This is a reproduction of a library book that was digitized

by Google as part of an ongoing effort to preserve the

information in books and make it universally accessible.

http://books.google.com

4-SZG j

itz

PUNCTUALITY.

SARAH

JANE

STANSFIELD.

" Time, eternity !

Tia these, mis-measured, ruin all mankind.
Set them before me : let me lay them both
In equal scale, and learn their various weight.
Let time appear a moment, as it is ;
And let eternity's full orb, at once,
Turn on my soul, and strike it into heaven."
Young.

LONDON;
THICKBROOM BROTHERS, 31, PATERNOSTER ROW.
li. DAVIES, SUTTON STREET, COMMERCIAL ROAD,
ST. GEORGE'S EAST.
AND MAY BE HAD OF ALL BOOKSELLERS.
1859.

CHESTER :
PRINTED BY EDWARD THOMAS',
PEPPER STREET.

PREFACE.

From a conviction of duty I take up my

pen to offer a few thoughts on the practica
bility of Punctuality, seeing its importance
in the very minutest affairs of life.
What is of more importance than imme
diate attention to duty ? Consider the im
mense time it saves, the disappointment and
8orrow it averts.
Punctuality would not be so rare if we had
stronger impressions of the value of time ; of
the high responsibilities attending its use
and employment. If Punctuality were more
general, our acquirements and pursuits would
be more extensive, consequently, our useful
ness considerably increased.
Neglect of Punctuality is frequently the
cause of the various misfortunes in life;

IV

PREFACE.

some neglected or discontinued duty has

originated them.
If the remarks made in this little volume
be the means of drawing the attention of
the reader to the subject of Punctuality, the
object of the writer will be accomplished :
knowing that if the attention is secured,
its adoption is sure. No individual who
has fully studied Punctuality can fail to
practise it.
To still further explain the necessity of
the cultivation of Punctuality, several anec
dotes have, been quoted from Arvine, and
others, which, I trust, will add strength,
and give merit to this, my humble effort.
Sarah Jake Stansfield.
Chester, June 1th, 1859.

S* The reader will please correct the following error in

page 89, 5th and 6th lines from the topfor " moon's
"worth," read " moon's south."

CONTENTS

PUNCTUALITY.
CHAP.

PAGES-

Of what it consists

5| 7

THE WAY TO CULTIVATE IT.

i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
v.
vii.
viii.
ix.
x.
xi.
xii.
xiii.
xiv.
xv.

By considering our individual responsibility

By determined effort
By steadiness of purpose
By resoluteness of action
By considering the necessity of Punctuality
Its importance
.. .
Its desirableness
Its usefulness
Its advantages
Its design
Its object
Its power
Its influence
Its connection..

7, 11
11 , 14
14, 18
18, 23
23, 29
29,33
33,36
36, 41
41,46
46,52
52,56
56, 60
60, 65
65,70-

THE WAY TO PROMOTE PUNCTUALITY.

xvi. By example
xvii. By precept

- ..
*.

70, 74
74, 78-

IT

CONTENTS.

CHAP.

PAGES.
WHERE MAY PUNCTUALITY BE OBSERVED ?

xviii.
xix.
x.x.
xxi.
xxii.
xxiii.
xxiv:

In the rising and setting of the sun

..
78,84
In the periodical return of the moon
..
84, 89
In the return of night and day
89,95
In the seasons
95, 105
In the produce of the earth
105,107
In the ebbing and flowing of the tides . . 107, 110
In man's physical nature
110, 115
WHERE, MORE ESPECIALLY, SHOULD WE
ATTEND TO THIS DUTY.

xxy.
xxvi.
xxvii
xxviii.
xxix.
xxx.

In our places of worship

In our families
In our professions
In attending to business
In trade transactions
In promises

115, 120
120, 127
127, 133
133, 138
138,143
143, 145

THE BENEFITS OF CULTIVATED PUNCTUALITY.

xxxi. Composure in all the performances of life

xxxii. Established confidence
xxxiii. Brings into operation virtuous actions and
principles
xxxiv. Causes the time to be regularly distributed
and employed
xxxv. Result in a systematic even course ofconduct

145,150
l-rK), 154
154, 157
157, 163
163, 170

NEGLECT OF PUNCTUALITY.

xxxvi. The cause

xxxvii. By whom
xxxviii. Its effects

170,176
176, 180
181,191

PUNCTUALITY

OF WHAT IT CONSISTS.

Punctuality is attention to duties at the

proper time ; regularity of action, confor
mity to appointed rules, leading to a syste
matic course of the whole conduct.
Punctuality consists of disciplinary habits,
the several forms of self-government which
are requisite for completing a punctual cha
racter. Our feelings of apathy and indo
lence have to be controlled ; our stubborn
and self-ruled wills have to be subjected to
government. Indeed, every inclination and
desire must be submitted unto one stern pur
pose, that of being prompt, and instantly
prepared for duty.
The great difficulties in forming a punc/-?

6
tual character are, crossing the inclination
and summonsing the will. How often will
inclination say, postpone that engagement,
defer that appointment, delay that journey.
Comfort suggests, if such duties are procras
tinated, they can be performed much easier,
as several obstacles will be removed ; any
excuse that may not disturb ease or rouse
indolence.
Punctuality consists of disciplinary ideas
of time ; its proper distribution, use, and
improvement.
A punctual person sets a
high value on time, feels its importance,
knows he has much to acquire and complete ;
endless duties if strictly and conscientiously
performed. Time, to him, if lost, is thd
same as duty unfulfilled ; every moment has
its use and object with the punctual person.
Punctuality consists of high-toned moral
feeling and action. This is made manifest
by its regularity, consistency, uniformity,
and unweariedness. There is no unfaith
fulness or relapse in duty ; but ever constant,
prompt to act, and faithful to perform.

THE WAY TO CULTIVATE PUNCTUALITY.

I.

BY CONSIDERING OUR INDIVIDUAL

RESPONSIBILITY.

We cannot form a thought, utter a word, or

commit a deed, but it is known to the Great
Judge of mankind. We should then con
sider that for every idle thought and word
we shall be brought into judgment. How
we should seek to have our thoughts directed
to right objects, that they may be drifted
into channels of usefulness, and steer out
into an anxious enquiry after truth, so that
they may enrich themselves with that " Wis
dom which is more precious than rubies."
In order to keep our responsibility in view,
we should ever consider we are in the pre
sence of Him who will finally weigh oui
actions as in a balance. It is for us to exa
mine those actions, and see if, when weighed,
they may not be found wanting. We are,
in a great measure, the author of our own

8
actions, the disposer of our own deeds, the
framer of our own conduct. May we act as
those who are aware that every deed will
be recorded on high ; kept in the " Book of
his remembrance," whose revelations will
determine our happiness or misery for ever.
"What an immense responsibility rests upon
us ! We carry our destinies in our own
hands. How it behoves us to improve every
opportunity and privilege, and rightly dispose
every moment of our time. How accoun
table we are for the profitable employment
of that space or duration which is alloted to
us for the employments of life and in making
preparations for eternity. We are exhorted
to " redeem the time ;" by so doing we suc
ceed in the business of life. This has been
the secret of those who have acquired so
many branches of knowledge, have performed
so many gigantic achievements in literature
and art ; and have laboured so much for the
public good, as well as attended to their
secular callings. " Whatsoever thy hand
findeth to do, do it with thy might: for
there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge,

nor wisdom, in the grave whither thou

goest."
Life is the seedtime for the soul. Here
we have to cultivate the mind, increase its
stores of knowledge, both human and divine.
It is by these means we are taught our duty
to God and man, to correct the evil dwelling
in our hearts, to set a right valuation on the
things of time and sense, and to appreciate
those things which tend to expand the mind
and elevate the soul ; to admire the works
of God's own hand, and to enrich ourselves
with that heavenly grace which is promised
to those who seek Him out of a pure and con
trite heart, who believe on the Lord Jesus
Christ with their hearts unto salvation.
We shall be responsible for all the oppor
tunities and privileges we have had put into
our hands, whether we have employed them
to advantage or not ; if we have sought to
do good ; if we have not neglected any op
portunity ofvisiting the sick and the fatherless
in their distress ; in relieving the poor ; in
offering a word of consolation to the sorrow
ful ; in administering reproof to the ungodly ;

10
in giving a word of admonition to the prayerless and careless ; or in directing the minds
of the young.
" Therefore to him that
knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to
him it is sin."
" What ! moments granted man without account ! "

It has been this sense of individual respon

sibility which has actuated the philanthro
pist in his God-like undertakings; the
minister, philosopher, statesman, tract dis
tributor, and Sabbath school teacher. It
was this principle of responsibility that led
the Saviour to say, " Wist ye not I must be
about my Father's business. I must work
the works of him that sent me, while it is
day, for the night cometh when no man can
work." We each have an amount of duty
to perform, some more than others ; some
are entrusted with great talents ; others are
placed in eminent situations, who, having a
deal of power and authority, can exert a
wide influence, or enlist many into their
service. Every one has talents, greater or
less, that he can employ to advantage ; and

11
it is for us to use them wisely and usefully.
We must act as stewards unto God, as ser
vants of the Most High. In order to per
form our stewardship aright, we must un
flinchingly discharge our duties in all places,
under all circumstances, and at all periods,
not suffering anything to deter us. We
must ever be punctual, always keeping an
eye upon the value of time, that continuous
and rapid stream which will shortly carry us
into eternity, where only the faithful steward
will hear at lastwhen time with him is no
morethe welcome plaudit, " Well dne
thou good and faithful servant, enter thou
into the joy of thy Lord."
II.

BY DETERMINED EFFORT.

A constant decided endeavour to overcome

all difficulties that may cross our path in the
prosecution of duty. In order to come to
this decision of mind, we must consider the
worthiness of the pursuit in which we are
engaged ; is it something which is calculated
to promote the general well-being of society ;
is its accomplishment worth struggling for ;

12
worth the sacrificing of our little comforts
and conveniences ; and worth our persevering
efforts. If so, then we may consider we are fol
lowing a track in the right direction, that we
are on a solid foundation, that we are seeking
to advance that which is laudable, useful,
and beneficial. When perfectly well assured
of this we may go on to deepen and strength
en our resolves. Never to allow idleness,
with its settled inactivity, to stagnate our
efforts ; nor comfort, with its pleasant and
satisfying ease, to weaken our resolves.
Convenience, with all its exact suitability
of arrangement, and studied nicety of acco
modation, shrugs at the idea of its going out
of its even path to encounter the rugged
roads of self-denial, and to climb up the hills
of difficulty which constantly intercept the
path of duty. Again, there is pleasure, which,
with all its delusive charms and bewitching
fascinations, would fain allure and entice
us away. Various suggestions will be offered
to weaken our determination in the prosecu
tion of duty, such as the weather, cold and
wet ; a slight ache or pain ; studying over-

13
much the objections of friends ; listening
too attentively to our own whimsical wishes,
and giving way too much to our own
capricious fancies. Another great foe will
be our common adversary, who will strive
with all his deceitful arts and insinu
ations, to insist that we are only following
a round of worthless and empty duties, which
are neither to profit nor to purpose, thereby
trying to put us out of conceit ; but we
must turn a deaf ear to his suggestions, and
say, "Get thee behind me, Satan. Thou
art an offence unto me ; for thou savourest
not the things that be of God, but those
that be of men."
Our determinations must be formed out of
well-matured ideas, thoughts of reflection,
and wishes that correspond with the best
feelings of our heart. Our purposes will
then be well planned and executed. If our
determinations are made on sound and de
liberate thought, they will be practised with
greater efficiency, and will be carried on
with greater vigour. Impediments will be
no longer a bar to our progress ; but we

14
shall rush through every obstacle with alac
rity, keeping, throughout, a single eye to the
attainment of our object, the accomplishment
of the desired end.
In determined effort we must keep strug
gling and labouring on, by incessant watch
fulness, powerful endeavours, active ener
getic exertions, unwearied diligence, so that
we may be fully equipped for our pursuit,
and prepared for every attack that may
assail us in our onward movements to the
fulfiment of our duty. To encourage our
efforts, we should consider the value of our
object, and its effects if realized; what a
tide of good feelings and actions it is bring
ing into operation, adding to the conveni
ence, confidence, and promptness of society.
III.

STEADINESS OP PURPOSE.

Constancy of design, carrying out a pre

meditated plan with firmness, with a deter
mination to overcome all obstacles, keeping,
throughout, a single eye to the accomplish
ment of its object. In order to cultivate this
resoluteness of mind, we must have settled

15
thought and distinct ideas of the object that
we are endeavouring to prosecute. This
fixedness of aim, intention, and design, will
cause au unvaried, decided, course of con
duct, which is one of the means of furthering
the project that we have iu view, and of in
suring its success. It is by this gradual
step-by-step movement that we are enabled
to make such rapid strides in the march of
progression, and by which we ascend the
heights of difficulty, which constantly rise
and impede our various advancements in the
duties of life. These constant, attentive,
unwearied, diligent, watchful, and onward
exertions are the propelling instruments of
steadiness of purpose. With what ease might
we carry our designs into effect if we always
had these combined efforts in exercise ; there
would be no fear of our project failing, or of
giving up in despair.
The only way to maintain steadiness of
purpose is by uniformity of action, an indo
mitable persevering spirit, and a vigorous
pursuit of the desired end. We must strictly
adhere to the given plan, and unflinch

16
ingly resolve that nothing shall deter us or
disturb our intentions ; it will then produce
in ns an equanimity of mind, an evenness of
conduct, a sweet composure, and an undeviating course, however opposed, menaced,
or maligned.
What fine examples we have of this
persisting spirit in history ; for instance :
" Columbus, in his American expedition.
Whilst on his voyage his men sank in
despair, owing to the uncertainty of their
discovering land ; but Columbus, full of
hope, and intent on his purpose, assured
them that they were near land by the float
ing of sea weeds, birds, and other indications.
These signs were to them of no avail ; they
insisted that the prosecution of the expedi
tion was a delusive attempt ; they were so
dismayed and violent that they meditated
throwing the admiral overboard as one who
was risking their lives for his own ambitious
and extravagant attempts. The crew rose
nearly into a mutiny; Columbus tried to
pacify them, by re-assuring them that they
were in prospect of land ; but this only in-

17
creased the tumult. He then determined to
set them at open defiance ; his purpose was
not to be shaken, nor his resolution broken ;
his case was desperate, but he still persevered.
The following day the manifestations of land
were such as to convince the most dejected.
The most mutinous and outrageous thronged
closest around the admiral, and crouched at
the feet of a man who, in their eyes, had
already wealth and honours in his gift. If
space would allow, we might state many
more instances of steadiness of purpose."
To gain our purpose, effort must succeed
effort ; when liable to give way we must
redouble our exertions, and endure opposition
of whatever kind with greater patience. If
our ardour is damped, let us rekindle it
again by considering the honourable pursuit
in which we are engaged, the desirableness of
its accomplishment, and the satisfaction that
will accrue from its realization.
Be determined not to relinquish the path
of duty, though it may be beset with
brambles, briars, and thorns ; tread them
down by an unwearied perseverance, and a

18
strenuous energetic effort to conquer sill
difficulties that lie in the road to progress.
What beneficial results does steadiness of
purpose produce. It gives stability to cha
racter, rouses all our energetic powers, keeps
us awake to the evil that surrounds us, cul
tivates the moral principles, shews what can
be done by small but continued efforts.
May we promote steadiness of purpose by
unbiassed, unswayed, determined minds.
There should be an eagerness to advance
our pursuit ; to consider its best interests its
advantages should be fairly laid open to
view ; the struggles and contentions of the
race should be forgot when compared with
the vastness of the object.
IV.

BY RESOLUTENESS OF ACTION.

A thorough decisiveness under all diffi

culties and circumstauces. It is a fixed,
firm, decided choice of action ; persisting in
a certain course under all disadvantages and
opposition.
To form this steady pursuance there must
be well-digested thought, accuracy, and fixed

19
arrangement of design, so that our schemes
for action may be so prepared as to receive
that stability and durability which is requi
site for perfecting a decisive course. To be
resolute, we must be determined, earnest,
devoted, sincere, and settled. Our minds
must be fully bent to persevere in that track
in which we have commenced ; not to suf
fer any trifle to draw us on one side, nor
obstacles to affright us, nor hardship and
persecution to scare us in our career. Our
force of purpose must put to flight all diffi
culties that would seek to crush our efforts
and split that combination of energetic
thought and design into fragments and con
fusion. In order to strengthen our resolves,
there must be intenseness of desire, earnest
ness of purpose ; and they must be grounded
on right and safe principles, confirmed by
practice. May we awake to a more vigourous and active effort whilst travelling on the
onward road to the establishment of our aims,
designs, and purposes. To attain to this
standaid of action there must be au eager
ness to cultivate oneness of mind ; collect

20
edness of thought and idea ; unity of pur
pose.
In resoluteness there must be
devotedness ; thorough consecration of self
to the given object ; no clashing interests
must be allowed to interfere with our de
cisions ; our whole thoughts and mind must
be imbued with the necessity of giving such
a subject our closest attention. Also, we
should cultivate readiness and conclusive
ness of thought ; form a quick perception of
the right or wrong of the ease or object
upon which we have to decide.
How necessary, in emergent cases, to
have the mind made up at once. What
direful effects has not indecision caused. How
many instances can we not call to rememberance of those who have wavered, dallied,
and prolonged, till their decisions have been
of no avail ? How many purposes have
been made blank ; projects thrown down ;
designs frustrated ; plans of usefulness scat
tered; interests ruined through indecision
and procrastination ? What weakness, fickle
ness and sluggishness is there not betrayed
in a procrastinating spirit ?
Preferring

21
delay to promptness ; whose mind is always
in a flickering, loose, hesitating state ; which
is drifted about with every new-fangled opin
ion and sentiment. What a mean, con
temptible character is a double-minded,
unstable, and irresolute person. Such have
not the will and power to choose and decide
amongst the objects that surround them ;
but still keep clinging first to one thing
and then to another, till they are the com
plete sport of circumstances.
But how beautiful is a decided character.
What consistency, uniformity, and staidness
of conduct is manifested whilst pursuing the
routine of life. No importunity will alter
their purpose, nor persuasion influence their
decisions. Attractions will be no tempta
tion, nor barriers any obstruction. It has
been this resoluteness of action which has
given that distinct and noble feature to our
enterprises, which has secured the success of
our undertakings, the realization of our
achievements. It has been this trait of
character which has adapted men, and raised
them to elevated situations in life. This

22

has been the chief qualification in the accom

plishment of all those mighty deeds of skill
and art. It is this firm adherence to a given
plan that causes our success in the various
movements that are set on foot for the ad
vancement of education, literature, and art ;
also for the improvement of religious and
useful knowledge. There is not anything
in life that can be performed to purpose,
without settledness of aim and intention.
Its necessity is seen in every effort of refor
mation, execution, production, completion,
and perfection. In all those mighty men of
renown, what striking examples we have of
resoluteness of action. " Such as Luther,
when summoned to attend the Diet at
Worms; his friends, notwithstanding the
safe conduct granted to him by the Emperor
Charles the Fifth, apprehending danger to
his person, would have dissuaded him from
going thither, Luther replied, ' I am deter
mined to enter the city in the name of the
Lord Jesus Christ, though as many devils
should oppose me as there are tiles upon all
the houses at Worms.' He was accom

23
panied from Wirtemberg by some divines, and
one hundred horse ; but he took only eight
horses into Worms. When he stepped out
of the carriage he said, in the presence of a
great number of spectators, ' God shall be on
my side.' " We may cite many instances in
Scripture, such as the three Hebrew com
panions, who, rather than perform idolatrous
acts, submitted to be cast into a fiery fur
nace ; this was a clear test of their firmness
and piety.
V.

BY CONSIDERING THE NECESSITY OF

PUNCTUALITY.

