AURICULAR CONFESSION. the person or manner, or the hope of attracting undue attention, add nothing to the skill or worth of the adviser in one case, let us take care they cio not in- fluence our choice of the confidant' in the other. The writer has been induced to hint at. the abuse of this practice, from actual instances, in which unsound confidence, and a piety too artificial, by exciting kindness and awakening sympathy, have led to ill-assorted connections, formed an a misconception of the real state of mind of the confessing party. These remarks are by no means in- tended to apply to that Christian corn. munion at once so profitable and so de. lightful. When the intention is simple, the heart sincere, the motive pure, and the parties suitable, such intercourse can- not but be warmly recommended. The advantage is reciprocal. The doubting and distressed spirit receives the counsel and the consolation it seeks ; while the pious counsellor gains a deeper know-
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