her capacity of wife and mother, she is the keeper of the happiness of others. Can she be worthy of such high trust, unless she is able to be the keeper of her own? She is expected to be a comforter. But how can this be, unless the materials of her own character, are well-balanced, and combined? She is expected to add brightness to the fire-side. Can she do this, unless the principle of light is inherent? She is expected to be as a sunbeam on the cloud, the bow of promise amid the storms of life. Therefore, the foundation of her own happiness, must be above the region of darkness, and tempest.
The desire of happiness, is implanted in all created beings. Its capacities are capable of cultivation, and extension, beyond what at first view would be imagined. The means by which it may be attained and imparted, should be studied as a science, especially by that sex whose ministry is among those affections which make or mar the music of the soul.
A mind ever open to the accession of knowledge, may be numbered among the elements of happiness. The free action of intellect, as well as the due exercise of the muscular powers, promotes the health and harmony of the system. "Knowledge, says Lord Bacon, is an impression of pleasure, and the application thereof, ought to bring unto us repose, and contentment."
The cultivation of friendship, and of the social affections, should be assiduously regarded. If, according to the definition of an ancient philosopher, "
