Page:The Homes of the New World- Vol. III.djvu/390

Rh Women, it is true, govern in the home and in social life, but that is frequently rather through their weaknesses than their virtues.

We spake of the signs which are indicative of the approach of a better state of things. We saw it gradually advancing in the public consciousness, and we considered also, as the forerunner of this, the Rights of Women Conventions, which have now been held annually for some years in the Northern States. Any extravagance in these merely marks a moment of transition which will cease of itself when the end is attained. Many true and profound thoughts were expressed in the last great Convention which was held last year in Massachusetts, and at which thousands of both men and women were present; excellent speeches were delivered, beautiful speeches, worthy of those dignified speakers.

Among these thoughts I in particular remember what was said on the life and culture of past ages in comparison with those of the present time.

“Occupations and objects in life do not now separate the sexes as was the case formerly. Man, except only in occasional instances, does not now live for the warlike profession; he does not now practise, above everything else, strength of body and achievements of arms; the two sexes have, in a more spiritual sphere of life, come nearer to each other in the home and in social life. Woman becomes more and more the companion and helpmate of man; his powers of soul will be crippled or elevated in proportion as he finds in her that which retards or animates them. And the circumscribing of her development must operate unfavourably upon himself.” This was said—but far better than I have said it, by Mrs. Paulina Davis, the lovely president of the Convention, that pale lady with the noble features and countenance, and the rich golden hair, whom I saw at my good female doctor's, Miss H.