Now he observes the position of the sun, and marks the meridian; then he examines the compass, and notes the polary deviation.

On all sides are sextants, quadrants, and chronometers.

He quietly issues an order, which is echoed and repeated above, and thus augments the babel on deck." "A single order," remarked Willis, "often gives rise to changes in twenty different directions." "On deck," continued the missionary, "the crew appear completely disorganized.

In the captain's cabin, you find that all this apparent confusion is the result of calculation, and is essential to the safety of the ship." "Still," said Jack, "it is difficult to see how this result is effected by disorder." "True; and, therefore, we must rely upon the skill of the captain; we behold nothing but uproar, but we know that all is governed by the most perfect discipline.

So it is with the world; society is a ship, men and their passions are the mast, sails, rigging, the anchors, quadrants, and sextants of Providence.