify,
that it is woman, who is God's high-priest of mercy to the suffering.
Legislation may appropriate its thousands for the Blind, the Dumb, and
the Insane; but how poor were its consolations, did not she who best
knows how to smooth the pillow for the aching head, and cheer the spirit
in its heaviness, administer to each sufferer the public bounty? Who can
estimate her influence in originating, and directing, in co-operation
with man, and in giving its final efficacy to, every blessed charity,
that springs from the soil of Christianity?

Such being the influence of woman on all the great interests of
humanity, how should she exert it? Is there any peculiar inference to be
drawn from the possession of this mighty power? No candid mind can deny
that it involves responsibilities, corresponding precisely to its
extent. To whom much is given, of them much is required. Were this sex
of insignificant moment in the world, then might they plead for an
exemption from its duties and obligations. But now the burden presses
on them, and no individual can cast it lightly from herself.

In society, woman should ever bear with her a deep conviction of the
power she there exercises. Her deportment should never be of that
frivolous, or insipid character, which betrays no consciousness of a
share in the dignity of our nature. She should carry to the social
circle a sense of the value of human life, and a resolution to acquit
herself as becomes an intelligent and immortal being. A courteous, yet
perfectly natural manner, a cultivated understanding, and pure morals,
are the tribute she should lay on this altar.

Why should our approach to a lady be the signal for trifling and
nonsense? How long shall there be circles of this sex, from which a man
of sense must turn away with the caustic saying of Wallenste