There can be no progress in virtue while habits of wrong-doing continue unchanged, 446. A change from vice to virtue is not instantaneous, it must be progressive, 447. The opinion of the Stoics confuted that all men are equally vicious, 448. As there are degrees of moral improvement, they are easily discernible, 449. Constant endeavors to be good may inspire confidence of success, 450. It is a good sign if our efforts after moral improvement become more intense and constant, 451. And if difficulties gradually disappear, 452. Examples given, 453. It is a good sign if the ridicule or opposition of friends do not induce us to leave our studies, 454. What may evince proficiency in virtue, 455. Many fail of advantage from the study of philosophy, 456. In hearing lectures or reading, attend to things spoken rather than the words, 457. Do not read merely to admire the style, 457. Be more ready to hear than to speak, 459. Maintain an unruffled temper, 459. Cultivate presence of mind, 460. Be guided by truth rather than ostentation, 461. Exercise self-restraint, 461; and moderation, 462. Cultivate a serious spirit, 463. Be willing to receive admonition, 464, 465. When in the wrong, willingly acknowledge it, 466. Effects of careful and persistent training, 468. Pleasant dreams indicate proficiency in virtue, 469. Not only love and admire but imitate virtuous examples, 470. Let some virtuous example ever be in our thoughts, 472. Cultivate the acquaintance of the wise and good, 473. Carefully avoid every fault, 474. OF FORTUNE By William Baxter, Gent. Does Fortune rule the affairs of men? 475. What influence could it have in the affairs of Aristides, Scipio, Alexander, and men like them? 475. Are there not such things as wisdom, justice, moderation, and fortitude? 476. And are not these qualities of supreme importance? 477. Were it not for our reason, we should be far inferior to the brutes, 478. What place has Fortune in the affairs of carpenters, artists, and painters? 479. If reason and good counsel are of service in the mechanic arts, why not in affairs of state? 480. OF VIRTUE AND VICE By the Same Hand. As our clothing does not impart heat to our bodies, so ample possessions cannot make us happy, 482. Virtue can make any condition in life pleasant and delightful, 483. A man’s vices inflict on him misery which he cannot avoid, 483. They allow him no rest, day or night, 484. Worldly abundance only aggravates the disorders of the mind, 484. Virtue makes a man happy anywhere, 485. CONJUGAL PRECEPTS By John Philips, Gent.