True, Charles. The woods appear designed for our delight; we find here a refreshing breeze in the heat of the day; and can think and talk, not exhausted by the relaxing noon-tide beams. A stream, whose very sound is cooling, renders the scene more tranquil; and the numerous songs, which are poured forth from every spray, does not interrupt it; all is peaceful. Do not overlook the variety of plants, which present themselves to our view.
CHARLES.
And are all these plants of use, Sir?
DR. BARTLETT.
We cannot always trace the wisdom or the goodness of God; but, though invisible, still it exists every where, and is ever active—gives harmony to the birds, and healing powers to the plants which decorate the earth.
CHARLES.
So then, we cannot go one step but we find the goodness of God. Do the woods and forests rise of themselves?
DR. BARTLETT.
No. Nothing arises of itself, but from seed. How the first seed was sown, we know not; now it happens by chance, accidents which escape our notice, or birds carry them from one place to another.——God worketh here as in secret, and beauties are unexpectedly spread around, and surprise the contemplative walker.
CHARLES.