Page:Frances Wood Shimer 1826-1901.djvu/16

 comprehension of the wonders of nature should lead to the understanding of self in order to make the most and best of life. With the mysterious laws of science should be associated the inflexible laws of influence and example. Not cramming for examinations, but preparing for the real duties of life, was the standard of excellence. Though none were assured of attaining ideals, all were made confident of being better for the strife. If the standard sometimes demanded too much, it never erred by being satisfied with too little. The high standing of the school attracted teachers of the best talent. Mrs. Shimer had the faculty of making all connected with the school feel they were individually responsible fot its reputation and success. The loyalty of teachers and pupils has been the subject of general comment.

With no changes in management, personal interest, daily care and supervision supplied the essentials of home environment, health, habits, correct tastes, and morals. The discipline was uplifting and strengthening. Reproof was given in a manner which left the violator with a desire to reform, rather than humiliated and vindictive, but a pupil who, after trial and gentle admonition, was not in accord with the spirit of the school, and manifested no disposition to uphold the standard of required conduct, was sent home.

The manual labor department, obligatory on none, but open to those desirous of economizing in expenses, enabled scores of self-supporting young women to enjoy privileges from which they would otherwise have been financially debarred, and also brought to the school pupils of superior ability and determination. In Mrs. Shimer's estimation, one of the best credentials a pupil could furnish was proof of a desire for an education, a lack of money to meet expenses, and a willingness to help herself. Her sympathies were ever with this class, and the assistance rendered was such as would inspire self-reliance, not humiliate, weaken, or pauperize. To one applicant she wrote: “We labor ourselves, and honor the faithful laborer in every department of industry.” Many recipients of the favors of this department testify that the financial aid was secondary to the training given in the conscientious discharge of duties, and that the kindly words of encouragement and counsel,