Chapter I: Preface

I have noticed that young people are fond of reading anecdotes, narratives, parables, &c. This taste of theirs sometimes leads them to devour all the trash that comes in their way, with no other object than mere amusement. But, if properly guarded, it may be the means of conveying truth to their minds in a form not only more attractive, but more readily understood. The design of this book is, to supply reading of this kind, which shall be not only _entertaining_ but _instructive_. I never write for the amusement of the reader merely. But I am glad if he is entertained at the same time that he is instructed.

This book is not a mere compilation of stories. Its main object is to illustrate truth and character. No anecdote has been admitted but such as could be turned to this account; and if suited to this purpose, the question has not been asked whether it was new or old. But nearly every one has been entirely rewritten, presented in a new dress, and made to bear on the object in view. The work was suggested, while writing my last two publications, "How to be a Man," and "How to be a Lady." I had designed to illustrate the topics there treated of, in this manner, but could not find space. The favor with which these works have been received, has encouraged me to undertake something of the kind separately. I have prepared two volumes, one for boys and one for girls, but the matter in each is entirely distinct. The same anecdote is in no instance introduced into both books; though in some cases the topics are similar. They form _a pair_, for the rising youth of both sexes; and if they shall contribute in any degree towards forming their characters, after the true model, my object will be attained.

_Grantville, Mass., Sept. 1847._

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER I.

THE BOY MAKES THE MAN.--Benedict Arnold--George Washington--Gov.
Ritner--Roger Sherman. 9

CHAPTER II.

FILIAL PIETY.--George Washington--obey God rather than man--a
son's love--filial piety rewarded--filial tenderness--filial
impiety punished--think how you will feel when your parents are
gone--benefit of obedience--reward of
disobedience--conscientious obedience--cheerful obedience,
sullen obedience, and disobedience. 16

CHAPTER III.

SOCIAL VIRTUES AND VICES.--Brotherly affection--the golden
rule--gratitude and benevolence--manners--overcome evil with
good--use of the tongue--contention--punctuality. 31

CHAPTER IV.

BAD COMPANY AND BAD HABITS.--Green, the reformed
gambler--profaneness--playing truant--ruin of a deacon's
son--bad books--intemperance--going to the theatre--gaming 70

CHAPTER V.

INDUSTRY--LABOR, &c.--An Indian story--business first and then
pleasure--industry. 90

CHAPTER VI.

TRUE GREATNESS.--Anecdotes of President Jefferson, Chief Justice
Marshall, Chancellor Kent, and Dr. Franklin. 97

CHAPTER VII.

ADVANTAGES OF HONESTY.--Colbert--two opposite examples--fruits
of dishonesty. 101

CHAPTER VIII.

PURSUIT OF KNOWLEDGE.--Reading--love of learning--dislike of
study. 109

CHAPTER IX.

MISCELLANEOUS SUBJECTS.--Fickleness--independence of
character--contentment--the old black sheep. 115

CHAPTER X.

RELIGION.--Religious knowledge--the Sabbath--early piety
recommended--uncertainty of life. 124

ANECDOTES FOR BOYS.