fession. I pray that the blessing of Almighty God may attend you; that you may be assisted by his Holy Spirit to fulfil the purposes with which you undertake its sacred duties; and that, above all, you may be permitted, with humble confidence in his mercy, to look forward, "in all the chances and changes of this mortal life," to the reward annexed to his blessed promise, "yívou πιστὸς ἄχρι θανάτου· καὶ δώσω σοι τὸν στέφανον ΤΗΣ ZOHE." In the studies of your profession you will find the noblest subjects for the exercise of your talents,-in its offices, the most truly gratifying employment of your time, your understanding, and your heart,-in its ultimate recompense, the most elevating object of pursuit worthy ambition, and exposed to no casualty or failure.

I need not, I am sure, tell you, that if you decide on this important step, after due deliberation, I shall receive you with paternal affection as the most delightful companion in my studies as a clergyman. I do want some clerical friend with whom to converse on those topics which are not of general acceptance, but to you and me are essential. I shall rejoice in your advancement; and while you gain a better reward from the inward consciousness of exertions in your duty, I anticipate the distinction as a minister of God's word, which you will justly acquire. In the present day, such distinction is of importance, as an instrument of good. Personal satisfaction, a wise and good man will

scarcely find in the applause of crowds; but he will contemplate popularity, if he attain it, as such a man will do, without any sacrifice of conscience and truth, as a readier means of extending the good he desires to do to wider circles. I have this morning received a most gratifying letter from, and a very amusing one. He is reading a great deal; and I trust he does not assume the appearance of good spirits to conceal any harm which his health may receive from his industry. I am indeed proud of my sons, and most grateful to Almighty God for such blessings.

I am still where you left me; but intend to try myself on my feet next week. The length of my confinement has rendered it now very tedious; and I am inclined to think, that as to improvement I am stationary. Nevertheless, it is not without hope of recovery, that I look to the termination of my imprisonment,-my first attempt is to be made on the 9th next month: I must be on my feet, however, some days before that time, &c. &c.

D. SANDFORD.

MY DEAREST D

Edinburgh, June 3, 1821.

Real joy is not loquacious. A few

words will assure you of my delight in your

most deserved success; of which the news from yourself, dear F, and dear J, has made us all wild to-day. You have done us all good. Could you have seen the happy faces round my bed this morning, you would have been pleased. Sarah had got hold of the letters, and seeing a word, "vicit," on the corner of John's, she tore it open, and came bursting into my room with— “D—— has won the prize!"

Well

I am indeed gratified in the most sensible manner, and am most thankful for the mercies bestowed on me through my own beloved children. Let me assure you, that more than with your academic honours am I gratified with the kind share you so affectionately expressed, in the satisfaction which I and your dear mother would receive from them. Again, I cannot express the comfort I felt in dear J's fraternal exultation. These things are to a parent more delightful than any external distinction. may I be proud and happy in my children,—and your amiable and affectionate regard for each other and your happy parents, well repays all anxieties and exertions for you. I fear you have interfered with the sobriety of dear W's mind to-day;-I never saw dear E- - look more delighted. What a sight to me, who had just been asking for you all the blessings of Him "who maketh men to be of one mind in an house!"

I am desired to cease, that this may go to the

post immediately,-so God bless you all,

prays

your exulting, happy, and affectionate father,

DANIEL SANdford.

LETTERS

TO

HIS DAUGHTER S.

MY DEAREST F

Edinburgh, May 1, 1810.

By the time that you receive this, you will be safe under the hospitable roof, to which you have been, with so much cordiality, invited. I cannot express all that I feel towards Mrs

; of her tender care I am sure that my dear girl will be sensible, and I need not call upon her to be grateful, for she wants no monitor but her own good heart.

I am glad to hear you were so well employed on Sunday at Lancaster; but I did not know that there was a cathedral there. It is no bishop's see. It is itself in the diocese of Carlisle. The book which Mrs

had the good

I

fancy, a very

known by the

ness to put into your hand, is, old and favourite friend of mine, name of "Gastrell's Institutes." If I am right, you will find it a summary of Christian doctrines and duties, arranged under separate heads, and