Its need may be felt and seen in all our

domestic relationships, in every day life ;
each as in the neglect of appointments and
engagements. How many have been dis
appointed of certain privileges through an
indifference and neglect of promptitude.
What fearful results have we not known to
occur through neglect of the appointed hour.
Valuable time has been wasted by suspense,
which ought to have been occupied in some
other engagement or transaction, thereby

24
disannulling all future arrangements, and
overturning our whole designs ; causing end
less confusion, disappointment, and sorrow.
Who has not been too late for the train,
or just been in time to see its departure.
What a gush of remorseful feeling has cross
ed the bosom at the moment, for not having
pre-arranged, so as to have secured prompt
ness, besides the difficulties of such a pre
dicament. Who has not suffered from tar
diness of despatch in notes and letters, which
have contained serious information? such
as beseeching the presence of a son or
daughter to come and receive the dying
blessing or last admonition of a beloved
parent ; or from some near relative, or friend,
desiring immediate pecuniary aid, which, if
not granted, will cause instant ruin and
disgrace ; or to meet a friend, an intended
guest, at the railway station, who is totally
unacquainted with the neighbourhood in
which you reside. All delayed information
of this kind must cause intense anxiety and
sorrow, because the opportunity is gone ; it
is irretrievable ; assistance is of no avail ;

25
procrastinated arrivals of intelligence occur
daily, sometimes caused by illegible, or
mistaken directions, or by being ignorant of
the regular postal hours of despatch. What
disasters may arise from trifling neglects.
There is a great necessity for cultivating
punctuality in our attendance at the sanctu
ary of God. How many times, whilst unit
ing in the sweet hymn of adoration, and
returning thanksgiving to God in prayer,
have our aspirations been broken by the
rustling, bustling entrance of a late worship
per ; the mingled silence of awe and devotion
being disturbed in the midst of our commu
nion with the great Intercessor. How sad
that persons should so intrude upon the
sacredness of devotion. How necessary that
we should be constantly alive to duty, and
prepared to practise it.
We see the indispensableness of punctu
ality in our various manufactories, commer
cial establishments, places of traffic, shops,
and other resorts of business. If this duty
were not observed in some degree, commer
cial activities and successes would be de

26
feated by the disorder and confusion that
would reign. Punctuality is the very soul
of business ; without its cultivation or prac
tice no pursuit nor occupation can be very
successful.
We should each strive to cultivate punctu
ality as far as lies in our power ; con
sider its beneficial effects ; what a train of
other good it leads us into ; develops the
active and moral powers. Whilst working
out one good principle it begets another,
which is always the result of practising any
virtue. One flow of good motive and feel
ing causes a succession (when not dis
couraged) ; whilst administering that which
is good, we partake of the same bounteonsness.
We see the necessity of punctuality in our
habits. Whatever we undertake we should
have a specified time for doing it, and accus
tom ourselves to perform it at the understood
time, then it will become easy and pleas
ing. Let us cultivate promptness, then we
shall be prepared for our engagements;
and our duties will follow in succession,

27
with all the arrangement that punctuality
insures. How agreeable to the observer are
persons of regular habits ; every action is
characteristic of cleanliness, order, and so
briety. In thus conducting the affairs of
the household, all its operations are systematised ; family devotion is strictly observed ;
the children are prepared in time for the
opening of the school ; and the refreshing
meal is ready at the appointed hour. There
are stated times for visiting friends and
receiving visitors ; leisure hours selected for
reading, and other similar duties too numer
ous to mention. The useful employments
receive their full attention, then the instruc
tive and ornamental. It is interesting to
watch the movements of such a family.
Each one has his appointed duty to attend ;
all move in their respective spheres, for there
is a distinct, yet a oneness of aim ; their
desire is to have order, arrangement, and
completion. A beautiful and simple har
mony runs throughout all their actions.
How disagreeable to observe a person of
irregular habits. You "find him all hurry

28
and bustle ; he pursues his duty without
either aim or purpose"; his affairs are in such
a jumbled, mixed, confused state, that he
scarcely understands what he is about. He
commences his duties without any contem
plation ; never anticipates or arranges any
thing before hand ; he is behind-hand in
his engagements ; faithless in his promises.
His business is so much the master of him
that the nearer he completes one thing the
more entangled he is in another.
His
whole course is one scene of confusion and
neglect, frequently ending in ruin. If an
irregular person has to manage household
affairs, there is nothing but disorder, mis
management, and consequent unhappiness.
There are no prescribed rules either for
selecting or governing the affairs of the
household, therefore misunderstandings arise,
and endless grievances. There is no deci
sive course of action ; all is left to bend to
the fickleness of circumstances. No wonder,
then, that the irregular are careless and im
provident in their habits. Punctuality is very
necessary for such a character as the one

29
mentioned, as it regulates and establishes
the conduct ; brings it into subjection ; to
rale and order.
VII.

ITS IMPORTANCE.

The importance of Punctuality is visible

in every action and transaction in life,
whether in temporal or spiritual matters.
How many instances of property, comfort,
and convenience are depending on prompt
ness for their success, fulfilment, completion,
and perfection. What would become of
property, if it were not regularly repaired ;
and comfort, if we did not regularly relieve
wants, lessen responsibilities, provide for
emergencies and contingencies ; also conve
nience, if accommodation and ease were not
regularly consulted, we should soon become
the subjects of uneasiness ; such as apparel
suited to the season, household conveniences,
with all their variety, artificial means of
supplying light and heat, as coals and gas ;
all these, if they were not regularly supplied,
would cause endless inconvenience.
How many have attributed the gaining

30
of their distinguished honours, and wide
spread fame, to the cultivation of Punctuality.
We will illustrate this by reciting one case ;
that of Sir William Jones, who accumulated
such vast and extensive masses of knowledge,
particularly in languages. We will quote
the words of his biographer :" But what
appears to me, more particularly, to have
enabled him to employ his talents so much
to his own and the public advantage, was
the regular allotment of his time to particu
lar occupations, and a scrupulous adherence
to the distribution which he had fixed ;
hence, all his studies were pursued without
interruption or confusion."
We would
especially urge the student to cultivate
Punctuality. If he wishes to fly on the
wings of wide-spread fame, to ascend the
heights of distinction, and to gather glorious
and immortal honours, he must choose
Punctuality as the guiding star of his
pursuits. Promptness will not only give
success to his efforts, bnt redeem his time.
The importance of cultivating Punctuality
is seen in the useful qualities that it calls

31
forth and brings into exercise ; such as in
dustry and order, which increase our com
fort and convenience ; which sweeten the
ills of life, by giving an increasing compe
tency. Order is the companion of Punctu
ality; fortune and success are its hand
maids.
The value of Punctuality is seen in the
minutest affairs of life. Who has not been
detained from business by a late breakfast,
perhaps when the success of the day de
pended on their early attendance ; they had
a certain amount of orders which must be
executed that day, or they would be of no
avail.
"We cannot exaggerate the worth of Punc
tuality. What stability and faithfulness it
imparts to character. How it inspires con
fidence. What great destinies it has held
in its hands sometimes. How frequently it
has been the turning point in an individual's
career ; either the destroyer or promoter of
his happiness, accordingly as he has practised
or neglected this duty. Many have been
raised to places of trust through possessing

32

this confidential qualification. Others, who

have neglected this duty, have lost good
situations. We cannot too carefully weigh
its importance.
As an evidence of the importance of Punc
tuality, take that of the office of a minister.
When a minister disregards Punctuality
what an unpleasant influence and dangerous
effect it has upon the minds of his congrega
tion, especially in his attendance upon
divine ordinances. How hurriedly he has
to enter on his duties ; without a moments
meditation and reflection which is so requi
site for such onerous callings. There is the
late superintendent of the Sunday School,
and the Sabbath School teacher. What a
baneful effect their example has.
The
scholars are waiting, all in confusion, scat
tered here and there in wild disorder.
Added to this, they have an impression that
their teachers cannot have their welfare at
heart, or they would not be so dilatory in
the performance of their duty. Quietness is
scarcely resumed during the day ; and it is
;th difficulty an indifferent attention is

33
secured whilst teaching them their lessons.
Such are the effects of neglected Punctuality ;
it mars the usefulness of the day. The
sacredness of their pursuits, and the godliness
of their office is corrupted, and deprived of
its holy influence.
Till.

ITS DESIRABLENESS.

Where is Punctuality more desirable than

amongst our working population.
How
often irregularity and disorder has been the
foundation of serious quarrels ; such as an
unprepared meal, the working man only
having a limited time to partake of it.
These, and similar occurrences, happen daily
amongst persons who neglect Punctuality.
How many respectable and orderly men
have been induced to frequent the tavern
through irregularity and mismanagement at
home. Instead of home being the quiet
retreat and soother of this toils, after being
immersed and harrassed in the hum and
bustle of business, it is nothing but tumult
and confusion ; his weary aching head has
to be dinned by the uproarious singing and

34
scampering of uncontrolled children. She,
that should be the companion of his heart,
has not time to enquire, or listen, either to
the disappointments or successes of the day.
She is so overwhelmed and behind-hand
with the household duties, that it is with the
greatest difficulty she can attend in any way
to his requirements. The man escapes for
his life from such a scene of disquietude and
annoyance. If he does not enter the tavern,
he visits some place of amusement, and
strives to refresh his jaded mind and body
with such outward, transitory, hollow means
as these, which can never supply or equal
those retired means which an orderly and
comfortable home can secure. How pleasant
is the hush and stillness of a well-regulated
home to the fatigued frame. What a nice
composing, lulling influence it has upon the
mind of him who has been tossed about with
all kinds of anxious care and solicitude ;
who has been subjected to all manner of
vexatious disappointments and trials. How
agreeable, on his arrival at his habitation,
to meet with such cheerful greetings from

35
the beloved partner of his care and the chil
dren of his delight, they skip with joy to
gee his entrance. What beaming counte
nances at the sound of his voice. How
quietly and orderly they sit whilst he relates
the various incidents of the day to their still
more attentive mother. Everything is pre
pared for his reception and comfort. All
the household duties are completed, so that
nothing shall disturb his repose, or interrupt
his comfort. That with which he is sur
rounded seems to administer to his happi
ness ; the sweet, arrangement which antici
pates and provides everything to his hand ;
the prevailing order and silence which has
such a soothing and peaceful influence upon
a mind that has been excited with the tur
moil and cares of business. Who would
not desire to cultivate such a necessary duty ;
one that is capable of administering so
greatly to the relief, happiness, comfort, and
prosperity of society ; one that is able to
bestow such benign influence, and to pro
duce such mighty effects in the civil, moral,
and religious world.

36
We should desire to cultivate Punctuality
on account of that earnestness which it im
parts to character. You never see a thought
less, careless, and unreflecting person prompt.
No ; it needs too much care and forethought
to he exact in our fulfilments at all times,
and on every occasion. There cannot be
any effective course pursued without thought,
nor any cultivation without reflection.
Punctuality is earnestly to he desired on
account of its adorning ease and softness ;
this results from preparatory arrangement,
which enables individuals to work out their
schemes and operations with freedom and
readiness. May this invaluable virtue cha
racterise our every movement.
IX.

ITS USEFULNESS.

The usefulness of Punctuality is manifested

by advancing the interests of mankind ; such
as in promoting active habits; securing
respect and favour ; placing us on the high
road to fortune and success ; increasing our
comfort and convenience ; adding to our
peace and happiness ; stimulating our zeal ;

37
giving exercise to earnestness and devotedness ; inspiring confidence ; setting a good
example ; in fact, its usefulness has no end ;
it ramifies and extends over such a vast
empire of virtue, that it is impossible to
describe its boundaries.
Its usefulness is especially great to the
poor ; its regularity trims up their scantiness
and scarcity, and seems to impart a sprightliness to their meagre limited articles of fur
niture and clothing. System even gives
dignity to poverty. Its order is calculated
to elevate and command ; to engender
respect. When poverty is systematic, we
know it is making the best of its condition ;
but how unsightly it is to witness poverty
abounding in filth and rags ; sloth and vice
are generally the cause of it. How we
should strive, by every means, to awaken
the poor to their lost and sunk condition ;
direct them to habits of activity, industry,
and regularity, so that they may acquit
themselves as beings who have superior and
noble capacities. We should encourage all
the sanitary reforms, and other means which
D

38
are made use of to raise our sunk and lost
fellow-creatures.
We see the usefulness of Punctuality in
its self-respect ; it considers the dignity of
human nature ; its Divine relationship ;
the Great Sacrifice which has been made for
its redemption and exaltation. Each indi
vidual knows that he has vast capabilities,
which, if cultivated and improved, can raise
him to distinguished heights of virtue and
knowledge. With these conscious endow
ments, he cannot think of deviating into
irregular and unforbidden courses of conduct
which, he knows, degrade and debase his
human nature, stunt and deaden his mental
growth.
Its usefulness is seen in elevating us in the
scale of society. Promptness, in whatever
sphere or department it may act, is sure in
seouring suceess. Uninterrupted regularity,
and alert attention to duty is prized. Per
sons naturally have recourse to that on
which they can stedfastly depend; there
fore assistance, influence, and attention are
bestowed ; whether it be in the encourage

39
ment of business, or the advancement of
pursuits. As their prosperity abounds, so
their influence and connexions increase.
They become more particularly distinguished
as respectable and honourable members of
society. The usefulness of Punctuality is
observable in supporting the authority of
rulers. Their duties, as we know, consist
in enforcing regularity, maintaining system,
and commanding order. "When we practice
Punctuality we then second their efforts,
lend assistance to their designs, carry out
their arrangements, sanction their plans,
obey their injunctions. There is nothing
which shews the superiority of Punctuality
more than in being obliged to have persons
of honour and dignity to insist on its prac
tice ; but it also displays a great ignorance
of its usefulness among the people when
they have to be solicited and compelled to
its performance. Such being the case, it is
very desirable that we should seize every
opportunity of declaring its advantages, ex
tolling its benefits, proclaiming its useful
ness, so that those who are unacquainted

40
with its excellencies may choose that path
which is pointed out to them, in which are
strewn so many conveniences, honours, and
possessions. Punctuality is intimately con
nected with law; indeed, law is the parent
of Punctuality. Everything in nature seems
formed for government; a certain exact
ness, boundary, and limit ; and this is
designed for our liberty, protection, and
comfort. Without a certain range of action
what scenes of irregularity and confusion
would originate. Law is the avenue to
Punctuality. It breaks up the fallow ground
of ignorance, presumption, and disobedience ;
levels and cultivates it to enlightenment,
obedience, and humility. What would be
come of our institutions, associations, unions,
and societies, if they had no regulations or
rules to guide them in their disciplinary
movements, in their hours of deliberation
and consultation. If there were not a cer
tain standard of action, what a multitude of
propositions and plans would be laid down
for every emergency, and what endless
jangling it would cause to come to any de

41
cision.
Without laws and rules society
would be a complete mass of deformity ;
dissensions would mark every operation ; its
movements would be signalized by nothing
but strife. Life would present one continued
scene of warfare, misery, and variance. How
useful, then, is Punctuality, in all its
branches and relationships, whether it be in
conformity to rule, or in the exercise of
authority ; it equally preserves unity, main
tains discipline, strengthens the bonds of
friendship, and spreads harmony and peace.
X.

THE ADVANTAGES OP PUNCTUALITY.

Its advantages are reputation, competence

if not wealth, ease, and comfort. What
greater acquisitions need we desire, or ex
pect to receive at the hand of any pursuit.
Reputation we speak of the first ; this is
of the utmost importance. What would it
signify how great our attainments were, if
we had not integrity and honour. How
ever, Punctuality gives lustre to the charac
ter ; adds to its integrity and uprightness ;
raises it to distinction ; indeed, it gives

42
grace and ornament to the whole character.
There is, in Punctuality, such a healthy
tone of action ; a consistency and uniformity
of conduct ; an equanimity of temper ; and
a continued activity of pursuit, which can
not fail to purify and adorn the character.
The next advantage we shall speak of is,
that Punctuality ensures a competence, if not
wealth. Attention, and promptness to busi
ness, on however meagre a scale, will be
sure to promote its interests, and, of course,
as it prospers, so will the circumstances of
the individual improve, which will eventu
ally place him in independent means. This
prosperity is principally owing to a regu
larity of attention, which suffers nothing to
be overlooked that is conducive to the inte
rests of business. How many in affluent
circumstances can verify this assertion.
Not only has Punctuality been advan
tageous to the tradesman and merchant, but
to the professional man. Where is promptess more valued than in the physician ; or
what will extend his practice more than
being known to be a punctual man. People

43
'naturally dread im promptitude in the life and
death cases on which physicians are called
upon to judge and prescribe for. Many lives
have been lost by the late or irregular
attendance of a medical man. Well may
a punctual physician be successful and
affluent.
There are other professions where Punctu
ality has been an invaluable aid ; such as
the literary man, who, by his regularity and
constancy, has scaled the summit of learning,
and through which he has procured some of
the most lucrative situations that were to
be obtained.
Others, in ecclesiastical appointments,
have been raised to the highest honours
of the church through possessing this quali
fication. In all preferments Punctuality has
generally been a recommendatory qualifica
tion, whether it has been in offices of trust,
honour, or responsibility. I think we may '
rest satisfied that whatever duty we pursue
actively, diligently, and attentively, it will
remunerate us amply.
We have it promised to us in Sacred Writ

44
" That the diligent hand maketh rich."
Whether it be in obtaining knowledge or
possessions this truth is equally applicable.
To verify this declaration, we will recite one
instance, that of Alfred the Great, whose
industry and punctuality has rarely, if ever,
been surpassed. " He divided his time into
three equal portions ; eight hours each for
sleep and refreshment, despatch of business,
study and devotion." His vast literary ac
complishments, amidst his multifarious duties,
belonging to his official capacity, have been
the wonder of ever-rolling ages. In no way
can it be accounted for, but by his strict
economy and advantageous use of his time.
As a certain historian remarks, "In no way
can we answer the question, How did he
find time for all this variety of occupation ?
but that he found it by ' never losing it.'
He was the greatest Saxon poet and scholar
of his day, although his education was neg
lected in the early part of his youth."
Another advantage of Punctuality is, com
fort and ease. Where Punctuality is rigidly
practised, it is a stranger to all those scenes

45
of disquietude which procrastination, delay,
and suspense produce.
Within its quiet
and peaceful borders no disarrangement, dis
order, or irregularity can be allowed to
enter. It will not suffer its neat arrange
ments, proper and suitable adaptations, wellarranged and judicial undertakings to be
disturbed; nothing but harmony, concord,
and similarity must dwell there. What
avails all our possessions, however numer
ous and valuable, if we cannot secure ease
and comfort. If we are continually subjected
to anxious perplexing doubts and fears ;
ceaseless restlessness ; uneasiness and dis
quietude ; endless inconveniences and an
noyances ; what we possess only gives disgust
and adds to our discomfort. What is more
desirable than composure ; a freedom from
all restraint ; liberty of action ; serenity of
thought ; and a mind perfectly freed from all
distraction, noise, and tumult ; such are the
advantages of Punctuality.
How can we sufficiently appreciate those
advantages from which flow such a plenitude
of peace and happiness ; whose streams glide

46
you so gently along the current of life. It
is very desirable, whilst combatting with
the vicisitudes of time and sense to alight on
something which pursues its course with
unruffled ease and quietness. Then it is
no wonder that so many of our great geniuses
should embrace that which they knew could
so considerably advance and assist them in
their pursuits. Quietness, ease, evenness,
and regularity, they found to be the real
and right helpmeets to their distinguished
adept discoveries and experiments in the
various branches of literature, art, and science.
May the convincing proof of the generosity
of this virtue lead us to a more thorough
adoption of its rules and practises.
XI.

ITS DESIGN.

