But the question which will be asked here is, "Are children capable of all this?"--We unhesitatingly answer, from long experience, that they are. Whoever doubts the fact has only to try. Can a child not understand that a distinction ought to be made between the person in a family who endeavours to make all happy, and another whose constant aim is to make them all miserable?--Can he not understand, that the parent who refuses to punish a wicked child, is in effect bribing others to join him in his wickedness?--Can he not understand that a debt due by one, may be paid by another?--and that a simple reliance on the word of his benefactor, followed by submission to his will, may be all that is required to secure his discharge?--No one will say that a child is incapable of understanding these simple truths; and if he can comprehend _them_, he can be made to understand and appreciate the leading truths of the gospel. The teacher has only himself clearly to perceive them; and then, divesting the truths of those unnecessary technicalities which are sometimes, it is feared, used very improperly and unnecessarily, he ought to convey them to the child, either orally, or by some simple catechism suited for the purpose. Wherever this is done in effect, there education will prosper; and when it shall become general among the young, it will be found to be "as life from the dead." FOOTNOTES: [23] See pages 111 to 129 [24] Note X. [25] Note Y. CHAP. X. _On the Application of our Knowledge to the Common Affairs of Life._ There is another point connected with the practical use of our knowledge, which deserves a separate and careful consideration. It is the method of applying our knowledge, or rather the lessons derived from our knowledge, to the common and daily affairs of life. In this exercise both old and young are equally concerned;--but it is evident that youth is the proper time for training to its practice.