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strong consolation. What are the momentary trials of the present life, when compared to an eternity of blessedness? they are nothing-they are lost in the comparison. A sight of danger and of difficulties; of enemies, numerous and powerful, will, it is true, sometimes discourage, and cause even the most valiant to halt: but how animating to recollect that we maintain the spiritual conflict in the strength of Omnipotence that the captain of our salvation has himself fought and conquered—that he is entered into his glory, and has taken possession of the crown! He inhabits the praises of eternity he is supremely blessed. But while supremely blessed-while encircled with the grateful songs of Seraphim and of Saints, is he an unconcerned spectator of our conflicts? No to them that have no might he increaseth strength. He proclaims aloud to the christian warriour; 'Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life-He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second deathHe shall be clothed in white raiment—I will make him a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out-He shall sit with me

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in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am sat down with my Father in his throne.'

I have only to add, Lavinia, that this is a contest in which vigilance must not relax; in which no truce can be admitted; no proposals for capitulation accepted; no league of amity concluded. Nothing short of perpetual resistance can ensure tranquillity: nor must the brave assailant hope for conquest till he fall in the combat. Pray, therefore, that you may 'neither faint nor be weary, but prevail unto victory. For though the conflict may be sharp and long, yet the sweetness of the reward will abundantly recompense the trouble of resistance; and the joy of the triumph, the toils of the war.'

I am yours, &c.

FINIS.

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