treat all who do not come up to his views on this
point as destitute of true religion; though they may exhibit a
consistency of character, in other respects, to which he is a stranger.
This leads to denunciation, alienation of feeling, bitterness, and
strife. But one of God's commands is as dear to him as another; and we
cannot excuse ourselves before him, for disobeying one, on the ground
that we practise another. The perfection of Christian character consists
in the harmonious development of the Christian graces. This is what I
understand by the "stature of a perfect man in Christ Jesus;" a man who
has no deformity; who is complete in all his members and all his
faculties. That you may attain to this, is the sincere prayer of

Your affectionate Brother.

LETTER XVIII.

_Marriage._

"Marriage is honorable in all."--HEB. 13:4.

MY DEAR SISTER,

Some young persons indulge a fastidiousness of feeling, in relation to
the subject of marriage, as though it were indelicate to speak of it.
Others make it the principal subject of their thoughts and conversation;
yet they seem to think it must never be mentioned but in jest. But both
these extremes should be avoided. Marriage is an ordinance of God, and
therefore a proper subject of thought and discussion, with reference to
personal duty. But it is a matter of great importance, having a direct
hearing upon the glory of God, and the happiness of individuals. It
should, therefore, never be approached with levity. But, as it requires
no more attention than what is necessary in order to understand present
duty, it would be foolish to make it a subject of constant thought, and
silly to make it a common topic of conversation. It is a matter which
should be weighed deliberately and seriously by every young person. In
reference to the main subject, two things should be considered:

I. _Marriage is desirable._ It was ordained by the Lord, at the
creation, as suited to the state of man as a social being, and necessary
to the design for which he was created. Whoever, therefore, wilfully
neglects it, contravenes the order of nature, and must consequently
expect a diminution of those enjoyments which arise from the social
state. There is a sweetness and comfort in the bosom of one's own
family, which can be enjoyed nowhere else. In early life, this is
supplied by our youthful companions, who feel in unison with us. But, as
a person who re