O For presenting such a work at all, when so much has been written upon the same topic, I offer no apology. I would say, however, that some who have read my former lectures upon the Duties of Young Men, have desired me to publish a series of discourses like these, as a companion to that volume. I am in hopes, also, that notwithstanding the number of books of the kind, this may accomplish some good. I do not think that I have exaggerated the importance of the class whom I address, or that I have dwelt too strongly upon the subject of their influence. If I may be instrumental, to any degree, in rightly directing that influence, I shall not regret the present labor, which, feeble as it may be, I now dedicate to the service of God, and to the good of humanity. E. H. C. BOSTON, Jan. 14, 1848. Now there stood by the cross of Jesus, his mother, and A* And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. She open- eth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. She looketh well to the ways of her house hold, and eateth not the bread of idleness. Her children LECTURE I. THE POSITION OF WOMAN. Now there stood by the cross of Jesus, his mother, and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene. JOHN 19: 25. I PROPOSE to address a few discourses to Young Women, including in that class not only those who are usually comprehended in it, but also those who have entered into the relations of wife and mother. My object in addressing them is to urge, not merely the responsibilities which rest upon them in common with all other human beings, but those obligations which pertain to their peculiar position. It is of this position, especially as affected by Christianity, that I shall speak in the present discourse. There has been much discussion as to the station of woman, as to her capacities and rights compared with those of the other sex. In the increasing light of Christianity, she is no longer considered a slave, a toy, or a divinity; but the equal as well as the companion of man. But it is asked, In what does this equality consist? For instance, is not woman the intellectual compeer of man? Has not God endowed her with as rich mental gifts? Is not her imagination as fruitful, her reason as vigorous and profound? Are there not as deep wells of poetry in her heart? Are not hers the same realms of thought? same universe open before her? attain to as great a scientific or nence? Is not the Can she not literary emi And, again, is she not, or ought not she to be, socially man's equal? Shall she not be his companion in the cabinet and the forum, as well as by the fireside and in the temple? Shall she not have the same suffrage in public affairs? Shall we deprive one half the hu |