Neal's prominence and literary reputation make his essay on the ideal American woman worth reading. Eternal disgrace to him, who would betray her confidence, or endanger her honor. We hold up to the whole world, the faithful and loving helpmate of Brother Jonathan, as a model for every female to study, who seeks to attain to the position of wife. Ignorance may decry female accomplishments, may prate about feminine retirement, about her sphere being limited to the household circle, and all that. The soul of woman is a bright emanation from the great fountain of spirit.
Nothing softens female delicacy so much as knowledge.
Talk not to us of the blessings of ignorance. Cleanliness, neatness, frugality, and order, are also traits of character belonging to the subject we have chosen, and deserve special attention. To mental improvement, the wife should unite a correct knowledge of household affairs. She who is to preside over a family should be most intimately acquainted with every thing that can preserve order or promote comfort. She is the very personification of goodness and forgiveness, breathes the very atmosphere of love, and in her mouth is the law of kindness.