xxi THE TRAINING OF HIS DAUGHTERS 273 



instructions in Religious Sentiments I take to my own share. 

 I shall often advise them before they close their eyes to reflect 

 on the past transactions of the day ; nothing tending more to 

 the amending of errors than being first convinced we have 

 committed them. I desire you will sometimes remind them 

 of this ; it will I hope lead them to fervently desire the protec- 

 tion of Providence. This we think answers a better end than 

 directing children to say formal prayers. 



He goes on to speak under several heads of the moral 

 virtues and practices. 



" Modesty," he says, " is the brightest ornament of a 

 woman through every stage of her life. As I am satisfied that 

 my daughters innately possess it, let the protection of this 

 virtue be your first and chiefest care. Defend them from 

 every appearance of indelicacy with the same precaution as 

 from anything esteemed criminal." Truth is the first-fruits 

 of religion : paint her in her brightest colours, as including 

 not only sincerity but candour and frankness. " Teach them 

 to abhor detraction, the sin of fallen angels, yet too often the 

 companion of the tea-table." In regard to Temper, preserve 

 a tranquil state of mind, as advantageous for the receiving of 

 instruction. 



Riches are given for other uses than indulgence : his 

 daughters are to know that they are stewards for the poor. 

 In Dress moderation, neatness and delicacy to be attained 

 in every point, even to a fault, yet with dispatch, not devoting 

 large portions of time better used in adorning their minds. 

 Everything undertaken to be properly performed, with no 

 excuse on account of hurry. Particularly, " prevent if 

 possible my daughters from falling into the prevailing bad 

 custom " of taking snuff ; do not hire a servant that uses it. 

 Cards were originally innocent, but are " now become the 

 greatest vice of the age." Let his daughters " not be ashamed 

 of declaring in all companies that they despise them, and if 

 this is done with spirit it will carry conviction, and they wiU 

 gain admirers." 



In Behaviour, promote a free, easy, unaffected affability, 

 the sure mark of a well-bred woman. A ready expression 

 and a certain degree of confidence are necessary to defend 

 themselves against impertinence. Teach them to use the 

 same manners when by themselves and in company, to treat 

 inferiors with respect, never to interrupt, and to recollect 



