plish this mysterious purpose, it became indispensably requisite to ascertain the manner in which a legitimate generation should proceed; and establish that rule for its attainment, which would redound most to his glory, and be productive of the greatest happiness and dignity of the human race. These high and interesting ends have been attained by the institution of marriage.
An ordinance replete with such benefits, could never have been investigated by man, or rendered efficient by human authority. None but the blessed Maker and Governor of the world, was competent to devise an adequate expedient for forming new and endearing relations; to impress a prevailing bias in its favour; or enforce universal submission.
Marriage is a benevolent institution; benign in its principles, beneficial in its consequences, and the source of blessings and comforts, when rightly improved, which cannot, by any other means, be possibly realised. It insures a pure offspring and raises families; it alleviates cares and protects from temptations; it produces an affectionate commun-
