rsation, as I did of one before.

Lord W---- began it with a complaint of the insolence and profligateness
of servants. What he said, was only answered by Sir Charles, with the
word Example, example, my good lord, repeated.

You, Sir Charles, replied my lord, may indeed insist upon the force of
example; for I cannot but observe, that all those of yours, whom I have
seen, are entitled to regard. They have the looks of men at ease, and of
men grateful for that ease: they know their duty, and need not a
reminding look. A servant of yours, Sir Charles, looks as if he would
one day make a figure as a master. How do you manage it?

Perhaps I have been peculiarly fortunate in worthy servants. There is
nothing in my management deserving the attention of this company.

I am going to begin the world anew, nephew. Hitherto, servants have been
a continual plague to me. I must know how you treat them.

I treat them, my lord, as necessary parts of my family. I have no
secrets, the keeping or disclosing of which might give them
self-importance. I endeavour to set them no bad example. I am never
angry with them but for wilful faults: if those are not habitual, I shame
them into amendment, by gentle expostulation and forgiveness. If they
are not capable of a generous shame, and the faults grow habitual, I part
with them; but with such kindness, as makes their fellow-servants blame
them, and take warning. I am fond of seeking occasions to praise them:
and even when they mistake, if it be with a good intention, they have my
approbation of the intention, and my endeavours to set them right as to
the act. Sobriety is an indispensable qualification for my service; and
for the rest, if we receive them not quite good, we make them better than
they were before. Generally speaking, a master may make a servant what
he pleases. Servants judge by example, rather than precept, and almost
always by their feelings. One thing more permit me to add; I always
insist upon my servants being kind and compassionate to one another. A
compassionate heart cannot habitually be an unjust one. And thus do I
make their good-nature contribute to my security, as well as quiet.

My lord was greatly pleased with what his nephew said.

Upon some occasion, Lady G---- reflected upon a lady for prudery, and was
going on, when Sir Charles, interrupting her, said, Take care, Lady
G----. You, ladies, take care; for I am afraid, that MODESTY, under this
name, will become