other order, than as I
accidentally opened them, as follows:

"SIR, _March 1, 1709-10._

"Having a daughter about nine years of age, I would endeavour she
might have education; I mean such as may be useful, as working
well, and a good deportment. In order to it, I am persuaded to
place her at some boarding-school, situate in a good air. My wife
opposes it, and gives for her greatest reason, that she is too much
a woman, and understands the formalities of visiting and a
tea-table so very nicely, that none, though much older, can exceed
her; and with all these perfections, the girl can scarce thread a
needle: but however, after several arguments, we have agreed to be
decided by your judgment; and knowing your abilities, shall manage
our daughter exactly as you shall please to direct. I am serious in
my request, and hope you will be so in your answer, which will lay
a deep obligation upon,

"Sir,
"Your humble Servant,
"T. T.

"Sir, pray answer it in your _Tatler_, that it may be serviceable
to the public."

I am as serious on this subject as my correspondent can be, and am of
opinion, that the great happiness or misfortune of mankind depends upon
the manner of educating and treating that sex. I have lately said, I
design to turn my thoughts more particularly to them and their service:
I beg therefore a little time to give my opinion on so important a
subject, and desire the young lady may fill tea one week longer, till I
have considered whether she shall be removed or not.[132]

"Chancery Lane, _February 27, 1709_.
"MR. BICKERSTAFF,

"Your notice in the advertisement in your _Tatler_ of Saturday
last[133] about 'whetters' in and about the Royal Exchange, is
mightily taken notice of by gentlemen who use the coffee-houses
near the Chancery office in Chancery Lane; and there being a
particular certain set of both young and old gentlemen that belong
to and near adjoining to the Chancery office, both in Chancery Lane
and Bell Yard, that are not only 'whetters' all the morning long,
but very musically given about twelve at night the same days, and
mightily taken with the union of the dulcimer, violin, an