and religion; and for having permitted him to live, and reap the glorious fruits of his labours. 66 Truly," exclaimed

the grateful and exulting parent, as he rose from his knees;

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Truly is it said, 'A wise son maketh a glad father !'"

Mr. Forbes called on him soon afterwards, and he communicated to him with pleasure, what had taken place between himself and George. Mr. Forbes expressed his satisfaction and concurrence in every thing he had done; and added, that it would be his greatest happiness to see Clara united to a man, who had given such a proof of his being calculated to ensure her comfort. "They are both," said he, "prudent, and have not been educated in habits of extravagance. They will probably possess a competency; and I have known enough of riches, to be convinced, that they are by no means essential to true happiness. They never procured me pleasures,

equal to those I have enjoyed in the humble retirement and social circle at S-b-n."

George, in the mean time, acquainted Clara with the failure of his attempt to procure his father's consent to their immediate union. She thought Mr. Wilson's views of the subject were very reasonable and just, and endeavoured to moderate the vehemence of his disappointment, and to reconcile him to the necessary delay.

They exchanged vows, and mutually pledged themselves to unchangeable affection. "You will not, I hope, be long absent," said she; "the high commendations you brought home from the admiral and your captain, give us every reason to expect your speedy promotion. The active zeal, with which you engage in the duties of your profession, will not fail to make the time pass swiftly. Perhaps, amidst these avocations, you will even forget forget your old play-fellow."

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Never, never, Clara!" warmly exclaimed George; "never will your image be absent from my heart! No pursuit, however eager, nothing but death will efface it!" "Oh, do not talk of that, George!" said the affectionate girl; "it brings a thousand fears into my mind! When the tempest howls round our cottage, how I shall tremble for you! And when I hear of battles too!-Pray do not be rash. I know you are bold and enterprising, even to a fault! But, remember, my life is wrapt up in your's! the stroke that pierces your heart, will break mine!"

"Dearest Clara, do not harass and afflict yourself with imaginary terrors! I am not worthy of such tenderness! Besides, you exaggerate the danger! You forget, my Clara, that the same never slumbering eye watches the storm-tossed sailor, which overlooks the quiet, happy families dwelling here; the same Almighty hand which swells

the billow, or guides the storm-tossed vessel, directs the issues of life and death on shore!

"Do not distress yourself, loveliest girl, with needless terrors! When such thoughts disturb you, Clara, only call to mind the sublime language of the Psalmist, which my father has so often repeated to us :

"Whither shall I go, then, from thy Spirit? or whither shall I go then from thy presence? If I climb up into heaven, Thou art there:-If I go down to hell, Thou art there also. If I take the wings of the morning, and remain in the uttermost parts of the sea; even there also, shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me!'

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Only reflect on these words, and you will not fear for your sailor!" "I will, George," said she; "and now I shall repeat them with ten-fold interest." "So shall I," replied George; "I shall have them on my lips as I go into battle; they

will calm the tumult of my thoughts, and give me true courage!"

Clara became pale at the mention of battle, and they turned the conversation. In the evening, her father informed her that Mr. Wilson had communicated to him George's declaration of his attachment to her, and observed, that, though he concurred in Mr. Wilson's opinion respecting the inexpediency of their immediate union, her choice met his approbation. He added, I have ever, my dearest daughter, placed the fullest reliance upon your discretion and virtue; and have no doubt but you will acquiesce in our decision. Clara bowed assent, but made no reply.

James congratulated his sister sincerely upon her choice, and was delighted with the idea of having George for his brotherin-law; for, though their dispositions were dissimilar, yet they were warmly attached to each other, and had always been upon the footing of brothers.