All those great revolutions by which the world has been extensively and permanently benefited have been brought about mainly by the influence of character. Genius has discovered the sciences and perfected the arts, and these have given us almost unlimited dominion over the world on which we dwell. So many and so substantial have been the benefits genius has conferred, that it may seem at first sight as if she had been the great benefactress of the world. But it is not difficult to show that the progress of art or science, unless their application be regulated by sound moral principle, is even dangerous to the world: they must be either a blessing or a curse, according as they are used or abused. From a variety of causes, the planting of Christianity in the world was the hardest task ever assigned to any of the human race. Alas! mere genius could have done little in that great work. Her vocation is to shine, and the promulgation of Christianity required suffering. The first Christians were not distinguished for their learning or eloquence, but they were endowed with power from on high to proclaim faithfully and courageously the great facts of which they had been the eye-witnesses. How manifest it is that we owe the spread of Christianity, not to _talent_, but to _character_. In the contest which resulted in the glorious Reformation, mere genius would soon have been foiled; heroic hardihood of soul, unbounded homage for truth, and unmeasured contempt for error, were necessary to burst the fetters of superstition. Talent could detect the errors of the Romish system, lash the vices of the clergy, and consign the Pope to ever-burning fires; but character was needed to accomplish the more difficult task of emancipating Europe. That character is superior to talent is evident from the maxim, now become trite, that example is better than precept. It is also more valuable than rank. You may be proud of your pedigree, and point with imperial gusto to the family crest; but remember that rank is an accident over which you have no control, and titles will be felt to be empty things when you lie pining on a bed of sickness. In the present state of the world, reputation may rank higher than character, but it should be borne in mind that the former is merely the symbol of the latter. Maintain your character, be not over-anxious about your reputation. Character is the woman—reputation is only what the woman is said to be.