subversive of the good order of the school, or the rights of his
companions, is called before the master, who thinks that the most
powerful weapon to wield against him is the Bible. So while the
trembling culprit stands before him, he administers to him a reproof,
which consists of an almost ludicrous mixture of scolding, entreaty,
religious instruction, and threatening of punishment. But such an
occasion as this is no time to touch a bad boy's heart. He is steeled,
at such a moment, against any thing but mortification, and the desire to
get out of the hands of the master; and he has an impression, that the
teacher appeals to religious principles, only to assist him to sustain
his own authority. Of course, religious truth, at such a time, can make
no good impression. There may be exceptions to this rule. There
doubtless are. I have found some; and every successful teacher who reads
this, will probably call some to mind, some which have occurred in the
course of his own experience. I am only speaking of what ought to be the
general rule, which is, to reserve religious truths for moments of a
different character altogether. Bring the principles of the Bible
forward when the mind is calm, when the emotions are quieted, and all
within is at rest; and in exhibiting them, be actuated not by a desire
to make your duties of government easier, but to promote the real and
permanent happiness of your charge.

(4.) Do not be eager to draw from your pupils, an expression of their
personal interest in religious truth. Lay before them, and enforce, by
all the means in your power, the principles of christian duty, but do
not converse with them for the purpose of gratifying your curiosity in
regard to their piety, or your spiritual pride by counting up the
numbers of those who have been led to piety by your influence. Beginning
to act from christian principles is the beginning of a new life, and it
may be an interesting subject of inquiry to you, to ascertain how many
of your pupils have experienced the change. But, in many cases, it would
merely gratify curiosity to know. There is no question too, that in very
many instances, the faint glimmering of religious interest, which would
have kindled into a bright flame, is extinguished at once and perhaps
for ever, by the rough inquiries of a religious friend. Besides if you
make inquiries, and form a definite opinion of your pupils, they will
know that this is your practice, and many a one w