Page:The Mothers of England.djvu/107

102 many in a course of action which scarcely admits of time for the exercise of thought, beyond such mental calculations as are required in carrying on the business of the day; and since the dull routine of necessary occupation in the present times prevents in a great measure those stirring and intense emotions which fix impressions indelibly upon the mind, it becomes a more important duty on the part of mothers, to seek for their children those sources of enjoyment which the natural world affords—those sources of enjoyment of which a reverse of fortune will not be likely to deprive them; which require no strife or contention to obtain; which can be shared with the whole human race, and still enhanced by sharing; and which, while they expand and invigorate the mind, throw it open to clear and indelible impressions of the wisdom, the power, and the goodness of its Creator.

That natural joyousness of boyhood, which is the surest and the happiest medium for receiving impressions, is best cultivated in a country life. Where this can not be enjoyed altogether, it is the duty of parents to take their children into the country sometimes, and as often as they can; and if such seasons of relaxation be properly employed, the time and money bestowed upon them will not be found wasted.

It is worth some cost, and some effort, to give young people lasting and deep impressions of the beautiful and sublime in nature; nor need this be confined to nature alone; for, having imbibed such impressions, they will ever afterward be able to recognise the same principles in art. Yet how often, instead of roaming over hills, listening to waterfalls, and holding converse with the spirit of nature, are children taken in the summer to fashionable bathing-places, or other scenes of public resort, to wear their best clothes, walk out in tight shoes, and hear their mammas and aunts descant upon the elegance of the Dutchess of D—'s equipage! How often is the conversation, during their walks on the public promenades, filled up with what distinguished persons have arrived at the new hotel; what bonnet was worn by Lady B—: who danced with the young heiress; and to what places, but particularly to what shops, all the world resorts! And this is called going into the country! If such be going