page 735 Joseph was a diligent and intelligent student and productions of his pen at this period, which are still preserved, indicate unusual thoughtfulness as well as literary taste. He early formed the determination of making his life a success in the truest sense. He even gave up the games and other amusements in which many of the young were absorbed, that he might secure his evenings for useful reading. When he reached the age of 21 he wrote a series of resolutions for "future guidance". These resolutions are indicative of his early purpose, as well as of his later character. Amoung them are the resolutions to abstain from the use of "ardent spirits", gambling, and profane language. The platform of business principle which he then adopted is worthy ofthe consideration of the young, and is givem in his own words: "Resolved, that if frugality and application to business will ensure me a competency of wealth, I will never be poor. That while I have my health, will never spend faster than I earn, and on the contrary, while I have a sufficiency, I will never deny myself the conveniences of life for the purpse of hoarding up treasure. That while I am prosperous in business, I will never refuse charity, when I think it my duty to extend it. And should I ever accumulate property, may I have the satisfaction of reflecting that it was not obtained by oppressing the poor, unfair dealings or any other dishonorable means, and may a bountiful Providence prosper my undertakings."