also, speaking of the naughty person and
wicked man, says, "He _winketh with his eyes_, he _speaketh with his
feet_." "He that _winketh with the eye_ causeth shame." How often do we
see this winking and speaking by gestures and knowing looks, when the
characters of others are under discussion! Open and unreserved evil
speaking is unchristian; but this winking and speaking with the feet is
mean and dishonorable. Whenever you perceive a disposition to make
invidious remarks about others, refuse to join in the conversation, and
manifest your decided disapprobation. "The north wind driveth away rain;
so doth an angry countenance a backbiting tongue." Bear in mind the
words of the apostle James: "If any man among you seemeth to be
religious, and _bridleth not his tongue_, but deceiveth his own heart,
this man's religion is vain." So you see the habitual indulgence of this
sin will cut off the hope of the loudest professors.

8. _Avoid speaking of yourself._ When any person makes himself and his
own affairs the principal topics of conversation, he shows himself to be
supremely selfish, and ridiculously vain. It is also treating others
with great disrespect: as though one's self were of more consequence
than the whole company. Endeavor to keep yourself as much as possible
out of view, and to direct the thoughts and conversation of the company
away from personal affairs, to intellectual, moral and religious
subjects. But, when any of your friends make known their difficulties to
you, manifest an interest in their affairs, sympathize with them, and
render them all the assistance in your power.

9. _Never indulge a suspicious disposition._ Many persons destroy their
own peace, and gain the ill-will of others, by the exercise of this
unhappy temper. You have no right to think others dislike you, until
they have manifested their dislike. Accustom yourself to repose
confidence in your associates. It is better to be sometimes deceived,
than never to trust. And if you are always jealous of those around you,
be sure you will soon alienate their affections. In your intercourse
with others of your own age and sex, be willing always to advance at
least half way, and with those whose habits are very retiring, you may
even go farther. Many persons of sterling worth have so low an opinion
of themselves, as to doubt whether even their own equals wish to form an
acquaintance. "A man that hath friends must show himself friendly."
Always put t