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55 for such an effort, and consequently cæteris paribus the probability of its being made, seems to vary inversely in this proportion. The human eye is incapable of taking a clear view of many objects at once. When it is intently fixed on one object, all other objects are necessarily overlooked. In like manner, the mind can only attend at one time to a definite number of considerations: and it follows, that, where the thoughts and feelings are deeply engaged on a present benefit, little power of attention remains to be bestowed upon the future.

Now, in these elements, essential to the prudential disposition, the young are deficient, and hence there is a necessity for the cooperation of different persons, upon the principle of a division of labour, in the arrangement of a marriage. The old should take the prudential department. They alone have the necessary experience, and, what is of still more importance, they alone have their minds serene, and unimpeded by the mists and clouds of present passion. But this cooperation can only have place where the young are under the influence of the old, and they cannot be in any sufficient degree under this influence,