Ill examples corrupt even the best natural disposition, and it is in
vain to instruct our children, their talents being only imitation, to
walk by one rule, if we ourselves go by another. The good precepts
which we may lay down to them, will be bestowed in vain, if they
see by our own conduct, that we pursue a contrary course to that
which we recommend to them. Parents therefore, who are desirous of
working an effectual reformation in their children, should begin by
making a visible amendment in themselves; and this is a duty they owe
to society, as well as to their offspring, it being of the utmost
importance to both, that probity and honour be early instilled into
their youthful minds, as these grow with their growth, and while at
the same time they command respect, they lay the foundation of their
individual happiness through life.
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