fided, and who receive the charge undismayed. Heaven-blessed! for their work is a daily laying up of treasure above. The prudent man, the timid skeptic, the thoughtless worldling, will accuse them of rashness, perchance will utter lamentations over their insanity; what matter? Conviction and experience quickly teach these large-hearted, fearless laborers that new power is imparted with every fresh burden trustingly accepted; for there is a mysterious strength born of perfect trust, incomprehensible to those who never trusted unreservedly.
Landor says, "We should bring out of every man and every creature as much utility as we may." Happy are they who apply the injunction to themselves, and, seeking to develop their own utmost utility, never evade a responsibility.
Shrink not from responsibility, oh, young maiden, just entering, with faltering feet and unworn heart, upon the slippery paths of life! Tread firmly, and stretch out thine arms to receive it with loving embrace! The very willingness to accept the burden will prevent its weight from bowing you earthward. But, with that willingness, be not "infirm of purpose," a gleaner only in the fields of imagination. Let your resolves go forth into positive acts. Heed the poet's warning, not to make of good intentions a Jacob's ladder, upon which your wishes mount to the skies, whilst you lie slumbering beneath:
