Gretry, the musical composer, thought so highly of the importance
of woman as an educator of character, that he described a good
mother as "Nature's CHEF-D'OEUVRE." And he was right: for good
mothers, far more than fathers, tend to the perpetual renovation
of mankind, creating, as they do, the moral atmosphere of the
home, which is the nutriment of man's moral being, as the physical
atmosphere is of his corporeal frame. By good temper, suavity,
and kindness, directed by intelligence, woman surrounds the
indwellers with a pervading atmosphere of cheerfulness,
contentment, and peace, suitable for the growth of the purest as
of the manliest natures.

The poorest dwelling, presided over by a virtuous, thrifty,
cheerful, and cleanly woman, may thus be the abode of comfort,
virtue, and happiness; it may be the scene of every ennobling
relation in family life; it may be endeared to a man by many
delightful associations; furnishing a sanctuary for the heart, a
refuge from the storms of life, a sweet resting-place after
labour, a consolation in misfortune, a pride in prosperity, and a
joy at all times.

The good home is thus the best of schools, not only in youth but
in age. There young and old best learn cheerfulness, patience,
self-control, and the spirit of service and of duty. Izaak
Walton, speaking of George Herbert's mother, says she governed her
family with judicious care, not rigidly nor sourly, "but with such
a sweetness and compliance with the recreations and pleasures of
youth, as did incline them to spend much of their time in her
company, which was to her great content."