Life and diary of Lieut. Col. J. Blackader

CHAP. XX. MISCELLANEOUS EXTRACTS. 495
January 23. This day visited by some young people
from Edinburgh. We had coarse, rambling conver-
sation, very unsuitable and unprofitable. I like mirth
and diversion, but I hate gross, unpolished talk. One
foolish or vicious person in a company, will put the
conversation more out of order, than a dozen of polite
people will put it right. The way of sin is easy and
natural to the corrupt heart; the way of virtue and
piety is harsh and severe to it Lord pardon, and
cleanse from the filth contracted in such society. It
could not be helped, but it is a mercy I am not tied
to them.
January 25. Yesterday we had a marriage. There
was much mirth and gay conversation. We had
music, and the young people dancing. I think these
amusements very allowable on such occasions, while
they are kept within the bounds of decency. My own
temper is cheerful, but not frolicsome. The diversion,
as usual, continued till late ; and this day was also
spent in mirth and jovial conversation. I stole from
the company in the intervals to recollect myself, for I
cannot long bear too light conversation, or too great
jollity. Being Saturday, we dismissed the music
early, and had family exercise.
February 1. The day spent quietly ; but we supped
abroad at night, which is the first time we have done
so, I think these four years* since we Came to Stirling.
I do not like the practice ; for it puts my family out
of order, and unfits us for private duty.
These extracts make it appear with what regularity
and habitual reverence he was accustomed to maintain
his intercourse with the Father of Spirits. Amidst
the ceremonious cares of hospitality, or the levities of
x 2