Page:Live and Let Live.djvu/39

 who was tempted in all points as we are, and yet without sin—that in her ignorance and weakness she might seek wisdom and strength from him who giveth liberally—and that at last, however separated and tried on earth, they might all, parents and children, meet in the bosom of the father.

As they rose the children kissed their mother and kissed one another. It is such worship as this, in the sanctuary of home that binds in one "bundle of life" the parent and child, that sustains the old and prepares the young for conflict and victory. "Before you go to bed, Lucy," said her mother, "I must give you some advice; it must be general, for I cannot foresee the circumstances in which you may be placed. You cannot greatly err if you will keep it in mind that God's eye is upon you, and if you love him supremely. Remember what I have so often told you, that it is not the events of life—its outward circumstances that are important, but the effect they have on our characters. The cloudy and the bright day alike soon pass away. It is our business to sow the seed and till the ground, and then, whether bright or cloudy, the harvest will come in due season. You will have trials, Lucy: your most faithful services may pass without praise, thanks, or even notice—but be patient, my child—toil not for praise—do not shrink from undeserved blame. Be content with the sense of doing your duty—judge yourself honestly, and never forfeit your own self-respect. I am a little afraid you will fail in the manners suited to your condition—I have been so sure that my children respected me, that I have not required the outward sign. Though we