Hints to Young Men: Choice of a Wife

"Young gentlemen, a word of advice to you in the choice of a wife. Don't allow yourself to be deceived and fascinated by a gay, dashing young lady, fond of company, extravagant, vain, artistical and showy in dress. It is a not a doll or coquette you want for a partner. Choose rather one of those retiring, modest, sensible, neat young ladies, who have learned to deny themselves, and possess a decided mind, and have acquainted themselves with the domestic affairs of a family."

From our latest book acquisition, a charming little volume entitled, "Cyclopedia and Compendium: Useful Knowledge". This ancient tome is sadly without a date of publication, but is apparently from the days when ladies were ladies, men were men, and both were expected to behave as such. Pretty good advice, actually - slipped in right along with the dictionary of the English language, dictionary of nautical terms, advice on how to conduct public meetings, cures for household ailments, a listing of all counties in the state of Alabama, etc., etc., under the quaint chapter heading, "Hints to Young Men." They don't write books like this any more . . .

One-liners from General Robert E. Lee

“I cannot consent to place in control of others one who cannot control himself.”

"I like whiskey. I always did, and that is why I never drink it."

"Obedience to lawful authority is the foundation of manly character."

“It is particularly incumbant on those charged with the instruction of the young to set an example of submission to authority.”

"You cannot be a true man until you learn to obey."

"Never do a wrong thing to make a friend or to keep one."

"In all my perplexities and distresses, the Bible has never failed to give me light and strength."