The aim of Punctuality is to economise

and husband time ; to promote order and
regularity. Time, that ever-rolling stream,
which is carrying us on rapidly to that
period when its existence with us will be no
more. We should ever remember, that as it
advances, so our opportunities and privileges

47
are receding. Time is a consummate tyrant ;
it sets at defiance all our attempts either to
arrest or retard its progress, and laughs at
our entreaties. It is time that levels and
brings all to dust and decay. How many
of those proud and renowned cities of ancient
times have boasted of their gorgeous fanes,
lofty towers, and magnificent monuments;
their high and strong-built walls of defence,
which have seemed to mock that power
which could either deface or destroy their
greatness or strength. Many of those im
perial and ancient cities have seemed to lift
op their majestic heads, as if they said, we
are impervious to all your assaults; our
strong well wrought towers are impenetrable
to the rude work of decay. What impres
sion can rain and winds have upon our
massive walls ? We will follow their proud
boastings through the revolutions of ages,
and see, as time rolls on, if they are still as
proud of their strength and glory. Alas, no !
Time, that mighty tyrant, subdues and robs
them, the same as those opulent cities that
Were before them. H shows them the folly

48
of presuming to think that his iron hand
would not reduce their swelling towers, and
dilapidate their stately mansions as perfectly
as those of their predecessors. He has so
thoroughly proceeded with his ravages that
scarcely a vestige or trace can be found where
this former splendour and grandeur existed.
Not only palaces, and fanes, but whole cities,
such as Nineveh and Babylon, have been
levelled to the ground, so that history is the
principal clue to point out to the traveller
and antiquarian the spot where this archi
tectural splendour and magnificence existed.
Such is the destructive work of time.
Mankind are not spared from the ravages
of time. As soon as we attain a certain num
ber of years, we perceive its rapid inroads
by the sprightliness of youth and manhood
having been passed. By our fading beauty ;
the loss of that profuse and glossy hair ; the
dim vision ; wrinkled and furrowed cheek ;
bended form; feeble and tremulous step.
This is thy cruel work, 0 thou fell de
stroyer, time. How this should teach us
to make the best use of this our span of

49
existence, before the inroads of decay have
made their appearance. Another motive
for improving our time should be the uncer
tainty of its duration. We are liable to
accidents and disease ; we know not how
soon we may be cut off from our privileges
and opportunities.
There is something
solemn about time ; its fleeting nature ;
that on its swift course we shall either seal
our doom or secure our happiness for ever.
This should be the especial concern of our
lives. It is related of the gifted, but
ambitious Queen, Elizabeth, that when
on her dying bed she cried out, " Mil
lions of money for an inch of time." Un
happy woman ! reclining upon a couch with
ten thousand dresses in her wardrobe, a
kingdom on which the sun never sets at her
feet ; all now are valueless ; and she shrieks
in anguish, and she shrieks in vain, for a
single "inch of time." She had enjoyed
three score and ten years. Like too many
among us, she had devoted them to wealth,
to pleasure, to pride, and ambition, so that
her whole preparation for eternity was

50
crowded into a few moments ; and hence
she, who had wasted more than half a cen
tury, would barter millions for " an inch of
time." It is not only its swiftness and
shortness that make time solemn, but our
accountability for its proper use.
How wise, then, to cultivate Punctuality,
which sets so great a value on time ; whose
principal design in being regular is, that it
may redeem time, increase its value and
usefulness. A careful expenditure of time
net only enables us to multiply our studies,
but extend our pursuits ; increases our use
fulness ; tends to our success and advance
ment in all our undertakings ; benefits our
selves and mankind ; presents us, with
greater acceptability before our Maker.
Another design of Punctuality is, to pro
mote order. Without method, system, and
regularity, what a scene of confusion, re
bellion, and clamour would society present.
Order gives a uniform appearance to things ;
classes, divides, and separates each into its
own respective sphere or place ; selects,
chooses, distinguishes, distributes the vari

51
ous offices, departments, modes, manners,
and operations. Order not only appoints
and adjusts onr duties ; but promotes peace,
adds to our happiness, increases our comfort
and convenience. A careful adjustment of
matters saves arbitration and altercation ;
prepares and perfects the work in hand, and
thus maintains quiet and ease of mind.
When we aim at completeness of arrange
ment, we are not ouly regarding the rules
of decency and respectability, but are at
tending to the commands of the Inspired
Volume, which has said, " Let all things be
done decently and in order." The design
of Punctuality is not only to promote order,
but regularity. A repeated evenness of
action improves our habits; gives impor
tance to our object, and advances its interests.
By being attentive and regular we neither
miss nor lose any of the opportunities, pri
vileges, or benefits, which our pursuit or
object may either regularly, or occasionally
bestow. How many, by being absent once
or twice, have lost some golden opportunity,
or some unexpected favour of bestowment.

52
" Fortune, success, and favour, are rare and
occasional occurrences ; and it is by being
constant and intent that we happen to alight
on these rewards of constancy, perseverance,
and industry."
XII.ITS OBJECT.

The view, purpose, and end of Punctuality

is to produce systematic action ; to rouse our
energetic powers ; to constitute us more
vigorous and useful as members of society.
Its object is to scatter and interweave in our
movements vitality, and to awaken and
arouse all those dormant, slumbering feel
ings and powers which are lying so snugly
in the arms of self-complacency and ease ;
which are saying, be still, be at ease ; let
those who are willing bear the fatigue and
burden of the day. But dost thou not know
that these willing labourers require rest.
Arouse thyself ; shake off that self- satisfying
indolence ; and remember, that thou hast a
work to perform, and an equal right to exer
cise thyself in the cause of humanity as thy
fellow-being. These are the reasonings of

53
Punctuality; it allows no lion to enter in
its path. It is continually crying alond,
"Redeem the time." The language of in
spiration conveys the meaning of its object.
It also repeats, "Be instant in season and
out of season. Whatsoever thy hand findeth
to do, do it with thy might, for there is no
work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom,
in the grave, wither thou goest." The ob
ject of Punctuality is to employ life in the
most useful and complete manner, so that
it may become subservient to the end for
which it was designed, that of preparing and
perfecting us for the presence of God. That
it may enable us to render up our account
with joy ; to stand unmoved whilst nature
is dissolving, and the world lies wrapt in
flames. There is something awakening,
rousing, and impelling, in the very name of
life ; it throws out such a fund of active
meaning, that to describe its real import
would require a vocabulary of words. Is it
possible for a person to be dilatory and
sluggish whilst on such a sea of activity as
life? Yes, there are persons who take to

54

themselves rest, and say, " Let us eat, drink,

and be merry, for to morrow we die." Nay,
there are some who might as well be in a
continued sleep, for what real benefit they
are to the world.
The purpose of Punctuality is to uproot
all these self-composing and deluding ideas,
and to show the real design of our being ;
that time is not our own to loiter, waste,
and spend in trifling, foolish, and unprofit
able pursuits,' but intended to be improved
end economised. We should remember that
on its swift wings it is bearing deeds which
will finally have to be examined before the
bar of God, either to rise to our condemna
tion or acquittal.
Punctuality teaches us to act with ration
ality and sobriety ; as persons who have
some aim to their being; not merely to
clothe, adorn, and nourish the body, but to
adorn the mind, and fill the heart with good
principles, so that they may ornament the
character by virtuous actions, and be pro
motive of the moral and spiritual wellbeing of society.

55
The object of Punctuality is to give uni
formity to conduct ; to act with an even
tenour and consistency ; with a oneness of
mode and action ; a separateness of thought
and intention which are necessary in com
posing a distinct and uniform character.
Where there has been this forethought in
deciding principles, the actions blend nicely,
and resemble one another. Punctuality
gives consistency as well as uniformity;
with being regular it makes one action to
coincide with the other, there being no vari
ations, or abrupt cessations, to cause omis
sions, or neglect of duty. There is an agree
ment in all the movements of a punctual
individual ; an unvaried discharge of duty.
Punctuality claims a wide sphere of action,
which affords a better display of its worth ;
if it were one of those confined and select
virtues, it would be hidden ; it is its com
prehensiveness and extensiveness which
make it so important and productive of
virtue.
The object of Punctuality is also to add
permanency, constancy, and intentness to

56
action. When these form traits of character
what firmness and energy marks the con
duct.
The whole object of Punctuality is to
give impulse to tardy action ; life to drowsy
efforts ; ardour to cold and spiritless move
ments ; strength of purpose to weak endea
vours and exertions, so that this life-giving
power may reform all irregularity, and so
exert a salutary influence in maintaining
system. Instead, then, of having looseness,
uncollectedness, and confusion, it is our pri
vilege to have arrangement, harmony, and
composure. In the place of disjointed,
loose, wild, rambling, unpremeditated de
sign, to have prescribed, distinct, well-regu
lated rules of government. Then will our
whole purposes and movements become dis
ciplined and felicitous.
XIII.ITS POWER.

The power of punctuality is seen in the

control which it has over those operations
that would counteract its influence, and re
tard its progress ; such as those dragging,

57
dormant, listless, lifeless, apathetic feelings ;
which it fans into warmth, energy, and
activity. It bestirs all those indolent,
sluggish, ventureless, timid efforts, and
awakens them to zeal, fervour, ardour, and
earnestness. Punctuality compels unity of
effort, combination of purpose, concentration
of wish and desire ; breathes a spirit of
competition ; imparts a thirsting desire to
excel ; imbibes a virtuous and disinterested
spirit ; establishes solid and pure principles,
intentions of a noble and exalted kind,
actions unadulterated, without any subservi
ency to a selfish end, but performed for the
general well-being of society. What duty
possesses greater power than this, or has
greater ascendancy over other classes of
virtue.
Its power is made manifest in the wide
spread good that it effects ; in its propriety
of conduct, staidness and sedateness of de
portment, superior and weighty principles.
Being punctual it creates power. Those
who are associated, or are in combination
with a punctual person, have to conform to

58
their habits, and comply with their usages
and requests if they must continue co
workers, or they will be disappointed of
their labour and assistance. We will illus
trate these sentiments by the example of
General Washington, President of America.
When assigned to meet Congress at noon, he
never failed to be passing the door of the
hall while the clock was striking twelve.
Whether his guests were present or not, he
always dined at four. Not unfrequently
new members of Congress, who were invited
to dine with him, delayed until dinner was
half over, and he would then remark,
" Gentlemen, we are punctual here." When
he visited Boston, in 1788, he appointed
eight, a.m., as the hour when he should set
out for Salem ; and while the old South
Church clock was striking eight, he was
mounting his horse. The company of
cavalry which volunteered to escort him,
were parading in Tremont Street after his
departure, and it was not until the President
reached Charles Eiver bridge that they over
took him. On the arrival of the corps the

59
President, with perfect good nature, said,
" Major, I thought you had been too long in
my family not to know when it was eight
o'clock." " Captain Pease, the father of the
stage establishment in the Uuited States,
had a beautiful pair of horses, which he
wished to dispose of to the President, whom
he knew to be an excellent judge of horses.
The President appointed five o'clock in the
morning to examine them, but the captain
did not arrive with his horses until a quarter
after five, when he was told by the groom
that the President was there at five, and was
then fulfilling other engagements. Pease,
much mortified, was obliged to wait a week
for another opportunity, merely through de
laying the first quarter of an hour." Thus
we see that those who come under its power
must be subject to its authority if they must
partake of the assistance of its representa
tives and enjoy their presence and labours.
Its transcendent power is seen in the effi
caciousness of its operations ; it is, also,
made manifest by the realization of so many
privileges, benefits, and favours. Its power

60
is evinced in the command, respect, honour,
trust, weight, importance, and ascendancy
it bestows upon our efforts, exertions, and
undertakings. It is well known, that what
ever a punctual person undertakes, it will
be performed.
XIV.

ITS INFLUENCE.

Punctuality possesses great influence both

in directing and instructing the mind. We
experience its beneficial influence by com
municating a force of thought and purpose,
which prepares the mind for a course of
noble, generous, and active duties; maintains
it in an atmosphere of purity ; then, eventu
ally, leaves it to bask in the sunshine of peace
and serenity. Its influence is not only re
fining and salutary, but elevating and in
structive. It instils into the heart that which
is honourable and useful. Whoever comes
within the contact of Punctuality, imbibes,
in some degree, its influence. The sense of
its importance compels you to submit to the
wisdom of its authority, if not to its practice.
Thus, you will observe, whatever superin-

61
tendant of a family, church, institution, or
business, exemplifies a certain duty, it can
not fail to have a salutary effect on all those
who come within the immediate vicinity
of its influence. It is sure to communicate
a similar drift of thought and purpose ; that
is according to the natural order of things.
How important for all those who are at
the helm of affairs to choose and preserve an
examplary conduct. What a mighty in
fluence they are scattering, either for good
or evil. Eulers are guide posts in the
journey of life ; we expect them to point
out to us where the true virtues lie. We
consider them as directories ; as stating and
being acquainted with every habitation of
wisdom ; as capable of directing us through
all the dark lanes and bye paths of ignorance
and folly, straight on to the high road of
knowledge, and thence into the narrow path
of exhaustless wisdom, " Where all her ways
are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths
are peace." How necessary it is for
governors and rulers that they should know
how to govern themselves" He that is slow

62
to anger is better than the mighty ; he that
ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city,"
and acquire their skill and art in govern
ment from a knowledge of themselves, where,
as the poet says,
"All wisdom centres there."

Wisdom is the great discerner and arbitra

tor of government. It says, " Counsel is
mine, and sound wisdom. I am understand
ing ; I have strength ; by me kings reign,
and princes decree justice. By me princes
rule, and nobles, even all the judges of the
earth." Thus we have Holy Writ to prove
this assertion.
We see the influence of Punctuality in
moulding the character into proportionality
and comeliness; such as in equalising
studies, occupations, and pursuits, which
enables an individual to distinctly pursue
one object, that is, a perfect acquaintance
with his routine of duty. This knowledge
prevents all interference, interruption, or
delay ; thereby preserves a collectedness of
Idea, and separateness of purpose, allows a

63
correspondent performance of its avocations ;
this trait of character maintains its propor
tionable qualities. What gives to Punctu
ality comeliness, is its symmetrical arrange
ments, becoming adaptations, precise and
methodical habits, suitable and well-regu
lated plans, agreement and similarity of its
duties ; and what adds grace to these
qualities is their completeness, well-sus
tained finish of design, chaste execu
tion, composed movements, nobleness and
independency of action. Its influence is
visible in its mighty transforming effects;
exchanging disorder for genial comfort ;
tumult for peace and concord ; in the place
of ill-directed plans, well-designed and effec
tive ones. When Punctuality is cultivated
the whole aspect of things are changed ;
they wear a neatness of execution and
design.
Again, we feel its predominancy, by its
power to modify and direct our thoughts;
it often launches us into seas of reflection
and meditation, as to how we can accomplish
this duty, especially in cases of emergency

64
and difficulty ; we then have to contrive
means in order that we may proceed and be
sustained in our esteemed duty. We observe
its influence by the moral agency of its ope
rations. All its designs and purposes tend
to virtue; to unfold and develop the best
and choicest springs of action ; to nourish
and cherish the best feelings and sentiments
of our hearts. The constant moral claim
which this duty enjoins and requires pro
motes our virtue, and improves our under
standing. Punctuality, like all other virtues,
carries with it an ascendancy which imper
ceptibly steals upon your thoughts and
feelings, and insinuates itself into favour.
Its excellency secretly overawes you into
submission, and demands acknowledgment
of its superior worth. Thus it accounts for
the omnipotent influence that a virtuous duty
hath. The surpassing excellence of its
proceedure, the considerableness of its attain
ments and advantageous realizations prevail
and subject you to its overwhelming ascen
dancy. Nay, it takes such deep root and
firm hold upon your mind, that nothing but

65
the acquirement, practice, and performance of
this admirable virtue will suffice.
XV.

ITS CONNECTION.

Punctuality is allied to all the active

and moral powers of our nature ; it is
related to whatever is considerable, worthy,
or great ; it is even linked with the Deity ;
it has fellowship with interests joined to the
skies ; such as ministerial duties, philan
thropic undertakings, the successful dis
charge of such holy avocations are greatly
dependant upon regularity and promptness.
Its relationship with the Divine Eegulator is asserted in the Inspired Volume,
which has said, " To everything there is a
season, and a time to every purpose under
the heaven." Where is Punctuality observed
with greater exactness than in creation, the
works of God's own hand. Not only has
the Great Author of the Universe observed
statedness of times, but regularity and finishedness in completing his works. " He hath
made everything beautiful in his time. I
know that whstsover God doeth it shall bo

66
for ever ; nothing can be put to it ; and
God doeth it that man should fear before
him." Punctuality does not merely imply
a bare observance of duties at stated times,
but regularity as to completing and fulfilling
them. Seeing that Punctuality springs from
such distinguished and sacred relationships,
from such high authority, how earnestly we
should s.trive to extend its connections and
relationships by every individual effort we
can make use of, so that each, within our
limits- may partake of and enjoy all its im
portant privileges and benefits, and so may
become a blessing to themselves and an
ornament to society.
Punctuality sustains a near relationship
to the other virtues. In the fulfilment of a
duty, a chain of action is mostly required to
complete it ; this is composed from the con
tribution and resources of other virtues,
which combination and variety link and
unite as a beautiful whole, adding strength,
power, and harmony. It is its large, wide,
and several connections which make it so
important ; it calls forth so many advancive

67
spheres of action, and circulates such a vast
amount of good. It is its extensiveness of
connection which puts into its hands so many
opportunities of sowing the seeds of improve
ment, and diffusing knowledge. It is em
ploying, for one purpose, many distinctive
modes of operation, each carrying with them
a certain amount of influence, usefulness,
and success, that so effectually prosecute the
given duty, and promote the common weal
or interests of society. In performing one
duty efficiently, you also perfect a host of
minor and inferior ones. It is these connec
tive duties which contribute so greatly to the
worth and effectiveness of the one duty;
which increases the desirableness of its ac
complishment. It is its considerableness of
connection which proclaim its power ; which
demand attention, and create interest. It
also proves that this duty must be of some
consequence, or it would not require so many
agents or co-workers.
It may be inquired, What are its distinct
and true relationships? They are truth,
sobriety, honour, and trust ; these beget

68
sincerity, honesty, earnestness, devotedness,
and resoluteness ; they are also the compan
ions of charity, hope, frankness, and confi
dence. What nobler alliances can you have
than these, which are the descendants of
wisddm ; which can lay claim to happiness,
peace, serenity, and repose ; which dares to
pronounce itself heir to success, wealth,
competency, and comfort. What greater
personages need we wish to have connection
with, than with those who have it in their
power to bestow and augment our happiness
so considerably ; can so accomodatingly
aggrandise our condition in life, and place
us so prominently on the pinnacle of happi
ness.
REMARKS ON THE

FORMER

CHAPTERS

OR

SECTIONS.

We have now considered the modes

and means of cultivating Punctuality. The
energy of thought and purpose which it
requires ; the staunch, sturdy firmness, and
inflexible zealous perseverance which is
necessary for this kind of culture.

69
To serve as an incentive in its cultivation,
and prove its utility to society, we have
quoted examples of the highest standing in
literature, science, and art. We have shown
its practicability ; also, as being an auxiliary
to the interests of society, conducing to its
moral and spiritual well-being.
There are stated the rich harvest of ad
vantages which this duty is capable of
producing. Its high position and standing
as a virtue ; its productive and creative
quality ; its wide-spread dominion and rich
influence ; they have all been separately
dwelt upon, so that they may become incite
ments to the cultivation of this necessary
duty.
Its connection with other virtues are
shown ; also, as being a perpetuator of
other virtues. Its divine relationship is
proved from the authority of the Sacred
Volume. All its bearings, distinctions, and
connections are stated, so as to reveal its
real merit and intrinsic worth ; how it
originates and circulates other species of
happiness ; from one pure stream of good
p

70

what like meandering streams from it flow.

Figures and illustrations have been used
to elucidate the subject, derived from the
daily occurrences of life. These descriptive
means are instrumental, in the hands of cul
tivation, of sowing the seeds of truth and
enquiry, and promoting success in this line
of duty. Cultivation is the basis of pro
ficiency, the groundwork of completion, the
foundation of perfection, the point at which
all have to commence, who intend accom
plishing or perfecting themselves in any
given virtue or duty. Cultivation is a sure
footing of advancement and progression, a
safe realizer of its pursuit.
THE WAY TO PEOMOTE PUNCTUALITY.
XVI.

BY EXAMPLE.

