d in the heart in childhood, and suffered to grow up
to maturity before grace began to work, they will often break out in the
family circle. However, you will find it exceedingly difficult to judge
in this matter. The only direction I can give on this subject is, that,
if you discover the exercise of any unhallowed passions in a man, with
the opportunity you will have of observation, you may consider it
conclusive evidence of a disposition which would render you miserable.

3. _The person of your choice must possess a_ WELL-CULTIVATED MIND. In
order to produce a community of feeling, and maintain a growing
interest in each other's society, both parties must possess minds well
stored with useful knowledge, and capable of continued expansion. We may
love an ignorant person for his piety; but we cannot long enjoy his
society, as a constant companion, unless that piety is mingled with
intelligence. To secure your esteem, as well as your affections, he must
be capable of intelligent conversation on all subjects of general
interest.

4. _His sentiments and feelings on general subjects must be_ CONGENIAL
_with your own._ This is a very important matter. Persons of great
worth, whose views and feelings, in relation to the common concerns of
life are opposite, may render each other very unhappy. Particularly, if
you possess a refined sensibility yourself, you must look for delicacy
of feeling in a companion. A very worthy man may render you unhappy, by
an habitual disregard of your feelings. And there are many persons who
seem to be utterly insensible to the tender emotions of refined
delicacy. A man who would subject you to continual mortification by his
coarseness and vulgarity, would be incapable of sympathizing with you in
all the varied trials of life. There is no need of your being deceived
on this point. If you have much delicacy of feeling yourself, you can
easily discover the want of it in others. If you have not, it will not
be necessary in a companion.

5. _Another requisite is_ ENERGY OF CHARACTER. Most people think some
worldly prospects are indispensably necessary. But a man of energy can,
by the blessing of God, make his way through this world, and support a
family, in this land of plenty, by his own industry, in some lawful
calling. And you may be certain of the blessing of God, if you obey and
trust him. A profession or calling, pursued with energy, is therefore
all the estate you need require. But do not trus