54 



with ourselves as we do with those we love. Or, if we feel 

 any pleasure, it is in contemplating some other object. 



168. However this may be, (for it will bear debate) it is 

 certain that selfishness exists ; that is, a preference, or at least 

 a biass or inclination to our own pleasure or interest to that 

 of others. It is happily counterbalanced by benevolent in- 

 stincts, the dictates of the moral sense, the precepts of reli- 

 gion, and in some cases by the fear of punishment, or pos- 

 sibly. of degradation in the opinion oi others; at least this 

 is what usually happens. 



J69. Love of God, this, though not instinctive, (as his ex- 

 istence is known to us only by instruction or reflection) is of 

 all other affections the most just and natural, and, if imiver- 

 sal, would alone be sufficient to produce the happiness of 

 mankind. What mm-e natural and just than to love our real 

 Father, the author of every pleasure and comfort we enjoy ? 



170. This love consists, not in endeavouring to procure 

 him any new pleasure, which is impossible ; but in ardent 

 undissembled gratitude for the benefits received from him ; 

 vigilant attention to the execution of his commands ; confi- 

 dence in his goodness, and resignation to his will in the most 

 adverse circumstances. This requital he expects from us in 

 the language of the most passionate lover — Thou shalt love 

 tht Lord thy God, xdith all thy heart, with all thy soul, with all 

 thy strength, 



171. Desire 