Nothing is so convincing and overpowering

as example. We express, by our conduct,
the sincerity of our sentiments, and our
anxious desire to perpetuate them ; we evi
dence how highly we esteem our opinions,

71
and the firm grasp which they have taken
of our thoughts and feelings. Example pro
claims the wishes and desires of our hearts
in a manner far louder than words, which
will sway and influence peoples minds much
more than the strongest argument or loudest
debate. It is said that " Example is more
powerful than precept." If we wish to
establish any rules of conduct, or enforce
any systems of government, we must lay
the foundation by example ; then their im
portance and meritoriousness will be ad
mitted, and all the effort and influence
which- we have to bestow will be conferred.
It is essentially necessary that we should
promote Punctuality by our example. If
we unfold it in our own conduct, we not only
manifest its value, but, unconsciously, ex
pose its native beauty of arrangement and
completeness to view. There is nothing
which can withstand example, nor anything
which can check its influence, or resist its
power. Although it is such a silent means,
it will utter endless reproofs and salutary
admonitions, and as if it said, " Go thou

72
and do likewise."
There is nothing so
attractive, or seizes upon the attention so
admirably as example. Its quiet, smooth,
and unpretending behaviour, elicits our re
gard and esteem, and calls forth, without
any solicitation, your approbation. There
is something so striking and persuasive in
example, so ascendant and predominant,
that it would be folly to evade its research
ing power, or to resist its mighty influence.
We will quote one example of Punctuality ;
that of " The Rev. David Brown, of Cal
cutta, whose residence was at a considerable
distance from the mission church wherein he
preached ; but no weather ever deterred
him from meeting the people at the stated
periods of divine service. "When, on any
occasion, even in cases of indisposition, he
was urged to postpone the service, he would
not consent, for he observed, ' If the hearers
once find a minister to be irregular in bis
attendance on them, they will become ir
regular in attending him ; but when my
congregation sees that no inconvenience
whatever makes me neglect them, they will

73
be ashamed to keep away on any frivolous
pretext.' " Thus we see the superior ascen
dancy a good example has ; it constrains all
within its reach to adopt the same line of
conduct.
We will recite another example of Punctu
ality, " That of Sir William Blackstone, of
whom we are informed, that in reading his
lectures it could not be remembered that he
ever made his audience to wait, even for a
few moments, beyond the time appointed.
Indeed, punctuality, in his opinion, was so
much a virtue, that he could not bring him
self to think perfectly well of any one who
was notoriously defective in this practice."
We will relate another instance of Punctu
ality : " ilelancthon, the celebrated reformer
and .colleague of Martin Luther, that when
he made an appointment, he expected not
only the hour but the minute to be fixed,
that the day might not run out in the idle
ness of suspense." Such examples as these
materially promote Punctuality, by diffusing
a salutary influence, and inducing others to

74
its practice, they being persons of long de
cided character and exemplary virtue.
XVII.

BY PRECEPT.

By command, rule, exhortation, instruc

tion, and persuasion. Whilst issuing out
orders insist on their being punctually exe
cuted. In prescribing rules, may the prin
ciple rule be Punctuality. In appointing
standards of action as models, or methods to
accomplish certain objects, let each of them
be distinguished by promptness and exacti
tude. It is easy to have rules, but not very
easy to exact them ; this is the effective
part of rule, carrying them out, and bringing
them into operation. It is, also, the art and
business of the ruler. Unless he can bring
those who are under his authority to the
acquiesence and subjection of his rules, he is
no efficient ruler. The prominent features
of great rulers are observable in the ease
with which they command obedience and
compliance to their wishes, joined to a respect
of their authority.
Eule is the coadjutor of Punctuality. Its

75
aims are, steering for one purpose ; its de
signs for one end, that of promoting syste
matic action, order, comfort, and conveni
ence.
Let all those who are in authority as
teachers, persuaders, directors, commanders,
and judges of men, clothe their instructions
in the wardrobe of this eminent virtue ; in
culcate it when delivering their exhorta
tions ; advise its practise when giving
counsel ; persuade, by all the force of argu
ment, to an adoption of this exemplary duty ;
explain its usefulness ; unfold, in detail, its
rich advantages, luxuriant benefits, and
ample bestowment of pleasure, peace, and
happiness. Urge on them the necessity of
embracing this beneficial duty without
delay ; before irregularity has confirmed
itself in habit, and lost itself in indifference
and insensibility. Persuade, also, by the
force of example ; let the fruits of this virtue
be exemplified in your own conduct, and be
the means of others desiring to have it trans
planted in their hearts. The model of this
virtue being observed in you, will strengthen

76
yor.r arguments, and will evince the sound
ness of your belief and principles. Our per
suasions will be more enticing if a specimen
is given in our general conduct. Offering
unto others precepts, without they are the rule
of our own actions, will not be of much avail.
If we wish to advocate them with effect, illus
trate them by example, the wisdom and
excellence of our precept is then exposed for
examination, test, research, and inquiry;
our pleadings are then armed with the
power of truth and experience ; the stern
weighty advocates in the cause of reforma
tion and advancement.
What is the design of precepts but to
reform and instruct ; to guide us aright in
the course of life ; to promote both our
moral and spiritual welfare. Precepts are
the banners of truth, continually waving the
flag of righteousness and sobriety. If it
were not for these, how often should we
wander on the barren mountains of sin, and
be overtaken in its mists of deception, when
the retracing of our steps might prove
impossible, and doom us to that " place

77
where hope and mercy never comes." What
are more gracious than the precepts of God's
Holy Word, "this lamp unto our feet, and
light unto our path." How often should we
stumble and fall, if we were not to " order
our steps in his word," if we had not " re
spect unto his testimonies."
There are pleasing considerations con
nected with preceptstheir reliability ; we
can trust to their judgment, expediency,
forethought, and excellence. We know
that they would not be presented as guides,
or standards, without possessing excelling
qualities, or without tending to our happi
ness. A precept we deem a rule of wisdom,
purchased from experience and knowledge ;
a dictator whilst prosecuting the various
duties of life. How necessary that we should
observe these guides to virtue and to bliss ;
these dear-bought gifts of hard enduring
trial, and subjecting strict research of ardu
ous acquiring knowledge.
How requisite for us to remember those
precepts which say, " Defer not till to-mor
row what may be done to day ;" "Procras

78

tination is the thief of time ;" " Opportunity

is the golden spot of time ;" " Punctuality
is the soul of business ;" and others, which
have immediate reference to promptness.
If these precepts were strictly attended to,
what time would be saved, and sorrow
averted. Let us endeavour to live by
precept ; then we shall be ready for action ;
awake to our privileges and opportunities;
and prompt to duty.
PUNCTUALITY IN CREATION.
XVIII.

IN THE RISING AND SETTING OF

THE SUN.

We observe the regularity with which that

resplendent orb ascends our eastern sky ;
" Which is as a bridegroom coming out of
his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man
to run a race. His going forth is from the
end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the
ends of it : and there is nothing hid from
the heat thereof." Whatever commotions,
disturbances, or irregularities may be caused

79
by the ravages of war, disease, and death,
on this terrestrial world, that celestial
fountain of light will be seen, at its ap
pointed hour, dispelling the gloom of night,
and dispersing the shades of darkness ; its
light travelling to this earth at the immense
speed of eight minutes and eleven seconds,
at the distance of ninety-five millions of
miles. " How wonderful are thy works, 0
God, who made this great light to rule the
day ;" this life of our existence.
When the sun is rising above our horizon,
what beautiful tints and shades variegate
the heavens ; they are one sublime and
expansive sheet of azure. As he gradually
ascends the surface of the skies, so he finally
bursts forth with all his native splendour,
majestically diffusing, wherever his rays are
shed, life, beauty, and pleasure. As soon
as the birds witness his glorious appearance,
they flutter their wings with renewed vigour,
and warble out their cheery notes with a
fresh and increased melody. At the first emis
sion of his enlivening beams, the feathered

80
songsters tune their notes afresh, and sing
aloud their Creator's praise.
" Sweet is the breath of morn, her rising sweet,
With charm of earliest birds."

Before his dazzling splendour nature seems

to sparkle and glitter ; yea, the hills, woods,
vales, and valleys, and all animated nature,
rejoice in his presence, and respond to his
calls of cheerfulness.
The landscape wears
a brighter green after being refreshed with
nightly dews. Vegetation assumes a new
appearance, and the fragrant flower expands,
and fills the air with sweet perfume.
" For me kind nature wakes her genial power,
Suckles each herb, and spreads out every flower ;
Annual, for me, the grape, the rose, renew
The juice neclarious, and the balmy dew."

It is by the regularity of the sun's illumi

nation and heat that we have sustenance
provided ; corn and fruit for our nourish
ment.
" These are Thy glorious works, Parent of good,
Almighty ! Thine this universal frame,
Thus wondrous fair ! Thyself how wondrous then."

81

Besides, the sun is the centre of attraction

to this earth, and all its planetary system.
By the space of time the earth takes to re
volve round the sun, we determine our years,
and the years of the planetary system are
computed (taking into consideration their
rotation on their own axis).
The sun is the origin and measurer of
time ; the great regulator of the universe ;
by his shadows on the sun-dial, our ances
tors used to make known the hours of the
day. What inimitable Punctuality dis
tinguishes the works of God. Whatever
changes take place, or however many may
cease to be, the sun still holds on his course,
describing, daily, his circuit round the
heavens. In no instance has he been
known to vary his course, excepting when
Joshua was waging war with the Amorites,
he wished for a longer period to route and
destroy his enemies. " Then spake Joshua
unto the Lord, in the day when the Lord
delivered up the Amorites before the children
of Israel, and he said in the sight of Israel,
Sun, stand thou still upon Gibeon:, and

82
thou, Moon, in the valley of Ajalon. And
the sun stood still, and the moon stayed,
until the people had avenged themselves
of their enemies. So the sun stood still
in the midst of heaven, and hasted not to go
down about a whole day. And there was
no day like that before it or after it, that
the Lord hearkened unto the voice of a man :
for the Lord fought for Israel." It is sup
posed by commentators that the sun stood
when he was about to set, or how could the
moon have been visible. If he had been in
his meridian splendour, his effulgent glare
of light would have made the moon invisible.
We have it also recorded of the shadow
of the sun going backward ten degrees on
the dial of Ahaz. " And Hezekiah said
unto Isaiah, What shall be the sign that the
Lord will heal me, and that I shall go up
into the house of the Lord the third day ?
And Isaiah said, This sign shalt thou have
of the Lord, that the Lord will do the
thing that he hath spoken : shall the
shadow go forward ten degrees, or go back
ten degrees ? And Hezekiah answered, It

83
is a light thing for the shadow to go down
ten degrees : nay, but let the shadow return
backward ten degrees. And Isaiah the
prophet cried unto the Lord : and he brought
the shadow ten degrees backward, by which
it had gone down in the dial of Ahaz."
It is supposed by Dr. Clarke " that this
miracle might be effected by means of re
fraction ; for a ray of light, we know, can
be varied or refracted from a right line, by
passing through a dense medium ; and we
know also, by means of the refractory power
of the atmosphere, the sun, when near rising
and setting, seems to be higher above the
horizon than he really is ; and by horizontal
refraction we find that the sun appears above
the horizon when he is actually below it,
and literally out of sight ; therefore, by
using denser clouds or vapours, the rays of
light in that place might be refracted from
their direct course ten, or any other number
of degrees, so that the miracle might have
been wrought by occasioning this extraordi
nary refraction, rather than by disturbing
the course of the earth, or any other of the

84
celestial bodies." "We also have it handed
down to us, in the Inspired Volume, that the
sun was darkened at Christ's crucifixion.
These three instances we must consider as
miracles wrought out by the great Creator
of the universe, for his honour and glory,
and the defence and support of his people.
XIX. THE PERIODICAL RETURN
THE MOON.

OF

Every month, at a stated period, the moon

makes her appearance in the western sky,
immediately after sunset, in the form of a
crescent, with horns pointing to the east ;
she waxes till she arrives at full moon, when
she rises opposite to the sun, exactly in the
east ; her mild refulgent light is then shed
wholly over the habitable world.
"Now reigns full orb'd the moon, and with more pleasShadowy sets off the face of things."
[ing light

Afterwards she commences waning, until

she declines again into the form of a crescent,
with this differenceher horns pointing to
the west ; she finally comes in conjunction

85
with the sun in the west, and disappears
for a few days, again appearing in the
form of a new moon, after being 29 days,
12 hours, 44 minutes, 2 seconds, in com
pleting her revolution. What distinguished
regularity marks the works of God; this
luminous orb returning to a second, exactly
from the point where it set out. We may
say with the Psalmist" Praise Him in the
firmament of his power, His glory is above
the earth and heaven."
This resplendent lamp of night cheerfully
illuminates the path of the traveller, direct
ing him on his rugged road, and pointing
out to him in advance the place of his des
tination. It also enlightens the path of the
shepherd, watching his flocks . How enliven
ing are its pale beams to the mariner, who
is steering his course along the depths of the
ocean. He can now view the wide expanse
of the silvery waters, and see each wave
dancing to the delicate brilliancy of this re
fulgent orb : how prettily each shadow skips
about on every succeeding wave, presenting
various forms and hues. The mariner is
a

especially placed amidst the works of an

Almighty hand ; beneath and above him are
displayed the skill, majesty, and wisdom of
God.
The conscious mooon, through every distant age,
Has held a lamp to wisdom.

What sublime and rapturous emotions fill

his mind as he contemplates the dome of
heaven, beholds it studded with stars of
various magnitude, and amongst them the
luminary of night, prosecuting her course
along the unclouded vault of heaven. He
will exclaim" The heavens declare the
glory of God, and the firmament sheweth
his handy work. Day unto day uttereth
speech, and night unto night sheweth know
ledge." He will not only reflect on the
splendour of these shining hosts, but on their
constancy and utility. "When I consider
Thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the
moon and the stars which thou hast ordained :
What is man, that thou art mindful of him,
and the son of man, that thou visitest him ?"
He then looks beneath him, and views the

87
vast expansive ocean, and he repeats, " The
sea is His, and he made it." "All thy works
shall praise thee, 0 Lord, and thy saints
shall bless thee."
To him that is wafted on the bosom of the
ocean to foreign lands, whose errand is peace
and good-will towards men, he must feel,
while he beholds the stars and the moon
which rule by night, renewed confidence in
that God whom he is about to proclaim.
" He will hear the voice of the Lord is upon
the waters. The Lord sitteth upon the
waters ; yea, the Lord sitteth King for ever.
The Lord will give strength unto his peo
ple ; -the Lord will bless his people with
peace." Thus his mind is refreshed and in
vigorated whilst about to enter on his ardu
ous undertaking.
It is not only the moon walking in her
brightness which makes her so attractive,
but her punctuality in illuminating the
blackness of night ; so regular is she in her
increase and decrease, that we can make
appointments by her, anticipate and wel
come her the same as a promised visitor.

88

The moon is also a delightful companion

to the labourer, when returning from his
daily employ. With what pleasure he views
his little cottage in the distance, knowing
that kind greetings are awaiting him, and
all needful reception for one who has been
enduring the toils of a day's labour ;thus
his weary step amends its pace, and his ach
ing limbs renew their effort to gain their
desired home.
The moon is also a cheerful companion to
the swift traveller on the expedition train ;
she makes distinctly visible the green pas
ture, silent brook, and meandering stream,
illuminates the ruins of that old castle
which is situated on a high ascent, lights
up the top of those high hills, pours her
radiant beams on the valley below, thus
throwing a lustre over the face of nature,
and chasing away the blackness and dark
ness of night, making the journey to abound
with pleasant and variegated scenery, dis
persing that deadness and monotony which
attend a moonless evening.
o
How pleasant and companionable are the

89
silent, cheerful beams of moonlight to the
various watchmen who have to patrol the
streets for our safety and protection. She is
also a good reference to the time of night,
when one is acquainted with the moon's
worth. We cannot express better the bene
fits and beauties of a moonlight evening than
in the following lines of the poet :
" As when the moon, refulgent lamp of night,
O'er heaven's clear azure spreads her sacred light ;
When not a breath disturbs the sweet serene,
And not a cloud o'ercasts the solemn scene ;
Around her throne the vivid planets roll,
And stars unnumbered gild the glowing pole :
O'er the dark trees a yellower verdure shed,
And tip with silver every mountain's head :
Then shine the vales ; the rocks in prospect rise ;
A flood of glory bursts from all the skies !
The conscious swains, rejoicing in the sight,
Eye the blue vault, and bless the useful light."
XX.

THE RETURN OF NIGHT AND DAY.

This is caused by the earth revolving on

its axis every 24 hours, which withdraws
and brings it alternately into the rays of the
sun. What order distinguishes creation ;
regularly we experience the vicissitudes of

90
day and night. These changes are neces
sary, and afford a sweet relief to nature.
Day is particularized by activity : " Man
goeth forth unto his work and to his labour
until the evening." Each follows his varied
occupation, whether useful or ornamental.
How obligatory that we should spend our
days usefully. Imitate the Great Exactor of
Timeour Creatorperforming our duties
with the same periodicity as is displayed in
his works, " remembering that he will bring
every work into judgment;" for there is a
time there for every purpose and for every
work. Wherefore I perceive that there is
nothing better, than that a man should re
joice in his own works, " for that is his
portion; for who shall bring him to see
what shall be after him ?" We should hus
band our time ; ever remember, that every
moment which is lost is irretrievable and
undiminished in accountability. The pre
sent is our concern. "We know not what a
day nor an hour may bring forth ;" life is
uncertain. May we occupy "till our Lord
come I "

91
There is something very pleasing in the
return of day. The earth is dismantled of her
darkness. Creation bedecks herself afresh,
clads herself in robes of sprightliness and
vigour, 'wears a gayer aspect after her re
freshing dews. At the dawn of day man
rejoices ; he is ready to say, with one of old,
" Come, let us go forth into the fields ; let
lis lodge in the villages. Let us get up
early to the vineyards ; let us see if the vine
flourish, whether the tender grape appear,
and the pomegranates bud forth." The ap
pearance of day is cheering, reviving, and
invigorating ; both nature and man seem
to possess a renewed vitality. We feel, after
being wrapped in " Nature's balmy sweet
restorer," our minds to be composed and col
lected, sleep having a soothing effect upon
the spirits, hushing the tumultuous feelings
and excitement of the preceding day into
complete quietude.
The early morn is especially a time for
adoration and thanksgiving, having been
preserved during the dark watches of the
night, and permitted to awake in health and

92
strength, after being enwrapped in that im
age of death, sleep. The Christian repeats,
" My voice shalt thou hear in the morning;
0 Lord, in the morning will I direct my
prayer unto thee, and will look up."
As he looks upon the creation, he spirit
ualises it. The sun reminds him of the sun
of righteousness ; the sky, the mansions of
the blest ; the green grassy field, the short
ness of life. " As for man, his days are as
grass, as a flower of the field so he fiourisheth." The trees remind him of the tree
of life, which he hopes to claim ; thus he
surveys creation, making it a remembrance
of things present, and of that which is to

come.
His morning meditations and prayers
qualify him for the duties of the day, he is
fortified for its coming trials ; thus he enters
on to its bustle and activity, and is carried
along with its tide of business until the
shades of evening. So the dazzling splen
dour of the noontide sun passes away, and
sets on thousands who never will see it rise
again.

93
Evening returns with all its blackness and
darkness which peculiarly adapt it for solemn
thought and reflection ; this is aided by the
events of the day. Perhaps we have heard
of the death of a dear relative or friend,
who has been cut off in the midst of his
days, or some member of the family may
have been seized with some sudden sickness,
embarrassment, or unforseen accident. There
are the various incidents belonging to the
news of the day ; rebellions and insur
rections abroad, murders, neighbouring
robberies, and other horrible and startling
news. Then there are circumstances which
relate to our own immediate interests that
awaken contemplation and produce thought.
Night bears some resemblance to death,
it being the close of the day, and death the
close of life. Night is the period of exhaus
tion and fatigue how convenient for repose
are its dark shades ; nature is, as it were
curtained, inviting all to rest under its man
tle of darkness. The songster tribe retire
and hush their thrilling notes ; all animated
nature seek seclusion. The devout love to

94
retire to their devotions in the stillness of
night, amidst the silence and awe of crea
tion. The sanctity of night inspires the soul.
Nature seems to wear the impress of God's
consecrating and protecting hand.
" On him the moon looked stedfastly ; the stars,
That circle nightly round the eternal throne,
Glanced down, well pleased ; and everlasting Love
Gave gracious audience to his prayers sincere."

The good man says, " Every day will I

bless Thee, and I will praise thy name for
ever and ever." Who observes constancy
and regularity more than the Divine Being,
who " shews forth his lovingkindness in the
morning, and his faithfulness every night ; "
who never omits or varies in the regular
distribution of his mercies. It is the re
membrance of the continued, renewed gifts
of the Divine Benefactor, which constantly
fill the holy with grateful emotions, espe
cially at the close of the day, when they
have experienced another day's token of his
goodness.
How peacefully can that man retire to
rest who is assured that he has spent his

95
day well pleasing to God,redeemed his
time, punctually performed his duties,so
that none of his time has been wasted by
negligence or suspense.
.' The man who consecrates his hours,
By vigorous effort, and an honest aim,
At once he draws the sting of life and death :
He walks with Nature, and her paths are peace."
XXI.

THE SEASONS.

