He that raises a large family, says Franklin, does indeed, while
he lives to observe them, _stand_, as Watts says, _a broader mark
for sorrow_; but then he stands a broader mark for pleasure too.
When we launch our little fleet of barks into the ocean, bound
to different ports, we hope for each, a prosperous voyage; but
contrary winds, hidden shoals, storms and enemies, come in for a
share in the disposition of events; and though these occasion a
mixture of disappointment, yet considering the risk where we can
make no insurance, we should think ourselves happy if some return
with success.