2.  That the marriage covenant should be cemented by a principle of a peculiar kind, will appear from the superiority of the soul over the body.  When two human beings unite their destinies, there must be a union of soul, or else such union is but partial.  And the union of soul must be the foundation of the outward union, and of course precede it.

3.  We may infer the same thing from the existence of such a principle in the human breast.  That it does exist, may be abundantly proved, both by Scripture and experience.  When Adam first saw Eve, he declared the nature of this union, and added, “For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave unto his wife;” implying that the affection between the parties to this connection, should be superior to all other human attachments.  The frown of God must then rest upon a union founded upon any other principle; for by it the order of nature is contravened, and therefore the blessings of peace and happiness cannot be expected to attend it.

However, love is not a principle which is brought into existence as it were by magic.  It must always be exercised in view of an object.  Do not, therefore, hastily decide that you cannot love a man who possesses the prominent traits of character necessary to render you happy.  However, be fully satisfied that such a sentiment of a permanent character, does really exist in your own bosom, before you consent to a union.

In your ordinary intercourse with gentlemen, much caution should be observed.  Always maintain a dignity of character, and never condescend to trifle.  In your conversation, however, upon general subjects, you may exercise the same sociability and freedom which you would with ladies; not seeming to be sensible of any difference of sex.  Indignantly repel any improper liberties; but never decline attentions which are considered as belonging to the rules of common politeness, unless there should be something in the character of the individual which would justify you in wishing wholly to avoid his society.  Some men are so disagreeable in their attentions, and so obtrusive of their company, that they become a great annoyance to ladies.  I think the latter justifiable in refusing the attentions of such men, till they learn better manners.  Pay the strictest regard to propriety and delicacy, in all your conduct; yet do not maintain such a cold reserve and chilling distance, as to produce the impression in the mind of every one you meet, that you dislike his society.  No gentleman of refined and delicate feelings, will intrude his company upon ladies, when he thinks it is not desired; and you may create this impression, by carrying the rules of propriety to the extreme of reserve.  But the contrary extreme, of manifesting an excessive fondness for the society of gentlemen, is still more to be avoided.  By cultivating an acute sense of propriety in all things, with a nice discrimination of judgment, you will be able generally to direct your conduct aright in these matters.