"Noscitur a Sociis."

This is a matter of much importance to young men; for the maxim "Noscitur a sociis," is nearly as applicable in respect of the literary works a man cultivates, as in respect of his personal associates.

And surely it is a great privilege which we all enjoy, in being able to select our intellectual associates and intimates; to cultivate acquaintance with the minds and manners of the greatest, the noblest, the wisest, the wittiest, the most brilliant of mankind, of many ages, in their own literary works, and the works of men who have preserved their memories. I believe, indeed, it is no exaggeration to say that the cultivation of a taste for reading, developed by judicious principles of selection and method, is one of the greatest sources of happiness which men have it in their own power to command.