Is not the quiver of affliction exhausted? One shaft is left. That dear mourner, that has partaken so largely of the cup of his sorrows, cannot sustain the recollection
"That such things were, and were most dear to her."
Silent and uncomplaining, she bows before the storm. Her ashes rest with those of her children. Where is now that eager spirit, grasping at phantoms, and soaring into the regions of uncreated imagination. Hope is extinguished in his bosom; his soul is black with the very midnight of despair. Frail man! Didst thou ever ask, _Of whom did I receive these precious gifts?_ Bow before the throne of Omnipotence; bless that Power who gave and who took away; pray to him for resignation; and, when the spirit of vital religion pours its holy influence into thy heart, thou needest not ask of thyself or the world, _Is it peace?_
_Letters of a Citizen to his Friends in the Country._
If the form of government with which we are blessed, is to be durable, it will depend upon the _virtue and intelligence of the people_. Ignorance and vice cannot sustain a republican system. It becomes, therefore, a duty of the highest order, to spread practical learning over every mind, and cultivate piety in every heart. To do this, the establishment of good schools, on the plan suggested in my last letter, is of great importance. But other means are also to be employed. Parents, guardians, and masters, should discharge their duty toward those who are entrusted to their care, by judicious advice and good example, for the conduct of life. The domestic circle ought to be regarded as a _moral garden_, under the especial care of the head of every family. Here he may plant good seed, and this he is bound to protect from all pernicious weeds. Let him therefore frequently examine the premises; he cannot be too assiduous, and vigilant. In this particular department, more is to be accomplished, than many are disposed to admit. And if ever our condition as a people is improved, in the degree to which it is susceptible, it will owe much to judicious _family discipline_. In the city, as well as in the country, we have been too relax in the performance of these manifest obligations. Private happiness and the public welfare are intimately connected with the minute government, and careful training, of the minds of youth.