2. Beware of prejudice. Do not make up your mind hastily, and under
the impulses of mere feeling, without any just and extensive
information. Study the matter calmly, extensively, and on all sides
and aspects of it.

3. Study it _religiously_. Keep it, in your mind, aloof from all the
excitements and influences of party and party spirit. Let me say to
you, my beloved people, study it on your knees, in earnest prayer to
God. Learn your duty from God's word, praying in the Holy Ghost.

4. Aim to cultivate the entire spirit of your Lord and Master, Jesus
Christ. Feel as he felt. Act as he acted. Pray as he prayed. Seek
the _salvation_ of sinners, as he sought it,--evidently putting more
value upon _that_ for every dying son of Adam, than upon all things
earthly. Oh remember, you _will be the best citizens, just when you
are the best Christians_;--and I do believe in my heart, you will do
most earthly good to your fellow-men, just when you do them most
spiritual good,--leading them, by example, by precept, and prayer,
to "seek _first_ the kingdom of God."

5. Be obedient to the laws of your land. Do not resist these
_ordinances of God_. Stand by the Constitution of your country. If
that die, _the most_ of your happiness and your hopes die with
it!--yea, it would be a calamity to the civilized world!
Christianity herself would be hindered a whole century in her march!
Respect your rulers. Frown indignantly upon the low and vile abuse
now heaped so liberally upon the great men of your country. Be
peaceful Citizens. Be a _law-abiding people_, with all your
sentiments opposed to violence, bloodshed, and confusion; and aim to
allay all the excited and angry feelings that may come up around