Page:Robert Carter- his life and work. 1807-1889 (IA robertcarterhis00coch).pdf/131

Rh “Nothing was ever considered unimportant that had any bearing on the temporal or spiritual welfare of her children. Their diet was plain and substantial, and that simple food was partaken of with a relish unknown to those pampered children who are fed with luxurious dainties. A liberal education was provided and a plentiful supply of entertaining books, and when they were older and the circumstances of their parents permitted they were indulged with extensive travel, both at home and abroad, But increasing wealth was never considered any reason for foolish extravagance. The only change it made in the household was the larger indulgence in the blessed privilege of Christian giving, in which the children were encouraged to take part.

“In her sweet home the question was never raised whether square dances were right and round dances wrong, because dancing was not indulged in at all. Nor whether a game of whist was right and other card-playing wrong, because cards never found a place in that household. Nor whether drinking a glass of wine was a sin or not, because the law and the practice of the house was to drink nothing that was intoxicating. Nor whether certain plays were moral or others immoral, because the theatre was a place not to be visited.

“The object of life was not personal gratification, but to do something for God’s glory and the good of men. They were carefully taught that salvation was through Christ alone; that a true life must be founded on a true faith. A happier household it was never my lot to see. To her was made good the promise in the Ninety-first Psalm, ‘With long life will I satisfy her.’

“She lived to see her children all settled in life,—to see two of her sons successful ministers of the blessed Gospel of Jesus Christ, and the others serving God in the work he has given them to do,—to see all of her many grandchildren that were over fourteen years of age members of the church.”