264 THE IMMORTALITY OF ANIMALS 



Thus the comfort of man is evidently promoted 

 when this dominion is wisely and justly exercised, 

 according to the original design of the Creator. A 

 right to rule is not a right to tyrannize ; and a right 

 to service extends only to such duties as are con- 

 sistent with the powers and capacities of the serv- 

 ant to perform. 



All power is of God, and can only be lawfully 

 exercised when exercised according to His design. 

 Power, like every other talent and blessing, was 

 given to be exercised in wisdom and goodness, and 

 according to the principles and rules appointed by 

 Him who conferred it. The Creator has given to 

 all His creatures the power of life, activity, and 

 enjoyment. 



He has provided for their wants, and afforded to 

 them the means of happiness. He has, therefore, 

 adapted external nature for their good as well as 

 for man's ; and has given to them their share of its 

 blessings. 



As their happiness depends so much on their en- 

 vironment, when under the control of man, how 

 important that they should be treated with justice, 

 goodness, and mercy. Is it not the very essence of 

 benevolence to desire and to promote the happiness 



