796
Gratitude, we find in the dictionary, but not often in the heart of man.
797
When the tree is felled, its shadows disappear.
(Desertion of the great by their parasites.)
—Chinese.
798
AGAINST EXCESSIVE GRIEF.
(From a letter addressed to the Countess of Essex on the loss of her only daughter.)
"I know no duty in religion more generally agreed on, nor more justly required by God Almighty, than a perfect submission to His will in all things; nor do I think any disposition of mind can either please Him more, or become us better, than that of being satisfied with all He gives, and contented with all He takes away. None, I am sure, can be of more honor to God, nor of more ease to ourselves. For, if we consider Him as our Maker, we cannot contend with Him; if as our Father, we ought not to distrust Him: so that we may be confident whatever He does is intended for good; and whatever happens that we interpret otherwise, yet we can get nothing by repining, nor save anything by resisting.