Do you have clothes enough on your bed? Ask for an extra blanket. I do
hope you will take care of yourself. When the rain beats against the
windows, I think, “Now who will see that he stands at the fire and dries
himself?” And you’re very apt to hoarse up nights. We are willing you
should go to see Dorry. Your uncle J. has been past his father’s place,
and he says there’s been a pretty sum of money laid out there. Behave
well. Wear your best clothes. Your aunt Phebe has bought a book for her
girls that tells them how to behave. It is for boys too, or for anybody.
I shall give you a little advice, and mix some of the book in with it.
Never interrupt. Some children are always putting themselves forward
when grown people are talking. Put “sir” or “ma’am” to everything you
say. Make a bow when introduced. If you don’t know how, try it at a
looking-glass. Black your shoes, and toe out if you possibly can. I
hope you know enough to say “Thank you,” and when to say it. Take your
hat off, without fail, and step softly, and wipe your feet.
Be sure and have some woman look at you before you start, to see that
you are all right. Behave properly at table. The best way will be to
watch and see how others do. But don’t stare. There is a way of looking
without seeming to look. A sideways way.
Anybody with common sense will soon learn how to conduct properly; and
even if you should make a mistake, when trying to do your best, it isn’t
worth while to feel very much ashamed. _Wrong_ actions are the ones to
be ashamed of. And let me say now, once for all, never be ashamed
because your father is a farmer and works with his hands. Your father’s
a man to be proud of; he is kind to the poor; he is pleasant in his
family; he is honest in his business; he reads high kind of books; he’s
a kind, noble Christian man; and Dorry’s father can’t be more than all
this, let him own as much property as he may.
I mention this because young folks are apt to think a great deal more of
a man that has money.
Your aunt Phebe wants to know if you won’t write home from Dorry’s,
because her Matilda wants a stamp from that post-office. If the colt
brings a very good price, you may get a very good answer to your riddle.