approbation, and of the little hopes of futurity, for scripture assures us God can as soon destroy whole nations and cities, as he has done, for continuing in wicked and abandoned courses, as he can take away the life of a single individual, therefore let the world be warned of and desist from its error, as it will encrease in the displeasure of the Almighty, and let not this cause be advanced, that any one commits it through inattention, or having had examples which apparently are not immediately corrected by the hands of providence, yet God knoweth the very secrets of all our hearts. The next reason to be advanced for the origin, or cause, I am afraid on examination more like to be, than the preceding one, therefore weigh them both deeply in your minds, all ye that this day hear my text and discourse, and which ever you think most likely to prevail forsake it—This then, I am fearfully, wonderfully and sorely afraid is the source, the disturbed and impure spring from whence the mind is tainted while young, and very susceptible of receiving the first impressions whether good or bad, is idolized, neglected, or flattered, and for want of examination either, from an affectionate father, guardian, or conductor, whether she improved as she grows mature, in virtue, steadiness, discretion, and understanding the commandments of our blessed Redeemer, the full meaning, the full intent and design of them, as our fond father wished, and hoped every one would in whatsoever sphere of life, either male or female, moved in, that they were to be the great foundation from whence every comfort present and future should flow, and bring salvation at the last great day of universal judgment to our immortal souls: but many have been taught them insignificantly, and at a time long ere they come into the world have forgot the great use of them, thinking they were to be learnt while very young, and of no consequence to be attended to hereafter, and that other ornaments and qualification were far more requisite, and more desirable, all qualifications and improvements are highly laudable in any one to obtain: but yet may you all remember the commandments of your God are the sole protectors of innocency, religion and virtue, and when all others fade they will remain, and plead for the broken and contrite heart at the throne of grace, for Satan misses no opportunity of pursuing the ignorant and neglected, and is continually on the watch seeking whom he may devour like a ramping and roaring lion greedy of his prey, laying his snares, and while young the heart is soon tempted and led astray, and instantly as the incautious and giddy enter into the large and spacious world surrounded with gaiety and pleasure, they fall a sacrifice to infamy and disgrace which let succeeding years let ever so quick, ever so many, can never entirely wipe away or extinguish. If there are any among you chosen as examples of virtue, be religious and let not this be laid