that bane of social conversation--gossip. In all social relations strive
to throw your influence for that which is faithful, sincere, kind,
generous, and just. Have a special thought and regard for those who may
labor under disadvantages? be especially kind to the shrinking and
timid, to the poor and unfortunate. Strive to be worthy of the
confidence and respect and love of your associates, and all your
relations to society will be easily and naturally and happily adjusted.




LETTER VI.

ASSOCIATES AND FRIENDS.


_My Dear Daughter:_--When I was a young girl, I well remember that my
parents judged who were and who were not desirable and proper associates
for their children, chiefly by reference to the parents and family of
our young companions. It was taken for granted that the children of
good, honorable, Christian people, who strove to train their children to
obedience and a conscientious life, would be suitable companions for us;
and this criterion in nearly every instance proved to be a true one. In
only one instance, indeed, did it fail; and I well remember the shock it
gave a whole circle of young people, when a young companion, the son of
an eminent clergyman, was sent home on account of his language and
conduct after one week's visit among friends, when it had been expected
by all that he would stay two or three months.

But in these days this criterion of family and parentage is