"A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush." -Timothy Shay Arthur " To make the vision clearer, and the way plainer for all who are seeking the true path — is the purpose of this volume. The editor has sought through means of allegory, sermon, essay, and lighter narrative — to lead the earnest thinker into a just appreciation of social and moral duties — for no man can walk safely through this world, who, through neglect of these, lives in cold indifference to his neighbor's good. "The true path is the path of self-denial; yet none enter this path who do not, sooner or later, find that the way is smoother than was expected, and that instead of leading through a desert land, it winds pleasantly amid flowers and greenness." -Timothy Shay Arthur CONTENTS: PREFACE. Our Daily Life Our Life Romance Fruits of Sorrow Formation of Character Blessed Are the Beloved! The Genii of the Gold Mines POVERINA Filial Love Rewarded LABOR The Search for Happiness Speak Kindly The Merchant's Son Tell of Their Virtues New Aims in Life Angels with Us Unawares Spare Moments The Friends: Or, Luxuries Lost and Happiness Won The Duties of Brothers and Sisters