ENGLISH AND FRENCH SCHOOLBOYS.--THEIR CHARACTERISTICS.--THE QUALITIES
OF THE ENGLISH SCHOOL-BOY.--WHAT IS REQUIRED OF A MASTER TO WIN.
I have often been asked the question, "Are English boys better or worse
than French ones?"
Well, I believe the _genus_ boy to be pretty much the same all the
world over. Their characteristics do not show in the same way, because
educational systems are different.
Both English and French boys are particularly keen in finding out the
peculiarities of a master, and taking his measure.
They are both inclined to bestow their affection and respect on the man
who is possessed of moral and intellectual power; it is in their nature
to love and respect what is powerful, lofty, and good.
Boys are what masters make them.
Both English and French boys are lazy if you give them a chance; both
are industrious if you give them inducements to work. They will not
come out of their shells unless you make it worth their while.
Both are as fond of holidays as any school-master alive.
* * * * *
French boys are more united among themselves, because their life would
be intolerable if close friendship did not spring up between them, and
help them to endure a secluded time of hardship and privations.
English boys are prouder, because they are freer. Their pride is born
of liberty itself.
The former work more, the latter play more.
But comparisons are odious, especially when made between characters
studied under such different circumstances.
* * * * *
What I can affirm is that a Frenchman need not fear that English boys
(such as I have known at any rate) will take advantage of his
shortcomings as regards his pronunciation of the English language to
make his life uncomfortable. I have always found English boys
charitable and generous.
A Frenchman will experience no difficulty in getting on with English
schoolboys if his character wins their respect, and his kindness their
affection; if he sympathizes with them in their difficulties; if he
deals with them firmly, but always in a spirit of fair play, truth, and
justice; if he is
"To their faults a little blind,
And to their virtues very kind."