he poultry and cattle. But he thought nothing of
these things; from day to day it was shoot! shoot! shoot!

Pursuing this course, it is not strange that Charles should grow up
rough in his manners, and coarse in his language. Gentleness is lovely
always, wherever found; but it appears most lovely in children and
youth. It indicates a good heart, and good training. It helps young
persons into the best society, and secures them warm and valuable
friends. Roughness of manner drives our friends from us, and prevents
many from becoming friends. This fact is illustrated in the history of
this spoiled boy. He might have had a large circle of friends, but now
few, very few indeed, loved or esteemed him.

One vice does not long remain alone. Idleness begets vice. Viciousness
shows itself in various forms: in lying, Sabbath-breaking, theft,
swearing, and intemperance. Charles grew worse and worse,--adding sin
to sin. He became greatly addicted to swearing. He frequently spent the
Sabbath in wandering about the fields, instead of attending church. He
found, as the depraved always do, kindred spirits, with whom he
associated. With these he learned to drink to excess, and was not
unfrequently under the influence of strong drink.

There is a standard in vice as well as in virtue. While some are held up
as models of virtue, others may be regarded as the very personification
of evil. We should learn to profit by both,--be encouraged by one, and
warned by the other.

The unfortunate boy whose history I am detailing finally became a
proverb in his native town. Good mothers often exhorted their children
not to be like Charles Duran! Who of my little readers would like such a
distinction as this? Try to live so that parents may point you out as
good examples for their children to follow.

CHAPTER VI.

THE FATAL NIGHT.

In country villages, as well as in larger cities, parties often meet for
dancing; and balls are frequently held, especially in the winter season.
Many young people, whose thoughts and time are not better occupied, seem
to derive a great deal of pleasure from such amusements.

These gatherings frequently embrace a large number of the young of both
sexes, from the towns in which they are held, and often many from
neighboring towns. They are usually held at some tavern where rum is
sold. The parties arrive in the forepart of the evening, and the dance
commences at eight, or from eight to nine o'clock, according