arth, but falling one upon
another, that have formed that immense mass which seems ready to fall and
crush us.

Ah! if I tried to trace back to what first led to that act of sin, the
thought that produced the desire, the circumstance that gave rise to the
thought, I should find something almost imperceptible; perhaps a word with
a _double entendre_ I had heard, and at which I had smiled; a useless
explanation, sought out of mere curiosity; a hasty look, cast I knew not
wherefore, and which conscience prompted me to check; a prayer neglected,
because it wearied me; work left undone, while I indulged in some
day-dream that flitted before my fancy....

A week later the same things occur, but this time more prolonged; the
stifled voice of conscience is hushed.

Yet another week.... Alas! let us stop there; each can complete the sad
story for himself, and it is easy to draw the practical conclusion.

III.

A young girl, in one of those moments when the heart seems to overflow
with devotion, wrote thus in her journal: "If I dared, I would ask GOD why
I am placed in the world; what have I to do? I know not; my days are idly
spent, and I do not even regret them.... If I might but do some good to
myself or another, if only for the short space of a minute in each day!"
A few days later, when in a calmer mood she re-read these lines, she
added, "Why, nothing is easier! I have but to give a cup of cold water to
one of CHRIST'S little ones."

Even _less_ than that: a word of advice; something lent to another; a
little vexation patiently borne; a prayer for a friend offered to GOD; the
fault or thoughtlessness of another repaired without his knowledge--GOD
will recompense it all a thousand-fold!

IV.

Alms given in secret; that is the charity which brings a blessing.

What sweet enjoyment to be able to shed a little happiness around us!

What an easy and agreeable task is that of trying to render others happy.

FATHER! if I try to please and imitate Thee thus, wilt Thou indeed bless
me? Thanks! thanks! be unto Thee.

V.

Is it fair always to forget all the good or kindness shown to us by those
with whom we live, for the sake of _one_ little pain they may have caused
us, and which, most likely, was quite unintentional on their part?

VI.

When you sometimes find in books advice or example that you think may be
of service, you take care to copy and consult it as an oracle. Do as much
for the good of your soul