PART X.

2300.Elecampaneis good in coughs, yet it is an astringent.2301.Cranesbillis an astringent, and excellent in cankers.2302.Whiterootis of a physical nature, and is good to remove wind pent in the stomach, or part of the bowels.2303.Sassafrasroot is good for the blood.2304. So also areSarsaparilla, Horse Radish, Burdock roots, Elder roots.2305.Hop roots, andWild Coltsfootare good as pectorals.2306.WhiteandYellow Pond Lily roots, the same.2307.Winter's Bark.—This is the product of one ofthe largesttrees on Terra del Fuego. It is good in dropsy and scurvy.2308.Wild Jentonis a strong cathartic, when boiled.VEGETABLES TO CULTIVATE.2309.Artichoke.—Sow early in the Spring, in rows three inches apart, or plant suckers.2310.Asparagus.—Sow in April, in good rich soil.2311.Beans.English Dwarfs.—Plant as early in the Spring as the ground will work.2312.Kidney Dwarfs.—Plant from end of April to about 20th August.2313.Pole or Running.—Plant beginning of May, and at intervals through the season.2314.Beets.—Sow in drills, from early in the Spring till the middle of Summer. Leave the plants 6 to 8 inches apart in the drills.2315.Borecoleis an excellent green. Sow in Fall, either broadcast or in drills, as for Winter Spinach.2316.Brussels Sproutsare cultivated for the small heads, which are attached to the stem. Sow in the middle of Spring, and treat as Winter Cabbage.2317.Brocoliproduces heads like cauliflower. Sow in seed bed about the middle of Spring. Transplant in rich ground when 8 or 12 inches high, and treat as Winter Cabbage.2318.Cabbage.—For early cabbage, sow in Autumn, in seed beds. Protect during Winter; transplant early in the Spring. For late Cabbage, sow in seed bed, middle of Spring. Transplant early in Summer.2319.Cardoonis much used for salads, soups, and stews. Treated much like Celery.2320.Cauliflower.—Sow, for early, in seed beds, in Autumn; protect from frost, in cold frames, and transplant in rich ground after frost ceases. For late, manage as Brocoli.2321.Carrotsshould be sown early in the Spring, in deep-dug and well-manured ground, in drills twelve or eighteen inches apart.2322.Celeryshould be sown early in the Spring, in light rich moist soil. Transplant in trenches, highly manured, when about six inches high. Blanch by earthing up as they advance in growth.2323.Chervil.—A small salad. Sow early in the Spring, and after heat of Summer.2324.Cress.—Used as a salad. Sow very thick, in shallow drills, at intervals through the season.2325.Corn Salad.—Used as a salad during the Winter and Spring. Sow thick, in drills, about 1st of September, and cover with straw on the approach of cold.2326.Cucumbersshould be planted first week in May, in hills four feet apart; prepare the ground by incorporating a shovelful of rotten dung in each hill.2327.Endive.—Sow last of Spring to middle of Summer, in shallow drills.2328.Egg-Plant.—Sow in hot-beds early in the Spring; transplant in rich warm ground late in the Spring, about 30 inches apart. Egg-plant seed will not vegetate freely without a substantial heat.2329.Lettuceshould be sown in seed bed, in the middle of September; protect the plants through the Winter, and early in the Spring transplant in rich ground; or sow in hot-beds, in March, and at intervals throughout the season.2330.Melon.—Plant in hills, in light sandy earth, about the first week in May.2331.Mushroom Spawnshould be planted in hot-beds of dung, covered with earth.2332.Mustard.—Sown like Cress, and used for a salad.2333.Nasturtium.—Sow in May. The flowers and young leaves are used as a salad; the seed-pods, with foot-stalk, are gathered whilst green, and pickled as a substitute for capers.2334.Okra, orGombo, is one of the best of vegetables. Plant in May. The seed should be sown thick, as it is liable to rot in the ground. Very rich ground is required.2335.Onionsshould be sown in drills, early in the Spring, in rich ground, thin, to stand two or three inches apart.2336.Parsleyshould be sown early in the Spring. Soak in warm water before sowing.2337.Parsnip.—Sow in drills 18 inches apart, in good and deep-dug ground, early in the Spring.2338.Peas.—The best soil for Peas is a light loam. The early sorts require rich ground. Sow in drills as early in the Spring as the ground will work.2339.Pepper.—Sow late in Spring, in drills, on a warmborder; or in a frame or hot-bed, in March; set out plants eighteen inches apart.2340.Pumpkin.—The Mammoth Pumpkin has been grown to the enormous weight of 225 pounds. Plant early in May, in rich soil, in hills, eight to ten feet apart each way.2341.Radish.—The early kinds should be sown as soon as the ground can be worked, in a sheltered situation.2342.Rhubarbshould be sown in Autumn or early in the Spring; when in the latter, transplant in the ensuing Spring to desired situation. The stems are used for tarts, and are fit for use before green fruit can be obtained, being a very desirable substitute.2343.Salsify, orVegetable Oyster, should be sown during April. The roots boiled, made into cakes with paste, and fried like oysters, much resembles them.2344.Spinachshould be sown as soon as the ground can be worked. The soil cannot be too rich for Spinach.2345.Squash.—Cultivate same as Cucumber.2346.Tomato.—Sow in hills three feet apart, on a warm border, early in the Spring. As the plants advance in growth, give them support.2347.Turnip.—For summer use, sow early in the Spring. For main crop, sow close of Summer. The Ruta Baga requires more time to mature, and should be sown at midsummer.2348.Aromatic and Sweet Herbs.—Anise, Brazil, (sweet), Caraway, Coriander, *Fennel, *Lavender, Marygold, Pot, Marjorum, (sweet), *Sage, Summer Savory, *Winter Savory, *Thyme, *Mint, *Rosemary, Dill.2349. Those marked with a * are perennial, and when once obtained, may be preserved for years. The others are annual.FRUIT TREES AND FRUIT.2350.Fruits, in a ripe and perfect state, are beneficial to health, if not eaten to excess.2351.Stuntedtrees never become vigorous, nor when too long crowded in nurseries.2352. InGrafting, 25 well placed are better than 100 grafts placed at random, and ten placed injudiciously will change the whole top of a tree in a few years, when 200 grafts may be so scattered as not materially to change the top of the tree or its fruit. Graft only on such as are sound and vigorous.2353.Hagglingoff limbs and branches and leaving stumps on the trees, which rot off and let the water into the trunk, soon destroys the tree; therefore, always cut or saw off smooth, when the wound will heal and the bark grow over.2354.Sound, vigorous trees, and no other, should be set out, as they take no more trouble or space than the worthless ones.2355.Buddingshould only be done with fresh buds, on very small stocks of vigorous growth. Begin after sap starts, until 1st June. Later will do. Make incision like a T; raise the corners and insert the bud with as little of the wood as possible, and bandage, not too tight, for three weeks.2356.Scionsmay be cut in February or March, before or at the time the buds begin to swell; or take grafts size of a pipe-stem, from bearing branches, not from side shoots nor the rank growth of the top. Put in earth one-third their length, keep from frost, and occasionally sprinkle, to prevent shriveling, but not so wet as to sprout them.2357.Composition.—Resin 8 oz., beeswax, 3 oz.; melt up with lard, and work it like shoemaker's wax; for wounds made in pruning or grafting.2358.Splitthe stock, drive in a wedge six or eight inches long,open the split so as to admit the graft freely; sharpen end of graft and insert, matching the wood of graft and wood of the stock; remove the wedge carefully, and cover smooth over with composition, tight, to exclude air, and the sap will force its way to the graft.2359.Seed.—Select from healthy trees, sound, ripe and fair fruit, and place in sand, in a cellar or other cool, damp place, until time to plant. If kept too dry, they seldom vegetate. Let the soil be good, well worked, not too wet; cover up and press the ground moderately over. Plant in Fall, before the ground is frozen, or in Spring, soon as the ground can be worked.2360.Soil.—Low, wet or marshy ground is not suitable. Soil appropriate for crops of grain, is also adapted to the cultivation of fruit trees, shrubs or vines. Occasional digging, mellowing the ground, keeping down underbrush and weeds, and manuring, are beneficial.2361.Cleanlinessis essential. Destroy all caterpillars, noxious worms and insects, and prune off all affected parts. Scrape off all rough, ragged bark and moss, and wash well with soap-suds or cover with a coat of limewash. Remove all suckers from the roots, side branches and excrescences.2362.Grubs, which occasion disease, may be prevented by coating the roots and lower trunk, about July 1, with tar, train oil, or whitewash, and sprinkling a little lime, ashes, or soap-suds, on the ground around the tree. When seriously affected, dig the earth from the roots near the surface, and search thoroughly in the bark for the grub; cleanse off the gum, &c., wash with ley or soap-suds, or rub dry ashes over them, and close up with good fresh earth. Doing this as occasion requires, will ensure health and vigor.2363.Slugs and Snailsare great enemies to every kind of garden-plant, whether flower or vegetable; they wander in the night to feed, and return at daylight to their haunts; the shortest and surest direction is, "Rise early, catch them, and kill them."—(Seep. 281.)2364.Another way.—Lay cabbage leaves about the ground, especially on the beds which they frequent. Every morning examine these leaves, and you will find a great many taking refuge beneath.2365.Caterpillars and Aphides.—A garden syringe or engine, with a cap on the pipe full of very minute holes, will wash away these disagreeable visitors very quickly. You must bring the pipe close to the plant, and pump hard, so as to have considerable force on, and the plant, however badly infested, will soon be cleared without receiving any injury.—(Seep. 277.)2366.Rake the Earth.—Every time that you use the syringe or garden-engine, you must immediately rake the earth under the trees, and kill the insects you have dislodged, or many will recover and climb up the stems of the plants.2367.Grubs on Orchard Trees.—Make a bonfire with dry sticks and weeds on the windward side of the orchard, so that the smoke may blow among the trees; you will destroy thousands; for the grubs have such an objection to smoke, that very little of it makes them roll themselves up and fall off; they must be swept up afterward.2368.Waspsdestroy a good deal of fruit, but every pair of wasps killed in spring saves the trouble and annoyance of a swarm in autumn.2369.Butterflies and Moths, however pretty, are the worst enemies one can have in a garden; a single insect of this kind may deposit eggs enough to overrun a tree with caterpillars, therefore they should be destroyed at any cost of trouble.2370. The only moth that you must spare, is the common black and red one; the grubs of this feed exclusively on grounsel, and are therefore a valuable ally of the gardener.2371.Earwigsare very destructive insects; their favorite food is the petals of roses, pinks, dahlias, and other flowers.2372.To kill Earwigs.—They may be caught by drivingstakes into the ground, and placing on each an inverted flower-pot; the earwigs will climb up and take refuge under it, when they may be taken out and killed.—(Seep. 279.)2373. Or very deep holes may be made in the ground with a crowbar, into these they will fall, and may be destroyed by boiling water.2374.Toadsare among the best friends the gardener has; for they live almost exclusively on the most destructive kinds of vermin.2375.The Rose Slug.—A new and sure mode to destroy these insects, either when as a fly laying its eggs, or as a slug, is the following:—2376.Whale Oil Soap, dissolved at the rate of two pounds to fifteen gallons of water.2377.Mode of Preparation.—Take whatever quantity of soap you wish to prepare, and dissolve it in boiling water, about one quart to a pound; in this way strain it through a fine wire or hair sieve, which takes out the dirt, prevents its stopping the valves of the engine, or the nose of the syringe; then add cold water to make it the proper strength.2378.How to use it.—Apply it to the rose-bush with a hand engine or syringe, with as much force as practicable, and be sure that every part of the leaves is well saturated with the liquid. What falls to the ground in application, will do good in destroying the worms and enriching the soil, and from its trifling cost, it can be used with profusion.2379.The cost.—A hogshead of 136 gallons costs forty-five cents—not quite four mills per gallon. Early in the morning, or in the evening, is the proper time to apply it to the plants.2380.Mildewon the Gooseberry, Peach, Grape-vine, &c., is checked and entirely destroyed by a weak dressing of the solution.2381.The Canker Worm.—Laying soap oil on the trunk and branches of the tree, at the consistency of thick paint, destroys the brown, scaly insect on the bark, and gives the tree a smooth, glossy, and healthy appearance.2382.To free Plants from Leaf-Lice.—Mix one ounce of flowers of sulphur with one bushel of sawdust; scatter this over the plants infected with these insects, and they will soon be freed, though a second application may possibly be necessary.2383.Keeping Fruits.—The three best of eight different modes fairly tried, are, 1, covering in pure dry sand; 2, in dry fern; 3, in a deal box buried in the earth. In all cases to be kept cool.2384.Sunfloweryields 140 bushels per acre, and each bushel one gallon of good oil. Its leaves furnish provender; its seeds, food for poultry and hogs. It thrives on poor soils.2385.To prepare a cheap Hortus Siccus.—All the small plants should be expanded under water, in a plate, on a piece of writing-paper. In this state they will assume their natural form and position. Then withdraw the paper with the plant gently from the water, and place them between sheets of blotting-paper, and press them with a book or flat board. When dry, it may be placed on writing-paper.PART X.PERSONAL MATTERS.Dress of Ladies—Dress of Gentlemen—Manners—Etiquette of Society—Dinner Parties—Courtship—Marriage—The Ceremony—After Marriage—Social Intercourse—"Our House," etc.2386.Importance of Dress.—Attention to personal appearance is a human duty as well as a required observance in civilized society.2387. The following rules will be found useful in guiding the judgment and taste of those who desire to dress well.DRESS OF LADIES.2388. A young lady should always be neatly attired. A fresh-looking and well-fitting dress is more important than rich materials or showy ornaments.2389. Never furbish up old finery, if you wish to appear really the lady. A clean, soft, white muslin gown is far more genteel than a tarnished brocade.2390.Colors and Complexions.—The great art, as regards colors of dress, is to enhance the tints of the complexion, care being taken to let the flesh appear of a healthy natural hue, and to avoid wearing those colors which heighten or destroy either the red, yellow, or white, in the natural flesh tints.2391.Primitive Colors.—Out of three primitive colors, red, blue, and yellow, there are endless mixtures and variations, and some of these can skillfully be adapted to any complexion; but to do so, these two rules must be observed: the rule of Harmony and of judicious Contrast.2392.Decided Colors, or colors without mixture, are very unbecoming. A lady allbluein dress would be more disagreeable than a realbleu.2393.Red, and its dark variations, may be worn by dark persons, and will harmonize with their complexion.2394.Crimson andbrilliantredare vulgar and unsuitable, but purple and dark maroon, worn by brunettes, and persons of a dark complexion, are both becoming and genteel, either in evening or winter dresses.2395.Blueis a becoming color to fair faces and blue eyes. It also looks well worn by brunettes, when the wearer is youthful.2396.Light blueis a beautiful color for spring dresses; dark blues look better in the autumn and winter.2397.Red Colors.—Light red and pink, approaching flesh tints, are becoming both to dark and to fair; to the former especially, because they, by contrast, set off the complexion.2398. Fair persons venturing upon such dresses or trimmings by daylight, should have clear and excellent complexions, or the brightness of the color, from a similarity of tint, will make their faces appear dirty and clouded.2399.Chocolate colors, and warm browns partaking of red, may be worn by either fair or dark persons, provided they be not too pale, in which case the contrast will render the face chalky or death-like.2400.Yellowin dress, as well as orange, is also more becoming to dark than to fair persons.2401.Primroseis becoming to fair persons. The trimmings of this color, the flowers and ribbons, should be violet, such contrast being agreeable to art and nature.2402.Maizecolor is becoming to all complexions, especially to those which are brilliant.2403.Grainis more becoming to fair than to dark persons, because in the fair complexion, brilliancy and depth of color are more frequently found.2404.Pale greenshould never be worn by the dark, it rendering them sickly and cadaverous in look. To those of a fair and brilliant complexion it is most becoming.2405.Trimmings.—For trimmings and flowers ladies cannot do better than to study nature, there being in the leaves of flowers every imaginable tint of green, whilst the flowers themselves are various in their hue.2406.Artificialsshould be few, and perfectly arranged. A load of flowers is a burden, not a beauty.2407. The most elegant dresses are black or white.2408. A vulgar girl wears bright and glaring colors, fantastically made, a large flaring, red, yellow, or sky-blue hat, covered with a rainbow of ribbons, and all the rings and trinkets she can load upon her.2409. In any assemblage, the most plainly-dressed woman is sure to be the most lady-like and attractive. Neatness is better than richness, and plainness better than display.2410. It is a general rule, applicable to both sexes, that persons are the best dressed when you cannot remember how they were dressed. Avoid every thing out of the way, uncommon, or grotesque.2411. Single ladies dress less in fashionable society than married ones; and all more plainly and substantially for walking or traveling, than on other occasions.2412. Common modesty should prevent indecent exposure of the shoulders and bosom.2413.Tight Lacing.—No woman who laces tight can have good shoulders, a straight spine, good lungs, sweet breath, or is fit to be a wife and mother.2414. Can it be a pleasant sight to behold a woman cut in two in the middle, as it were, like a wasp? On the contrary, it is as shocking to the eye as it is painful to the imagination.2415. Every thing that confines and lays nature under a restraint is an instance of bad taste. This is as true in regard to the ornaments of the body as to the embellishments of the mind.2416. Life, health, reason, and convenience, ought to be taken first into consideration.2417. Gracefulness cannot subsist without ease; delicacy is not debility; nor must a woman be sick in order to please.2418. The distinction of the sexes, notwithstanding that it is so prominent and marked, still requires a distinctive dress. This has generally, by all nations, civilized or savage, been conceded.2419. This difference has been so permanent, that any attempt to lessen it—and there have been many—has failed, and must fail whenever attempted.2420.Robes.