Jasper County Democrat, Volume 3, Number 45, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 16 February 1901 — Washington’s Rules for Conduct. [ARTICLE]

Washington’s Rules for Conduct.

When Washington )vas 12 yenrs old his elder brother, Laurence, found neatly written In a book rules for liehavlor, which the lad had set down for his own guidance. No one had suggested such a plan to the child, which, of course, makes the fact the more remarkable. Wo give a few of these noble rules: Associate yourself with men of good quality, if you esteem your reputation; for it Is better to be alone than in bad company. Every action In company ought to be with aome sign of respect to those present. Speak not when others spenk; sit not when others stand; speak not when you should bold your peace; walk not when others stop. Wherein you reprove another. In* unblamable yourself; for example is better than precept. Labor to keep in your heart that little •park of celestial lire called conscience. Let your recreations be manful, not ■infill. Seek not to lessen the merits of others; neither give more thnn due praise. Be not hasty to believe flyiug reports to the injury of any. Go not thither where you know not whether yon shall Ik* welcome. Give not advice without being asked; nnd, when desired, do it briefly. Gase not on the marks nnd blemishes •f others, and ask not bow they came.

What you may speak in secret, deliver not before others. Think before you speak; pronounce not imperfectly, nor bring • out your words too hastily, but orderly and distinctly. Treat with men at right times about business, and whisper not in the company of others. Be not in haste to relate news if you know not the truth thereof. Undertake not what you cannot perform, but be careful to keep your promise. Speak not evil of the absent, for St is unjnet. Show not yourself glad at the misfortune of another, though he wen youy worst enemy.