Permit me, however, to say, that while I have not intended to follow
the path, or repeat the ideas of any other writer, I have not attempted
to avoid either the one or the other. If I have presented here and
there a thought which had already come before the public from my own
pen, I can only say that I did not intend it, although I did not take
special pains to avoid it. The sum is this. I have presented my
thoughts, without so much reference to what has already been said by
myself or others, as to what I have supposed to be the necessities of
those for whom I write. I have gone straight forward, asking no
questions; and I trust I shall be dealt with in a manner equally
direct.




CONTENTS.


CHAPTER I. EXPLANATION OF TERMS.

Defining terms. The word excellence here used as nearly synonymous with
holiness. What is meant by calling the work a Guide. The term Woman--
why preferable, as a general term, to Lady. The class to whom this work
is best adapted.

CHAPTER II. FEMALE RESPONSIBILITIES.

Comparison of the responsibilities of young men and young women. Saying
of Dr. Rush. Its application to young women. Definition of the term