“ He seemed a well-disposed lad; but when he grew up to be a man, he became connected with some bad companions, who gradually led him astray, and at last persuaded him to despise the simple toil of a peasant's life, and to enlist as a soldier. I recollect the time when Hardy came to take leave of us: I loved hem so much that I could not refrain from tears, and he seemed exceedingly grieved to part with me. ”

“ After the old soldier had concluded his devotions, leaning on his staff, he arose, and pursued his journey with trembling steps. Edward and his sister, on seeing this, immediately ran down the lawn, and opening the garden-gate, went out into the road and met Hardy, who pulled off his hat and bowed; as the young gentleman and lady approached him.
Edward went up to the old soldiers, while his sister waited a little behind, and looking him in the face, with affectionate sympathy he said, “Poor old man! you seem to be very feeble and aged.” ”

“ Benson stood at some little distance, beholding with conscious pleasure the benevolent exertions of their amiable children, who had enjoyed the unspeakable advantages of a pious education, which they appeared to value and improve. Young persons should always esteem it their duty and their happiness to relieve the distressed, and to do good by all the means in their power; especially those who have been taught to love God with all their hearts, and to love their neighbours as themselves. ”

“ However, those feelings were soon lost amidst the bustle, the gaiety, and the laughter of sinful companions. Though my countenance often bore the appearance of mirth and cheerfulness, yet, when I reflected, conscience made me miserable, and I possessed no real heart-cheering happiness. The religious impressions made on my youthful heart were never entirely obliterated, though I ardently wished that I could banish every sentiment of remorse from my mind, and commit sin without compunction: but this I found impossible. ”

“ We might have supposed that God would instantly punish these rebels with the severest vengeance, and that none who had so offended would ever find mercy; but no: he raised his Son from the grave to sit at his right hand; and now forgiveness, salvation, and eternal happiness are proclaimed to every penitent sinner, through the merits of Jesus Christ. Thousands have accepted these merciful invitations, they have enlisted in the army of the Lord of hosts; they have put on the whole armour of God; they have fought the good fight of faith; they have vanquished their enemies ”

“ Many Christian warriors are still in the scene of conflict; they feel that the contest is severe, and that their adversary is exceedingly subtle and powerful: know he boldly attacks, then lie conceals himself in ambush-some- times he appears inactive, that we may become unwatchful, at other times his assaults are impetuous, that we may despair. Our enemy is continually endeavouring to seduce us again to his service, and he will surely succeed if we are not careful and dependant on our Captain for assistance. ”

“ We were engaged abroad in many battles, too numerous to mention. I have often seen whole ranks of my fellow-soldiers hurried into an eternal world; three times I have been wounded, and once was left for dead on the field of battle. ”