was no principle of union between them; a few tears and a kiss were the tribute for a moment, and they easily parted. In Ruth we see a different character; her love for Naomi was one of principle and reflection. She said no more, but whilst Orpah departed, she clave unto Naomi, besides taking up an appropriation of the people and the God of Naomi to be her God and her people. She further extended her view to the last moment of life, intimating that even after the death of Naomi she would remain amongst her people, and in the service of her God. "Where thou diest, I will die, and there will I be buried ;" and then, referring herself to the Lord, declared, that nothing but death should part them. These arguments are beyond mere natural love; they showed her soul fixed on Naomi's God, and her mind steadfastly purposed. Naomi knew how to appreciate these principles of attachment, and the union was established in the Lord. O that every daughter, and every daughter-in-law, and every son, could so cleave unto their parents, in the indissoluble bonds of the love of God.

We will make a reflection here. It is evident that Naomi had not left her daughters-in-law ignorant of the great difference between them in the important

This

point of religion;—that she had instructed them in the difference of her people and the Moabites, and the difference of the worship of the one only true God, and that idolatry which enslaved the Moabites. She had not only taught them, but had won their esteem; and she had doubtless glorified her Lord and God by the good works she had been able to show to them. was the mother's duty! The effect on both was great: even Orpah's mind seemed affected and attracted; but it was not the effectual work of a gracious conviction. But Ruth's soul was turned to Naomi's God, and the conversion of her heart and mind were fully evinced. You observe, therefore, my dear Isabella, that natural love is a slight and transitory thing, liable to change; but spiritual love is deep, strong, and lasting, because its foundation is sure: its origin is in God, and its principles vital. Ruth, then, honored her mother, and the Promise was with her.

Isabella fixed her eyes on me with a grateful look of affection, and evidently applied the lesson afforded her from her own selection.

I think we ought to ask our little Jane for a character; and I think I will tell her of one quite suitable to the privilege she enjoys. It is that of Timothy,-2

Tim. i. 5,-who was trained up by his grandmother Lois, and his mother Eunice. You see, Jane, the faith that dwelt first in thy grandfather, and then in thy father; and I think we may add, we are persuaded in thee also. But remember the exhortation of St. Paul to Timothy, "Stir up the gift of God which is in thee; hold fast the form of sound words, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus." And happy is it for you, my dear girl, that you may obey your parents in all things in the Lord.

This little application to Jane gave pleasure to all; and the old man raising his trembling hand laid it on her head, repeating Jacob's words; "The Angel that redeemed me from all evil, bless my child!" And soon after this we all parted for the evening.

CHAPTER XVI.

THE next morning I acquainted my sister with the great desire I felt to obtain, if possible, an interview with the young lady, the teacher already mentioned, for the purpose of making some inquiries relative to her experience of the effect of religious instruction on the conduct of children towards their parents; and asked if she thought she could in any proper way accomplish it.

This question seemed to excite much interest among our young people, who all seemed particularly anxious

to see her.

After a moment's consideration, my sister said, I think that in all such cases, where the purpose is so distinctly to obtain a spiritual benefit, it is best to make a direct application to the person concerned, stating the reason; and it is not probable that any difficulty would be thrown in the way. This prevents any undue liberty, and any intrusion at a time when visitors might

not be acceptable. If you like, I will write a note to "the young lady, and Louisa shall be the bearer of it.

Louisa sprung from her chair with delight, and Charles said,—

You will think it right, my dear mother, that I should accompany my sister?

Not on the present occasion, my dear Charles, she said; I will order my maid to attend your sister, as I would wish to avoid every appearance of improper intrusion and Louisa, my dear, you had better send in the note, and say you will wait the answer at the door of the school-room; and even if you are invited in, I should recommend that you politely decline accepting the invitation.

The note was soon written, in the following terms :—

66

'My dear Madam,-Though an entire stranger, I take the liberty of requesting the favor of an hour's conversation on the subject of the religious instruction you afford to so many young people; being desirous to reap the advantage of your experience in this interesting engagement. I would beg also to be permitted to introduce my own children, and to ask at the same time if you would allow my brother to accompany me,