instance showed
through twenty years a series of such friendships on the part of a
well-meaning but foolish woman, in which her husband figured briefly,
passing on and off the stage as violently as, and even more speedily
than, the other "friends."

Too great familiarity with new acquaintances is impolite as well as
unwise. It cannot fail of seeming forced, and even if the friendship
is to be close and permanent, a hastily-laid foundation is never the
most secure.

One should never call a friend by his Christian name until he requests
one to do so.

_Illness in the Home_

Illness means that the order of the home life must be seriously
disturbed. Consideration for the one who is ill, and effort to
alleviate the suffering, should take the place of every other thought
and ambition. It is necessary, of course, that the routine of living
should be sufficiently preserved for the health of the others not to
be affected, but matters of comfort and well-being for all take
precedence of everything else.

The well should make all wise sacrifices for the sake of the ill, such
as being quiet about the house; never complaining at late or simple
meals; setting aside personal plans and comfort in order to assist, if
needed, in the care of the ill; looking out for the relief and comfort
of the nurse, upon whom the major part of the responsibility rests;
never grudging time or money in the effort to restore health; and,
above all, making these sacrifices in the spirit of love and not in
that of martyrdom. Many people, who make even unreasonable sacrifices
for others in times of emergency, do it so ungraciously, that one does
not feel that they are entitled to the thanks which they still
actually deserve and should receive.

Courtesy demands that the claims of the nurse and doctor be settled
promptly and generously. They were prompt in meeting the emergency.
There should be no delay in acknowledging the obligation to them, even
though their promptness is looked upon, by them and by society, as
part of their professional duty.

The convalescent takes such abnormally keen delight in being
remembered, that it is obligatory upon the rest of his family and his
friends not to forget him. Kindly messages should be frequent.
Trifling gifts frequently are better than large gifts occasionally,
unless the large gift is something greatly desired.

One should never fail to offer the easiest and best seat in the room
to an invalid, an eld