Sentence:  But the "parent", we will ſuppose, "cheriſhes" his child with an affectionate indulgent care, and with all the circumſpection and aſſiduity that nature requires, in his infirm helpleſs ſtate of "infancy"; aſſiſts and <WSD>cheriſhes</WSD> his "underſtanding", in its tender growth does; his utmoſt, according to his ability, to inculcate and impreſs "religious principles", ... 
Meaning of the word marked with <WSD> tags:  To treat with affection, care, and tenderness; to nurture or protect with care.