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Wilcox, Ella Wheeler, 1855-1919

"A Woman of the World Her Counsel to Other People's Sons and Daughters"


Tell little Charlie how proud you are to have a son who will be like his
father, and attend to the needs of and look after the interests of his
mother and sisters.
Make him think that to be of service to you or his sisters is one of the
first steps toward manhood, as indeed it is.
When he performs any small kindness, praise his manliness.
Teach him to open doors, and to make way for women and elders, as a part
of manly courtesy.
Speak with gentle disapproval of the unfortunately common type of
American boy who pushes women and older people aside to scramble into
public conveyances and secure a seat before them.
Say how proud you are that your son could not be guilty of such unmanly
conduct.
When you are walking with him, call his attention to any woman or child
or poor man in trouble, and if his services can be of use, urge him to
offer them.
I saw one day a small boy spring to the aid of an old coloured woman who
had dropped a lot of parcels in the street, and I thought it was a
certain evidence that his mother was a rare and sweet woman.


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