Page images
PDF
EPUB

as upon thousands; you must work, or not eat therefore, your recreations should be such as may relieve the mind or body, from the effects of previous application, rather than those which may unfit you for your required duties. Thus reading, properly so called, as well for instruction as amusement, is very useful; for the mind will take a strong interest in the account of distant events, in the discoveries of other lands and seas, or in the investigation of science; thus enjoying peacefully the effects of what others have obtained with hazard and labour, and reaping the profit of their discoveries without

the penalties they found attached to them. By seeking to acquire general knowledge, you will render yourself companionable for well informed persons; and be furnished with a pleasing store of useful reflections, and animating thoughts. This species of relaxation, though very great, will not remove you from that attendance upon your occupation, which is required from you, nor prevent in you that attention, which alone can, with the blessing of God, ensure success in our temporal concerns. Yet

carry not a habit of reading to an excess, for though the mind may be strengthened, the body will require

more active exertions. By tasting the benefits of air and exercise with a friend, you will unite two pleasures in one as rational conversation will be highly conducive to your improve

ment.

After all there is no recreation like business; for recreation is in truth I only changing the scene, and none is without labour; so that pleasure, however agreeable at first, tires us by its continuance, or repetition. Thus nature has provided us perpetual change, summer and winter, night and day, sleep and waking: and we find enjoyment only in changing the

*

scene and objects of our duties; for nothing truly valuable or satisfying is to be found out of the path of duty.

When you are called upon to deal with men, choose those who are honest; yet even with such be cautious, for you cannot read the heart. Be not too suspicious lest you covert a friend into an enemy; but adhere to the advice of Him who knew what was in man, and blend the serpent with the dove. Cherish not hatred, for the promise of God to forgive us, is built upon our forgiving others. Be courteous to all, and study the

art of conferring favours handsomely, that your benefits may not be painfully felt. Learn the characters and

tempers of those with whom you are connected, and deal with them accordingly; never forgetting to do as you would be done by.

If God should so bless you, that you should live to serve out your time, with, I trust, that industry and faithfulness as shall ensure your master's approbation, it will be well to have some general advice concerning your entering into business; because we know not whether I shall be alive to judge for you. Be not hasty in

« EelmineJätka »