Front Cover

A LOCOMOTIVE AND TENDER.

A brief book for the boys. God gives youwork to do in the world. He gives youhonourable work. There is much done thatis mean and dishonourable. Depend uponit, that is not His. In the beginning of your work,character grows out of it; as you go on, your charactergoes into it. Therefore the Bible declares that"God, without respect of persons, judgeth accordingto every man's work." We judge in the same way.This little book will show you how much the practiceof the virtues, the humbler virtues, has to do withmaking good work.

But keep ever in mind that these virtues, howeveruseful and important for your work in this world,have no saving power in them—they form no pleafor the favour of God; the key which unlocks thedoor of Heaven is not found among them. Like theyoung man in the Gospel, you may have the lovelinessof every natural virtue, and yet be lost.

As sinners in the sight of God, you need the atoningblood of the Redeemer; you need repentance andfaith in that blood. Make Jesus Christ, therefore,the corner-stone of your character; on that foundationbuild your character. Cultivate the graces of theGospel. Baptize the virtues with your Saviour's love.A noble Christian manhood can only be attained bythe slow and steady endeavours of a heart fixed onGod, and a hand diligent and delighting in the workHe has given it to do.