ERRORS IN PRAYER. 813 past. Use it then, without delay, in- stead of persisting in laying up fresh re- grets for eternity. But too many deceive themselves, by imagining, that when they have pro- nounced their prayer the duty is accom- plished with the task, the occult medi- cine being taken, the charm is to work of itself. They consider it as a duty 'quite distinct and unconnected with any other. They forget that it is to produce in them a principle which is to mix with all.the occurrences of the day. Prayer, though not intended as a talisman, is yet proposed as a remedy. The effect of its operation is to be seen in subduing the passions, assisting to govern the temper, in bridling the tongue, in checking, not only calumny, but levity, not only impure, but vain conversation. But we have a wonderful talent at de- ceiving ourselves. We have not a fault for which we do not find an apology. Our ingenuity on this head is inex- haustible. In matters of religion men Q4
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