of it, both with regard to others and one's self. You would find, then, that virtue consists in doing good, and in speaking truth; and that the effects of it are advantageous to all mankind, and to one's self in particular. Virtue makes us pity and relieve the misfortunes of mankind; it makes us promote justice and good order in society; and, in general, contributes to whatever tends to the real good of mankind. To ourselves it gives an inward comfort and satisfaction which nothing else can do, and which nothing can rob us of. All other advantages depend upon others, as much as upon ourselves. Riches, power, and greatness may be taken away from us by the violence and injustice of others or inevitable accidents, but virtue depends only on ourselves and nobody can take it away. [Headed only Sunday.]
The Reward of Virtue.—If a virtuous man be
ever so poor or unfortunate in the world, still his
virtue is his own reward and will comfort him under
his afflictions. The quiet and satisfaction of his conscience
make him cheerful by day and sleep sound
of nights; he can be alone with pleasure and is not
afraid of his own thoughts. Besides this, he is esteemed
and respected; for even the most wicked people
themselves cannot help admiring and respecting
virtue in others. A poet says:
