November 5

Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courte- ous.—I PET. iii, 8.

How sweet the charms of courtesy!

And gracious words how sweet!

No virtue of the soul can be

Without this grace complete.

Its fragrant breath befits the rose

Such pleasure from politeness grows.

JOHN S. VAN CLEVE.

Hear every man upon his favorite theme,

And ever be more knowing than you seem.

The lowest genius will afford some light,

Or give a hint that had escaped your sight.

STILLINGFLEET.

The power of manners is incessant—an element as unconcealable as fire. . . . There are certain manners which are learned in good society, of that force that, if a person have them, he or she must be considered, and is everywhere welcome, though without beauty, wealth, or genius. . . . The basis of good manners is self-reliance. . . . Manners require time, as nothing is more vulgar than haste. . . . They must always show self-control; you shall not be facile, apologetic, or leaky, but king over your word; and every gesture and action shall indicate power at rest. Then they must be inspired by the good heart. There is no beautifier of complexion, or form, or behavior, like the wish to scatter joy and not pain around us. 'Tis good to give a stranger a meal or a night's lodging. 'Tis better to be hospitable to his good meaning and thought, and give courage to a companion. We must be as courteous to a man as we are to a picture, which we are willing to give the advantage of a good light. Special precepts are not to be thought of; the talent of well-doing contains them all.

RALPH WALDO EMERSON.