What distinguished regularity marks the

varied seasons in their approach and with
drawal.
The seasons are caused by the annual
revolution of the earth, which varies its
position with regard to the sun.
The Spring Quarter commences in March.
On the 22nd of this month the earth arrives
at the .vernal equinox, when we have equal
days and nights. The sun is at a tolerable
height above the horizon, thereby causing a
genial warmth in the atmosphere. The
trees begin to bud and blossom ; vegetables
sprout, and the landscape wears a livelier
green. The earth seems to be glad and
rejoice, whilst man congratulates it on its

96
Tenewed vigour and renovated appearance.
There is something cheerful, hopeful and
agreeable in spring ; agreeable, because
Nature has put off her winter gloom, and
is now wearing a more lightsome aspect.
Hopeful, because the vegetable earth is pre
paring produce, and affording prospect of
abundant reward to the husbandman. How
anxiously the cottager walks round his gar
den to see if the plants are thriving, or the
flowers appearing,if the rose trees are bud
ding, or the fruit trees are blossoming ; with
what pleasure does he perceive their dif
ferent growths, expansions, and unfoldings.
We will now pass on from Spring to Mid
summer, which commences in June. On
the 21st of this month the sun arrives at the
Summer solstice, when his scorching rays
descend with a powerful heat, shining forth
in the meridian sky with all his noontide
glory and dazzling splendour. At this sea
son there is no real night, but a dim twi
light. The sun is above the horizon up
wards of sixteen hours. It is generally at
the letter end of this season that we expe

97
rience the hottest weather, although the sun
is not so long above the horizon. This is
owing to the earth and atmosphere being so
excessively heated as not to have sufficient
space between the setting and rising of the
sun to cool, thus making it some time before
we feel any sensible decline of heat.
" Then comes thy glory in the summer months,
With light and heat refulgent."

Nature is as punctual as ever, she hath on

her accustomed mantle of beauty. Creation
is now all gaiety, profusion, and splendour.
This is a delightful period. The full-blown
rose sends forth its odoriferous odour, the
fragrant flower its delicious smell and re
viving influence ; the air is scented as if
with the sweetest perfumes ; Nature seems
as if she were regaling herself on her own
productions, drawing distinguished pleasure
from the relief of her own works. Those
who wish to see summer in its true beauty
must rise early in the morning. Creation is
then seen in all her loveliness and freshness ;
she has not been sullied by the breath of efflu

98

via, but is all purity and primness, having

newly decked herself in her robes of gaiety
and profusion. The air is now pure and
sweet, being freed from all particles of dust
and smoke. The winged tribe sing lustily
their tuneful notes. The silent peacefulness
of the morning, united with its renewed
vigour, have an exhilarating effect upon the
mind and body. Those who are wrapt in
slumber, and totally lost in the land of
forgetfuiness, miss the richest perfumes of
the air, and never realize the abundant
pleasures and exquisite delights which Crea
tion presents at its opening scene. We would
address those indulging slumberers in the
words of the poet :
" Awake ! the morning shines, and the fresh field
Calls you : ye lose the prime, to mark how spring
The tended planthow blow the citron grove ;
What drops the myrrh, and how the balmy reed
How nature paints her colours ; how the bee
Sits on the bloom extracting liquid sweets."

After the splendour of Summer, then

comes the magnificence of Autumn, with all
its profusion and bounty, carrying on her

99
lap the abundance of the earth. This season
approaches in September, with its accustomed
regularity and truthfulness to nature. On
the 23rd of this month the earth arrives at
the Autumnal equinox, when we have equal
days and night, the same as the vernal
equinox, that is, twelve hours each. The
Parent of Good now openeth his hand and
filleth all things living with plenteousness.
The trees are loaden down with their golden
fruit, the corn-fields are ripe for the reaper.
This period is the consummation of the far
mer's hopes ; also, an important time for the
fruiterer.
" Thy bounty shines in Autumn unconfined,
And spreads a common feast for all that lives."

Creation is not now so lively and gay ;

she wears a more sombre appearance. The
forest leaves begin to fade, but though they
do, they change into a most admirable green,
being tinted with two or three shades of
colours, each being harmoniously combined,
adapts itself into one of the prettiest of
greens. At the latter end of this season the

100
days shorten considerably, and the evenings
are cold. Thus we see the various changes
and disposings Nature has of itself.
We will pass on to Winter, with its rude
blasts and storms. This season makes its
prompt and faithful appearance in December.
On the 21st of this month the earth arrives
at its winter solstice, and we have the
shortest day. At this time the sun is a very
few hours above the horizon, therefore we
have both short and cold days. Nature is
now as if in mourning. The trees are enentirely stripped of their foliage, the bushes
hang their lifeless branches, the plants lay
all withered, the edges are thin and trans
parent, the forest is like a dreary wilderness,
the birds suppress their harmonious notes.
Vegetation is as if it were dead, but it is
snugly taking to itself rest, and preparing
for more vigorous exertion against the ensu
ing spring.
Lashing winds, teeming showers, hoary
enduring frosts, hail and snow storms, are
all our portion during the winter quarter.
The result of which are, fearful catastrophes

101
both on sea and land. The greater part of
this forbidding tempestuous weather is, how
ever, working for our good, preparing for
seed-time, and purifying the air.
We have now enumerated the seasons, and
entered into their peculiar characteristics.
How nicely they harmonize and succeed
each other, pointing out distinctly their
Author, the King of all the earth. " Thou
hast prepared the light and the sun ; thou
hast set all the borders of the earth; thou
hast made -summer and winter. And God
said, let there be lights in the firmament of
the heaven, to divide the day from the night ;
that they may be for signs and for seasons, and
for days and years." The seasons particu
larly display the wisdom and order of God.
The transition from heat to cold, and cold to
heat, being so gradual as not to cause any
sudden or perceptible change, therefore not
injuring the bodily system, or marring vege
tation, but the. temperature gradually and
regularly increasing or diminishing in its
heat according to its season. It is the dawn
ing of the seasons that give the charm ; it is
H

102
the glimpse of their coming beauty that fills
us with prospect and delight. If all the sub
limity of summer rushed upon ns at onoe,
we should not experience those delightful
anticipations and opening revelations of
splendour. If we had not the grateful vicis
situdes of the seasons, everything around
us would appear monotonous. How admir
ably the great Creator hath appointed these
seasons, following in such nice rotation, and
approaching with such gentleness. What
nice proportions mark the seasons, and
sweet arrangement signalizes their opera
tions. Everything is appointed and com
pleted in its time. "Order, heaven's first
law," is its watchword and controller.
Punctuality is its idol ; its beginning and
end ; its completion and perfection.
" And there were seasons coming evermore,
And going still, all fair, and always new
With bloom, and fruit, and fields of hoary grain.
And there were hills of flock, and groves of song,
And flowery streams, and garden walks embowered,
Where, side by side, the rose and lily bloomed.
And sacred founts, wild harps, and moonlight glens,
And forests vast, fair lawns, and lonely oaks,

103
And little willows sipping at the brook ;
Old wizard haunts, and dancing seats of mirth :
Gay festive bowers, and palaces in dust ;
Dark owlet nooks, mid caves, and battl'd rocks,
And winding valleys, roofed with pendant shade ;
And tall and perilous cliffs, that overlooked
The breadth of ocean, sleeping on his waves :
Sounds, sights, smells, tastes, the heaven and earth
profuse,
In endless sweets, above all praise of song,
For not to use alone did Providence
Abound, but large example gave to man
Of grace, and ornament, and splendour rich,
Suited abundantly to every taste."

XXII.

THE PRODUCE OP THE EARTH.

The earth will only yield at stated times

and seasons ; thus, sind has to be scattered
at a certain time, if we intend having any
produce. Seeing this Punctuality in nature,
what an incentive it should be to practice
this useful duty. When " He that excelleth
in wisdom" should make it one of his laws,
" to everything there is a season, and a time
to every purpose under the heaven ; a time
to plant, and a time to pluck up that which
is planted ; " it ought to be a sufficient reason
for our cultivating Punctuality. The hus

104
bandman is obliged to be punctual. He must
till, sow, and plant, at the appointed season.
" He tilled the ground remote,
Observant of the seasons, and adored
God in the promise, yearly verified,
Of seed time, harvest, summer, winter, day
And night, returning duly at the time
Appointed."

It is this regularity which bestows variety

and succession ; it is this which gives the
charm to the vegetable world. There
would be a satiety and non- appreciation of
the delicious fruits which we have at certain
periods, if they might be procured at any
time. It is this that makes autumn so
agreeable and interestingits delightful
showers of fruit.
" In herb and flower, and in the restless change
Which, on the many-coloured seasons, made
The annual circuit of the fruitful earth."

The arrival of plants to their full growth

afford pleasurable anticipations.
The chil
dren of the cottager anticipate, with the
most rapturous delight, the first time they
shall partake of the productions of their

105
garden. The Punctuality of the earth's
produce is gratifying ; we are never disap
pointed of its forthcoming, without some
sudden blast destroy it. True to nature's
exactness, we can rely on the next coming
produce ; prepare for the reception of
heaven's bounties with as great a certainty
as if we had received them. Nature is not
only prompt, but complete in her works,
perfect in her contrivance and design.
Hence we perceive the harmony and arrange
ment which distinguish creation.
When one class of vegetables has arrived
at maturity, another is springing up ; thus
producing a regular succession, while the
earth yields her increase. The same con
tinuation is observable at the harvest time
of fruit ; as one kind drops her mellow
store, another is ripening itself for being
plucked.
Each season brings forth its periodical
produce ; in spring we have herbs ; in sum
mer, vegetables, and some fruit; and in
autumn we have fully the earth's increase.
The most important produce of the earth is

106
yielded at this season. " The pastures are
clothed with flocks ; the valleys also are
covered over with corn ; they shout for joy,
they also sing." Yearly are our garners
replenished with the gifts of God's mercy.
" Thou crownest the year with thy goodness :
and thy paths drop fatness." What a neverfailing Benefactor our Hod is. He renews
his goodness from day to day, and from
year to year ; hourly are we the recipients
of his unwearied beneficence.
Winter produces very little, only a few
vegetables, it being the earth's resting
period. Where is there more statedness and
order observed than in the cultivation and
realization of the earth's increase, " Thou
renewest the face of the earth. The glory of
the Lord shall endure for ever : the Lord
shall rejoice in his works."
There is the same succession and punc
tuality among flowers, though these are not,
strictly speaking, the produce of the earth.
We might distinguish by name an endless
number which appear, bloom, and disappear
at stated times, each, during their continua

107
tion, following in the most harmonious suc
cession as one is withering, another is ap
pearing. This is not only observable with
regard to one set of flowers, but amongst
their continued variety. " 0 Lord, how
manifold are thy works ! in wisdom hast
thou made them all : the earth is full of thy
riches."
XXin

THE EBBING AND FLOWING OF THE

TIDES.

What have we more punctual than the

Tides ?twice every twenty-four hours they
recur. They are caused by the attraction of
the moon upon the waters, which perturbates
them, and causes them to ebb and flow. The
son has some little influence ; this is at the
spring tides, when the 'sun and moon are
either in conjunction with each other or op
posite to one another. The moon is then at
change, and full. The sun and moon are
both then attracting the waters, which
causes a greater elevation of the rising
wave. We have these spring tides every
fortnight.

108
When the moon is in her quadratures we
have neap tides. These are caused by the
sun not having any attractive influence upon
the waters, therefore there is a smaller tide,
less elevated above the surface. Thus,
through the attractive influences of the sun
and moon, the sen is kept from putrefaction,
by being constantly disturbed and kept in
motion. What wisdom, goodness, and con
trivance are manifested in all the Creator's
works :' " Touching the Almighty, we can
not find him out : He is excellent in power
and in judgment."
We can ascertain exactly to a minute
what time the tide will enter or recede our
different harbours. How anxiously the mari
ner and passenger enquires after this neces
sary information. Every one can depend on
the Punctuality of the tides. The sailor will
prepare for the arrival of the tide with the
same confidence as if a guest had promised
to visit him. The tides are looked upon
with the same veracity as time, as the pro
verb remarks" Time and tide will stay
for no man."

109
To shew the superiority of the Almighty's
power and skill compared with man's, Canute
the Great chose the tide as a fit demonstrastration. One day, when overwhelmned
with the lavished adulations of his courtiers,
he determined to reprove them by this
means :He ordered his chair to be set on
the sea shore, while the tide was coming in,
and commanded the sea to recede : " Thou
art under my dominion," cried he, "the land
upon which I sit is mine; I charge thee,
therefore, to approach no further, nor dare to
wet the feet of thy sovereign." He feigned
to sit some time in expectation of submis
sion, till the waves began to surround him ;
then, turning to his courtiers, he observed
that the titles of Lord and Master belonged
only to Him whom both earth and seas were
ready to obey. It should be our constant
practice to refer unto God's works, knowing
that they are models of arrangement and
completeness, wisdom and perfection. " The
works of the Lord are great, sought
out of all them that have pleasure there-

110
The tides are useful in accelerating the
speed of the richly-laden vessel, when the
wind and tide are with her. How sweetly
she glides her course along the ocean deep ;
she plies her course almost with the swift
ness of an arrow. It also elevates the spirits
to know, that all is conducive towards a
speedy destination.
The tides are also useful in sailing ves
sels in and out of harhour. But what makes
them of such advantage is their regularity,
their constant occurrence, periodical flux
and reflux, entering and receding our har
bours every twelve hours.
xxiv.man's physical nature.
Where is there greater Punctuality than
in the operations of the animal system ; such
as in the pulsations of the heart ; beating
of the pulse ; process of digestion ; calls for
.nourishment, and its forming of nutriment
to the system ; the process of dentition, and
other operations and developments of man's
physical nature. We also observe great
regularity in the structure of the human

Ill
frame. Every member of the body is pro
portionate and symmetrical ; take, for in
stance, the hands and arms, there is not the
least variation in the one from the other,
but equally as proportionate. What incon
venience it would cause the least disproportionality in the construction of any part of
the human frame.
There is a marked Punctuality in the ad
vancement of the distinct stages of life. First,
observe from infancy to childhood. At the
commencement of this first stage of life, we see
nothing but helplessness; however, as the in
fantile frame advances in growth, it also in
creases in strength, and comes, by degrees,
from under the hands of the nurse. It now
sweetly lisps its parents name, and increas
ingly delights all around with its lively and
innocent prattle. The child is forthwith sent
to school to tame its nature, as well as to ex
pand its understanding. At the end of child
hood, which is the seventh year, the body has
attained considerable growth and strength,
and the child is now able to discern when
danger is near, and has also obtained some

112
knowledge of good and evil. There are a
certain class of diseases which regularly
assail the age of infancy and childhood, and
make it to be one of the most critical periods
in man's life. We have now passed over the
gradual and regular development of infancy
and childhood, and will proceed to the next
stage of life, that of boyhood and girlhood.
This stage is from the seventh to the
fourteenth year. The growth, at this period,
is very rapid, as well as the development of
the understanding. Education is the chief
business of this stage of life ; the taste and
manners are formed, pursuits chosen, and
the principles of knowledge acquired. On
a vigorous cultivation of this season of life
principally depends the destiny of the future.
At the termination of this second stage of
life, adolescence, or youth, commences ; it is
characterized by vivacity, health, and bloom.
The mind is sufficiently matured to think,
act, and judge for itself. The next stage of
life is from the fourteenth to the twentyfirst year. At the latter end of this stage
of life the human frame is considered to have

113
attained to its full growth, and the under
standing and judgment are fully matured.
The vigour and sprightliness of manhood is
fully developed ; all the regular stages
of growth have been gone through, there
fore man rejoices in his strength. The
professional and business employments of
life are fixed. We will now pass on from
the years of maturity to that of mid-life,
which is at the age of thirty-five. Man is
now in his prime ; the frame is set and
matured in strength ; vigour, activity, and
health predominate ; and, by this time, an
individual gathers some experience, and is
also established in the world.
The next and last stage of life is from
the meridian to the decline, or end of life,
which is at seventy, and if by reason of
strength, eighty.
At the latter end of this
stage of life, the limbs lose their activity
and strength; the step its elasticity; the
eye its lustre ; instead of bloom and fresh
ness are wrinkles ; the form is bent, the
skin shrivelled, and the teeth decayed. Thus,
if we live to the latter end of our appointed

114
days, " it is but labour and sorrow."
swiftly life glides away.

How

" Life's little stage is a small eminence,

Inch high the grave above, that home of man."

A few years after the meridian of life,

signs of approaching deoay make their ap
pearance ; such as the grey hair, or dimness
of vision.
" Life speeds away
From point to point, though seeming to stand still ;
The cunning fugitive is swift by stealth ;
Too subtle is the movement to be seen ;
Yet soon man's hour is up, and we are gone."

How faithfully Nature performs her part ;

she is always constant and regular in her
operations ; we never see her procrastinating
or unfaithful, but ever punctual in her fulfil
ments. We regard the same orderly and
harmonious hand directing the stages of life,
as in the disposings of Nature a continued
unfolding and attaining of perfection until
the meridian of life, when its perfectibility
is presently shewn to be of short duration.
" Man cometh forth like a flower, and is cut

115
down : he fleeth also as a shadow, and continueth not."

WHERE, MOKE ESPECIALLY, SHOULD WE

ATTEND TO THIS DUTY?

XXV.

IN OUR PLACES OF WORSHIP.

We should be very exact in being at God's

house at the appointed time. What au annoy
ance to the congregation, are persons entering
whilst engaged in the service. Supposing
prayer is being offered up, imagine even one
individual entering his pew, what an inter
ruption to all those he has to pass, especially
if very devoutly engaged in the service of
the Most High. It is indecorous to enter at
any time after the service has begun.
Included in statedness on Divine ordi
nances, is successive, unvaried attendance,
never omitting but under uncontrollable cir
cumstances. To maintain this regularity, it
requires an unbending, steady determina
tion ; but if there is an anxious desire to at

116
tend the sanctuary of God, difficulties will
soon be made to surrender.
It is highly beneficial to our growth in
Divine grace is a regular attendance and
frequent communion with the Lord of Hosts,
an often fellowship with the people of God.
The more we assemble ourselves together as
true worshippers, worshipping Him in spirit
and in truth, so much more is our spiritual
strength renewed. The blessings resulting
from attending the house of God regularly
are boundless. It increases our relish for
Divine things, keeps the flame of Holy love
burning in our hearts, maintains the vitality
of religion, and imparts its life-giving power
to all around ; " strengthens the weak hands,
confirms the feeble knee, and says to them
that are of a fearful heart, Be strong, fear
not." Are not we commanded " not to for
sake the assembling of ourselves together, as
the manner of some is, but exhorting one
another. Wait on the Lord : be of good
courage, and he shall strengthen thine
heart." The more constant we are in our
duties, the greater delight and satisfaction

117
do we experience in fulfilling them. With
the Psalmist we are ready to say ; " How
amiable are thy tabernacles, 0 Lord of hosts.
My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the
courts of the Lord ; my heart and my flesh
crieth out for the living God. Whereas, if
we are irregular in our attendance, we do
not feel that zeal for God's housethat
longing for the sweet counsel of believers
that thirsting and panting for a closer union
and communion with the Divine Being. The
lapse of time has worn away those strong
reproofs, kind corrections, sweet exhortations
and instructions in righteousness ; their re
buking and impelling influence have lost
their power, so that when we renew our at
tendance, the former salutary influences are
lost, thereby deadening the devotional feel
ing. A heedless, irregular attention to duty
is sure to produce ill-effects, whether in
spiritual or temporal matters.
How painful to the feelings of a minister
to witness his congregation regardless both
as to their attendance and observing of the
time. "It is related of a female, who always
i

118
used to attend public worship with great
punctuality, and took care to be always in
time, that she was asked, how it was she
could always come so early. She answered,
very wisely, ' It is a part of my religion not
to disturb the religion of others.' " How well
it would be if each worshipper could form
such a true and practical idea of Punctuality.
It would tend to the spiritual and moral
well-being of both congregation and min
ister.
It is very lamentable to see a minister
deficient in Punctuality, not only as regards
his baneful example, but wasting so much
of other people's time. It is related of a
punctual minister, that he had the misfor
tune to succeed a tardy man, who had had
the congregation in charge for some years.
He despaired in reforming them in great
matters, if he could not reform them in
small ones. He found them in the habit of
meeting at twelve o'clock, though the hour
appointed and agreed upon was eleven. The
preacher knew his duty and began at the
minute. The first day after his settlement

119
his sermon was well-nigh closed before most
of his congregation arrived. Some arrived
just at the Benediction, and were confounded.
He made no apology, but merely asked the
seniors if they would prefer any other time
than eleven o'clock, saying that he would
be sure to attend. A few weeks passed, and
the house was regularly full and waiting for
the minute. The preacher never failed in
twenty years, except in a few cases of indis
position, to commence at the hour appointed.
His hearers became as punctual and circum
spect in other matters as in their attendance
at church ; for it is almost impossible to be
habitually punctual in one class of duties,
and yet to be remiss in all others.
How culpable are members of the church
who neglect Punctuality ; they are actually
retarding the work which ^they profess to
establish. Sometimes this [irregularity or
lukewarmness will overspread a whole church
there will be a complete deadness, and
general falling away and apostatising from
tbe church of the living God. How many
have borne testimony to their first wander

120
ing from God, by an irregular attention to
their devotions, their zeal and love to God
having gradually declined as their communi
cations with the Divine Being have become
less frequent and irregular.
Punctuality not only unites the church,
but strengthens it, and assists in one simul
taneous effort to spread the Eeedeemer's
cause.
XXVI.

