2. Although perfection is not to be expected in any companion or
associate, yet there are certain defects of character which are so grave
that parents cannot afford to encourage their children in associating
with those who exhibit these in a marked degree. Untruthfulness; the
habit of gossiping about friends or acquaintances or divulging family
privacies; sullenness and moroseness under reproof; rebellious and
disrespectful expressions and conduct toward parents and teachers;
indifference to the good opinion of sensible people, as shown by
unusual and startling conduct in public places; all such things mark the
undesirable associate for young girls. But there are young girls against
whom none of these complaints could be made, who are undesirable
companions because they are wholly absorbed in love of dress and display
and desire to be admired and noticed. It is generally among this class
that we find young girls who prefer to an altogether unreasonable and
unbecoming extent, the society of young men to the society of their own
sex. It is among these that we find the young lady who does not know how
to prevent undue familiarity in the conduct of young men; who will
tolerate without disapprobation or protest, rude conduct on the part of
young men. This over-eagerness for their society, and easy toleration of
too familiar conduct and conversation, young men, who are quick
discerners in such matters, are very apt to take advantage of. Only the
best and most high-principled among them will refrain from doing so.

I have spoken of the influence that a frivolous, vain, selfish companion
will be sure to exercise over those with whom she is intimately
associated. For you, as for any young girl, I would seek to prevent such
associations. On the other hand, I should rejoice to see you form
friendships with good, high-minded, intelligent, gentle-mannered girls
of your own age, and should hope that you would mutually emulate and
stimulate each other in all worthy aims and ambitions. Such friendships,