is, in reality, no obedience at all,
because it comes not from the heart. But Alfred was cheerfully enjoying
himself, in a capital long slide, upon a safe part of the pond. This was
true obedience. Suddenly, the ice broke where Robert was sliding, he
immediately went under water, and it was with difficulty that his life
was saved. The gentleman concluded that Alfred was a lad of integrity,
but that his two brothers were not to be trusted. Obedience secured him
happiness, and the confidence of the kind gentleman with whom he was
staying; while the others deprived themselves of enjoyment, lost the
gentleman's confidence, and one of them nearly lost his life; and yet,
to slide on the dangerous part of the pond would have added nothing to
their enjoyment. They desired it from mere wilfulness, _because it was
forbidden_. This disposition indulged, will always lead boys into
difficulty; and if they cherish it while boys, it will go with them
through life, and keep them always "_in hot water_."

CHAPTER III.

SOCIAL VIRTUES AND VICES.

SECTION I.--BROTHERLY AFFECTION.

_Sergeant Glanville._

Customs vary in different countries. In England, when a man dies without
making a will, his property goes to his eldest son. Mr. Glanville, who
lived in the days of Charles II., had an eldest son, who was incurably
vicious; and seeing no hope of reforming him, the father gave his
property to his second son. When Mr. Sergeant Glanville died, and his
eldest son learned what was done, he became greatly dejected, and in a
short time his character underwent an entire change. When his brother
perceived this, he invited him and a party of his friends to a feast.
After several dishes had been served, he ordered one, covered up, to be
set before his brother; which on being opened, was found to contain the
writings that conveyed to him the estate. This, he remarked was what he
was sure his father would have done, had he lived to witness the happy
change which they saw.

_Generosity of an elder brother._

Mr. H----, an ingenious artist, for want of employment, was reduced to
great distress, and applied to his elder brother, who was in good
circumstances, and begged some little hovel to live in, and some
provision for his support. His brother was melted to tears: "You, my
dear brother," said he, "you live in a hovel! You are a man; you are an
honor to the family. I am nothing. You shall take this house and estate,
and I will be your