A sacred regard to the principles of justice forms the basis of every
transaction, and regulates the conduct of the upright man of business.
He is strict in keeping his engagements.
Does nothing carelessly nor in a hurry.
Employs nobody to do what he can easily do himself.
Keeps everything in its proper place.
Leaves nothing undone that ought to be done, and which circumstances
permit him to do.
Keeps his designs and business from the view of others.
Is prompt and decisive with his customers, and does not over-trade his
capital.
Prefers short credits to long ones; and cash to credit at all times,
either in buying or selling; and small profits in credit cases, with
little risk to the chance of better gains with more hazard.
He is clear and explicit in all his bargains.
Leaves nothing of consequence to memory which he can and ought to
commit to writing.
Keeps copies of all his important letters which he sends away, and has
every letter, invoice, etc., relating to his business, titled, classed,
and put away.
Never suffers his desk to be confused by many papers lying upon it.
Is always at the head of his business, well knowing that if he leaves
it, it will leave him.
Holds it as a maxim that he whose credit is suspected is not one to be
trusted.
Is constantly examining his books, and sees through all his affairs as
far as care and attention will enable him.
Balances regularly at stated times, and then makes out and transmits
all his accounts current to his customers, both at home and abroad.
Avoids as much as possible all sorts of accommodation in money matters
and lawsuits where there is the least hazard.
He is economical in his expenditures, always living within his income.
Keeps a memorandum-book in his pocket, in which he notes every
particular relative to appointments, addresses, and petty cash matters.
Is cautious how he becomes security for any person; and is generous
when urged by motives of humanity.
Let a man act strictly to these habits; when once begun they will be
easy to continue in—ever remembering that he hath no profits by his
pains whom Providence doth not prosper—and success will attend his
efforts.