on so rude, nor any proneness
to an outbreaking of temper, or to a violation of the courtesies of
life, which she cannot, and does not, restrain.

The influence of woman on the Intellectual condition of the world, is by
no means small, or unimportant. How many of our best literary
productions are from her pen. Science owes much to her. Galvani
acknowledged himself much indebted to his wife, for aid in those
investigations which led to the discovery of the science that bears his
name. Miss Herschel, sister of the distinguished astronomer, received a
gold medal from the Astronomical Society in London, in praise of her
contributions to their great work. In how many Seminaries of learning
has woman been the chief instrument in forming the minds of the youth,
not only of her own but of both sexes. Who has not marked, that where a
taste for reading and mental cultivation is found, there the female sex
is usually intelligent, educated, and refined. It follows indeed
naturally, that a well trained intellect will discover itself in the
intercourse of society, and that it will impart a tone to its familiar
associates. She who reads much and profitably, will converse upon the
subjects that have occupied her thoughts. This will incite others to
imitate her course; and pride is sufficient,--were no higher motive
awakened,--to induce man to make himself at least the companion and
equal of her who thus laudably cultivates the nobler part of her nature.

But should this position be questioned, none can doubt that in one
sphere the intellectual influence of woman can hardly be exaggerated. I
refer to that of the Mother. "What is wanting," said Napoleon, one day,
to Madame Campan, "in order that the youth of France be well educated?"
"Good mothers," was her reply. This struck the Emperor. "Here," said he,
"is a system of education in one word." Let the mind of this parent be
imbued with knowledge, and her children will imbibe from her the love of
learning. How often has she planted germs, which in subsequent years
expanded, and produced the fairest fruits of science and wisdom. It is
related of Alfred the Great, that at the age of twelve years, when he
had not even learned the alphabet, his mother once shewed him and his
brothers a volume adorned with versicolored letters and other
embellishments. Seeing it excite the admiration of the children, she
promised to present it to him who should first learn to read it. Alfred
immediately proc