—The outer garment of woman is, and has been for centuries, the robe or gown, and upon the proper choice, make, and disposition of this, and its concomitants, depends the elegance or inelegance of the wearer.2421. The gown should fall gracefully from the hips, as free as possible from the odious "bustle" or "hoop." It should fall in long full folds, and expand gradually to the feet, which it should touch, but not entirely cover.2422.Flouncesshould only be worn by those of a tall, graceful figure, and then they should be made of a light material, gauze, muslin, or of stuff akin to it, so that they fall in gracefully with the outline of the dress. When made of any rich stuff, which stands out stiffly, they break the graceful flow of the dress.2423. Flounces, by marking the height, at regular intervals, take away from it, and make a short figure look shorter. For this reason, short persons should not wear stripes running in parallel rings round the dress. Perpendicular stripes upon a dress make the wearer look taller, like the flutes in a composite.2424. The rules which we have given for the color of the dress, must of course apply to the covering for the head; the colors must, to look well, contrast or harmonize with the complexion.2425. Texture, material, and pattern, should suit, not only the taste, but also the purse. There are few greater evils in this country than an inordinate passion for dress.2426. No one looks so well dressed as those who are dressed properly, neatly, and whose attire sets them at their ease. A lady who is so over-dressed as to be constantly afraid of spoiling her gown, can never be graceful, since she cannot be at her ease.2427.The hairshould always be neatly brushed and arranged.2428.Ringletsmake round faces look longer, and more oval; plain bands make the face which is too long, lose part of that length. This should be studied. It is manifestly absurd to render oneself hideous merely to follow the fashion.2429. The dress of the foot is important both for beauty and health.2430. Thus, a thin shoe in winter would be vulgar, because useless and dangerous to the wearer's health, and a thick boot in summer would begaucheand vulgar.2431.Boots and shoesshould be well, nay, scientifically made. The foot should be fitted well, but not compressed.2432. Modern boots and shoes are therefore often made narrow, just where they should be wide; and the foot, instead of being beautiful in shape, and graceful in its action, becomes long, narrow, distorted, and ungraceful when used.2433.Glovesmust be fresh and well-fitting to make the dress perfect.2434. Ladies' dresses should be chosen so as to produce an agreeable harmony.2435. Never put on a dark-colored bonnet with a light spring costume.2436. Avoid uniting colors which will suggest an epigram; such as a straw-colored dress with a green bonnet.2437. The arrangement of the hair is most important.2438. Bands are becoming to faces of a Grecian caste.2439. Ringlets better suit lively and expressive heads.2440. Whatever be your style of face, avoid an excess of lace, and let flowers be few and choice.2441. In a married woman, a richer style of ornament is admissible.2442. Costly elegance for the married—for the young girl, a style of modest simplicity.2443. The most elegant dress loses its character if it is not worn with grace.2444. Young girls have often an air of constraint, and their dress seems to partake of their want of ease.2445. In speaking of her toilet, a woman should not convey the idea that her whole skill consists in adjusting tastefully some trifling ornaments.2446. A simple style of dress is an indication of modesty.2447.Neatness.—The hands should receive special attention. They are the outward signs of general cleanliness. The same may be said of the face, the neck, the ears, and the teeth.2448. The cleanliness of the system generally, and of bodily apparel, pertains to Health, and will be treated of under this head.2449.The Handkerchief.—There is considerable art in using this accessory of dress and comfort.2450. Avoid extreme patterns, styles, and colors.2451. Never be without a handkerchief.2452. Hold it freely in the hand, and do not roll it into a ball. Hold it by the centre, and let the corners form a fan-like expansion.2453. Avoid using it too much. With some persons the habit becomes troublesome and unpleasant.2454.A word to Young Ladies.—If you have blue eyes, you need not languish.2455. If black eyes, you need not stare.2456. If you have pretty feet, there is no occasion to wear short petticoats.2457. If you are doubtful as to that point, there can be no harm in letting them be long.2458. If you have good teeth, do not laugh for the purpose of showing them.2459. If you have bad ones, do not laugh less than the occasion may justify.2460. If you have pretty hands and arms, there can be no objection to your playing on the harp, if you play well.2461. If they are disposed to be clumsy, work tapestry.2462. If you have a bad voice, speak in a rather low tone.2463. If you have the finest voice in the world, never speak in a high tone.2464. If you dance well, dance but seldom.2465. If you dance ill, never dance at all.2466. If you sing well, make no previous excuses.2467. If you sing indifferently, hesitate not a moment whenyou are asked, for few people are judges of singing, but every one is sensible of a desire to please.2468. If you would preserve beauty, rise early.2469. If you would preserve esteem, be gentle.2470. If you would obtain power, be condescending.2471. If you would live happy, endeavor to promote the happiness of others.DRESS OF A GENTLEMAN.2472. Since dress is, with the world, the outward sign of both character and condition: and since it costs no more to dress well than ill, and is not very troublesome, every one should endeavor to do the best that his circumstances will allow.2473.The Shirt.—A clean, unrumpled shirt, coarse or fine, cotton or linen, as you can afford, is of the first importance. If the choice is between a fine shirt or a fine coat, have the shirt by all means.2474.Fine Linen, and a good hat, gloves and boots are evidences of the highest taste in dress.2475. A gentleman walking should always wear gloves, this being one of the characteristics of good breeding.2476. Upon public and State occasions, officers should appear in uniform.2478. A black coat and trowsers are indispensable for a visit of ceremony, an entertainment, or a ball.2479. The white or black waistcoat is equally proper in these cases.2480. Yellow or white gloves are worn in the ball-room.2481. A neat exterior, equally free from extravagance and poverty, almost always proclaims a right-minded man.2482. To dress appropriately, and with good taste, is to respect yourself and others.2483.Neatness.—A well-bred man may be ever so reduced in his wardrobe—his clothes may be coarse and threadbare, but he seldom wears a coarse, and never a dirty shirt.2484.The Boots.—Boots are now men's common wear on all occasions, varying in elegance for different purposes. They should always be clean, and invariably well blackened and polished.2485.The Hat.—Make a point of buying a good hat. One proper fur hat, worth four or five dollars, when a year old, looks more respectable than a silk one bought yesterday.2486. Of the trowsers little need be said. When full at the bottom they serve to hide a large foot. If colored trowsers are worn, those patterns should be chosen which conform to the rules of taste. Bars running across the legs should be avoided, and also all large staring patterns.2487.The Vestallows of some fancy, but beware of being too fanciful. A black satin is proper for any person or any occasion. Nothing is more elegant than pure white. Some quiet colors may be worn for variety, but beware of every thing staring or glaring, in materials or trimmings.2488. Avoid all singularity in dress; never wear gaudy waistcoats, out-of-the-way hats, or coats of the extreme of "sporting fashion:" such things are positively odious.2489. We may add a few general maxims, applied to both sexes.2490. "All affectation in dress," says Chesterfield, "implies a flaw in the understanding." One should therefore avoid being singular, or eccentric.2491. Never dress against any one. Choose those garments which suit you, and look well upon you, perfectly irrespective of the fact that a lady or gentleman in the same village or street may excel you.2492. When dressed for company, strive to appear as easy and natural as if you were in undress.2493. Dress according to your age. It is both painful and ridiculous to see an old lady dressed as a belle of four-and-twenty; or an old fellow, old enough for a grandfather, affecting the costume and the manners of abeau.2494. Young men should bewelldressed. Not foppishly, but neatly and well. An untidy person at five-and-twenty, degenerates, very frequently, into a sloven and a boor at fifty.2495. Be not too negligent, nor too studied, in your attire.2496. Let your behavior and conversation suit the clothes you wear, so that those who know you may feel that, after all, dress and external appearance is the least portion of alady or gentleman.MANNERS.2497. It is sometimes objected to books upon etiquette, that they cause those who consult them to act with mechanical restraint, and to show in society that they are governed by arbitrary rules, rather than by an intuitive perception of what is graceful and polite.2498. This objection is unsound, because it supposes that people who study the theory of etiquette, do not also exercise their powers of observation in society, and obtain, by their intercourse with others, that freedom and ease of deportment, which society alone can impart.2499. Books upon etiquette are useful, inasmuch as that they expound the laws of polite society. Experience alone,however, can give effect to the precisemannerin which those laws are required to be observed.2500. Whatever objections may be raised to the teachings of works upon etiquette, there can be no sound argument against a series of simple and brief hints, which shall operate as precautions against mistakes in personal conduct.2501. Avoid intermeddling with the affairs of others. This is a most common fault.2502. A number of people seldom meet but they begin discussing the affairs of some one who is absent. This is not only uncharitable but positively unjust. It is equivalent to trying acause in the absence of the person implicated.2503. Even in the criminal code, a prisoner is presumed to be innocent until he is found guilty. Society, however, is less just, and passes judgment without hearing the defense.2504. Depend upon it, as a certain rule,that the people who unite with you in discussing the affairs of others, will proceed to scandalize you the moment that you depart.2505. Be consistent in the avowal of principles. Do not deny to-day, that which you asserted yesterday. You may fancy that you gain favor by subserviency; but so far from gaining favor, you lose respect.2506. Avoid falsehood. There can be found no higher virtue than that of truth.2507. Be honest. Not only because "honesty is the best policy," but because it is a duty to God and to man.2508. Avoid idleness—it is the parent of many evils. Can you pray, "Give us this day our daily bread," and not hear the reply, "Do thou this day thy daily duty?"2509. Avoid telling idle tales, which is like firing arrows in the dark; you know not into whose heart they may fall.2510. Avoid talking about yourself; praising your own works; and proclaiming your own deeds. If they are good, they will proclaim themselves; if bad, the less you say of them the better.2511. Be kind in little things.2512. The true generosity of the heart is more displayed by deeds of minor kindness, than by acts which may partake of ostentation.2513. Reason is given for man's guidance. Passion is the tempest by which reason is overthrown. Under the effects of passion, man's mind becomes disordered, his face disfigured, his body deformed.2514. A moment's passion has frequently cut off a life's friendship, destroyed a life's hope, imbittered a life's peace, and brought unending sorrow and disgrace.2515. Avoid pride. If you are handsome, God made you so; if you are learned, some one instructed you; if you are rich, God gave you what you own.2516. The best men throughout all history, have been the most humble.2517. Affectation is a form of pride. It is, in fact, pride made ridiculous and contemptible. Affectation is usually the fault of weak people.2518. Avoid swearing. An oath is but the wrath of a perturbed spirit.2519. It ismean. A man of high moral standing would rather treat an offense with contempt, than show his indignation by an oath.2520. It isvulgar: altogether too low for a decent man.2521. It iscowardly: implying a fearof either notbeing believed or obeyed.2522. It isungentlemanly. A gentleman, according to Webster, is agenteel man—well-bred, refined.2523. It isindecent: offensive to delicacy, and extremely unfit for human ears.2524. It isfoolish. "Want of decency is want of sense."2525. It isabusive—to the mind which conceives the oath, to the tongue which utters it, and to the person at whom it is aimed.2526. It isvenomous, showing a man's heart to be as a nest of vipers; and every time he swears, one of them starts out from his head.2527. It iscontemptible—forfeiting the respect of all the wise and good.2528. It iswicked: violating the Divine law, and provoking the displeasure of Him who will not hold him guiltless who takes his name in vain.2529. Be a gentleman. Swear not at all.2530. Moderation, decorum, and neatness, distinguish the gentleman; he is at all times affable, diffident, and studious to please. Intelligent and polite, his behavior is pleasant and graceful.2531. Appear only to be a gentleman, and its shadow will bring upon you contempt; be a gentleman, and its honors will remain even after you are dead.2532. The foregoing remarks may be said to apply to the moral conduct, rather than to the details of personal manners.2533. Great principles, however, suggest minor ones; and hence from the principles laid down, many hints upon personal behavior may be gathered.2534. Be hearty in your salutations.2535. Be true in your professions.2536. Discreet and sincere in your friendships.2537. Like to listen rather than to talk.2538. Behave, even in the presence of your relations, as though you felt respect to be due to them.2539. In society never forget that you are but one of many.2540. Visiting a friend, conform to the rules of his home.2541. Lean not upon his tables, nor rub your feet against his chairs.2542. Pry not into letters that are not your own.2543. Pay unmistakable respect to ladies everywhere.2544. Beware of foppery and of silly flirtation.2545. In public places, be not pertinacious of your rights.2546. Find pleasure in making concessions.2547. Speak distinctly.2548. Look at the person to whom you speak.2549. When you have spoken, give him an opportunity to reply.2550. Avoid drunkenness as you would a curse; and modify all appetites, especially those that are acquired.2551. Dress well, but not superfluously.2552. Be neither like a sloven, nor like a stuffed model.2553. Keep away all uncleanly appearances from the person. Let the nails, the teeth, and in fact, the whole systemreceivesalutaryrather thanstudiedcare. But let these things receive attention at the toilet—not elsewhere.2554. Avoid displaying excess of jewelry. Nothing looks more effeminate upon a man.2555. Every one of these suggestions may be regarded as the centre of many others, which the earnest mind can not fail to discover.2556. Avoid envy, for it can not benefit you, nor can it injure those against whom it is cherished.2557. Avoid disputation, for the mere sake of argument.2558. Be sociable; avoid reserve in society.2559. Remember that the social elements, like the air we breathe, are purified by motion. Thought illumines thought, and smiles win smiles.2560. Be punctual. One minute too late has lost many a golden opportunity. Besides which, the want of punctuality is an affront offered to the person to whom your presence is due.2561. Be polite. Politeness is the poetry of conduct—and like poetry it has many qualities.2562. Let not your politeness be too florid, but of that gentle kind which indicates refined nature.2563. It is true, indeed, that we should not dissemble and flatter in company; but a man may be very agreeable, strictly consistent with truth and sincerity, by a prudent silence where he can not concur, and a pleasing assent where he can.2564. Now and then you meet with a person so exactly formed to please, that he will gain upon every one that hears or beholds him; this disposition is not merely the gift of nature, but frequently the effect of much knowledge of the world, and a command over the passions.2565.Ceremonies.—All ceremonies are in themselves very silly things; but, yet a man of the world should know them. They are the outworks of manners and decency, which would be too often broken in upon, if it were not for that defense which keeps the enemy at a proper distance.2566.Thereforealways treat fools and coxcombs with great ceremony, true good-breeding not being a sufficient barrier against them.2567.Agreeableness.—The true art of being agreeable is to appear well-pleased with all the company, and rather to seem well entertained with them than to bring entertainment to them.2568. Eschew personalities and personal adventures; nothing is more tedious than one who is addicted to talk prodigiously about himself.2569. Never, in a mixed company, speak disrespectfully of woman.2570. Treat your parents with the greatest possible respect. Restrain yourself even from smiling at their foibles, or their weaknesses. Obey them, even should you yourself be of mature age.2571. To restrain your desire for indulgences is not only well bred, but it is heroic; much good results from it. Watch well the little sins, and you will escape those which are more gross. This applies, not only to morals, but to the minor morals—the manners.2572. A badly-tempered man, and he who has no command over his passions, will rarely become a polished gentleman.2573. If you have children, be careful to behave well before them. Remember that the child naturally and easily imitates the actions of his parent, be they good or evil.2574. Any thing which is essentially out of place is vulgar.Thus, an over familiarity with servants is vulgar, because it is out of place, and can only lead to a bad result.RULES OF ETIQUETTE.2575. In walking with a gentleman, the step of the lady must be lengthened, and his shortened, to prevent the hobbling appearance of not keeping step.2576. Of course, the conversation of a stranger, beyond asking a necessary question, must be considered as a gross insult, and repelled with proper spirit.2577. Having dressed yourself, pay no further attention to your clothes. Few things look worse than a continual fussing with your attire.2578. Never scratch your head, pick your teeth, clean your nails, or worse than all, pick your nose in company; all these things are disgusting. Spit as little as possible, and never upon the floor.2579. Do not lounge on sofas, nor tip back your chair, nor elevate your feet.2580. If you are going into the company of ladies, beware of onions, spirits, and tobacco.2581. If you can sing or play, do so at once when requested, without requiring to be pressed, or make a fuss.2582. On the other hand, let your performance be brief, or, if ever so good, it will be tiresome.2583. When a lady sits down to the pianoforte, some gentleman should attend her, arrange the music-stool, and turn over the leaves.2584. Do not make yourself too conspicuous in those attentions. The lady, not the gentleman, is the performer.2585. Never tattle, nor repeat in one society any scandal or personal matter you hear in another.2586. Give your own opinion of people, if you please, but never repeat that of others.2587. Meeting an acquaintance among strangers in the street or a coffee-house, never address him by name. It is vulgar and annoying.2588. It is not considered fashionable to introduce two persons who accidentally meet in your parlor, and who are paying you a morning visit.2589. Never introduce in the street, unless the third person joins and walks with you. You may make an exception to this rule when the parties are mutually desirous of knowing one another.2590. When a gentleman is presented to a lady, if she is in her own house and desires to welcome him, she may shake hands with him; but on any other occasion, unless the gentleman is venerable, or the bosom friend of the husband or father, this practice is reprehensible.2591. A lady is at liberty either to take another lady or a gentleman to pay a morning visit to a friend, without asking permission; but she should never allow a gentleman the same liberty.2592. A lady who is invited to an evening assembly may always request a gentleman who has not been invited by the lady of the house, to accompany her.2593. If you are walking with one lady, do not stop to converse with others who are unknown to her; as she must necessarily feel unpleasant; but, if with a gentleman, you may do as you please.2594.Visits and Presentations.—Friendship calls should be made in the forenoon, and require neatness, without costliness of dress.2595. Calls to give invitations to dinner parties, or balls, should be very short, and should be paid in the afternoon.2596. Visits of condolence require a grave style of dress.2597. A formal visit should never be made before noon. If a second visitor is announced, it will be proper for you to retire, unless you are very intimate, both with the host and the visitor announced; unless, indeed, the host expresses a wish for you to remain.2598. Visits after balls or parties should be made within a month.2599. In the latter, it is customary to enclose your card in an envelope, bearing the address outside. This may be sent by post, if you reside at a distance. But, in the neighborhood, it is polite to send your servant, or to call. In the latter case, a corner should be turned down.

