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PHILOSOPHY AND FUN OF ALGEBRA specially clever at mathematics, but not very well disciplined, should start some point connected with the supposition that x is something different than unity. It would be the teacher's business to remind her: "At present we are dealing with the supposition that x is unity. When we have exhausted that subject we will investigate your question. But, till then, please do not distract the attention of the class by talking about what is not the business on hand at present."

If the girl forgot, the teacher might say: "I should very much like you to try your own suggestion in private, but please do not talk about it in class till I give you leave."

If she forgot again, the teacher might say,—I think I should be inclined to say:—"If you cannot remember not to distract the class by talking about what is irrelevant to the business on hand, I shall have to request you to keep outside my class-room till you can."

In an orderly school the teachers have time to be polite, and it is their business to set the example of being so. In history, especially such history as 24