IN FAMILIES.

What is [more pleasing to the beholder

than a Punctual family. They have a time
for every thing, and everything is in its
time. ' They are distinguished for order and
sobriety ; each has his respective sphere of
labour, and allotted time to complete those
labours in ; the result of which is tranquility
and composure in all the operations of the
household.
What a deplorable sight is an irregular
family 1 There is no proper government, or
directions, or instructions given ; each mem
ber of the family is left to pursue his own

121
course without any control, therefore no
thing but wildness and confusion ensue.
But how different the arrangements and
conduct of a punctual family. They, first
of all, direct their attention to early rising,
knowing this to be a great redeemer of
time, and promoter of Punctuality. The
early part of the morning you can better
concentrate your thoughts for action, and
perform a greater amount of labour, more 80
than in any other part of the day.
" Tir'd nature's sweet restorer, balmy sleep,"

has invigorated and refreshed the energies of

the mind and body. Early rising is also
conducive to health ; it enables you not only
to pursue your avocations with vigour at
the beginning of the day, but at the succeed
ing part of it also. It is supposed there is
nothing which weakens the constitution, or
destroys mental vigour, more than unneces
sary sleep, besides the waste of valuable
time. " It has been estimated that the
difference between rising every morning at
six and at eight, in the course of forty years,

122
supposing a man to go to bed at the same
time he otherwise would, amounts to 29,000
hours, or 3 years, 121 days, and 16 hours,
which will afford 8 hours a day for exactly
10 years." So it may be seen how life may
be frittered away by unnecessary indulgence,
want of thought as to cultivation, and the
formation of systematic habits.
Early rising allows time for following
duties leisurely ; and it can afford time for
assisting in emergencies, or providing for
contingencies, without considerably affect
ing other duties. Early rising abounds with
advantages ; in fact, Punctuality cannot be
observed without it.
There cannot be
etatedness and regularity without previous
preparation, so that early rising is one of the
first and grand means of Punctuality.
The next measure a punctual family takes
is, to systematically arrange and collect their
duties, then to appoint and discharge them.
Thus, when the head of a family divides
and selects each department of office and
pursuit, time is saved, and dispute avoided ;
whereas, if each member of the family were

123
left to take their own course, most likely
many duties would be left undone, and dis
turbance and irregularity would arise. Pre
scribing and selecting leads to conciseness,
order, and sobriety, the handmaids to Punc
tuality. In course of time each member of
the family becomes so habituated to a cer
tain routine of duty, that they neither need
authority to solicit them to it, nor instruc
tions to inform them of it. System is the
shortest and surest way of cultivating a
duty, or accomplishing an object.
Not only is a punctual family attentive
to early rising, but stated in performing
devotional exercises. Business hours are
strictly attended to ; there are certain times
for instruction, improvement, and recreation ;
also the hours for refreshment and retiring
to rest are stated. Thus, every action of
the household is prescribed and regulated.
Whatever time we might enter into that
household, we should see the same recapitu
lation of duty, the same preparations made
in their usual noiseless manner.
It is very desirable that families should

124
practice Punctuality it causes a serenity
to pervade the household. There is no
clamour through hurry ; no bustle or confu
sion through procrastination ; no disappoint
ment caused by unfinished or suspended
orders. All these annoyances and perplexi
ties are prevented by Punctuality.
Punctuality disarms fear, allays anxiety, .
and preserves peace. Its undeviating course,
and strict exactitude causes the mind to
rest in undisturbed repose. May this tranquilizing element not only be interwoven in
our actions, but in our very nature. This
excellence not only promotes our well-being
in this life, but hereafter. By economising
time, and employing it to the best of pur
poses, we shall not have so much to answer
for at the bar of God.
" Spendthrifts of inestimable time
Un-noted, notes each moment misapplied,
In leaves more durable than leaves of brass
Writes our whole history, which death shall read
In ev'ry pale delinquent's private ear,
And judgment publish ; publish to more worlds
Than this; and endless age in groans resound."

The cultivation of Punctuality is of more

[125
importance in a family than in a private in
dividual, and especially in a rising family.
They are forming habits which they will
practice through life, and which they will
inculcate on rising generations. There is
such a connection and co-operation of action
in a family that not any line of conduct can be
embraced or adhered to without moulding
the whole family character, such an influence
do they possess one over another ; first, by
their mutual engagements, and then by
their interchange of conversation and senti
ment. What responsibilities rests on parents,
especially in training their families. On the
mode in which they are trained principally
depend their future happiness. " Train up
a child in the way he should go ; and when
he is old he will not depart from it." What
can be more admirable than the training of
a family to practice Punctuality ; to be in
stant in duty. In the practice of a virtue
there are two beneficial results :First, the
evil is prevented which would arise from its
neglect ; and second, we not only experience
happiness in practising a virtue, but receive

126
endless contributories of good from that
virtue. Thus, if we were to notice two
families one cultivating and the other neg
lecting Punctuality, we should see the effects
exemplified. One would be distinguished
for industry, sobriety, order, and promptness ;
the other for idleness, tardiness, confusion,
neglect, and discomposure, which results will
accrue more from the accidental circumstances
that arise from irregularity than from neglec
ted Punctuality itself. As unforseen circum
stances occur daily which demand attention,
if we are not punctual our duties become
entangled, and produce those sore inconve
niences and unpleasant results which already
have been dwelt upon. Suspense and pro
crastination will necessarily cause the time
to be unemployed, and will prevent the
completion of other engagements, thereby
producing the host of other mentioned evils.
Thus, in the neglect of a duty we are not
only denied its privileges and benefits, but
receive, justly, the evils arising from that
neglect. Families, should be well-instructed
as to the nature of the evils arising from the

127
neglect of Punctuality so that it may be an
incentive to its cultivation ; so should its
beneficial effects be often dwelt upon, especi
ally the importance of husbanding time.
" Moments seize ;
Heaven's on their wing :
A moment we may wish,
When worlds want wealth to buy."
XXVII.

IN PROFESSIONS.

Punctuality should be observed in holy as

well as worldly professions. The minister
is especially accountable for the proper use
of his time, he being engaged in such solemn
and responsible duties. " It is recorded of
the Eev. E. Cecil, that few more carefully
aimed to redeem time, and to spend it only
in what was worthy of a man and a christian
minister. Often he repeated
" For at back I always hear
Time's winged chariot hurrying near ;
And onward, all before, I see
Deserts of vast eternity."

"It is said of John Wesley, the great

founder of Methodism, for more than fifty

128
years in succession, this eminent man gene
rally delivered two, not nnfrequently three
or four, sermons in a day. But calculating,
at the lowest estimate, and allowing fifty
annually for extraordinary occasions, the
whole number during this period will be
forty thousand, five hundred, and sixty. To
these may be added innumerable exhorta
tions to the societies, after preaching, and in
other occasional meetings at which he as
sisted or presided. His journeys in the work
of the ministry during so long a period were
extraordinary, and probably, on the whole,
without precedent. He travelled about four
thousand five hundred miles every year on
an average ; and thus, in his long course, he
passed over two hundred and twenty-five
thousand miles on his errand of mercy after
he became an itinerant preacher. In addi
tion to all this, the publications which he
either wrote or otherwise prepared for the
press were [very numerous. It would have
been impossible for him to perform this al
most incredible degree of labour without
great punctuality and care in the manage

129
merit of his time. He had stated hours for
every purpose, and his only relaxation was
a change of employment. His talents for
managing complex affairs, and governing a
numerous body dissimilar in its parts and
widely diffused throughout the whole nation,
were displayed in the order which he intro
duced into the societies he had formed, the
control which he exercised over them, and
in the plans he devised and exeouted for the
continuance of that economy which he had
established among them. Thus we see what
mighty deeds may be accomplished by re
deeming time.
Not only is it very important that minis
ters should promote Punctuality, but every
christian individual, knowing that we are
bid to occupy till our Lord come. We are
not only to [be regular in the discharge of
worldly duties, but in Christian duties
regular in acts of faith, love, and charity,
being constant in deeds of benevolence and
righteousness. It is by a regular act of faith
that we are made happy believers in the
Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, continually

130
exercising an implicit faith in] pod's pro
mises, that we are made happy partakers of
them. " That ye be not slothful, but fol
lowers of them who through faith and
patience inherit the promises." If we must
either receive or do good, we must be con
stant and regular in our efforts : "Be in
stant in season and out of season." "Pray
without ceasing, and in every thing give
thanks." Eegularity and constancy are the
essentials in all attainments, whether tem
poral or spiritual. We are not only present
at our duty, but in the service of it, there
fore suffering none of its privileges to escape,
or time to be misapplied or lost.
" 0 Time ! than gold more sacred."

We will now pass on to worldly profes

sions. There is the Physician, who is placed
as it were continually amidst life and death.
It is very necessary that he should be punc
tual where precious lives are depending on
his skill, speedy advice, and attention. Many
have lost their lives by the tardy attention
of the Physicianthe vital spark has fled

131
before any assistance could be rendered.
Promptness is not only required of a Physi
cian, but regularity,disease being so mys
terious and intricate in its workings. Com
plaints have been known to take a fatal turn
through the wanted advice of a Physician.
It is also binding on the Lawyer to be
prompt and regular in his profession, punc
tual in the execution of his contracts, faithful
in his pleadings.
There is the Magistrate, whose profession
consists partly of Punctuality, enforcing
order and obedience. Demanding justice
by punishing misconduct, so that the guilty
may receive the reward of their doings, and
similar irregular conduct may be prevented
in others. The Magistrate is looked upon
as the protector of the people, the preserver
of truth and innocence, the maintainer of
order and sobriety, the arrester and punisher
of cruelty, injustice, and all foul crime.
Punctuality is eminently useful in the
Military profession ; indeed, the office cannot
be maintained without it. As one authoress
remarks on the character of Bonaparte

132
" The first consul is eminently distinguished
by his firm and decisive character ; it is a
splendid will which seizes everything, regu
lates everything, fixes everything, and which
always moves and stops at the proper
time. This faculty, which I describe after a
great model, is the first quality for the chief
ruler of a great empire. In the end, it is
considered as a law of nature, and all op
position vanishes." The Duke of Wellington
was a very punctual man, and several other
famous military men whom we might men
tion. In all the professions, whether literary
or scientific, Punctuality will tend to their
success.
As a proof, we will refer to Henry Brough
am, the late Lord Chancellor, as the Eev.
J. Todd remarks :With a load of profes
sional duties that would of themselves have
been appalling to most of our countrymen,
he stood nevertheless at the head of his party
in the House of Commons, and, at the same
time, set in motion and superintended various
primary schools and various periodical works,
the most instructive and useful that have

133
ever issued from the British press, for which
he furnished, with his own pen, some of the
most masterly contributions, and yet found
time not only to keep pace with the progress
of the arts and sciences, but to keep at
the head of those whose peculiar and ex
clusive occupations these arts and sciences
were. Where there is a strictly punctual
character, it will be an extraordinary
one, as Punctuality is such an inlet to
every virtue."
XXVIII.

IN ATTENDING TO BUSINESS.

It is important that we should be punctual

to business, also prompt and orderly in our
conducting of that business. When this is
the case, its duties arc performed leisurely
and composedly ; there is not the voice of
iiurry, nor the scampering of haste, nor is
there the annoyance of waiting ; but every
thing is ready, prepared, and despatched in
due time. How agreeable to the observer to
notice everything neatly arranged, sorted,
and packed, and in its proper place. Where
there is regularity and order all wears a
k

134
trimmed appearance, therefore, is invitir^
to customers.
A punctual observance of business hours
promotes the interests of business, and
creates confidence in customers; they can
depend upon being served at stated hours.
Promptness is very essential in business, it
accommodates customers ; economises the
time of the purchaser as well as the seller,
and awakens pleasure in the observer.
Promptness has an air of briskness in its
movements ; it bids all tardiness to remove
out of its sight, and invites as its coadjutors
alertness, despatch, and readiness. It will not
have any dealings with hesitancy, compro
mising sloth, and childish procrastination;
the only acquaintanceship it seeks is a mind
to act and think at once. Amidst the round
of business, what more desirable attendants
can there be than these, who never suffer
their designs to become ardourless through
numbness of action aud effort. Promptness
not only puts our designs into execution,
but imparts strength and vigour to our
efforts; immediateness is its constant aim,

135
whether it be in forming, resolving,
choosing, refusing, persuading, command
ing, or obeying ; it abhors wavering,
dallying, and indecision. Its delight is to
work out and complete its thoughts, motives,
and wishes at once. Forming and express
ing sentiments with a quick precision ;
estimating and contracting with a keen,
ready, and perceptive eye. The great
essential in promptness is the immense time
it saves ; it uses time as if it were bought
by purchase. Neglect of Punctuality con
sumes the vital parts of business.
Punctuality is useful and agreeable ; it
imparts to business a light and easy appear
ance. When every thing is arranged, com
bined, and adjusted, it is pleasing to the
spectator. Whereas, if all were heaps, litters,
and scattered confusion, it would be burden
some to the sight ; and distasteful to the
feelings.
What is more satisfactory to the pos
sessor, or delightful to the beholder, than
order. Its sweet purity, lovely arrange
ment, and perfect harmony, seem to invite

136
you to tranquility and peace ; its nice dis
tinctions, just selections, perfect combina
tions, pretty contrasts, happy assimilations,
and true resemblances have a most delight
ful effect, and charming influence. Order
is productive of good wherever it is main
tained ; it is pleasant to look upon, and
abounds with advantages. Order has a bene
ficial effect upon the mind ; it tends towards
regulating the conduct, and maintaining
sobriety. Order polishes and refines what
ever it handles ; glosses poverty, prims
scantiness, and makes everything that it takes
in hand to appear to the best advantage.
How necessary then, that business should
possess this adorning quality, which pre
possesses the mind so considerably. Punctu
ality in all its relationships is a successful
promoter of business.
The more we practice Punctuality in
business, the greater interest and pleasure
we take in business. What may be irksome
at first, becomes pleasurable by perseverance.
Punctuality secures confidence and es
teem in customers ; they can depend on

137
your faithfulness in deed and word. It ia
recorded of Mr. Scott, of Exeter, that he
travelled on business till eighty years of
age; he was one of the most celebrated
characters in this kingdom for Punctuality,
and, by his methodical, joined to uniform
diligence, he gradually amassed a large
fortune. For a long series of years, the
proprietor of every inn he frequented in
Devon, and Cornwall, knew the day, and
the very hour he would arrive. A short
time before he died, a gentleman on a
journey in Cornwall, stopped at a small inn
at Port Isaac to dine ; the waiter presented
him with a bill of fare, which he did not
approve off, but observing a fine duck roast
ing, " I'll have that," said the traveller.
"You cannot, sir," said the landlord, " it is
for Mr. Scott, of Exeter." " I know Mr.
Scott very well," rejoined the gentleman ;
" he is not in your house." " True, sir,"
said the landlord, " but six months ago,
when he was here last, he ordered a duck
to be ready for him this day, precisely at
two o'clock ;" and to the astonishment of

138
the traveller, he saw the old gentleman on
his Rosinan te jogging into the inn yard about
five minutes before the appointed time."
Here we have a powerful illustration of the
several advantages of Punctuality. There
is nothing so important as regularity and
system in business. System appoints and
keeps in operation, sees that everything
follows in due succession, and is properly
arranged for continuation and completion.
XXIX.

TRADE TRANSACTIONS.

Punctuality is necessary in giving and

executing orders; forming and completing
contracts. If a punctual individual gives
an order he will be firm to his word, that is,
about the requirements and instructions of
the order. He will have stated times for
giving orders, and he will be regular in his
payments. He has also one set of tradesmen
whom he deals with, who consider it a lucky
affair that they have met with such a punc
tual customer ; thus they deem it a pleasure
to furnish him with goods.
Punctual customers are seldom tedions to

139
please. If they order a certain description
of goods they rarely want it changing, or a
certain make they seldom want it altering.
When once the order is given they have
done with it.
Those tradesmen who attend to this duty
are prompt in obeying and supplying orders,
they will have every available means at
hand for the ready despatch of their goods,
also, will have them properly selected and
displayed for purchasers to examine and
choose.
The punctual tradesman has a
place for everything, and everything is in its
place. Such apparent management is sure
to draw custom and maintain it. Not only
is he regular in his payments, but his books
are kept with the greatest exactness, every
item is booked whether it be of income or
expenditure. There is a regular working
system throughout the business. The man
of commerce can precisely inform you how
long his goods take in manufacturing, and
how many he has manufactured, and the
quantity of goods he sells. All these ac
counts are booked and easily referred to.

140
The generality of prosperous commercial
towns are great observers of Punctuality.
We will notice this by their attention to
business hours ; the delivery of goods ; the
publishing of periodicals ; the sanitary mea
sures ; the maintaining of discipline in the
various manufactories, workshops and shops.
Eigid discipline is preserved in the various
institutions whether charitable or literary.
The magistracy and constabulary are also
promoters of Punctuality.
All, who have to do with the masses of
the people, are desirous of enforcing Punc
tuality, knowing that it is a great preserver
of order and peace, and a sure promoter of
commercial interests.
What is it that our commercial towns
dread to hear of? Dissatisfaction abroad,
knowing it to be the forerunner of rebellion,
and determined war ; that destroyer of com
mercial jrosperity.
Trade can only flourish in peace, as soon
as differences begin, its activity is suspended.
Bargains, purchases, and clearances cannot
be effected without consent, agreement, and

141
concord. Countries are the same as in
dividuals when they are at variance, no tran
sactions can be carried on between them,
therefore not only they, but their neighbours
suffer in consequence.
How we should seek to cultivate Punc
tualitythis commercial qualificationwith
all its attendant virtues. It has often been
the success of our commercial enterprises ;
the realizer of speculation ; the amasser of
fortune, and the preserver of finances. Its
unremitting zeal and energy has led it toadopt measures, which might have been con
sidered impracticable with a less share of
zeal. But the ardour of zeal puts difficulties
to flight, and leads it on to hazard and ven
ture, which venture often secures success in
speculation, and speculation is every thing
in business, no amount of business can be
done without it. It is successful speculation
that amasses so much money.
Punctuality not only puts forth zeal, but
imparts fidelity, constancy and perseverance,
which qualities are essential in business.
A punctual tradesman will always be there,

142
faithful to his business. He can be depended
on either for making an engagement, bar
gain, or speculation. This fidelity to busi
ness ranks him among the stable business
men, which is no mean character to possess,
but is highly recommendatory.
A punctual man takes a pride and interest
in his business. Constantly managing and
disposing of it causes him to feel intense con
cern for its welfare, whereas, if he were
irregular it would create in him a spirit of
apathy and unconcern, tediousness, and dis
gust. Such is the spiritlessness of neglected
Punctuality. Punctuality familiarizes the
mind to certain pursuits and objects, which
recurrence of action fixes habit, and renders
duty more agreeable.
Thus in business
Punctuality becomes a habit. In forming a
contract the mind will resolve at once ; such
is the intensity of purpose in Punctuality, it
seizes on the present in order to be provided
for the future, knowing that delays are dan
gerous, that procrastination may overwhelm
our purpose. What can be more desirable

143
in trade transactions than promptness, faith
fulness, and truthfulness ?
" Be punctual
In all thy dealings ; in thy settlements
Postpone not, with the poor especially.
Also in thy engagements be a natch
Thyself, and strike the hour for thoughtless men.
For time is gold, minutes are precious things ;
And he who is un punctual to the hour
Will scarce be punctual to the pound."
XXX.IN PROMISES.

