Page:Advantages and disadvantages of the marriage-state.pdf/22

There was a problem when proofreading this page.

22
to direct, declaring herself willing to enjoy
or be denied any thing, so it were according
to his will, and might be for his honour.
He told her, she had already been informed,
and well knew, what manner of persons
they must be, with whom it would be ex-
pedient for Kings’ daughters to keep com-
pany ; but if she found the person to be of
the blood royal, (Rev. i. 6.) and endued
with princely qualities, she was at her full
liberty ; and moreover, by him, it should
be esteemed honourable, (Heb. xii. 4.) So,
when these two lovers met again, having
deliberately consulted between themselves
all such things as they conceived necessary
relating to such an engagement, considering
the King’s statutes thereupon, and jointly
petitioned his Majesty’s presence with them,
and his blessing on their undertaking, they
joined hands with great satisfaction and se-
renity of mind, rejoicing to see themselves
preserved from so many snares, and thus
happily united by a divine hand, (Gen.ii; 4.)
I then observed these happy companions
pushing their journey, and saw verified in
an ancient council (a help meet,) for they
were sincere friends, pleasant companions,
faithful partners, and useful assistants to
each other. If they met with difficulties
by the way, they would take each other by
the hand to support them, (Eccles. iv.
12.) in dangers, they would counsel and A CD* ’