The story of his life is almost as wonderful as a fairy tale; for there are few stranger transformations than that of a little unknown Quaker boy, in the wilds of America, into the most distinguished English painter of his day.

Let us each make the best use of our natural abilities as Benjamin West did; and, with the blessing of Providence, we shall arrive at some good end.

As for fame, it is but little matter whether we acquire it or not.
"Thank you for the story, my dear father," said Edward, when it was finished.

"Do you know that it seems as if I could see things without the help of my eyes?
While you were speaking I have seen little Bert, and the baby in its cradle, and the Indians, and the white cow, and the pigs, and kind Mr.Pennington, and all the good old Quakers, almost as plainly as if they were in this very room." "It is because your attention was not disturbed by outward objects," replied Mr.Temple.

"People, when deprived of sight, often have more vivid ideas than those who possess the perfect use of their eyes.