2300.Elecampaneis good in coughs, yet it is an astringent.2301.Cranesbillis an astringent, and excellent in cankers.2302.Whiterootis of a physical nature, and is good to remove wind pent in the stomach, or part of the bowels.2303.Sassafrasroot is good for the blood.2304. So also areSarsaparilla, Horse Radish, Burdock roots, Elder roots.2305.Hop roots, andWild Coltsfootare good as pectorals.2306.WhiteandYellow Pond Lily roots, the same.2307.Winter's Bark.—This is the product of one ofthe largesttrees on Terra del Fuego. It is good in dropsy and scurvy.2308.Wild Jentonis a strong cathartic, when boiled.VEGETABLES TO CULTIVATE.2309.Artichoke.—Sow early in the Spring, in rows three inches apart, or plant suckers.2310.Asparagus.—Sow in April, in good rich soil.2311.Beans.English Dwarfs.—Plant as early in the Spring as the ground will work.2312.Kidney Dwarfs.—Plant from end of April to about 20th August.2313.Pole or Running.—Plant beginning of May, and at intervals through the season.2314.Beets.—Sow in drills, from early in the Spring till the middle of Summer. Leave the plants 6 to 8 inches apart in the drills.2315.Borecoleis an excellent green. Sow in Fall, either broadcast or in drills, as for Winter Spinach.2316.Brussels Sproutsare cultivated for the small heads, which are attached to the stem. Sow in the middle of Spring, and treat as Winter Cabbage.2317.Brocoliproduces heads like cauliflower. Sow in seed bed about the middle of Spring. Transplant in rich ground when 8 or 12 inches high, and treat as Winter Cabbage.2318.Cabbage.—For early cabbage, sow in Autumn, in seed beds. Protect during Winter; transplant early in the Spring. For late Cabbage, sow in seed bed, middle of Spring. Transplant early in Summer.2319.Cardoonis much used for salads, soups, and stews. Treated much like Celery.2320.Cauliflower.—Sow, for early, in seed beds, in Autumn; protect from frost, in cold frames, and transplant in rich ground after frost ceases. For late, manage as Brocoli.2321.Carrotsshould be sown early in the Spring, in deep-dug and well-manured ground, in drills twelve or eighteen inches apart.2322.Celeryshould be sown early in the Spring, in light rich moist soil. Transplant in trenches, highly manured, when about six inches high. Blanch by earthing up as they advance in growth.2323.Chervil.—A small salad. Sow early in the Spring, and after heat of Summer.2324.Cress.—Used as a salad. Sow very thick, in shallow drills, at intervals through the season.2325.Corn Salad.—Used as a salad during the Winter and Spring. Sow thick, in drills, about 1st of September, and cover with straw on the approach of cold.2326.Cucumbersshould be planted first week in May, in hills four feet apart; prepare the ground by incorporating a shovelful of rotten dung in each hill.2327.Endive.—Sow last of Spring to middle of Summer, in shallow drills.2328.Egg-Plant.—Sow in hot-beds early in the Spring; transplant in rich warm ground late in the Spring, about 30 inches apart. Egg-plant seed will not vegetate freely without a substantial heat.2329.Lettuceshould be sown in seed bed, in the middle of September; protect the plants through the Winter, and early in the Spring transplant in rich ground; or sow in hot-beds, in March, and at intervals throughout the season.2330.Melon.—Plant in hills, in light sandy earth, about the first week in May.2331.Mushroom Spawnshould be planted in hot-beds of dung, covered with earth.2332.Mustard.—Sown like Cress, and used for a salad.2333.Nasturtium.—Sow in May. The flowers and young leaves are used as a salad; the seed-pods, with foot-stalk, are gathered whilst green, and pickled as a substitute for capers.2334.Okra, orGombo, is one of the best of vegetables. Plant in May. The seed should be sown thick, as it is liable to rot in the ground. Very rich ground is required.2335.Onionsshould be sown in drills, early in the Spring, in rich ground, thin, to stand two or three inches apart.2336.Parsleyshould be sown early in the Spring. Soak in warm water before sowing.2337.Parsnip.—Sow in drills 18 inches apart, in good and deep-dug ground, early in the Spring.2338.Peas.—The best soil for Peas is a light loam. The early sorts require rich ground. Sow in drills as early in the Spring as the ground will work.2339.Pepper.—Sow late in Spring, in drills, on a warmborder; or in a frame or hot-bed, in March; set out plants eighteen inches apart.2340.Pumpkin.—The Mammoth Pumpkin has been grown to the enormous weight of 225 pounds. Plant early in May, in rich soil, in hills, eight to ten feet apart each way.2341.Radish.—The early kinds should be sown as soon as the ground can be worked, in a sheltered situation.2342.Rhubarbshould be sown in Autumn or early in the Spring; when in the latter, transplant in the ensuing Spring to desired situation. The stems are used for tarts, and are fit for use before green fruit can be obtained, being a very desirable substitute.2343.Salsify, orVegetable Oyster, should be sown during April. The roots boiled, made into cakes with paste, and fried like oysters, much resembles them.2344.Spinachshould be sown as soon as the ground can be worked. The soil cannot be too rich for Spinach.2345.Squash.—Cultivate same as Cucumber.2346.Tomato.—Sow in hills three feet apart, on a warm border, early in the Spring. As the plants advance in growth, give them support.2347.Turnip.—For summer use, sow early in the Spring. For main crop, sow close of Summer. The Ruta Baga requires more time to mature, and should be sown at midsummer.2348.Aromatic and Sweet Herbs.—Anise, Brazil, (sweet), Caraway, Coriander, *Fennel, *Lavender, Marygold, Pot, Marjorum, (sweet), *Sage, Summer Savory, *Winter Savory, *Thyme, *Mint, *Rosemary, Dill.2349. Those marked with a * are perennial, and when once obtained, may be preserved for years. The others are annual.FRUIT TREES AND FRUIT.2350.Fruits, in a ripe and perfect state, are beneficial to health, if not eaten to excess.2351.Stuntedtrees never become vigorous, nor when too long crowded in nurseries.2352. InGrafting, 25 well placed are better than 100 grafts placed at random, and ten placed injudiciously will change the whole top of a tree in a few years, when 200 grafts may be so scattered as not materially to change the top of the tree or its fruit. Graft only on such as are sound and vigorous.2353.Hagglingoff limbs and branches and leaving stumps on the trees, which rot off and let the water into the trunk, soon destroys the tree; therefore, always cut or saw off smooth, when the wound will heal and the bark grow over.2354.Sound, vigorous trees, and no other, should be set out, as they take no more trouble or space than the worthless ones.2355.Buddingshould only be done with fresh buds, on very small stocks of vigorous growth. Begin after sap starts, until 1st June. Later will do. Make incision like a T; raise the corners and insert the bud with as little of the wood as possible, and bandage, not too tight, for three weeks.2356.Scionsmay be cut in February or March, before or at the time the buds begin to swell; or take grafts size of a pipe-stem, from bearing branches, not from side shoots nor the rank growth of the top. Put in earth one-third their length, keep from frost, and occasionally sprinkle, to prevent shriveling, but not so wet as to sprout them.2357.Composition.—Resin 8 oz., beeswax, 3 oz.; melt up with lard, and work it like shoemaker's wax; for wounds made in pruning or grafting.2358.Splitthe stock, drive in a wedge six or eight inches long,open the split so as to admit the graft freely; sharpen end of graft and insert, matching the wood of graft and wood of the stock; remove the wedge carefully, and cover smooth over with composition, tight, to exclude air, and the sap will force its way to the graft.2359.Seed.—Select from healthy trees, sound, ripe and fair fruit, and place in sand, in a cellar or other cool, damp place, until time to plant. If kept too dry, they seldom vegetate. Let the soil be good, well worked, not too wet; cover up and press the ground moderately over. Plant in Fall, before the ground is frozen, or in Spring, soon as the ground can be worked.2360.Soil.—Low, wet or marshy ground is not suitable. Soil appropriate for crops of grain, is also adapted to the cultivation of fruit trees, shrubs or vines. Occasional digging, mellowing the ground, keeping down underbrush and weeds, and manuring, are beneficial.2361.Cleanlinessis essential. Destroy all caterpillars, noxious worms and insects, and prune off all affected parts. Scrape off all rough, ragged bark and moss, and wash well with soap-suds or cover with a coat of limewash. Remove all suckers from the roots, side branches and excrescences.2362.Grubs, which occasion disease, may be prevented by coating the roots and lower trunk, about July 1, with tar, train oil, or whitewash, and sprinkling a little lime, ashes, or soap-suds, on the ground around the tree. When seriously affected, dig the earth from the roots near the surface, and search thoroughly in the bark for the grub; cleanse off the gum, &c., wash with ley or soap-suds, or rub dry ashes over them, and close up with good fresh earth. Doing this as occasion requires, will ensure health and vigor.2363.Slugs and Snailsare great enemies to every kind of garden-plant, whether flower or vegetable; they wander in the night to feed, and return at daylight to their haunts; the shortest and surest direction is, "Rise early, catch them, and kill them."—(Seep. 281.)2364.Another way.—Lay cabbage leaves about the ground, especially on the beds which they frequent. Every morning examine these leaves, and you will find a great many taking refuge beneath.2365.Caterpillars and Aphides.—A garden syringe or engine, with a cap on the pipe full of very minute holes, will wash away these disagreeable visitors very quickly. You must bring the pipe close to the plant, and pump hard, so as to have considerable force on, and the plant, however badly infested, will soon be cleared without receiving any injury.—(Seep. 277.)2366.Rake the Earth.—Every time that you use the syringe or garden-engine, you must immediately rake the earth under the trees, and kill the insects you have dislodged, or many will recover and climb up the stems of the plants.2367.Grubs on Orchard Trees.—Make a bonfire with dry sticks and weeds on the windward side of the orchard, so that the smoke may blow among the trees; you will destroy thousands; for the grubs have such an objection to smoke, that very little of it makes them roll themselves up and fall off; they must be swept up afterward.2368.Waspsdestroy a good deal of fruit, but every pair of wasps killed in spring saves the trouble and annoyance of a swarm in autumn.2369.Butterflies and Moths, however pretty, are the worst enemies one can have in a garden; a single insect of this kind may deposit eggs enough to overrun a tree with caterpillars, therefore they should be destroyed at any cost of trouble.2370. The only moth that you must spare, is the common black and red one; the grubs of this feed exclusively on grounsel, and are therefore a valuable ally of the gardener.2371.Earwigsare very destructive insects; their favorite food is the petals of roses, pinks, dahlias, and other flowers.2372.To kill Earwigs.—They may be caught by drivingstakes into the ground, and placing on each an inverted flower-pot; the earwigs will climb up and take refuge under it, when they may be taken out and killed.—(Seep. 279.)2373. Or very deep holes may be made in the ground with a crowbar, into these they will fall, and may be destroyed by boiling water.2374.Toadsare among the best friends the gardener has; for they live almost exclusively on the most destructive kinds of vermin.2375.The Rose Slug.—A new and sure mode to destroy these insects, either when as a fly laying its eggs, or as a slug, is the following:—2376.Whale Oil Soap, dissolved at the rate of two pounds to fifteen gallons of water.2377.Mode of Preparation.—Take whatever quantity of soap you wish to prepare, and dissolve it in boiling water, about one quart to a pound; in this way strain it through a fine wire or hair sieve, which takes out the dirt, prevents its stopping the valves of the engine, or the nose of the syringe; then add cold water to make it the proper strength.2378.How to use it.—Apply it to the rose-bush with a hand engine or syringe, with as much force as practicable, and be sure that every part of the leaves is well saturated with the liquid. What falls to the ground in application, will do good in destroying the worms and enriching the soil, and from its trifling cost, it can be used with profusion.2379.The cost.—A hogshead of 136 gallons costs forty-five cents—not quite four mills per gallon. Early in the morning, or in the evening, is the proper time to apply it to the plants.2380.Mildewon the Gooseberry, Peach, Grape-vine, &c., is checked and entirely destroyed by a weak dressing of the solution.2381.The Canker Worm.—Laying soap oil on the trunk and branches of the tree, at the consistency of thick paint, destroys the brown, scaly insect on the bark, and gives the tree a smooth, glossy, and healthy appearance.2382.To free Plants from Leaf-Lice.—Mix one ounce of flowers of sulphur with one bushel of sawdust; scatter this over the plants infected with these insects, and they will soon be freed, though a second application may possibly be necessary.2383.Keeping Fruits.—The three best of eight different modes fairly tried, are, 1, covering in pure dry sand; 2, in dry fern; 3, in a deal box buried in the earth. In all cases to be kept cool.2384.Sunfloweryields 140 bushels per acre, and each bushel one gallon of good oil. Its leaves furnish provender; its seeds, food for poultry and hogs. It thrives on poor soils.2385.To prepare a cheap Hortus Siccus.—All the small plants should be expanded under water, in a plate, on a piece of writing-paper. In this state they will assume their natural form and position. Then withdraw the paper with the plant gently from the water, and place them between sheets of blotting-paper, and press them with a book or flat board. When dry, it may be placed on writing-paper.

