Page:Advantages and disadvantages of the marriage-state.pdf/14

 rapid stream into the Dead Sea. (Matth vii. 27.)

As for the last, whose name was Curina when he had heard the instructions and admonitions, it wrought serious reflections on his mind, and made him very deliberate, notwithstanding he was a person of a bright genius, great vivacity, and a fine taste, he determined to deny himself; so, as when he saw the beauty, graceful mien, and heard the courteous conversation of the Babylonish maids, he would withdraw, and turn away his eyes, lest his heart should be ensnared. (See Psalm cxix. 37.) However, it sometimes fell in his way to have conversation with some who appeared very engaging, especially one Jemima, whose person, birth, circumstances, and accomplishments, rendered her extremely agreeable; insomuch, that many of his acquaintances greatly encouraged him to pursue the opportunity, and not neglect so valuable a prize. This made him stagger a little, for indeed she wanted no accomplishment, but the language of Canaan, to make her just such an one as his heart could wish, and caused him to reason in his mind as follows.

Q. Can I expect to find a person more desireable, or one more likely to be a happy companion and help-meet?

A. She may prove so, to a person who can be conformable to stay with her in Babylon, but