Now, what advantage could the world expect from Benjamin's pictures?
This was a difficult question; and, in order to set their minds at rest, his parents determined to consult the preachers and wise men of their society.

Accordingly, they all assembled in the meeting-house, and discussed the matter from beginning to end.
Finally they came to a very wise decision.

It seemed so evident that Providence had created Benjamin to be a painter, and had given him abilities which would be thrown away in any other business, that the Quakers resolved not to oppose his inclination.

They even acknowledged that the sight of a beautiful picture might convey instruction to the mind and might benefit the heart as much as a good book or a wise discourse.

They therefore committed the youth to the direction of God, being well assured that he best knew what was his proper sphere of usefulness.