2300.Elecampaneis good in coughs, yet it is an astringent.

2301.Cranesbillis an astringent, and excellent in cankers.

2302.Whiterootis of a physical nature, and is good to remove wind pent in the stomach, or part of the bowels.

2303.Sassafrasroot is good for the blood.

2304. So also areSarsaparilla, Horse Radish, Burdock roots, Elder roots.

2305.Hop roots, andWild Coltsfootare good as pectorals.

2306.WhiteandYellow Pond Lily roots, the same.

2307.Winter's Bark.—This is the product of one ofthe largesttrees on Terra del Fuego. It is good in dropsy and scurvy.

2308.Wild Jentonis a strong cathartic, when boiled.

2309.Artichoke.—Sow early in the Spring, in rows three inches apart, or plant suckers.

2310.Asparagus.—Sow in April, in good rich soil.

2311.Beans.English Dwarfs.—Plant as early in the Spring as the ground will work.

2312.Kidney Dwarfs.—Plant from end of April to about 20th August.

2313.Pole or Running.—Plant beginning of May, and at intervals through the season.

2314.Beets.—Sow in drills, from early in the Spring till the middle of Summer. Leave the plants 6 to 8 inches apart in the drills.

2315.Borecoleis an excellent green. Sow in Fall, either broadcast or in drills, as for Winter Spinach.

2316.Brussels Sproutsare cultivated for the small heads, which are attached to the stem. Sow in the middle of Spring, and treat as Winter Cabbage.

2317.Brocoliproduces heads like cauliflower. Sow in seed bed about the middle of Spring. Transplant in rich ground when 8 or 12 inches high, and treat as Winter Cabbage.

2318.Cabbage.—For early cabbage, sow in Autumn, in seed beds. Protect during Winter; transplant early in the Spring. For late Cabbage, sow in seed bed, middle of Spring. Transplant early in Summer.

2319.Cardoonis much used for salads, soups, and stews. Treated much like Celery.

2320.Cauliflower.—Sow, for early, in seed beds, in Autumn; protect from frost, in cold frames, and transplant in rich ground after frost ceases. For late, manage as Brocoli.

2321.Carrotsshould be sown early in the Spring, in deep-dug and well-manured ground, in drills twelve or eighteen inches apart.

2322.Celeryshould be sown early in the Spring, in light rich moist soil. Transplant in trenches, highly manured, when about six inches high. Blanch by earthing up as they advance in growth.

2323.Chervil.—A small salad. Sow early in the Spring, and after heat of Summer.

2324.Cress.—Used as a salad. Sow very thick, in shallow drills, at intervals through the season.

2325.Corn Salad.—Used as a salad during the Winter and Spring. Sow thick, in drills, about 1st of September, and cover with straw on the approach of cold.

2326.Cucumbersshould be planted first week in May, in hills four feet apart; prepare the ground by incorporating a shovelful of rotten dung in each hill.

2327.Endive.—Sow last of Spring to middle of Summer, in shallow drills.

2328.Egg-Plant.—Sow in hot-beds early in the Spring; transplant in rich warm ground late in the Spring, about 30 inches apart. Egg-plant seed will not vegetate freely without a substantial heat.

2329.Lettuceshould be sown in seed bed, in the middle of September; protect the plants through the Winter, and early in the Spring transplant in rich ground; or sow in hot-beds, in March, and at intervals throughout the season.

2330.Melon.—Plant in hills, in light sandy earth, about the first week in May.

2331.Mushroom Spawnshould be planted in hot-beds of dung, covered with earth.

2332.Mustard.—Sown like Cress, and used for a salad.

2333.Nasturtium.—Sow in May. The flowers and young leaves are used as a salad; the seed-pods, with foot-stalk, are gathered whilst green, and pickled as a substitute for capers.

2334.Okra, orGombo, is one of the best of vegetables. Plant in May. The seed should be sown thick, as it is liable to rot in the ground. Very rich ground is required.

2335.Onionsshould be sown in drills, early in the Spring, in rich ground, thin, to stand two or three inches apart.

2336.Parsleyshould be sown early in the Spring. Soak in warm water before sowing.

2337.Parsnip.—Sow in drills 18 inches apart, in good and deep-dug ground, early in the Spring.

2338.Peas.—The best soil for Peas is a light loam. The early sorts require rich ground. Sow in drills as early in the Spring as the ground will work.

2339.Pepper.—Sow late in Spring, in drills, on a warmborder; or in a frame or hot-bed, in March; set out plants eighteen inches apart.

2340.Pumpkin.—The Mammoth Pumpkin has been grown to the enormous weight of 225 pounds. Plant early in May, in rich soil, in hills, eight to ten feet apart each way.

2341.Radish.—The early kinds should be sown as soon as the ground can be worked, in a sheltered situation.

2342.Rhubarbshould be sown in Autumn or early in the Spring; when in the latter, transplant in the ensuing Spring to desired situation. The stems are used for tarts, and are fit for use before green fruit can be obtained, being a very desirable substitute.

2343.Salsify, orVegetable Oyster, should be sown during April. The roots boiled, made into cakes with paste, and fried like oysters, much resembles them.

2344.Spinachshould be sown as soon as the ground can be worked. The soil cannot be too rich for Spinach.

2345.Squash.—Cultivate same as Cucumber.

