Genius never grows old; young to-day, mature yesterday, vigorous
to-morrow: always immortal. It is peculiar to no sex or condition, and
is the divine gift to woman no less than to man.--_Juan Lewis._
~Gentleman.~--A gentleman's first characteristic is that fineness of
structure in the body which renders it capable of the most delicate
sensation; and of structure in the mind which renders it capable of the
most delicate sympathies; one may say, simply, "fineness of nature."
This is of course compatible with heroic bodily strength and mental
firmness; in fact, heroic strength is not conceivable without such
delicacy.--_Ruskin._
It is a grand old name, that of gentleman, and has been recognized as a
rank and power in all stages of society. To possess this character is a
dignity of itself, commanding the instinctive homage of every generous
mind, and those who will not bow to titular rank will yet do homage to
the gentleman. His qualities depend not upon fashion or manners, but
upon moral worth; not on personal possessions, but on personal
qualities. The Psalmist briefly describes him as one "that walketh
uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his
heart."--_Samuel Smiles._
There is no man that can teach us to be gentlemen better than Joseph
Addison.--_Thackeray._
~Gentleness.~--Fearless gentleness is the most beautiful of feminine
attractions, born of modesty and love.--_Mrs. Balfour._
Gentleness is far more successful in all its enterprises than violence;
indeed, violence generally frustrates its own purpose, while gentleness
scarcely ever fails.--_Locke._