Let the youthful fix their eyes upon this prize of a good reputation—­the only end worth striving for in life.  Let them studiously avoid evil practices, corrupt associates, and vicious examples.  Let them patiently and faithfully lay the foundations of virtuous habits, and practice the lessons of wisdom and the precepts of religion—­and in due time the prize shall be theirs.  The spotless wreath of a virtuous character shall rest upon their brow.  The commendation, the confidence, and the good-will of man shall accompany them; and the choicest of the blessings of God shall rest upon them, and sweeten all their days.

LECTURE II.

The Principles and Purposes of Life.

    “The heart of him that hath understanding, seeketh
    knowledge.”—­Prov. xv. 14.

The practical wisdom of Solomon is seen in this simple precept.  The youthful, who have the slightest understanding of the journey of life—­who have been impressed, even in the smallest degree, with the perils to which they are exposed; the trials to be endured; the vicissitudes through which they must necessarily pass; the obstacles they must overcome; the deceptions and allurements they will have to detect and withstand—­cannot fail to acknowledge the wisdom of seeking for knowledge to enlighten and prepare for the exigencies which await the inexperienced traveller through this world’s wayward scenes.

Those who commence their career without forethought, or discrimination in regard to the moral principles by which they will be governed, and without selecting the best and safest path of the many which open before them, are involved in a blindness of the most pitiable description.  They would not manifest this want of discretion on matters of much less importance.  The commander of the ship does not venture his voyage to sea without his compass, his chart, and a full supply of stores.  We would not sail an hour with him, if we believed him ignorant or indifferent to the necessity of these important preparations.  How hazardous, how foolish the youth who launches away on the momentous voyage of life, without compass, or chart, or any preparation which extends beyond the present moment.  True, the ship destitute of all these essentials, may leave the harbor in safety, with her gay pennons flying, her swelling sails filled with a favorable breeze, a smiling sun above, a smooth sea beneath, and all the outward indications of a prosperous voyage.  But follow her a few hours.  The terrific storm-king spreads abroad his misty pinions, and goes forth in fury, ploughing up the waters into mountain billows, and shrieking for his prey.  The gloomy night settles down upon the bosom of the mighty deep, and spreads its dark pall over sea and sky.  Muttering thunders stun the ear, and the lightning’s vivid flash lights up the terrific scene, and reveals all its indescribable horrors.  Where now is the gay ship which ventured forth without