trangers, and shy
even in their own families. They hide their affections under a robe
of reserve, and when they do give way to their feelings, it is only in
some very hidden inner chamber. And yet, the feelings are there, and
not the less healthy and genuine, though they are not made the subject
of exhibition to others.

12. WORTHY OF CULTIVATION.--While, therefore, grace of manner,
politeness of behavior, elegance of demeanor, and all the arts
that contribute to make life pleasant and beautiful, are worthy of
cultivation, it must not be at the expense of the more solid and
enduring qualities of honesty, sincerity, and truthfulness. The
fountain of beauty must be in the heart more than in the eye, and if
it does not tend to produce beautiful life and noble practice, it will
prove of comparatively little avail. Politeness of manner is not worth
much, unless it is accompanied by polite actions.

* * * * *

INFLUENCE OF GOOD CHARACTER.

"Unless above himself he can
Erect himself, how poor a thing is man!
--DANIEL.

"Character is moral order seen through the medium of an individual
nature--Men of character are the conscience of the society to
which they belong."
--EMERSON.

The purest treasure mortal times afford,
Is--spotless reputation; that away,
Men are but gilded loam, or painted clay,
A jewel in a ten-times-barr'd-up chest
Is--a bold Spirit in a loyal breast.
--SHAKESPEARE.

1. REPUTATION.--The two most precious things this side the grave are
our reputation and our life. But it is to be lamented that the most
contemptible whisper may deprive us of the one, and the weakest weapon
of the other. A wise man, therefore, will be more anxious to deserve
a fair name than to possess it, and this will teach him so to live, as
not to be afraid to die.

2. CHARACTER.--Character is one of the greatest motive powers in the
world. In its noblest embodiments, it exemplifies human nature in its
highest forms, for it exhibits man at his best.

3. THE HEART THAT RULES IN LIFE.--Although genius always commands
admiration, character most secures respect. The former is more the
product of brain power, the latter of heart power; and in the long run
it is the heart that rules in life. Men of genius stand to society in
the relation of its intellect as men of character of its conscience:
and while the former are admired, the latter are followed.

4. THE HIGHEST ID