2346.Tomato.—Sow in hills three feet apart, on a warm border, early in the Spring. As the plants advance in growth, give them support.

2347.Turnip.—For summer use, sow early in the Spring. For main crop, sow close of Summer. The Ruta Baga requires more time to mature, and should be sown at midsummer.

2348.Aromatic and Sweet Herbs.—Anise, Brazil, (sweet), Caraway, Coriander, *Fennel, *Lavender, Marygold, Pot, Marjorum, (sweet), *Sage, Summer Savory, *Winter Savory, *Thyme, *Mint, *Rosemary, Dill.

2349. Those marked with a * are perennial, and when once obtained, may be preserved for years. The others are annual.

2350.Fruits, in a ripe and perfect state, are beneficial to health, if not eaten to excess.

2351.Stuntedtrees never become vigorous, nor when too long crowded in nurseries.

2352. InGrafting, 25 well placed are better than 100 grafts placed at random, and ten placed injudiciously will change the whole top of a tree in a few years, when 200 grafts may be so scattered as not materially to change the top of the tree or its fruit. Graft only on such as are sound and vigorous.

2353.Hagglingoff limbs and branches and leaving stumps on the trees, which rot off and let the water into the trunk, soon destroys the tree; therefore, always cut or saw off smooth, when the wound will heal and the bark grow over.

2354.Sound, vigorous trees, and no other, should be set out, as they take no more trouble or space than the worthless ones.

2355.Buddingshould only be done with fresh buds, on very small stocks of vigorous growth. Begin after sap starts, until 1st June. Later will do. Make incision like a T; raise the corners and insert the bud with as little of the wood as possible, and bandage, not too tight, for three weeks.

2356.Scionsmay be cut in February or March, before or at the time the buds begin to swell; or take grafts size of a pipe-stem, from bearing branches, not from side shoots nor the rank growth of the top. Put in earth one-third their length, keep from frost, and occasionally sprinkle, to prevent shriveling, but not so wet as to sprout them.

2357.Composition.—Resin 8 oz., beeswax, 3 oz.; melt up with lard, and work it like shoemaker's wax; for wounds made in pruning or grafting.

2358.Splitthe stock, drive in a wedge six or eight inches long,open the split so as to admit the graft freely; sharpen end of graft and insert, matching the wood of graft and wood of the stock; remove the wedge carefully, and cover smooth over with composition, tight, to exclude air, and the sap will force its way to the graft.

2359.Seed.—Select from healthy trees, sound, ripe and fair fruit, and place in sand, in a cellar or other cool, damp place, until time to plant. If kept too dry, they seldom vegetate. Let the soil be good, well worked, not too wet; cover up and press the ground moderately over. Plant in Fall, before the ground is frozen, or in Spring, soon as the ground can be worked.

2360.Soil.—Low, wet or marshy ground is not suitable. Soil appropriate for crops of grain, is also adapted to the cultivation of fruit trees, shrubs or vines. Occasional digging, mellowing the ground, keeping down underbrush and weeds, and manuring, are beneficial.

2361.Cleanlinessis essential. Destroy all caterpillars, noxious worms and insects, and prune off all affected parts. Scrape off all rough, ragged bark and moss, and wash well with soap-suds or cover with a coat of limewash. Remove all suckers from the roots, side branches and excrescences.

2362.Grubs, which occasion disease, may be prevented by coating the roots and lower trunk, about July 1, with tar, train oil, or whitewash, and sprinkling a little lime, ashes, or soap-suds, on the ground around the tree. When seriously affected, dig the earth from the roots near the surface, and search thoroughly in the bark for the grub; cleanse off the gum, &c., wash with ley or soap-suds, or rub dry ashes over them, and close up with good fresh earth. Doing this as occasion requires, will ensure health and vigor.

2363.Slugs and Snailsare great enemies to every kind of garden-plant, whether flower or vegetable; they wander in the night to feed, and return at daylight to their haunts; the shortest and surest direction is, "Rise early, catch them, and kill them."—(Seep. 281.)

2364.Another way.—Lay cabbage leaves about the ground, especially on the beds which they frequent. Every morning examine these leaves, and you will find a great many taking refuge beneath.

2365.Caterpillars and Aphides.—A garden syringe or engine, with a cap on the pipe full of very minute holes, will wash away these disagreeable visitors very quickly. You must bring the pipe close to the plant, and pump hard, so as to have considerable force on, and the plant, however badly infested, will soon be cleared without receiving any injury.—(Seep. 277.)

2366.Rake the Earth.—Every time that you use the syringe or garden-engine, you must immediately rake the earth under the trees, and kill the insects you have dislodged, or many will recover and climb up the stems of the plants.

2367.Grubs on Orchard Trees.—Make a bonfire with dry sticks and weeds on the windward side of the orchard, so that the smoke may blow among the trees; you will destroy thousands; for the grubs have such an objection to smoke, that very little of it makes them roll themselves up and fall off; they must be swept up afterward.

2368.Waspsdestroy a good deal of fruit, but every pair of wasps killed in spring saves the trouble and annoyance of a swarm in autumn.

2369.Butterflies and Moths, however pretty, are the worst enemies one can have in a garden; a single insect of this kind may deposit eggs enough to overrun a tree with caterpillars, therefore they should be destroyed at any cost of trouble.

2370. The only moth that you must spare, is the common black and red one; the grubs of this feed exclusively on grounsel, and are therefore a valuable ally of the gardener.

2371.Earwigsare very destructive insects; their favorite food is the petals of roses, pinks, dahlias, and other flowers.

2372.To kill Earwigs.—They may be caught by drivingstakes into the ground, and placing on each an inverted flower-pot; the earwigs will climb up and take refuge under it, when they may be taken out and killed.—(Seep. 279.)

2373. Or very deep holes may be made in the ground with a crowbar, into these they will fall, and may be destroyed by boiling water.

2374.Toadsare among the best friends the gardener has; for they live almost exclusively on the most destructive kinds of vermin.

2375.The Rose Slug.—A new and sure mode to destroy these insects, either when as a fly laying its eggs, or as a slug, is the following:—

2376.Whale Oil Soap, dissolved at the rate of two pounds to fifteen gallons of water.

2377.Mode of Preparation.—Take whatever quantity of soap you wish to prepare, and dissolve it in boiling water, about one quart to a pound; in this way strain it through a fine wire or hair sieve, which takes out the dirt, prevents its stopping the valves of the engine, or the nose of the syringe; then add cold water to make it the proper strength.

2378.How to use it.—Apply it to the rose-bush with a hand engine or syringe, with as much force as practicable, and be sure that every part of the leaves is well saturated with the liquid. What falls to the ground in application, will do good in destroying the worms and enriching the soil, and from its trifling cost, it can be used with profusion.

2379.The cost.—A hogshead of 136 gallons costs forty-five cents—not quite four mills per gallon. Early in the morning, or in the evening, is the proper time to apply it to the plants.

2380.Mildewon the Gooseberry, Peach, Grape-vine, &c., is checked and entirely destroyed by a weak dressing of the solution.

2381.The Canker Worm.—Laying soap oil on the trunk and branches of the tree, at the consistency of thick paint, destroys the brown, scaly insect on the bark, and gives the tree a smooth, glossy, and healthy appearance.

2382.To free Plants from Leaf-Lice.—Mix one ounce of flowers of sulphur with one bushel of sawdust; scatter this over the plants infected with these insects, and they will soon be freed, though a second application may possibly be necessary.

2383.Keeping Fruits.—The three best of eight different modes fairly tried, are, 1, covering in pure dry sand; 2, in dry fern; 3, in a deal box buried in the earth. In all cases to be kept cool.

2384.Sunfloweryields 140 bushels per acre, and each bushel one gallon of good oil. Its leaves furnish provender; its seeds, food for poultry and hogs. It thrives on poor soils.

2385.To prepare a cheap Hortus Siccus.—All the small plants should be expanded under water, in a plate, on a piece of writing-paper. In this state they will assume their natural form and position. Then withdraw the paper with the plant gently from the water, and place them between sheets of blotting-paper, and press them with a book or flat board. When dry, it may be placed on writing-paper.

PART X.PERSONAL MATTERS.Dress of Ladies—Dress of Gentlemen—Manners—Etiquette of Society—Dinner Parties—Courtship—Marriage—The Ceremony—After Marriage—Social Intercourse—"Our House," etc.2386.Importance of Dress.—Attention to personal appearance is a human duty as well as a required observance in civilized society.2387. The following rules will be found useful in guiding the judgment and taste of those who desire to dress well.DRESS OF LADIES.2388. A young lady should always be neatly attired. A fresh-looking and well-fitting dress is more important than rich materials or showy ornaments.2389. Never furbish up old finery, if you wish to appear really the lady. A clean, soft, white muslin gown is far more genteel than a tarnished brocade.2390.Colors and Complexions.—The great art, as regards colors of dress, is to enhance the tints of the complexion, care being taken to let the flesh appear of a healthy natural hue, and to avoid wearing those colors which heighten or destroy either the red, yellow, or white, in the natural flesh tints.2391.Primitive Colors.—Out of three primitive colors, red, blue, and yellow, there are endless mixtures and variations, and some of these can skillfully be adapted to any complexion; but to do so, these two rules must be observed: the rule of Harmony and of judicious Contrast.2392.Decided Colors, or colors without mixture, are very unbecoming. A lady allbluein dress would be more disagreeable than a realbleu.2393.Red, and its dark variations, may be worn by dark persons, and will harmonize with their complexion.2394.Crimson andbrilliantredare vulgar and unsuitable, but purple and dark maroon, worn by brunettes, and persons of a dark complexion, are both becoming and genteel, either in evening or winter dresses.2395.Blueis a becoming color to fair faces and blue eyes. It also looks well worn by brunettes, when the wearer is youthful.2396.Light blueis a beautiful color for spring dresses; dark blues look better in the autumn and winter.2397.Red Colors.—Light red and pink, approaching flesh tints, are becoming both to dark and to fair; to the former especially, because they, by contrast, set off the complexion.2398. Fair persons venturing upon such dresses or trimmings by daylight, should have clear and excellent complexions, or the brightness of the color, from a similarity of tint, will make their faces appear dirty and clouded.2399.Chocolate colors, and warm browns partaking of red, may be worn by either fair or dark persons, provided they be not too pale, in which case the contrast will render the face chalky or death-like.

Dress of Ladies—Dress of Gentlemen—Manners—Etiquette of Society—Dinner Parties—Courtship—Marriage—The Ceremony—After Marriage—Social Intercourse—"Our House," etc.

2386.Importance of Dress.—Attention to personal appearance is a human duty as well as a required observance in civilized society.

2387. The following rules will be found useful in guiding the judgment and taste of those who desire to dress well.

2388. A young lady should always be neatly attired. A fresh-looking and well-fitting dress is more important than rich materials or showy ornaments.

2389. Never furbish up old finery, if you wish to appear really the lady. A clean, soft, white muslin gown is far more genteel than a tarnished brocade.

2390.Colors and Complexions.—The great art, as regards colors of dress, is to enhance the tints of the complexion, care being taken to let the flesh appear of a healthy natural hue, and to avoid wearing those colors which heighten or destroy either the red, yellow, or white, in the natural flesh tints.

2391.Primitive Colors.—Out of three primitive colors, red, blue, and yellow, there are endless mixtures and variations, and some of these can skillfully be adapted to any complexion; but to do so, these two rules must be observed: the rule of Harmony and of judicious Contrast.

2392.Decided Colors, or colors without mixture, are very unbecoming. A lady allbluein dress would be more disagreeable than a realbleu.

2393.Red, and its dark variations, may be worn by dark persons, and will harmonize with their complexion.

2394.Crimson andbrilliantredare vulgar and unsuitable, but purple and dark maroon, worn by brunettes, and persons of a dark complexion, are both becoming and genteel, either in evening or winter dresses.

2395.Blueis a becoming color to fair faces and blue eyes. It also looks well worn by brunettes, when the wearer is youthful.

2396.Light blueis a beautiful color for spring dresses; dark blues look better in the autumn and winter.

2397.Red Colors.—Light red and pink, approaching flesh tints, are becoming both to dark and to fair; to the former especially, because they, by contrast, set off the complexion.

2398. Fair persons venturing upon such dresses or trimmings by daylight, should have clear and excellent complexions, or the brightness of the color, from a similarity of tint, will make their faces appear dirty and clouded.

2399.Chocolate colors, and warm browns partaking of red, may be worn by either fair or dark persons, provided they be not too pale, in which case the contrast will render the face chalky or death-like.

