es. But, it may not be amiss to enumerate some of those
things which, by their unseemliness, render the conduct of any person
repulsive and disgusting.

1. Forwardness, or a disposition to be conspicuous, is unseemly,
especially in a young person. It is indeed the duty of every one to be
always ready to engage in every good work; and it is wrong to be
backward, and refuse to cooperate with others, in carrying on any useful
enterprise. But the heart is deceitful: and, while we satisfy our
consciences with the idea that we are going forward in the discharge of
duty, we may be but feeding our own vain-glorious spirits, by bringing
ourselves into notice. An humble Christian has a low estimate of his
ability to do good; and is generally disposed to prefer others, as
better qualified than himself, to occupy any conspicuous post. "In honor
preferring one another." He will, therefore, be modest and retiring;
though, when the course of duty is plain, he will by no means shrink
from it. "The righteous are hold as a lion." There are several
characteristics, however, which distinguish the forward, unseemly
spirit. He is jealous and testy. You will hear him complaining of the
aristocratic spirit of others; and if he is not noticed as much as he
thinks he deserves, he will take offence. He will rarely he found
cordially cooeperating with others, in any good work, unless he is
foremost in it himself. If you wish to secure his aid, or forestall his
opposition, you must he careful to consult him before you undertake any
enterprise. Should you neglect to do so, however good your object, or
well chosen your measures, you may expect him to find fault, and throw
obstacles in the way, at every step of your progress. Such persons often
exhibit a fiery zeal and restless activity, which seem for a time to
eclipse all their contemporaries. But it is a zeal and activity for
_self_: for it is never roused except for the promotion of an object
with which self is in some manner identified.

2. To assume, in a dictatorial manner, to catechise others as to their
views on any subject, especially if they are older than yourself, is
unseemly. You will meet with some persons who seem to take it for
granted that they have a right to call you to account for your opinions,
and to determine authoritatively your claim to the character which you
profess. I do not question the propriety of kind and modest inquiries as
to the opinions and views of others; nor of