With an increased attention to the _externals_ of religion, we believe that in many points the heart has been more exercised also.

Take, as an example, the practice of family prayer.

Many excellent and pious households of the former generation would not venture upon the observance, I am afraid, because they were in dread of the sneer.

There was a foolish application of the terms "Methodist" "saints," "over-righteous," where the practice was observed.
It was to take up a rather decided position in the neighbourhood; and I can testify, that less than fifty years ago a family would have been marked and talked of for a usage of which now throughout the country the _exception_ is rather the unusual circumstance.

A little anecdote from recollections in my own family will furnish a good illustration of a state of feeling on this point now happily unknown.