Page:The Diothas, or, A far look ahead (IA diothasorfarlook01macn).pdf/159

 separately. Much freedom of intercourse was still allowed, though always under the supervision of watchful matrons, who each takes her turn in what is regarded as an important public duty.

If, toward the end of this period, the buddings of a more tender feeling make themselves felt, forewarned on the subject by their mother, and so trained as not to consider such a feeling as any thing to be ashamed of, they do not hesitate to make of her a confidant. If on any account,—too near propinquity of blood, or for any similar reason,—the mother does not think the feeling ought to be encouraged, she truthfully explains to them her reasons, and advises with them as a tender friend, trying, if necessary, the effect of absence.

The girls, indeed, she aids as far as may be done; but, knowing that they are always certain of a suitable match if they choose to marry, her chief anxiety is about her son, who runs the chance of being obliged to pass an unwedded life. For him she anxiously studies the maiden toward whom his thoughts turn, and imparts the results of this study in appropriate advice as to the best means of attracting her thoughts toward him, and the most fitting manner of indicating his regard.

Flowers, and the language they speak, find extensive employment at this stage of matters. By their means, the maiden also may, with all propriety, afford her incipient admirer some slight indication of how she regards his attentions. By these most beautiful, as well as most evanescent, of symbols, she may bestow encouragement, indicate hesitation or uncertainty, or give warning that pursuit will be in vain. A coquettish encouragement to a