142 



A FATHER'S ADVICE. 



[1824. 



in your plans, and have confidence in your own decision. Bully no 

 man — injure no man — fear no man. Thus, my son, you have the 

 counsel of your aged and affectionate parent ; one that is acquainted 

 with sorrow, and familiar with grief. May Heaven have mercy on 

 you, and prosper you in all your just and lawful undertakings. 



" One more suggestion, and I have done. He that would lead a life 

 of usefulness must live for others, and not for himself; and that you 

 are destined for such a life is plainly indicated by the physical and 

 moral gifts with which you are endowed. Unavailing and unmanly 

 grief is incompatible with a proper exercise of these faculties, and de- 

 stroys the powers of usefulness. Overcome yours, my son, and labour 

 to forget its cause as soon as possible. The most effectual antidote 

 that can be recommended to a man like you, in the prime of manhood, 

 with considerable property, and no incumbrances, is to unite the broken 

 cord of affection to the heart of another. A speedy second marriage 

 would restore your happiness, and extend your usefulness. You would 

 then have an additional inducement to achieve noble projects, and a 

 centre point of attraction to call you home, when your duties were ac- 

 complished." 