A man of honour considers his word his

bond, therefore he makes it an inviolable
rule to be punctual to his promises. Promisee
partake of the sacred ; the honour and con
fidence of the party or parties are at stake
until the obligatory promise is fulfilled. It
is a breach of trust to break a promise. If
its one of a serious nature, it at once un
ravels all your confidence and esteem of
that person's confiding virtues. It is the
exercising of these confiding virtues which
make promises sacred.
Punctuality in promises saves suspense,

144
anxiety, disappointment, vexation and grief;
avoids all disputes and dissensions ; allays
every fear and suspicion ; increases confi
dence and respect ; promotes peace and
happiness ; and constitutes us more faithful
members of society.
When a person is faithless to his promise,
there is something bordering on treachery ;
he knows he is deceiving those who are
relying on his truthfulness. If the failure
of the promise is not intentional, but through
thoughtlessness, it causes irritation and per
plexity; such unconcern, reflects neglect,
and disregard. A deviation from prompt
ness in fulfilling promises, let it be caused
by whatever it may, abounds with evil
results ; in its mildest form your expectations
are unrealized, and you are left in suspense.
Non-fulfilment of promises is falsehood,
it is breaking down all the barriers of truth,
and throwing principle on one side ; that is
if the promise or promises are made to be
broken ; if made for the sake of expediency.
Thus we insult God, offend conscience,

145
expose deliberate treachery and falsehood,
consequently suffer disgrace.
Punctuality in promises saves quibbling,
excuses, and explanations, all of which waste
time, and tempt to disguise the truth. A
departure from duty produces a succession
of evil, one evil begets another, palliation
is its first resort, which is nothing but false
hood in the garb of truth.
Punctuality in promises commands a salu
tary influence ; it scatters around the power
of sterling integrity, shews its strength to
overcome all sinister motives, choosing
rather to suffer than shew the least in
sincerity.
THE BENEFITS OP CULTIVATED
PUNCTUALITY.
XXXI.COMPOSUBE IN ALL THE PERFORM
ANCES OF LIFE.

Freedom from irritation, perplexity, and

anxiety, which irregularity, disorder, and
neglect of Punctuality produce.

146
Where promptness, regularity, and order
are attended to there is tranquillity of mind.
The mind is not unruffled by suspense, or
irregularity of proceedure ; . everything is
premeditated, arranged, and specified, rules
made and abided by without any deviation
or retraction; duties are commenced and
carried on with promptness.
A punctual person performs every duty
leisurely and composedly, hurry and scam
pering haste are unknown to him. With
having his plans arranged, appointments
specified, he is able to prosecute his duties
deliberately, and consequently successfully.
What is more desirable than composure
in the performances of life ? It imparts ease
to all around. What is more annoying or
destructive to peace and happiness than per
turbed or excited feelings, whether it be in
families, or in the daily pursuit of the avoca
tions of life.
Composure is the essence of happiness ;
its quiet subduedness and collectedness
throw the mantle of peace over our
measures and means. Composure is the

147
daughter of wisdom, the offspring of fore
sight.
Composure generally results from
well directed efforts, and thoroughly wrought
out plans ; its calmness and soberness allows
time and opportunity for examination, con
sultation, and every other necessary means
for undertaking a duty. Its every directed
step is measured by the nicest forecast, in all
its proceedings it always has time at its
command.
Convenience, arrangement, and suitability
are its companions; attention, liberty, so
briety, and cheerfulness are its heritage ;
ease, complacency, statisfaction, and peace
belong to its nature ; joyousness and delight
are ever hovering around it. Who would
not wish to possess such desirable qualities
as these ? Such are the benefits of culti
vated Punctuality.
We must not forget to mention the com
posure which arises from punctually perform
ing sacred duties. With what sweet com
posure he who practices Punctuality enters
on to his devotional exercises. How neces
sary in all solemn duties not to have the

148
mind discomposed by haste, and consequent
perturbation.
It must be displeasing to enter into the im
mediate presence of God and invoke his aid
and blessing whilst under confusion and
excitement, distracted with worldly care and
tossed with commotion, instead of the heart
having had previous premeditation before en
tering into the presence of the holy Lord God.
The benefits of Punctuality are realized
to a greater extent in holy duties, more so
than in any other. To receive good and to
possess composure of mind is impossible
without Punctuality. We cannot infringe
on the hours of devotion without disquietude
and spiritual loss. Therefore, if we must
worship God aright and heartily, the first
step we must take is to be prompt, then we
shall be free from all those discomposing
influences which arise from irregularity and
neglected Punctuality. Composure is the
handmaid to devotion ; the real and neces
sary element of worship, and when made
divine, " it gives a peace which passeth all
understanding."

149
Punctuality produces composure in attend
ing to business. The tradesman, if he is
executing an order, proceeds with it de
liberately, and with feelings of complacency.
He is quite free from all anxiety, as to
whether his business transactions will be
completed. He is so prompt in his habits,
and exact in his arrangements, that he sel
dom, if ever, fails in accomplishing his pur
pose; therefore, he does not suffer disquie
tude on that account. Another aid to his
composure, is, no complaints are heard from
his customers, either about unfinished or
neglected orders ; but generally receives
their expressions of satisfaction.
The punctual person feels composure be
cause he is aware that he is redeeming time,
spending it economically. Duty fulfilled, of
whatever kind, always brings with it its
reward.
Punctuality imparts serenity, there is
something pleasing in its habitual, regular,
and even action ; we delight in the continued
pursuit of the old track.
To sustain a
serene mind, we have plans, systems,
L

150
and methods to direct and arrange our va
rious duties, so that we are not disturbed
by indistinct ideas of our future engage
ments or pursuits.
When do we feel greater composure than
when in an orderly school, neatly arranged
bouse, or in beautifully laid out parks, kept
in the most undisturbed order.
XXXII.

ESTABLISHED CONFIDENCE.

A firm reliance in integrity, tested by un

wearied diligence and promptness in all the
concerns of life. It is a firm belief in your
honour, sincerity of motive, principle, and
action. What is more likely to establish
confidence than regularity of action, a con
stant repetition of duty, and unwearied
proofs of industry, sobriety, order, and
promptness, all of which constitute the
amiable virtue of Punctuality.
What is the principle ingredient in friend
ship ? Mutual trust. Confidence is one of
the most valuable virtues there is. With
out it no unity, speculation, interest, or the
least friendship can be maintained, it is the

151
cementation of everything that is laudable
and useful.
Confidence is the friend of assurance, com
posure and cheerfulness. It is the avowed
enemy of distrust and hatred, it disdains
unjust suspicions and doubts. It is the com
panion of frankness and sincerity, the con
tainer of peace and happiness. How import
ant that w.e should cultivate Punctuality,
when it is so productive of virtue.
Confidence is the main-spring of life,
which keeps in operation all the active,
social, agreeable, and delightful companion
ships. It is the supporter of liberty, the
protector of the slandered, the author of all
the benevolent schemes in life. What is it
that causes the humane to commence and
proceed with their God-like undertakings,
but a belief in the remnant virtue of man
kind, confidence in the restoring healing
virtues of the fallen.
Confidence is the handmaid to success,
the advancer of merit, and the encourager of
worth. Confidence bestows consolation in
trouble, succour in trial, relief in adversity,

152
and deliverance in danger; these are the fruits
of mutual trust. By venturing and being
free to express our wants, cares, and trials
to each other, we thereby get relieved.
Confidence is the parent of sympathy, it
believes in the justness of your cause, the
reasonableness of your sorrow, the extent of
your care, the weight of your grief, it con
trives and searches out means for the
alleviation of your woes. Confidence de
lights in partaking of your care, associating
itself with your distresses, it is ready to offer
any sacrifice that may afford you relief.
Sympathy is the balm of grief, its nature is
to heal and assuage grief. Then, without
mutual trust, we cannot possess these rich
treasures of confidence.
Confidence is the link that chains all the
other virtues together, without it every
scheme that is set on foot would be dis
annulled ; actions would be misunderstood,
and motives misinterpreted. In fact, the
whole human family would be one scene of
bickering and equivocation. Doubts rising
into disputes, disputes into contentions, con

153
tentions into quarrels, quarrels into violent
animosities, nothing but distrust and hatred
would be known. Such would be the results
if there were want of confidence.
There would be no pre-eminence, or
superiority, if the virtues had not a firm
confidence in their own excellence. How
would they be able to overcome error, with
stand reproach, struggle with temptations,
trials, and adversity if they had not firm
assurance in their truthfulness; their supe
riority over vice ? Virtue could not support
the ridicule and various abuses which it re
ceives, if it were not for a belief in its own
merit and truth. Seeing that confidence is
the principle constituent of all that is vir
tuous and good, it behoves us to cultivate
the duty of Punctuality, which establishes
this necessary element of our existence.
Punctuality with its steadiness and regu
larity produces both dependance on your
promises and performances. What is the
general saying of those who are engaging
an individual into their service ? I want a
person on whom J cap depend, Put there

154
frequently has to be a great search before
we can find such an individual. And
what is the reason ? Because Punctuality
is not sufficiently thought of, its importance
is not considered.
XXXIII.

BRINGS INTO OPERATION VIRTUOUS

ACTIONS AND

PRINCIPLES.

In order to perform a duty fully and com

pletely, a series of action has to be called,
united, and worked out in its service. Thus
it is this call of assistance- that makes
Punctuality so useful. It is its unity with
the other virtues that makes it so powerful,
and productive of good. Of a necessity it
is obliged to have auxiliaries and helpmates ;
it would be impossible to work out this duty
single-handed, therefore it invites and raises
other virtues.
The principle ingredient in Punctuality is
industry. This calls forth all the active and
energetic powers of the soul ; awakens
effort, puts forth zeal, and strengthens the
determination.
Thus we see one virtue
begets another; forces, invites, and puts

155
forth others. In the well-performance of a
duty what a stream of good is sent out ;
pure and sweet influences scattered, benefits
circulated.
Connected with industry is
sobriety, and regularity of conduct ; with
out these it is impossible to be punctual.
The actions that flow from cultivated
Punctuality are based on the soundest and
purest principles. It has a keen sense of
its honour. It is regular from a principle of
justice ; knowing that by an even and regu
lar performance of duty, we are doing justice
to ourselves and mankind. These honest
principles are manifested in its appointments
and fulfilments. How true and faithful it is
to its promises and engagements ; deliber
ates on its undertakings, so that it may be
equal to the task, and faithful in its accom
plishment.
Punctuality is the very essence of truth
fulness ; it is truth in word, will, and act.
Its purposes and designs are formed on the
truest principles. The sole aim of Punctu
ality is moral good. We see this in its
line of conduct ; laws for regulating ; sys

156
terns for guiding and directing the minutest
affairs of life ; methods for arrangement and
completion. We observe its virtuous action
by its careful consideration ; its due thought
of the convenience and comfort of others.
Punctuality removes doubts and fears ;
it is a stranger to perturbed feelings and
anxious forebodings. Its undeviating and
industrious course never subjects you to any
remorseful feelings ou account of retrograde
or slothful movements, but keeps the mind
in complacency, knowing that it is practising
one of the most useful duties, the treasuring
of time, and the preserving of order.
From Punctuality flow the principles
of peace.
In order to practice this
duty there has to be a conforming to
rules, a yielding to systems ; all of
which tend to meliorate the disposition,
and make it more agreeable and soci
able. It is the peaceable and harmonizing
qualities that make this duty so admirable.
We see a desire, in the efforts of Punctuality,
to prove faithful to its engagements ; a dis
position to oblige ; and a respect of the

157
opinion of others. Take, for instance, the ful
filling of an appointment in some office. If
you are regular and industrious in that office,
you are accommodating yourself to the parties
who employ you ; not only calling forth their
approbation, but making your services more
valuable and office more important. But
how different the results would be if that
office were irregularly fulfilled. What dis
pleasure would arise, besides the loss that
would accrue from such neglect.
The benefits of cultivated Punctuality are
boundless, and its virtuous action ceaseless.
XXXIV.

CAUSES THE TIME TO EE REGULARLY

DISTRIBUTED AND EMPLOYED.

This distribution of time is attended to in

the well-regulated house; the orderly fa
mily ; the prompt business man ; and in the
punctual student. How careful the punctual
individual is in allotting his duties, so that
he may undertake only what he can faith
fully and promptly perform.
The first step of Punctuality is arrange
ment ; so that no time may be wasted by

158
suspense, or confused ideas of the assigned
task. Not only is specifying duties a means
of regulating the distribution of time, but a
statedness in performing these duties is a
great promoter of the economising of time.
When the hour of duty is known there is
preparation for it ; it is anticipated, so no
time is lost by neglect.
Without statedness it is impossible to be
successful in any kind of business or acquire
ments. Besides, periodicity forms industri
ous and active habits ; you have ever to be
on the alert, lest when the accustomed hour
of duty arrives, you should be found lacking
in readiness. The benefits of a wise em
ployment, and a regular distribution of time
are unknown. It is said of one eminent
man, William Penn, " few men have been
more distinguished for vigorous exertions of
various kinds than the worthy and wellknown William Penn. If we consider the
number of books which he wrote and pub
lished ; the many and difficult active en
gagements in which he was occupied ; and
the almost incessant troubles and interrup-

159
tions to which he was subject; we shall
wonder how it was possible for him to accom
plish what he did. He who reads atten
tively the life of this eminent man, written
by Mr. Clarkson, will find that the secret of
his extraordinary despatch in study, writing,
and business, was his punctuality." Most
of those men who have distinguished them
selves have, on the onset, directed their
thoughts to a careful and regular distribution
of their time, being assured that this would
be a great means of facilitating their success.
We will quote another example of one
who carefully distributed and employed his
time ; the great and celebrated scientific
experimentalist Boyle. " So great an eco
nomist was he of his time, that even while
on his continental tour he would never lose
any vacant time, for, if he were upon tft*road, and walking down a hill, or in a rough
way, he would read all the way; and when
he came at night to the inn, he would pro
pose such difficulties as he met with in his
reading to his governor." If each were as
anxious to employ their time as this emi-

160
nent individual was, we should not hear so
much of killing time, and spending idle
hours with friends.
It is related of one individual, " That he
called upon an acquaintance, and introduced
himself, by saying, that ' he was come to
spend an idle hour with Mr. Benson.'
' Be assured,' said that eminent man, ' that
Mr. Benson has no idle hours to spend.
He never has any idle hours.
From
seventeen to eighteen hours he spends every
day either in reading, studying, writing,
praying, or preaching. Besides, he is going
to preach this evening ; and he mostly
spends an hour upon his knees before he
goes into the pulpit.' " With some degree of
confusion the person withdrew ; and it was
hoped that he learned, by the mode of his
reception, never again to disturb ministers
when they are preparing to preach, or to
imagine that they have idle hours to spend
with idle people who are not conscious of the
value of time.
" Pay no moment, but in purchase pf its worth,"

161
Punctuality compels you to a careful ex
penditure of time ; its undeviating prompt
ness will not allow of any tardy movements ;
and by its law of pre- arrangement it fills up
every nick and space of time between the
intervals of duty. Its disciplinary nature
keeps you in constant action, either per
forming one duty or preparing for another.
Thus, the whole design of Punctuality is, to
keep us in regular action ; to employ
" Life's fleeting momenta as they pass."

This dividing the time into equal portions

is highly advantageous in the business of
life ; it belongs to the law of arrangement,
and facilitates our movements. When atten
tion is given to the distribution of time, it is
also directed to its employment. It is often
multiplicity of duties, or anxiety to extend
pursuits, which cause individuals to systema
tize their time and labours, knowing that a
plan of action is the right means of economis
ing time, labour, and thought ; and thus is
accounted for the remarkable attention to
the disposing of their time in students, and

162
others who have wished to excel in their
profession. As the Eev. John Mason
remarks, in speaking of our 'usefulness
in the world, " Greatness of parts is so far
from being a discharge from industry, that
I find men of the most exquisite sense,
in all ages, were always most curious of
their time ; and therefore, I very much
suspect the excellency of those men's parts
who are dissolute, and careless mis-spenders
of it." It is related of the Rev. John
Hessel, just after his entrance into college,
that this was one of his regulations :
" Another very important thing which, in
future, I trustj-fo keep in view is, the right
improvement of time. I wish to adopt this
motto, ' take care of the minutes, the hours
will take care of themselves.' He wrote
this motto on a scrap of paper, and fastened
it on the chimney-piece of his study, that he
might have it constantly before him."
A regular distribution of time promotes
order and system ; relieves memory ; lessens
responsibility ; and prevents those cases of
emergency which often spring from irregu

163
larity. A regular division of time acquaints
the individual with his duties ; he is pre
pared for his task ; in readiness for any
difficulties which he may have to encounter ;
all of which tends to maintain that equa
nimity of temper which is so distinguishable
in Punctuality.
A knowledge of duty is half the work ;
being acquainted with its designs, under
takings, and cares, you can furnish yourself
with the requisite means necessary for those
duties. But where Punctuality is neglected,
duties are often began rashly, and worked
out incompletely, there being no system to
guide or regulate their choice of action.
A regular distribution and employment of
time causes us to lead consistent and uniform
lives ; and if persevered in, establishes us
as useful and honourable members of so
ciety.
XXXV.

RESULTS IN A SYSTEMATIC EVEN

COURSE OP CONDUCT.

Cultivated Punctuality is remarkable for

its regularity of proceedure ; there is no

164
variation in the exercise of its duty ; one
continued purpose is maintained; there is
no deviation from the adopted plan, but a
steady, onward, evenness of course pursued.
What produces this systematic even course
of conduct is, its adoption of rules, observance
of method, adhering to and devising of plans.
In all its undertakings it is careful to weigh
their responsibility, so that it may be able
to complete them without any hazard or
neglect. Premeditation is method devising.
In all its appointments there is previous de
liberation ; not only having a due know
ledge of them, but considering whether there
is an ability and a promptness to perform
them.
What is of more importance than regu
larity in fulfilling appointments ; a prompt
attention to the interests of others. This is
a feature in Punctuality which displays its
beauty more than any other.
We see this systematic and even course of
conduct exemplified in its choice, as well as
pursuit of objects.
Whether it be in the
choice of duty, office, mode of conduct, man

165
uer of living ; or it be the choice of privi
leges, enjoyments, conveniences, comforts,
or pleasures ; each is selected in a regular
manner, and examined. It is also syste
matic in its choice of company; in its
reception and imparting of instruction, and
in the obtaining of knowledge ; in fact,
everything with which it is connected is
directed by rule.
In Punctuality there is a harmonious con
nection and succession of duty, the result of
that native order and arrangement which
pervade all its movements. It is this know
ledge and regulation of duty which systema
tize the conduct, and cause a regularity of
action. As an illustration of the power of
Punctuality to systematize the conduct we
will quote the following example :Caven
dish, a celebrated philosopher, and lover of
punctuality, whose biographer states of him,
" That he was accustomed, from his youth
up to the utmost regularity of movement;
and his practice in this respect, to his last
days, nothing was ever suffered to derange.
In his library, that he threw open to his
M

166
friends, and other persons engaged in intel
lectual pursuits, he used to make the same
formal application as they did to his librarian,
and receive a receipt accordingly."
We
will recite another instance, that of the Rev.
S. Brewer. " When a youth in college, ho
was never known to be a minute behind
time in attending the lectures of the tutors,
or the family prayers, at which the young
men who boarded in private families were
expected to assemble.
One morning the
students were collected ; the clock struck
seven, and all rose up for prayer ; but the
tutor, observing that Mr. Brewer was not
present, paused awhile. Seeing him enter
the room, he thus addressed him :' Sir, the
clock has struck, and we are ready to begin ;
but as you were absent, we supposed the
clock was too fast, and therefore waited.'
The clock was really too fast by some
minutes." We see the confidence which a
systematic conduct begets. Punctuality is
never annoyed by mishaps through disorgan
ised movements, or clashing interests, but is
always kept in tranquility by its skilful

167
management and forethought ; its sweet
organization keeps it in perfect peace. Thus
we always see Punctuality maintaining an
unruffled composure, a steady and undeviating systematic conduct.
What is more desirable or pleasing than
a systematic and even course of conduct ? It
shows a taste for cultivation, and a desire of
perfection. System strengthens and exalts
the mind ; its disciplinary nature binds the
will and purpose more fully ; strengthens
the determination and judgment, as it often
has to discriminate, select, and decide.
System, by the perseverance which is neces
sary for its maintainance, lessens and
triumphs over difficulties ; it needs zeal
and effort to resolve all our actions into
system.
We see the exalting nature of system in
its taste and thirst for refinement; in its
love of neatness, arrangement, regularity,
order, and sobriety ; it abhors uncleanliness, irregularity, and confusion. A sys
tematic conduct is noted for its sense of
decorum and propriety ; it discerns and

168
detects instantly the least irregularity or
impropriety, whether it be in material things,
or relating to the morals.
A systematic person will quickly observe
any untidiness iu dress or habits. Not only
a disorderly appearance, but any species of
intemperance it will discover and repudiate
as distasteful and disgusting, as contrary to,
and unfit for, any of its companionship.
How agreeable to observe the pure
morals, refined discipline, honesty of pur
pose, and benevolent motives, which charac
terize a systematic conduct ; all of which
tend, both individually and collectively, to
add to our true interests, and to the spreading
of peace and good will among men.
The activity and statedness of system de
mand attention, w hich unremitting attention
prevents any irregularity or disorder which
might disturb our peace and shake our con
fidence.
The watchfulness of system is
present to prevent, remove, and overcome
evil, so that its prudent care fortifies us
against all apprehensions, and thereby
maintains composure, which frees from

169
anxiety and care. Cultivated Punctuality
is not only to be desired on account of its
immediateness, but its uninterrupted atten
tion, which never omits, fails, or misapplies
any duty.
Is it not agreeable to have duties
regularly practised ; directions adhered
to ; orders complied with, and wishes
obeyed ; all of which is, obedience to
system.
The benefits of cultivated Punctuality
on the conduct are numerous, but none
more important than a systematic conduct ;
having regular habits, it has such a
beneficial influence on the mind ; it pro
motes its serenity ; chastens and relieves it.
By having provisionary laws, the mind is
not encumbered with running a course
at its own risk, or confused by want of
regulation.
Conforming to system has a salutary effect
npon the mind ; it chastens and subdues
those tyrannical dispositions which so often
destroy our peace.
The most considerable advantage of sys

170
tem is, its redeeming of time ; none is lost
by irregularity, confusion, or neglect.

