AMIABILITY. 137 



Indeed, it is to be regretted that the skeptical tendency of the 

 times is to undervalue traits of character heretofore called praise- 

 worthy, and this tendency has almost overshadowed the possibility 

 of an amiable person being properly appreciated beyond the domes- 

 tic circle that knows from daily contact how precious is the compan- 

 ionship or relationship of such a person. The mild glance of 

 sympathy, the joyous sincerit}', and the Avilling self-denial of 

 the amiable, are nevertheless, of some moment to those who 

 yet place the most lovely of characteristics among the gracious 

 endowments which a kind Providence has allotted to certain 

 men and women. But since excitable temperaments outnumber 

 the milder ones, and foolhardiness in many shapes has almost 

 got beyond the limits of condemnation, what particular oppor- 

 tunity is there for an increase of amiability. There is a 

 wide difference, we must allow, between a subdued disposition 

 and an amiable one, and even though a forced humbleness may 

 make a human being appear calm and grateful, yet the elements 

 of a temper originally restless and unruly, will never be entirely 

 overcome. The idea of such people ever being really amiable 

 would seem to be impossible. Nothiug but the approach of declin- 

 ing years might induce them to practice humility, and that virtue 

 we are taught will be one of the most prominent in the world to 

 come. 



Of one thing, however, there can be no doubt, and that is that 

 amiable persons who are comfortably situated, or blessed with 

 ample means, are valuable citizens. We would emphasize this fact 

 because they are usually so active among humane organizations and 

 our own beautiful Island can bear testimon} r to the personal love 

 and exertions of many ladies and gentlemen, who feel proud to be 

 of gratuitous service to the maimed and dying. They are litarally 

 valuable citizens taking a lively interest also in everything apper- 

 taining to the advancement of moral reforms and the glory of faith- 

 ful stewardships. Their lives, in short, are enlivened and enriched 

 with a sanctity of purpose, and their claims upon our regard are in 

 every sense legitimate. Pray let us remember that there is nothing 

 presumptuous among amiable people who reap the jo} t s of earnest 

 benevolent labor, unless their zeal and faithfulness are so consid- 

 ered by rude and envious sources. 



