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PREFACE.

THE following Extracts have been used in a school, and with classes, to excite thought and discussion. They are now arranged in a series for general reading, and for subjects of conversation when young people interested in such topics are met together. We all know how much animation is given to social intercourse, when an event or question of the day rouses a genuine interest; may we not hope for the same good effect from subjects of ever-recurring interest, if introduced at the right times and in the right places. As the compiler's object is rather to induce thought and elevate feeling, than to give pleasure, passages of earnest feeling and vigorous thought have been preferred to those of mere beauty. In bringing together so many different views on each subject, it has sometimes been necessary to abridge the author's expression, but never to alter his meaning. If favorite passages suffer sometimes from being out of

their connection, it may be well for us to see them in the full light of other minds.

The book opens with a few passages from the Holy Living. Then man is considered in the relations of which he is the object, as the receiver of a Father's love, and under education in a Divine School. It is then shown how by Reason, Faith, and the higher Instincts, he apprehends these teachings. By his Spiritual nature he is drawn to the Infinite One, and lives in the Unseen; by his Moral nature he seeks and learns what is right in life and action.

The Third Part treats of Happiness and Life; of man as active not passive in his highest relations; of the duties he owes to his Creator, to himself, and to other men, and of the virtues demanded by these three relations; of temptations; and of the cure of faults.

In Part Fourth the outward relations are considered more particularly, together with the means of keeping them right; the relations to the body; refinement; society; friendship and family life; modes of living; and work.

The Fifth Part contains the power of circumstances, including inherited tendencies and gifts; the mutual influence of the moral, intellectual, and emotional parts of our nature; the culture of every part; the variety of gifts and of characters, and that life may be earnest for all; a comparison of different lives and of different careers.

CAMBRIDGE, July, 1856.

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