NEGLECTED PUNCTUALITY.
XXXVI.

THE CAUSE.

Why Punctuality is neglected is, want of

forethought and forecast ; a thoughtlessness
with regard to the future ; an inattention
to management or contrivance; a listless
regard to general interests.
Thus, an irregular person runs at such a
loose end, that lie scarcely knows what
course he is taking, whether it is for good
or evil, so little thought does he take for the
measures he adopts, and the object he pur
sues. We observe this in the irregular
tradesman, whose wandering measures and
mazy object is, to uphold his business, but
which object he defeats by his want of
methodical habits : such as, Punctuality in
commencing and leaving business ; order
in arranging it ; readiness in despatching
it ; promptness in serving its demands ; all

171
of which are the " soul of business," and the
means of promoting its success ; but which
the neglecter of Punctuality entirely over
looks, and which accounts often for his dimi
nished and unsuccessful trade.
Take, for instance, a workman who neg
lects Punctuality ; who has no system in
following his occupation. He has a certain
article brought to him to be made, and he is
requested to have it finished against such a
day ; he promises that the order shall be
executed by that time. Through want of
forfsight in regulating his hours according
to the demands of labour, the order is not
executed against the given time, and the
consequence is, that it causes endless incon
venience. Perhaps the individual for whom
the article was designed had to leave home.
Besides, neglected Punctuality is not the only
mischief in these cases ; the article is often
finished incompletely through haste, the
result of which is, it is often returned
for alteration, which may cost nearly as
much time and labour as the entire making
of a new one, without any extra remunera

172
tion. This is all occasioned by want of cal
culation, system to carefully divide the
time, and proportion its labours thereto.
Want of thought and management is
often the cause of irregularity. An insuffi
cient idea of the worth of Punctuality is the
reason of its not being cultivated. Thus to
enforce Punctuality on some persons, would
only be as the sounding of a name, it would
have no more influence.
Some would prefer the disadvantages of ir
regularity to the gain of Punctuality, on ac
count of its exactitude, considering its culti
vation would be so tedious as to amount to
disgust. But this is an exaggerated idea,
arising principally from ignorance, or from
a want of taste for order and regularity.
The causes for neglecting Punctuality
are various. Sometimes it is indolence, a
complete indifference as to what become of
interests ; sluggish both in heart and effort
as to the making use of means. These cha
racters generally abound in vice, disorder,
uncleanliness, insobriety, and irregularity.
They are often the frequenters of taverns,

173
dram-shops, gambling-houses, and all the
vicious and sinful amusements there are.
Not only do the idle and profane neglect
Punctuality, but some moral and reli
gious persons will. We will bring forward
one example :A committee of eight ladies,
in the neighbourhood of London, was ap
pointed to meet on a certain day at twelve
o'clock ; seven of them were punctual, but
the eighth came hurrying in with many
apologies for being a quarter of an hour be
hind time. The time had passed away with
out her being aware of it ; she had no idea
of its being so late, etc. A Quaker lady
present said, " Friend, I am not so clear
that we should admit thine apology. It
were matter of regret that thou shouldest
have wasted thine own quarter of an hour,
but there are seven besides thyself whose
time thou hast also consumed, amounting
in the whole to two hours, and seven-eighths
of it was not thine own property." Thus
we see the evil that one person can cause in
neglecting a given duty, especially amongst
a number who are cultivating a certain duty,

174
they break the chain of influence and annul
the plan.
Another cause of the neglect of Punctuality
is want of interest. This apathy arises from
the slight impression that has been made on
such minds of the excellence of Punctuality.
They have no thorough knowledge of its
worth and its extensive usefulness, or, if they
have, they are blind to it, they are dead to
its influence ; or, perhaps, they have never
come directly under its power. For to be
tinder the immediate influence of a punctual
individual, cannot fail to exert a salutary
effect on the behalf of Punctuality.
What person that has dwelt in a punctual
family, or observed one, but will desire to
practice their virtues, or, at the least take
an interest in them. The beauty of order,
and the unvariableness of regularity must
make a deep impression on the mind, and
urge it to its adoption.
Another cause of the neglect of Punc
tuality is entire thoughtlessness. A -want
of consideration as to the aim and object of
Punctuality, an unconcern about duty, or

175
anything bordering on strictness.
Such
heedlessness wants correction by reproof.
A warning given as to the shortness and
uncertainty of life, the swiftness of time,
and, consequently, the best means of
employing time.
This can be done by
pointing out the virtuous duty of Punc
tuality, which truly redeems time, its
promptness husbands time and saves sus
pense ; its regularity treasures time and
prevents delay and procrastination, its order
employs time to the best advantage, by its
arranging and completing affairs in the
most perfect manner ; also, it saves alterca
tion and debate, and prevents confusion, all
of which are great consumers of time, and
destroyers of peace.
Thoughtlessness is the principal cause of
all irregularity, whether it be in the per
formance of duty, or the regulation of the
conduct. It is said,
" Through want of virtue, that is, want of thought"

If we really considered our best and most

enduring interests, we should not for a

176
moment neglect the cultivation of this
virtue.
XXXVII.

BY WIIOM NEGLECTED.

By the worthless, slothful, and careless;

the street stroller, the intemperate man, the
gambler ; and many other characters too
numerous to mention, who not only neglect
this duty, but deride it.
Amongst the notorious neglecters of Punc
tuality is the publican, who even has his
house licensed for irregularity. There the
inmates are kept employed in selling a
liquor to stupify men, and after they have
made them unmanageable, and taken all
the money they have to spend, turn them
out of doors as even unfit for their shelter.
If these are not the uprooters of regularity
I know not who are. One selling a drink
which stupifies men, and the other buying
that which he knows intoxicates, and makes
him disorderly and unfit for society. There
is none more irregular in his habits than
the drunkard ; thus we see his besetting sin
divides his attention from his business, his

177
family, and, indeed, every duty. Drunken
ness embodies every species of irregularity.
It is the great author of most of the crimes
committed ; and is the real avowed enemy
of Punctuality.
If drunkenness were banished, we should
seldom witness the fights and quarrels that
are often in our streets, or hear of so many
disturbances in families ; neither should we
be pained by the daily recurrence of so
many murders, robberies, accidents, and in
stantaneous deaths, all occasioned by this
great enemy of order and sobriety, drunken
ness.
Another neglecter of Punctuality is, the
prodigal man, who not only wastes his
time, but his money, by riotous living ; such
as procuring all the expensive luxuries of
life, and resorting to all the fashionable
amusements. Punctuality and industry are
too vulgar for him. He considers the culti
vation of such duties as these belong to the
rustic farmer, or others of similar and
honest, homely occupation ; they are too
dull and monotonous ; he must live in

178
some excitement or other; either amongst
gay companions, or fashionable amuse
ments.
Thus he habituates himself to
such a frivolous life, that serious thought
or grave employment are repugnant to his
feelings. But this is not the worst feature
of this sort of character ; it is this frivolity
running into debauch, such as excessive
intemperance, unlawful modes of living, and
similar conduct. When the mind has not
any serious employment, or is only occupied
with trifles, it is sure to run into vice, as
the proverb remarks, " Idleness is the parent
of vice." How many plans for theft, forgery,
and murder, have been concocted in an evil
and idle hourProdigal men may be classed amongst
the worthless characters, as they are of no
real value to society ; they follow no pursuit
regularly, therefore add little to the know
ledge, comfort, and convenience of mankind.
Instead of being benefactors to society, they
are often the cause oi much unliappiness,
especially amongst their families. In fact,
their life is but one scene of irregularity,

179
frequently ending in ruin. How many of
these despisers of sobriety and order have
come to want ; their disorderly conduct
having brought on them contempt, neglect,
and ruin.
The prodigal man cannot endure any sort
of restriction or government ; he considers
they are a bar to his liberty ; this is false
liberty ; there must be bounds to freedom.
Eule and government are the true protec
tors of our liberty; they preserve us from
molestation ; besides, they direct our judg
ment when in error, and suffer it not to be
blinded by instinct or passion, to the detri
ment of our true interests.
As we have mentioned the notorious neglecters of Punctuality, we will now advert
to the more moderate neglecters of it ; the
moralist, and the professor of religion.
To the immoral man it must present
a strange inconsistency for the moralist, or
professor of religion, to neglect that which,
in some measure, he professes to advocate ;
the practice of a virtue or virtues. When
one virtue is neglected in the performance

180
of a duty, that duty cannot be said to be
completed, nor can that example be worthy
of imitation.
It is highly culpable of a professor of
religion to neglect Punctuality, especially if
he holds office in the church ; his example
is sought and imitated ; and those within
his sphere of labour are apt to be led,
almost unconsciously, into the same line of
conduct. So, in some instances, an indi
vidual is not only responsible for his own
actions, but the conduct of others. ^ His
office transmits the power to train individuals
to certain duties; either to their adoption
or neglect, according to the ascendancy or
bias which they possess over his mind.
Thus, a punctual minister invariably has a
punctual congregation ; while, if a minister he
aneglecter of Punctuality, his conduct cannot
fail to make his congregation irregular in their
attendance, and is also apt to produce irregu
larity in the discharge of other duties.
Whoever neglects Punctuality are neglect
ing that which is conducive to their own inte
rests, and the interests of their fellow-men.

181
XXXVIII.ITS EFFECTS.

Neglect of Punctuality produces disorder,

disarrangement of plans, rupture of systems,
causes uncertainty and suspense, benumbs
the active powers, and ends in ruin.
Its effects are sad in an individual, but
much more so amongst a class of individuals.
Such as a religious community, a govern
ment, or an institution.
Take for example the effects of neglected
Punctuality in the organization of religious
societies. If one or two belonging to the
infant society are only partial, or even irre
gular in their attendance, what a withering
effect it has upon the few who do regularly
attend. Their unity of strength is weak
ened, the efforts of the zealous few are dis
couraged, and often their exertions prove
abortive ; all occasioned by this one neg
lected duty. If Punctuality is neglected
in the formation of societies they will
never be established, the sluggishness and
indifference of irregularity will sure to
waste them away.

182
If a society be established, and it become
notoriously defective in regarding the rules
of Punctuality it will not prosper. The
constant drawbacks and gaps which need
supplying in a large interest, demand vigor
ous and persevering exertions ; the listless,
inactive, and unsafe dependencies of irre
gularity would soon wither its vital energies,
and cause it to droop and pine away. As in
worldly matters, so in spiritual matters,
there must be a constancy and regularity of
attention, or they will sink under decay and
neglect.
The effects of neglected Punctuality are
well nigh as deplorable in political affairs
as in a religious community. Such, for
instance, as the army and navy ; they
are characterized accordingly as they neg
lect or cultivate Punctuality. The same
may be said with regard to conducting
civil and magisterial duties ; their success
are dependent, in a great measure, on Punc
tuality.
When Punctuality is neglected by masses
of people of corresponding duties, the effects

183
are very baneful, they influence one another
powerfully and often veer into one line of
conduct. Thus regiments have their cha
ractersone is noted for its sobriety and
order,another for disorder and intemper
ance. What woeful effects have resulted in
regiments from disregard of the rules of
Punctuality. Such as cruel chastisement
for being behindhand in duty ; this punish
ment has more often been inflicted on account
of bad behaviour than tardiness in duty. Ir
regularity in duty is mostly accompanied with
dissolute conduct. Navies have their cha
racteristics as well as armies, some for their
mutinous character, and others for their
orderly and peaceable character.
When is it that armies and navies most
esteem Punctuality ? When summoned to
the seat of war. They know, then, the
value of time and the importance of prompt
ness. How frequently the indiscretionary
use of one moment in the battle-field has
terminated in a fearful loss of life ; it has
given the enemy advantage and consequently
triumph. Also terrible results have ensued

184
from the late and irregular despatch of
troops, of ammunition, of provisions, and of
clothing. Many of the soldiers have died
of privation, before sufficiencies of food and
clothing could be procured. Delay and irre
gularity in sending troops have often pre
vented peace being settled.
Promptness is achievement in battle. It
is being prepared on every point to face out
enemy by which we can contend and gain
the victory.
Superior discipline which
unites with promptness will gain over num
bers at any time. Loss of time in war is
well nigh equal to the wasting of existence
itself, so many important dependencies are
based on its wise and useful employment.
It is in the army where Punctuality is
properly understood, and where its neglect
is severely punished.
We will now proceed to the neglect of
Punctuality in institutionssuch as hospi
tals, burial societies, and the like. What
distress has been caused by delayed medical
attendance to out-door patients, tardiness in
attending to their necessities, and the requi

185
sites which the sick require ! What misery
has originated from delayed payment of
moneys belonging to sick funds, whether it
has been for the subsistence of the sick, or
the burial of the dead ! If it has been for
the necessities of the sick, the extra attention
and the little nourishments which they require
have been suspended, so depriving them of
every comfort and assistance which may re
lieve or lessen their affliction. Postpone
ment of money is disagreeable when not in
immediate want, as at the least it causes
disappointment.
There are other institutions which have
been guilty of the neglect of Punctuality,
the medical, literary, and scientific. Those
institutions that have neglected Punctuality
have taken no prominent part in literary
attainments. The institution has not dis
tinguished itself for its distribution of prizes,
therefore there is evidence that there has
been a lack of industry and competition. It
is impossible to attain proficiency without
regarding the laws of Punctuality. To pro
secute a certain course of study there must

186
be constancy, regularity, and promptness, if
not the student will be unsuccessful. Eegu
larity in study prevents you from losing
what you have already acquired. Besides, the
study is more agreeable as it becomes more
familiar to the mind. Eegularity disciplines
the mind, and preserves it from wander
ing. Irregularity in study produces con
fusion of thought and remoteness of object.
An abrupt discontinuation or commencement
of study unsettles thought.
Neglect of
Punctuality in study abounds with evil
effects, its achievements are small and its
accomplishments are few, obscurity is its lot,
neither distinguished for usefulness nor orna
ment.
Neglect of Punctuality loads the memory.
Where there is no attention paid whatever
to the timely discharge of duty the mind is
burthened, it has to remember that which
ought to be prescribed; besides the anxiety
of irregular and unfulfilled duties. Often
one neglect of Punctuality will entail entire
omissions of duty ; such as rising late will
cause absence from, or delayed attention to,

187
business ; from proceeding on a journey, ab
senting ourselves from church or chapel;
and other duties.
Suspense is another effect of neglected
Punctuality which agitates the mind and
disposes it to be querulous. Many distur
bances have arisen by being kept in
suspense, knowing that it is so much time
taken off other duties, and, of course, inter
feres with their discharge.
Suspense is not the most aggravating
effects of neglected Punctuality, frequently
this has been denied when the hour ap
pointed has passed, the opportunity has been
for ever gone. To illustrate this we will
relate one authentic instance, that of a de
fenceless widow with a large family, who
had engaged to embark on a certain vessel
for a foreign country, at such a day and hour;
she made all the necessary preparations for
such a voyage. The day and hour arrived
for her departure, she with all her family bade
her friends farewell. They proceeded to the
port in which the vessel was laid ; but
what was their consternation when they ap

188
proached the harbour to find that the vessel
had left, they were too late. But to shew the
effects of neglected Punctualitythe widow
and her family had to wait some days of ano
ther vessel, during which time a fearful rate
of expences were going on, besides the disap
pointment and chagrin attending such a
misadventure. Disappointment and expense
were not the worst results. They ultimately
embarked on another vessel, and while pro
ceeding on their voyage they were overtaken
by a fearful storm, and the widow, and seve
ral of her lovely children, were swept of the
deck by a mighty wave into the ocean, and
perished. The other children that were spared
had to land on a foreign shore, homeless and
bereaved. But he who has said, "leave thy fa
therless children, I will preserve them alive,"
fulfilled his gracious promise in a strange land.
If they had been in time for the first embar
kation, doubtless all their lives would have
been spared. Such occasionally are the sad
effects of the neglect of Punctuality. If we
were to look around and examine the various
records, we might find many instances of

189
such cases as we are about to relate. " One
day an individual about to meet some friends
at a certain town, bis presence on tbat occa
sion being indispensable, arrived at the rail
way station one minute too late for the train.
Beturning home he hired a horse from a
livery stable. He had no sooner mounted
his steed than away he flew with the velocity
of lightning. After traversing the road a
mile and a half in the presence of numerous
spectators, some imprudent person endea
voured to stay the animal by raising their
hands, which only made him more fiery. He
than plunged in the paving stones, throwing
his rider, and dragging him several yards
by the stirrup. At last he disengaged him
self although much bruised and shaken, and
his coat torn into ribbons. He was picked
up insensible, and kindly assisted to a
surgeon's by an individual who happened to
be passing at the time. This accident is the
more remarkable, inasmuch as he for the
last few years has been, with few exceptions,
in the habit of riding from morning till
night, and without once before meeting with

190
the slightest accident." Thus we see what
sad effects may be produced by single and
slight causes.
Such opportunities when
gone are never retrieved.
Sufficient has now been said of its neg
lect. I trust the direful effects portrayed in.
real life will explain the necessity of its
cultivation, and will so impress the mind as
to resolve that no longer shall any deficiency
of Punctuality be observed in your character.
What universal happiness and contentment
would prevail if we really reduced what we
know into practice. Few are wholly con
sistent, or make use of the knowledge and
power they possess. To maintain our path
in duty it needs much self-denial. Private
interests, individuality of feeling, difference
of opinion and sentiment, enticements of
various kinds, afflictive circumstances, all
tend to prostrate the energies of the mind.
Withont these difficulties are counteracted,
our powers become prostrate, and we are
defeated by that which we ought to over
come.

To be a truly punctual person there must

191
be an individuality of character. Punctu
ality requires sacrifice of feeling, and dedica
tion of self; a yielding up of the energies
of the mind and the powers of the soul to
one stern purpose, that of being prompt in
the service of our duty. What can yield
such complacency, or be more beneficial to
the interests of mankind, than constancy
and regularity in the various transactions
of life.
If Punctuality were more general, there
would not be the poverty, sorrow, and dis
tress, that is continually manifested. Eegularity of occupation and pursuit is sure
to produce plenty, peace, and prosperity.
Punctuality and success are inseparable;
sobriety, order, and regularity, must have
their reward.
I now conclude this exhortation on Punc
tuality, hoping it may have the desired
effect, that of leading a useful and happy
life; contributing to the moral well-being
of society, and to the knowledge of our duty
and of our God.

CHESTER :
VBINTSD BY EDWARD THOMAS,
PEPFKB STREET.

V.

' JafHi