LESSON I. 



INTRODUCTION. 



Every object of Creation 



Can furnish hints to contemplation, GAY. 



you, my dear young friends, have no\v ar- 

 rived at a period of life, in which the mental 

 faculties are rapidly expanding and increasing in 

 vigour, you will perceive an inquisitive curiosity, 

 which has long remained dormant in your minds, 

 hastily bursting forth : it will be of the utmost 

 importance to your happiness, both present and 

 future, that you be careful in directing this active 

 principle into its proper course. 



Ever since you have been able to exercise the 

 power of reasoning, you cannot but have observed, 

 with wonder and admiration, the sun shining with 

 astonishing splendour, dispensing light and heat 

 around; the moon, with majesty serene, gliding 

 along the arched heavens, scattering her gentle 

 rays, in the absence of the glittering luminary of 

 day; and the spacious canopy bespangled with 

 iiumerous stars, like twinkling flames, adding to 

 the beauty of the scene. You must have observed, 

 B mih 