2400.Yellowin dress, as well as orange, is also more becoming to dark than to fair persons.2401.Primroseis becoming to fair persons. The trimmings of this color, the flowers and ribbons, should be violet, such contrast being agreeable to art and nature.2402.Maizecolor is becoming to all complexions, especially to those which are brilliant.2403.Grainis more becoming to fair than to dark persons, because in the fair complexion, brilliancy and depth of color are more frequently found.2404.Pale greenshould never be worn by the dark, it rendering them sickly and cadaverous in look. To those of a fair and brilliant complexion it is most becoming.2405.Trimmings.—For trimmings and flowers ladies cannot do better than to study nature, there being in the leaves of flowers every imaginable tint of green, whilst the flowers themselves are various in their hue.2406.Artificialsshould be few, and perfectly arranged. A load of flowers is a burden, not a beauty.2407. The most elegant dresses are black or white.2408. A vulgar girl wears bright and glaring colors, fantastically made, a large flaring, red, yellow, or sky-blue hat, covered with a rainbow of ribbons, and all the rings and trinkets she can load upon her.2409. In any assemblage, the most plainly-dressed woman is sure to be the most lady-like and attractive. Neatness is better than richness, and plainness better than display.2410. It is a general rule, applicable to both sexes, that persons are the best dressed when you cannot remember how they were dressed. Avoid every thing out of the way, uncommon, or grotesque.2411. Single ladies dress less in fashionable society than married ones; and all more plainly and substantially for walking or traveling, than on other occasions.2412. Common modesty should prevent indecent exposure of the shoulders and bosom.2413.Tight Lacing.—No woman who laces tight can have good shoulders, a straight spine, good lungs, sweet breath, or is fit to be a wife and mother.2414. Can it be a pleasant sight to behold a woman cut in two in the middle, as it were, like a wasp? On the contrary, it is as shocking to the eye as it is painful to the imagination.2415. Every thing that confines and lays nature under a restraint is an instance of bad taste. This is as true in regard to the ornaments of the body as to the embellishments of the mind.2416. Life, health, reason, and convenience, ought to be taken first into consideration.2417. Gracefulness cannot subsist without ease; delicacy is not debility; nor must a woman be sick in order to please.2418. The distinction of the sexes, notwithstanding that it is so prominent and marked, still requires a distinctive dress. This has generally, by all nations, civilized or savage, been conceded.2419. This difference has been so permanent, that any attempt to lessen it—and there have been many—has failed, and must fail whenever attempted.2420.Robes.—The outer garment of woman is, and has been for centuries, the robe or gown, and upon the proper choice, make, and disposition of this, and its concomitants, depends the elegance or inelegance of the wearer.2421. The gown should fall gracefully from the hips, as free as possible from the odious "bustle" or "hoop." It should fall in long full folds, and expand gradually to the feet, which it should touch, but not entirely cover.2422.Flouncesshould only be worn by those of a tall, graceful figure, and then they should be made of a light material, gauze, muslin, or of stuff akin to it, so that they fall in gracefully with the outline of the dress. When made of any rich stuff, which stands out stiffly, they break the graceful flow of the dress.2423. Flounces, by marking the height, at regular intervals, take away from it, and make a short figure look shorter. For this reason, short persons should not wear stripes running in parallel rings round the dress. Perpendicular stripes upon a dress make the wearer look taller, like the flutes in a composite.2424. The rules which we have given for the color of the dress, must of course apply to the covering for the head; the colors must, to look well, contrast or harmonize with the complexion.2425. Texture, material, and pattern, should suit, not only the taste, but also the purse. There are few greater evils in this country than an inordinate passion for dress.2426. No one looks so well dressed as those who are dressed properly, neatly, and whose attire sets them at their ease. A lady who is so over-dressed as to be constantly afraid of spoiling her gown, can never be graceful, since she cannot be at her ease.2427.The hairshould always be neatly brushed and arranged.2428.Ringletsmake round faces look longer, and more oval; plain bands make the face which is too long, lose part of that length. This should be studied. It is manifestly absurd to render oneself hideous merely to follow the fashion.2429. The dress of the foot is important both for beauty and health.2430. Thus, a thin shoe in winter would be vulgar, because useless and dangerous to the wearer's health, and a thick boot in summer would begaucheand vulgar.2431.Boots and shoesshould be well, nay, scientifically made. The foot should be fitted well, but not compressed.2432. Modern boots and shoes are therefore often made narrow, just where they should be wide; and the foot, instead of being beautiful in shape, and graceful in its action, becomes long, narrow, distorted, and ungraceful when used.2433.Glovesmust be fresh and well-fitting to make the dress perfect.2434. Ladies' dresses should be chosen so as to produce an agreeable harmony.2435. Never put on a dark-colored bonnet with a light spring costume.2436. Avoid uniting colors which will suggest an epigram; such as a straw-colored dress with a green bonnet.2437. The arrangement of the hair is most important.2438. Bands are becoming to faces of a Grecian caste.2439. Ringlets better suit lively and expressive heads.2440. Whatever be your style of face, avoid an excess of lace, and let flowers be few and choice.2441. In a married woman, a richer style of ornament is admissible.2442. Costly elegance for the married—for the young girl, a style of modest simplicity.2443. The most elegant dress loses its character if it is not worn with grace.2444. Young girls have often an air of constraint, and their dress seems to partake of their want of ease.2445. In speaking of her toilet, a woman should not convey the idea that her whole skill consists in adjusting tastefully some trifling ornaments.2446. A simple style of dress is an indication of modesty.2447.Neatness.—The hands should receive special attention. They are the outward signs of general cleanliness. The same may be said of the face, the neck, the ears, and the teeth.2448. The cleanliness of the system generally, and of bodily apparel, pertains to Health, and will be treated of under this head.2449.The Handkerchief.—There is considerable art in using this accessory of dress and comfort.2450. Avoid extreme patterns, styles, and colors.2451. Never be without a handkerchief.2452. Hold it freely in the hand, and do not roll it into a ball. Hold it by the centre, and let the corners form a fan-like expansion.2453. Avoid using it too much. With some persons the habit becomes troublesome and unpleasant.2454.A word to Young Ladies.—If you have blue eyes, you need not languish.2455. If black eyes, you need not stare.2456. If you have pretty feet, there is no occasion to wear short petticoats.2457. If you are doubtful as to that point, there can be no harm in letting them be long.2458. If you have good teeth, do not laugh for the purpose of showing them.2459. If you have bad ones, do not laugh less than the occasion may justify.2460. If you have pretty hands and arms, there can be no objection to your playing on the harp, if you play well.2461. If they are disposed to be clumsy, work tapestry.2462. If you have a bad voice, speak in a rather low tone.2463. If you have the finest voice in the world, never speak in a high tone.2464. If you dance well, dance but seldom.2465. If you dance ill, never dance at all.2466. If you sing well, make no previous excuses.2467. If you sing indifferently, hesitate not a moment whenyou are asked, for few people are judges of singing, but every one is sensible of a desire to please.2468. If you would preserve beauty, rise early.2469. If you would preserve esteem, be gentle.2470. If you would obtain power, be condescending.2471. If you would live happy, endeavor to promote the happiness of others.DRESS OF A GENTLEMAN.2472. Since dress is, with the world, the outward sign of both character and condition: and since it costs no more to dress well than ill, and is not very troublesome, every one should endeavor to do the best that his circumstances will allow.2473.The Shirt.—A clean, unrumpled shirt, coarse or fine, cotton or linen, as you can afford, is of the first importance. If the choice is between a fine shirt or a fine coat, have the shirt by all means.2474.Fine Linen, and a good hat, gloves and boots are evidences of the highest taste in dress.2475. A gentleman walking should always wear gloves, this being one of the characteristics of good breeding.2476. Upon public and State occasions, officers should appear in uniform.2478. A black coat and trowsers are indispensable for a visit of ceremony, an entertainment, or a ball.2479. The white or black waistcoat is equally proper in these cases.2480. Yellow or white gloves are worn in the ball-room.2481. A neat exterior, equally free from extravagance and poverty, almost always proclaims a right-minded man.2482. To dress appropriately, and with good taste, is to respect yourself and others.2483.Neatness.—A well-bred man may be ever so reduced in his wardrobe—his clothes may be coarse and threadbare, but he seldom wears a coarse, and never a dirty shirt.2484.The Boots.—Boots are now men's common wear on all occasions, varying in elegance for different purposes. They should always be clean, and invariably well blackened and polished.2485.The Hat.—Make a point of buying a good hat. One proper fur hat, worth four or five dollars, when a year old, looks more respectable than a silk one bought yesterday.2486. Of the trowsers little need be said. When full at the bottom they serve to hide a large foot. If colored trowsers are worn, those patterns should be chosen which conform to the rules of taste. Bars running across the legs should be avoided, and also all large staring patterns.2487.The Vestallows of some fancy, but beware of being too fanciful. A black satin is proper for any person or any occasion. Nothing is more elegant than pure white. Some quiet colors may be worn for variety, but beware of every thing staring or glaring, in materials or trimmings.2488. Avoid all singularity in dress; never wear gaudy waistcoats, out-of-the-way hats, or coats of the extreme of "sporting fashion:" such things are positively odious.2489. We may add a few general maxims, applied to both sexes.2490. "All affectation in dress," says Chesterfield, "implies a flaw in the understanding." One should therefore avoid being singular, or eccentric.2491. Never dress against any one. Choose those garments which suit you, and look well upon you, perfectly irrespective of the fact that a lady or gentleman in the same village or street may excel you.2492. When dressed for company, strive to appear as easy and natural as if you were in undress.2493. Dress according to your age. It is both painful and ridiculous to see an old lady dressed as a belle of four-and-twenty; or an old fellow, old enough for a grandfather, affecting the costume and the manners of abeau.2494. Young men should bewelldressed. Not foppishly, but neatly and well. An untidy person at five-and-twenty, degenerates, very frequently, into a sloven and a boor at fifty.2495. Be not too negligent, nor too studied, in your attire.2496. Let your behavior and conversation suit the clothes you wear, so that those who know you may feel that, after all, dress and external appearance is the least portion of alady or gentleman.MANNERS.2497. It is sometimes objected to books upon etiquette, that they cause those who consult them to act with mechanical restraint, and to show in society that they are governed by arbitrary rules, rather than by an intuitive perception of what is graceful and polite.2498. This objection is unsound, because it supposes that people who study the theory of etiquette, do not also exercise their powers of observation in society, and obtain, by their intercourse with others, that freedom and ease of deportment, which society alone can impart.2499. Books upon etiquette are useful, inasmuch as that they expound the laws of polite society. Experience alone,however, can give effect to the precisemannerin which those laws are required to be observed.

2400.Yellowin dress, as well as orange, is also more becoming to dark than to fair persons.

2401.Primroseis becoming to fair persons. The trimmings of this color, the flowers and ribbons, should be violet, such contrast being agreeable to art and nature.

2402.Maizecolor is becoming to all complexions, especially to those which are brilliant.

2403.Grainis more becoming to fair than to dark persons, because in the fair complexion, brilliancy and depth of color are more frequently found.

2404.Pale greenshould never be worn by the dark, it rendering them sickly and cadaverous in look. To those of a fair and brilliant complexion it is most becoming.

2405.Trimmings.—For trimmings and flowers ladies cannot do better than to study nature, there being in the leaves of flowers every imaginable tint of green, whilst the flowers themselves are various in their hue.

2406.Artificialsshould be few, and perfectly arranged. A load of flowers is a burden, not a beauty.

2407. The most elegant dresses are black or white.

2408. A vulgar girl wears bright and glaring colors, fantastically made, a large flaring, red, yellow, or sky-blue hat, covered with a rainbow of ribbons, and all the rings and trinkets she can load upon her.

2409. In any assemblage, the most plainly-dressed woman is sure to be the most lady-like and attractive. Neatness is better than richness, and plainness better than display.

2410. It is a general rule, applicable to both sexes, that persons are the best dressed when you cannot remember how they were dressed. Avoid every thing out of the way, uncommon, or grotesque.

2411. Single ladies dress less in fashionable society than married ones; and all more plainly and substantially for walking or traveling, than on other occasions.

2412. Common modesty should prevent indecent exposure of the shoulders and bosom.

2413.Tight Lacing.—No woman who laces tight can have good shoulders, a straight spine, good lungs, sweet breath, or is fit to be a wife and mother.

2414. Can it be a pleasant sight to behold a woman cut in two in the middle, as it were, like a wasp? On the contrary, it is as shocking to the eye as it is painful to the imagination.

2415. Every thing that confines and lays nature under a restraint is an instance of bad taste. This is as true in regard to the ornaments of the body as to the embellishments of the mind.

2416. Life, health, reason, and convenience, ought to be taken first into consideration.

2417. Gracefulness cannot subsist without ease; delicacy is not debility; nor must a woman be sick in order to please.

2418. The distinction of the sexes, notwithstanding that it is so prominent and marked, still requires a distinctive dress. This has generally, by all nations, civilized or savage, been conceded.

2419. This difference has been so permanent, that any attempt to lessen it—and there have been many—has failed, and must fail whenever attempted.

2420.Robes.—The outer garment of woman is, and has been for centuries, the robe or gown, and upon the proper choice, make, and disposition of this, and its concomitants, depends the elegance or inelegance of the wearer.

2421. The gown should fall gracefully from the hips, as free as possible from the odious "bustle" or "hoop." It should fall in long full folds, and expand gradually to the feet, which it should touch, but not entirely cover.

2422.Flouncesshould only be worn by those of a tall, graceful figure, and then they should be made of a light material, gauze, muslin, or of stuff akin to it, so that they fall in gracefully with the outline of the dress. When made of any rich stuff, which stands out stiffly, they break the graceful flow of the dress.

2423. Flounces, by marking the height, at regular intervals, take away from it, and make a short figure look shorter. For this reason, short persons should not wear stripes running in parallel rings round the dress. Perpendicular stripes upon a dress make the wearer look taller, like the flutes in a composite.

2424. The rules which we have given for the color of the dress, must of course apply to the covering for the head; the colors must, to look well, contrast or harmonize with the complexion.

2425. Texture, material, and pattern, should suit, not only the taste, but also the purse. There are few greater evils in this country than an inordinate passion for dress.

2426. No one looks so well dressed as those who are dressed properly, neatly, and whose attire sets them at their ease. A lady who is so over-dressed as to be constantly afraid of spoiling her gown, can never be graceful, since she cannot be at her ease.

2427.The hairshould always be neatly brushed and arranged.

2428.Ringletsmake round faces look longer, and more oval; plain bands make the face which is too long, lose part of that length. This should be studied. It is manifestly absurd to render oneself hideous merely to follow the fashion.

