Page:The Cottagers of Glenburnie - Hamilton (1808).djvu/204

 might do; and if we were, I fear it wad do little gude."

"Believe me," replied Mrs Mason, "set lessons, and fine harangues, make no part of my plan of preparation, which consists of nothing else than a watchful attention to the first appearances of what is in its nature evil, and whether it comes in the shape of self-will, passion, or perverseness, nipping it in the very bud; while, on the other hand, I would tenderly cherish every kindly affection, and enforce attention to the feelings of others; by which means I would render children kind-hearted, tractable, and obedient.—This is what I call the preparation of the soil: now let us see the consequences.—When a child, who has been accustomed to prompt and chearful obedience, learns to read the commandment, honour thy father and thy mother, will he not be more apt to practise the duty then inculcated, than one who had from infancy indulged in contrary habits? And what doth the