June 16 _It is only the sincerity of human feeling that abides. As for a thought, we know not, it may be deceptive; but the love, wherewith we have loved it, will surely return to our soul; nor can a single drop of its clearness or strength be abstracted by error. Of that perfect ideal that each of us strives to build up in himself, the sum total of all our thoughts will help only to model the outline; but the elements that go to construct it, and keep it alive, are the purified passion, unselfishness, loyalty, wherein these thoughts have had being._ MAETERLINCK. O God, our Heavenly Father, help us to take up the cares of this day with an unselfish heart, and in loyalty to what is right and good. Keep us in right relation to those with whom our lot is cast, in sympathy with the unanxious joy of the world and with the deeper life which is its source. We desire to enter into the thought and the love of the most hopeful souls, that, in all the needful pauses of the day, we may find cheer, incentive, and the ampler rest: through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen. CHARLES H. LEONARD. June 17 _"Does the road wind up-hill all the way?" "Yes, to the very end!" "Will the day's journey take the whole long day?" "From morn to night, my friend!"_ _"But is there for the night a resting-place?" "A roof for all when the dark hours begin." "May not the darkness hide it from my face?" "You cannot miss that inn."_ _"Shall I meet other wayfarers at night?" "Those who have gone before." "Then must I knock or call when just in sight?" "They will not keep you standing at that door."_ _"Shall I find comfort, travel-sore and weak?" "Of labor you shall find the sum." "Will there be beds for me and all who seek?" "Yea,--beds for all who come!"_ CHRISTINA ROSSETTI. Our Heavenly Father, we thank Thee for this new day. May it be an open door to faithful service. Open our eyes that we may see all vexations, distresses, and toil as angels in disguise sent to strengthen and fulfil us, to prepare us for larger blessings at our journey's end. As the blue sky of Thy loving kindness is broader and more enduring than the clouds that sometimes hide it, so teach us to trust Thine unfailing love that overarches and outlasts all weariness and pain. When life and strength fail us here, may we find them transformed and glorious in the city of God hereafter. Be Thou our shield and our reward now and forever. Amen. JOHN M. WILSON. June 18