2429. The dress of the foot is important both for beauty and health.

2430. Thus, a thin shoe in winter would be vulgar, because useless and dangerous to the wearer's health, and a thick boot in summer would begaucheand vulgar.

2431.Boots and shoesshould be well, nay, scientifically made. The foot should be fitted well, but not compressed.

2432. Modern boots and shoes are therefore often made narrow, just where they should be wide; and the foot, instead of being beautiful in shape, and graceful in its action, becomes long, narrow, distorted, and ungraceful when used.

2433.Glovesmust be fresh and well-fitting to make the dress perfect.

2434. Ladies' dresses should be chosen so as to produce an agreeable harmony.

2435. Never put on a dark-colored bonnet with a light spring costume.

2436. Avoid uniting colors which will suggest an epigram; such as a straw-colored dress with a green bonnet.

2437. The arrangement of the hair is most important.

2438. Bands are becoming to faces of a Grecian caste.

2439. Ringlets better suit lively and expressive heads.

2440. Whatever be your style of face, avoid an excess of lace, and let flowers be few and choice.

2441. In a married woman, a richer style of ornament is admissible.

2442. Costly elegance for the married—for the young girl, a style of modest simplicity.

2443. The most elegant dress loses its character if it is not worn with grace.

2444. Young girls have often an air of constraint, and their dress seems to partake of their want of ease.

2445. In speaking of her toilet, a woman should not convey the idea that her whole skill consists in adjusting tastefully some trifling ornaments.

2446. A simple style of dress is an indication of modesty.

2447.Neatness.—The hands should receive special attention. They are the outward signs of general cleanliness. The same may be said of the face, the neck, the ears, and the teeth.

2448. The cleanliness of the system generally, and of bodily apparel, pertains to Health, and will be treated of under this head.

2449.The Handkerchief.—There is considerable art in using this accessory of dress and comfort.

2450. Avoid extreme patterns, styles, and colors.

2451. Never be without a handkerchief.

2452. Hold it freely in the hand, and do not roll it into a ball. Hold it by the centre, and let the corners form a fan-like expansion.

2453. Avoid using it too much. With some persons the habit becomes troublesome and unpleasant.

2454.A word to Young Ladies.—If you have blue eyes, you need not languish.

2455. If black eyes, you need not stare.

2456. If you have pretty feet, there is no occasion to wear short petticoats.

2457. If you are doubtful as to that point, there can be no harm in letting them be long.

2458. If you have good teeth, do not laugh for the purpose of showing them.

2459. If you have bad ones, do not laugh less than the occasion may justify.

2460. If you have pretty hands and arms, there can be no objection to your playing on the harp, if you play well.

2461. If they are disposed to be clumsy, work tapestry.

2462. If you have a bad voice, speak in a rather low tone.

2463. If you have the finest voice in the world, never speak in a high tone.

2464. If you dance well, dance but seldom.

2465. If you dance ill, never dance at all.

2466. If you sing well, make no previous excuses.

2467. If you sing indifferently, hesitate not a moment whenyou are asked, for few people are judges of singing, but every one is sensible of a desire to please.

2468. If you would preserve beauty, rise early.

2469. If you would preserve esteem, be gentle.

2470. If you would obtain power, be condescending.

2471. If you would live happy, endeavor to promote the happiness of others.

2472. Since dress is, with the world, the outward sign of both character and condition: and since it costs no more to dress well than ill, and is not very troublesome, every one should endeavor to do the best that his circumstances will allow.

2473.The Shirt.—A clean, unrumpled shirt, coarse or fine, cotton or linen, as you can afford, is of the first importance. If the choice is between a fine shirt or a fine coat, have the shirt by all means.

2474.Fine Linen, and a good hat, gloves and boots are evidences of the highest taste in dress.

2475. A gentleman walking should always wear gloves, this being one of the characteristics of good breeding.

2476. Upon public and State occasions, officers should appear in uniform.

2478. A black coat and trowsers are indispensable for a visit of ceremony, an entertainment, or a ball.

2479. The white or black waistcoat is equally proper in these cases.

2480. Yellow or white gloves are worn in the ball-room.

2481. A neat exterior, equally free from extravagance and poverty, almost always proclaims a right-minded man.

2482. To dress appropriately, and with good taste, is to respect yourself and others.

2483.Neatness.—A well-bred man may be ever so reduced in his wardrobe—his clothes may be coarse and threadbare, but he seldom wears a coarse, and never a dirty shirt.

2484.The Boots.—Boots are now men's common wear on all occasions, varying in elegance for different purposes. They should always be clean, and invariably well blackened and polished.

2485.The Hat.—Make a point of buying a good hat. One proper fur hat, worth four or five dollars, when a year old, looks more respectable than a silk one bought yesterday.

2486. Of the trowsers little need be said. When full at the bottom they serve to hide a large foot. If colored trowsers are worn, those patterns should be chosen which conform to the rules of taste. Bars running across the legs should be avoided, and also all large staring patterns.

2487.The Vestallows of some fancy, but beware of being too fanciful. A black satin is proper for any person or any occasion. Nothing is more elegant than pure white. Some quiet colors may be worn for variety, but beware of every thing staring or glaring, in materials or trimmings.

2488. Avoid all singularity in dress; never wear gaudy waistcoats, out-of-the-way hats, or coats of the extreme of "sporting fashion:" such things are positively odious.

2489. We may add a few general maxims, applied to both sexes.

2490. "All affectation in dress," says Chesterfield, "implies a flaw in the understanding." One should therefore avoid being singular, or eccentric.

2491. Never dress against any one. Choose those garments which suit you, and look well upon you, perfectly irrespective of the fact that a lady or gentleman in the same village or street may excel you.

2492. When dressed for company, strive to appear as easy and natural as if you were in undress.

2493. Dress according to your age. It is both painful and ridiculous to see an old lady dressed as a belle of four-and-twenty; or an old fellow, old enough for a grandfather, affecting the costume and the manners of abeau.

2494. Young men should bewelldressed. Not foppishly, but neatly and well. An untidy person at five-and-twenty, degenerates, very frequently, into a sloven and a boor at fifty.

2495. Be not too negligent, nor too studied, in your attire.

2496. Let your behavior and conversation suit the clothes you wear, so that those who know you may feel that, after all, dress and external appearance is the least portion of alady or gentleman.

2497. It is sometimes objected to books upon etiquette, that they cause those who consult them to act with mechanical restraint, and to show in society that they are governed by arbitrary rules, rather than by an intuitive perception of what is graceful and polite.

2498. This objection is unsound, because it supposes that people who study the theory of etiquette, do not also exercise their powers of observation in society, and obtain, by their intercourse with others, that freedom and ease of deportment, which society alone can impart.

2499. Books upon etiquette are useful, inasmuch as that they expound the laws of polite society. Experience alone,however, can give effect to the precisemannerin which those laws are required to be observed.

2500. Whatever objections may be raised to the teachings of works upon etiquette, there can be no sound argument against a series of simple and brief hints, which shall operate as precautions against mistakes in personal conduct.2501. Avoid intermeddling with the affairs of others. This is a most common fault.2502. A number of people seldom meet but they begin discussing the affairs of some one who is absent. This is not only uncharitable but positively unjust. It is equivalent to trying acause in the absence of the person implicated.2503. Even in the criminal code, a prisoner is presumed to be innocent until he is found guilty. Society, however, is less just, and passes judgment without hearing the defense.2504. Depend upon it, as a certain rule,that the people who unite with you in discussing the affairs of others, will proceed to scandalize you the moment that you depart.2505. Be consistent in the avowal of principles. Do not deny to-day, that which you asserted yesterday. You may fancy that you gain favor by subserviency; but so far from gaining favor, you lose respect.2506. Avoid falsehood. There can be found no higher virtue than that of truth.2507. Be honest. Not only because "honesty is the best policy," but because it is a duty to God and to man.2508. Avoid idleness—it is the parent of many evils. Can you pray, "Give us this day our daily bread," and not hear the reply, "Do thou this day thy daily duty?"2509. Avoid telling idle tales, which is like firing arrows in the dark; you know not into whose heart they may fall.2510. Avoid talking about yourself; praising your own works; and proclaiming your own deeds. If they are good, they will proclaim themselves; if bad, the less you say of them the better.2511. Be kind in little things.2512. The true generosity of the heart is more displayed by deeds of minor kindness, than by acts which may partake of ostentation.2513. Reason is given for man's guidance. Passion is the tempest by which reason is overthrown. Under the effects of passion, man's mind becomes disordered, his face disfigured, his body deformed.2514. A moment's passion has frequently cut off a life's friendship, destroyed a life's hope, imbittered a life's peace, and brought unending sorrow and disgrace.2515. Avoid pride. If you are handsome, God made you so; if you are learned, some one instructed you; if you are rich, God gave you what you own.2516. The best men throughout all history, have been the most humble.2517. Affectation is a form of pride. It is, in fact, pride made ridiculous and contemptible. Affectation is usually the fault of weak people.2518. Avoid swearing. An oath is but the wrath of a perturbed spirit.2519. It ismean. A man of high moral standing would rather treat an offense with contempt, than show his indignation by an oath.2520. It isvulgar: altogether too low for a decent man.2521. It iscowardly: implying a fearof either notbeing believed or obeyed.2522. It isungentlemanly. A gentleman, according to Webster, is agenteel man—well-bred, refined.2523. It isindecent: offensive to delicacy, and extremely unfit for human ears.2524. It isfoolish. "Want of decency is want of sense."2525. It isabusive—to the mind which conceives the oath, to the tongue which utters it, and to the person at whom it is aimed.2526. It isvenomous, showing a man's heart to be as a nest of vipers; and every time he swears, one of them starts out from his head.2527. It iscontemptible—forfeiting the respect of all the wise and good.2528. It iswicked: violating the Divine law, and provoking the displeasure of Him who will not hold him guiltless who takes his name in vain.2529. Be a gentleman. Swear not at all.2530. Moderation, decorum, and neatness, distinguish the gentleman; he is at all times affable, diffident, and studious to please. Intelligent and polite, his behavior is pleasant and graceful.2531. Appear only to be a gentleman, and its shadow will bring upon you contempt; be a gentleman, and its honors will remain even after you are dead.2532. The foregoing remarks may be said to apply to the moral conduct, rather than to the details of personal manners.2533. Great principles, however, suggest minor ones; and hence from the principles laid down, many hints upon personal behavior may be gathered.2534. Be hearty in your salutations.2535. Be true in your professions.2536. Discreet and sincere in your friendships.2537. Like to listen rather than to talk.2538. Behave, even in the presence of your relations, as though you felt respect to be due to them.2539. In society never forget that you are but one of many.2540. Visiting a friend, conform to the rules of his home.2541. Lean not upon his tables, nor rub your feet against his chairs.2542. Pry not into letters that are not your own.2543. Pay unmistakable respect to ladies everywhere.2544. Beware of foppery and of silly flirtation.2545. In public places, be not pertinacious of your rights.2546. Find pleasure in making concessions.2547. Speak distinctly.2548. Look at the person to whom you speak.2549. When you have spoken, give him an opportunity to reply.2550. Avoid drunkenness as you would a curse; and modify all appetites, especially those that are acquired.2551. Dress well, but not superfluously.2552. Be neither like a sloven, nor like a stuffed model.2553. Keep away all uncleanly appearances from the person. Let the nails, the teeth, and in fact, the whole systemreceivesalutaryrather thanstudiedcare. But let these things receive attention at the toilet—not elsewhere.2554. Avoid displaying excess of jewelry. Nothing looks more effeminate upon a man.2555. Every one of these suggestions may be regarded as the centre of many others, which the earnest mind can not fail to discover.2556. Avoid envy, for it can not benefit you, nor can it injure those against whom it is cherished.2557. Avoid disputation, for the mere sake of argument.2558. Be sociable; avoid reserve in society.2559. Remember that the social elements, like the air we breathe, are purified by motion. Thought illumines thought, and smiles win smiles.2560. Be punctual. One minute too late has lost many a golden opportunity. Besides which, the want of punctuality is an affront offered to the person to whom your presence is due.2561. Be polite. Politeness is the poetry of conduct—and like poetry it has many qualities.2562. Let not your politeness be too florid, but of that gentle kind which indicates refined nature.2563. It is true, indeed, that we should not dissemble and flatter in company; but a man may be very agreeable, strictly consistent with truth and sincerity, by a prudent silence where he can not concur, and a pleasing assent where he can.2564. Now and then you meet with a person so exactly formed to please, that he will gain upon every one that hears or beholds him; this disposition is not merely the gift of nature, but frequently the effect of much knowledge of the world, and a command over the passions.2565.Ceremonies.—All ceremonies are in themselves very silly things; but, yet a man of the world should know them. They are the outworks of manners and decency, which would be too often broken in upon, if it were not for that defense which keeps the enemy at a proper distance.2566.Thereforealways treat fools and coxcombs with great ceremony, true good-breeding not being a sufficient barrier against them.2567.Agreeableness.—The true art of being agreeable is to appear well-pleased with all the company, and rather to seem well entertained with them than to bring entertainment to them.2568. Eschew personalities and personal adventures; nothing is more tedious than one who is addicted to talk prodigiously about himself.2569. Never, in a mixed company, speak disrespectfully of woman.2570. Treat your parents with the greatest possible respect. Restrain yourself even from smiling at their foibles, or their weaknesses. Obey them, even should you yourself be of mature age.2571. To restrain your desire for indulgences is not only well bred, but it is heroic; much good results from it. Watch well the little sins, and you will escape those which are more gross. This applies, not only to morals, but to the minor morals—the manners.2572. A badly-tempered man, and he who has no command over his passions, will rarely become a polished gentleman.2573. If you have children, be careful to behave well before them. Remember that the child naturally and easily imitates the actions of his parent, be they good or evil.2574. Any thing which is essentially out of place is vulgar.Thus, an over familiarity with servants is vulgar, because it is out of place, and can only lead to a bad result.RULES OF ETIQUETTE.2575. In walking with a gentleman, the step of the lady must be lengthened, and his shortened, to prevent the hobbling appearance of not keeping step.2576. Of course, the conversation of a stranger, beyond asking a necessary question, must be considered as a gross insult, and repelled with proper spirit.2577. Having dressed yourself, pay no further attention to your clothes. Few things look worse than a continual fussing with your attire.2578. Never scratch your head, pick your teeth, clean your nails, or worse than all, pick your nose in company; all these things are disgusting. Spit as little as possible, and never upon the floor.2579. Do not lounge on sofas, nor tip back your chair, nor elevate your feet.2580. If you are going into the company of ladies, beware of onions, spirits, and tobacco.2581. If you can sing or play, do so at once when requested, without requiring to be pressed, or make a fuss.2582. On the other hand, let your performance be brief, or, if ever so good, it will be tiresome.2583. When a lady sits down to the pianoforte, some gentleman should attend her, arrange the music-stool, and turn over the leaves.2584. Do not make yourself too conspicuous in those attentions. The lady, not the gentleman, is the performer.2585. Never tattle, nor repeat in one society any scandal or personal matter you hear in another.2586. Give your own opinion of people, if you please, but never repeat that of others.2587. Meeting an acquaintance among strangers in the street or a coffee-house, never address him by name. It is vulgar and annoying.2588. It is not considered fashionable to introduce two persons who accidentally meet in your parlor, and who are paying you a morning visit.2589. Never introduce in the street, unless the third person joins and walks with you. You may make an exception to this rule when the parties are mutually desirous of knowing one another.2590. When a gentleman is presented to a lady, if she is in her own house and desires to welcome him, she may shake hands with him; but on any other occasion, unless the gentleman is venerable, or the bosom friend of the husband or father, this practice is reprehensible.2591. A lady is at liberty either to take another lady or a gentleman to pay a morning visit to a friend, without asking permission; but she should never allow a gentleman the same liberty.2592. A lady who is invited to an evening assembly may always request a gentleman who has not been invited by the lady of the house, to accompany her.2593. If you are walking with one lady, do not stop to converse with others who are unknown to her; as she must necessarily feel unpleasant; but, if with a gentleman, you may do as you please.2594.Visits and Presentations.—Friendship calls should be made in the forenoon, and require neatness, without costliness of dress.2595. Calls to give invitations to dinner parties, or balls, should be very short, and should be paid in the afternoon.2596. Visits of condolence require a grave style of dress.2597. A formal visit should never be made before noon. If a second visitor is announced, it will be proper for you to retire, unless you are very intimate, both with the host and the visitor announced; unless, indeed, the host expresses a wish for you to remain.2598. Visits after balls or parties should be made within a month.2599. In the latter, it is customary to enclose your card in an envelope, bearing the address outside. This may be sent by post, if you reside at a distance. But, in the neighborhood, it is polite to send your servant, or to call. In the latter case, a corner should be turned down.

