an.

3. GOOD EXAMPLE.--How natural is it for a child to look up to those around
him for an example of imitation, and how readily does he copy all that he
sees done, good or bad. The importance of a good example on which the young
may exercise this powerful and active element of their nature, is a matter
of the utmost moment.

4. A TRUE MAXIM.--It is a trite, but true maxim, that "a man is known by
the company he keeps." He naturally assimilates by the force of imitation,
to the habits and manners of those by whom he is surrounded. We know
persons who walk much with the lame, who have learned to walk with a hitch
or limp like their lame friends. Vice stalks in the streets unabashed, and
children copy it.

5. LIVE WITH THE CULPABLE.--Live with the culpable, and you will be very
likely to die with the criminal. Bad company is like a nail driven into a
post, which after the first or second blow, may be drawn out with little
difficulty; but being once driven in up to the head, the pinchers cannot
take hold to draw it out, which can only be done by the destruction of the
wood. You may be ever so pure, you cannot associate with bad companions
without falling into bad odor.

6. SOCIETY OF THE VULGAR.--Do you love the society of the vulgar? Then you
are already debased in your sentiments. Do you seek to be with the profane?
In your heart you are like them. Are jesters and buffoons your choice
friends? {12} He who loves to laugh at folly, is himself a fool. Do you
love and seek the society of the wise and good? Is this your habit? Had you
rather take the lowest seat among these than the highest seat among others?
Then you have already learned to be good. You may not make very much
progress, but even a good beginning is not to be despised.

7. SINKS OF POLLUTION.--Strive for mental excellence, and strict integrity,
and you never will be found in the sinks of pollution, and on the benches
of retailers and gamblers. Once habituate yourself to a virtuous course,
once secure a love of good society, and no punishment would be greater than
by accident to be obliged for half a day to associate with the low and
vulgar. Try to frequent the company of your betters.

8. PROCURE NO FRIEND IN HASTE.--Nor, if once secured, in haste abandon
them. Be slow in choosing an associate, and slower to change him; slight no
man for poverty, nor esteem any one for his wealth. Good friends should not
be easily forgotten, nor used as suits of apparel,