1.) Because actions materially virtuous, which have no difficulty, but agree with our inclinations, may be done merely from inclination, and so not be _really_ virtuous. 2.) But when they are done in face of danger and difficulty, virtuousness is increased, and confirmed into a habit. _Objec._ 1. As our intellectual or physical powers may be overtasked, so may our moral. _Ans._ This may be so in exceptional cases, but it does not confute the argument. In general, it holds good. All that is intended to be proved is, that this world is _intended_ to be a state of improvement, and is _fitted_ for it. 1.) Some sciences which of themselves are highly improving, require a trying measure of attention, which some will not submit to. 2.) It is admitted that this world disciplines many to vice: but this viciousness of many is the very thing which makes the world a virtuous discipline to good men. The _whole end_ in placing mankind as they are we know not; but these things are evident--the virtues of some are exercised:--and so exercised as to be improved: and improved beyond what they would be in a perfectly virtuous community. 3.) That all, or even the generality, do not improve, is no proof that their improvement was not _intended_. Of seeds and animals not one in a million comes to perfection; yet such as do, evidently answer an end for which they were designed. The _appearance of waste_ in regard to seeds, &c. is just as unaccountable, as the ruin of moral agents. _Objec._ 2. Rectitude arising from hope and fear, is only the discipline of self-love. _Ans._ Obedience _is_ obedience, though prompted by hope or fear: and a _course_ of such obedience, forms a habit of it: and distinct habits of various virtues, by repressing inclination whenever justice, veracity, &c. require. Beside, veracity, justice, regard to God’s authority, and self-interest, are coincident; and each, separately, a just principle. To begin a good life from either of them, and persist, produces that very character which corresponds to our relations to God, and secures happiness. _Objec._ 3. The virtues requisite for a state of afflictions, and produced by it, are not wanted to qualify us for a state of happiness. _Ans._ Such is not the verdict of experience. Passive submission is essential to right character. Prosperity itself begets extravagant desires; and imagination may produce as much discontent as actual condition. Hence, though we may not need _patience_ in heaven, we shall need that _temper_ which is formed by patience.