_general knowledge_ of the pupils in regard to those subjects on which
they will need information in their progress through life. In regard to
each of these particulars I shall speak more particularly hereafter, in
the chapters to which they respectively belong. My only object, here, is
to show, in the general arrangements of the school, how a place is to be
found for them. My practice has been, to have two periods, of short
duration, each day, appropriated to these objects. The first to the
_business of the school_, and the second to such studies or lectures as
could be most profitably attended to at such a time.

* * * * *

We come now to one of the most important subjects, which present
themselves to the teacher's attention, in settling the principles upon
which he shall govern his school. I mean the degree of influence which
the boys themselves shall have in the management of its affairs. Shall
the government of school be a _monarchy_ or a _republic_? To this
question, after much inquiry and many experiments, I answer, a
monarchy; an absolute, unlimited monarchy; the teacher possessing
exclusive power, as far as the pupils are concerned, though strictly
responsible to the committee, or to the trustees, under whom he holds
his office.

While, however, it is thus distinctly understood that the power of the
teacher is supreme, that all the power rests in him, and that he alone
is responsible for its exercise, there ought, to be a very free and
continual _delegation_ of power to the pupils. As much business as is
possible, should be committed to them. They should be interested as much
as possible in the affairs of the school, and led to take an active part
in carrying them forward; though they should, all the time, distinctly
understand, that it is only _delegated_ power which they exercise, and
that the teacher can, at any time, revoke what he has granted, and alter
or annul at pleasure, any of their decisions. By this plan, we have the
responsibility resting where it ought to rest, and yet the boys are
trained to business, and led to take an active interest in the welfare
of the school. Trust is reposed in them, which may be greater or less,
as they are able to bear. All the good effects of reposing trust and
confidence, and committing the management of important business to the
pupils will be secured, without the dangers which would result from the
entire surrender of the management o