University of Virginia Library

PREFACE.

Well written Tales, with only real life
set forth, are profitable. A two fold object
is gained by such publications; interest
is blended with utility. No writings are
made so profitable as those which, while
they are eminently calculated to afford the
richest instructions to the mind, instructions
embodying the very elements of
virtue, awaken the finer sensibilities of our
nature by the exhibition of life as it is.
More moral principle is instilled into the
mind by the exhibition of a living example
than was ever accomplished by essayists

however correct might be their doctrines.
The ways of life are better learned by
seeing than any other way.

With these views of life and manners,
the publishers thought it would subserve
the interests of morality by giving a wider
circulation than otherwise could be done
of the matters of this volume. A few
choice poems are given for variety. Most
of the articles are taken from the Lady's
Book, a very popular monthly magazine
published in Philadelphia. The poems
are mostly from the Ladies' Companion,
published in New York. The publishers
can not object to so good matter being circulated.
The reputation of the magazines
will not hereby be impaired but rather the
works will be brought more into notice.

As it regards youth, this little volume

it is thought will prove very instructive.
Their minds are more susceptible of impression
than the more aged. If Mrs.
Woodbridge had been under like influences
in her mother's care as those improprieties
of her conduct and the talk of her neighbors
had upon her mind she would never
have been so reckless about the happiness
of her husband and his and her friends.
The difficulties of overcoming such effects
as her training produced upon her mind
while young are clearly seen in her reformation.
No young girl can read this story
(no matter if such persons as Mrs. W.
ever had an existence save in the author's
imagination) and then resolve to be such
a connubial tormentor. Married life is every
way calculated to yield enjoyment when
all the principles therein involved are duly
regarded; but if they are not regarded, it
will make its subject as miserable as they
would have been happy.

To promote the highest enjoyment of
matrimonial alliances, and encourage mutual
affection it is necessary that married
persons live for one another. This done
all will be well. So with the world, “Do
as you would be done by” is the great
maxim. To teach this important lesson
has been a special object in sending out
these pieces in the present form.