2500. Whatever objections may be raised to the teachings of works upon etiquette, there can be no sound argument against a series of simple and brief hints, which shall operate as precautions against mistakes in personal conduct.

2501. Avoid intermeddling with the affairs of others. This is a most common fault.

2502. A number of people seldom meet but they begin discussing the affairs of some one who is absent. This is not only uncharitable but positively unjust. It is equivalent to trying acause in the absence of the person implicated.

2503. Even in the criminal code, a prisoner is presumed to be innocent until he is found guilty. Society, however, is less just, and passes judgment without hearing the defense.

2504. Depend upon it, as a certain rule,that the people who unite with you in discussing the affairs of others, will proceed to scandalize you the moment that you depart.

2505. Be consistent in the avowal of principles. Do not deny to-day, that which you asserted yesterday. You may fancy that you gain favor by subserviency; but so far from gaining favor, you lose respect.

2506. Avoid falsehood. There can be found no higher virtue than that of truth.

2507. Be honest. Not only because "honesty is the best policy," but because it is a duty to God and to man.

2508. Avoid idleness—it is the parent of many evils. Can you pray, "Give us this day our daily bread," and not hear the reply, "Do thou this day thy daily duty?"

2509. Avoid telling idle tales, which is like firing arrows in the dark; you know not into whose heart they may fall.

2510. Avoid talking about yourself; praising your own works; and proclaiming your own deeds. If they are good, they will proclaim themselves; if bad, the less you say of them the better.

2511. Be kind in little things.

2512. The true generosity of the heart is more displayed by deeds of minor kindness, than by acts which may partake of ostentation.

2513. Reason is given for man's guidance. Passion is the tempest by which reason is overthrown. Under the effects of passion, man's mind becomes disordered, his face disfigured, his body deformed.

2514. A moment's passion has frequently cut off a life's friendship, destroyed a life's hope, imbittered a life's peace, and brought unending sorrow and disgrace.

2515. Avoid pride. If you are handsome, God made you so; if you are learned, some one instructed you; if you are rich, God gave you what you own.

2516. The best men throughout all history, have been the most humble.

2517. Affectation is a form of pride. It is, in fact, pride made ridiculous and contemptible. Affectation is usually the fault of weak people.

2518. Avoid swearing. An oath is but the wrath of a perturbed spirit.

2519. It ismean. A man of high moral standing would rather treat an offense with contempt, than show his indignation by an oath.

2520. It isvulgar: altogether too low for a decent man.

2521. It iscowardly: implying a fearof either notbeing believed or obeyed.

2522. It isungentlemanly. A gentleman, according to Webster, is agenteel man—well-bred, refined.

2523. It isindecent: offensive to delicacy, and extremely unfit for human ears.

2524. It isfoolish. "Want of decency is want of sense."

2525. It isabusive—to the mind which conceives the oath, to the tongue which utters it, and to the person at whom it is aimed.

2526. It isvenomous, showing a man's heart to be as a nest of vipers; and every time he swears, one of them starts out from his head.

2527. It iscontemptible—forfeiting the respect of all the wise and good.

2528. It iswicked: violating the Divine law, and provoking the displeasure of Him who will not hold him guiltless who takes his name in vain.

2529. Be a gentleman. Swear not at all.

2530. Moderation, decorum, and neatness, distinguish the gentleman; he is at all times affable, diffident, and studious to please. Intelligent and polite, his behavior is pleasant and graceful.

2531. Appear only to be a gentleman, and its shadow will bring upon you contempt; be a gentleman, and its honors will remain even after you are dead.

2532. The foregoing remarks may be said to apply to the moral conduct, rather than to the details of personal manners.

2533. Great principles, however, suggest minor ones; and hence from the principles laid down, many hints upon personal behavior may be gathered.

2534. Be hearty in your salutations.

2535. Be true in your professions.

2536. Discreet and sincere in your friendships.

2537. Like to listen rather than to talk.

2538. Behave, even in the presence of your relations, as though you felt respect to be due to them.

2539. In society never forget that you are but one of many.

2540. Visiting a friend, conform to the rules of his home.

2541. Lean not upon his tables, nor rub your feet against his chairs.

2542. Pry not into letters that are not your own.

2543. Pay unmistakable respect to ladies everywhere.

2544. Beware of foppery and of silly flirtation.

2545. In public places, be not pertinacious of your rights.

2546. Find pleasure in making concessions.

2547. Speak distinctly.

2548. Look at the person to whom you speak.

2549. When you have spoken, give him an opportunity to reply.

2550. Avoid drunkenness as you would a curse; and modify all appetites, especially those that are acquired.

2551. Dress well, but not superfluously.

2552. Be neither like a sloven, nor like a stuffed model.

2553. Keep away all uncleanly appearances from the person. Let the nails, the teeth, and in fact, the whole systemreceivesalutaryrather thanstudiedcare. But let these things receive attention at the toilet—not elsewhere.

2554. Avoid displaying excess of jewelry. Nothing looks more effeminate upon a man.

2555. Every one of these suggestions may be regarded as the centre of many others, which the earnest mind can not fail to discover.

2556. Avoid envy, for it can not benefit you, nor can it injure those against whom it is cherished.

2557. Avoid disputation, for the mere sake of argument.

2558. Be sociable; avoid reserve in society.

2559. Remember that the social elements, like the air we breathe, are purified by motion. Thought illumines thought, and smiles win smiles.

2560. Be punctual. One minute too late has lost many a golden opportunity. Besides which, the want of punctuality is an affront offered to the person to whom your presence is due.

2561. Be polite. Politeness is the poetry of conduct—and like poetry it has many qualities.

2562. Let not your politeness be too florid, but of that gentle kind which indicates refined nature.

2563. It is true, indeed, that we should not dissemble and flatter in company; but a man may be very agreeable, strictly consistent with truth and sincerity, by a prudent silence where he can not concur, and a pleasing assent where he can.

2564. Now and then you meet with a person so exactly formed to please, that he will gain upon every one that hears or beholds him; this disposition is not merely the gift of nature, but frequently the effect of much knowledge of the world, and a command over the passions.

2565.Ceremonies.—All ceremonies are in themselves very silly things; but, yet a man of the world should know them. They are the outworks of manners and decency, which would be too often broken in upon, if it were not for that defense which keeps the enemy at a proper distance.

2566.Thereforealways treat fools and coxcombs with great ceremony, true good-breeding not being a sufficient barrier against them.

2567.Agreeableness.—The true art of being agreeable is to appear well-pleased with all the company, and rather to seem well entertained with them than to bring entertainment to them.

2568. Eschew personalities and personal adventures; nothing is more tedious than one who is addicted to talk prodigiously about himself.

2569. Never, in a mixed company, speak disrespectfully of woman.

2570. Treat your parents with the greatest possible respect. Restrain yourself even from smiling at their foibles, or their weaknesses. Obey them, even should you yourself be of mature age.

2571. To restrain your desire for indulgences is not only well bred, but it is heroic; much good results from it. Watch well the little sins, and you will escape those which are more gross. This applies, not only to morals, but to the minor morals—the manners.

2572. A badly-tempered man, and he who has no command over his passions, will rarely become a polished gentleman.

2573. If you have children, be careful to behave well before them. Remember that the child naturally and easily imitates the actions of his parent, be they good or evil.

2574. Any thing which is essentially out of place is vulgar.Thus, an over familiarity with servants is vulgar, because it is out of place, and can only lead to a bad result.

2575. In walking with a gentleman, the step of the lady must be lengthened, and his shortened, to prevent the hobbling appearance of not keeping step.

2576. Of course, the conversation of a stranger, beyond asking a necessary question, must be considered as a gross insult, and repelled with proper spirit.

2577. Having dressed yourself, pay no further attention to your clothes. Few things look worse than a continual fussing with your attire.

2578. Never scratch your head, pick your teeth, clean your nails, or worse than all, pick your nose in company; all these things are disgusting. Spit as little as possible, and never upon the floor.

2579. Do not lounge on sofas, nor tip back your chair, nor elevate your feet.

2580. If you are going into the company of ladies, beware of onions, spirits, and tobacco.

2581. If you can sing or play, do so at once when requested, without requiring to be pressed, or make a fuss.

2582. On the other hand, let your performance be brief, or, if ever so good, it will be tiresome.

2583. When a lady sits down to the pianoforte, some gentleman should attend her, arrange the music-stool, and turn over the leaves.

2584. Do not make yourself too conspicuous in those attentions. The lady, not the gentleman, is the performer.

2585. Never tattle, nor repeat in one society any scandal or personal matter you hear in another.

2586. Give your own opinion of people, if you please, but never repeat that of others.

2587. Meeting an acquaintance among strangers in the street or a coffee-house, never address him by name. It is vulgar and annoying.

2588. It is not considered fashionable to introduce two persons who accidentally meet in your parlor, and who are paying you a morning visit.

2589. Never introduce in the street, unless the third person joins and walks with you. You may make an exception to this rule when the parties are mutually desirous of knowing one another.

2590. When a gentleman is presented to a lady, if she is in her own house and desires to welcome him, she may shake hands with him; but on any other occasion, unless the gentleman is venerable, or the bosom friend of the husband or father, this practice is reprehensible.

2591. A lady is at liberty either to take another lady or a gentleman to pay a morning visit to a friend, without asking permission; but she should never allow a gentleman the same liberty.

2592. A lady who is invited to an evening assembly may always request a gentleman who has not been invited by the lady of the house, to accompany her.

2593. If you are walking with one lady, do not stop to converse with others who are unknown to her; as she must necessarily feel unpleasant; but, if with a gentleman, you may do as you please.

2594.Visits and Presentations.—Friendship calls should be made in the forenoon, and require neatness, without costliness of dress.

2595. Calls to give invitations to dinner parties, or balls, should be very short, and should be paid in the afternoon.

2596. Visits of condolence require a grave style of dress.

2597. A formal visit should never be made before noon. If a second visitor is announced, it will be proper for you to retire, unless you are very intimate, both with the host and the visitor announced; unless, indeed, the host expresses a wish for you to remain.

2598. Visits after balls or parties should be made within a month.

2599. In the latter, it is customary to enclose your card in an envelope, bearing the address outside. This may be sent by post, if you reside at a distance. But, in the neighborhood, it is polite to send your servant, or to call. In the latter case, a corner should be turned down.

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