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Children, after the age of infancy, become ra- tional creatures. Your two elder children are old enough in many instances to be governed by  reason. Let them learn to respect your judge- ment, as well as to reverence your authority. But in exacting obedience from the youngest, it  is enough to say, 'This must be done because your father commands it, and he knows what is  best for you.'  Be particularly careful to show no preference to one child more than another, except on account of good conduct. A favourite is always unhappy. His temper is spoiled both by the foolish fondness of his parents, and the envious resentment of his little companions. Above all things, teach your children to remem- ber their Creator and Redeemer in the days of  their youth. Let religion be the foundation of  all their actions. Let them learn to feel that they are constantly in the view of an All-seeing Eye, and that the very thoughts of the heart are naked and open before Him. In inculcating these duties, never forget that example is better than precept. What you teach children, be  careful to practise yourselves. You wish to see them perform with fidelity all the religious, moral, and personal duties; set before them, then, a pattern of those duties in your own conduct.