Spirit of the age. [volume] (Raleigh, N.C.) 1849-1865, 1858-12-22

we give him, or the lessons we appoint HIN,
as may be in a way suited to his own incli-
nations. Too many, by far, have engaged in
the cause that feel naught of their response
bility. Their aim is not to inspire within
the heart an ardent desire for knowledge, and
mental improvement to inculcate in their
minds a love for all that is true, and beauti-
full in mental observations; but merely the
gain of a few paltry dollars. Therefore, their
pupils are taught to execute a few snowy
paintings (Which their own hands had little
to do With to perform several brilliant pieces
Of music, to read a talented composition writ
ten by some dear friend (perhaps their kind
teacher) so as to enable them to show off with
proficiency on commencement day this be-
ing necessary for an increase of patronage
Alas! that such imposters should have the
charge of youth; nevertheless it is undoubted-
ly true. Many parents are ignorant enough
to let such pass unnoticed, especially if the
seminary has a sounding name. They had
rather pay hundreds of dollars, and place
daughters at such a school to learn the fash
lenable frivolties, than to encourage SOM tai
ented, noble teacher, near their own home
steads.
We do not pretend to assert that all semi
Larles are Of such a cast far from it we
know of the intrinsic value of many yetwe
A1 oocNAL lila IlCIB Is OltCn nOEc gus Ill l0-
male schools of high grade, than there should
be; and that there is often more value placed
on the name of the school, that on the knowl-
edge that should be required there. When
every teacher learns his or her responsibility
and exert all their influence in their proper
way, endeavoring to perform their duties,
then viii young aides learn their proper
sphere in life. 1t is then woman will study
her own nature, and live out her own true
| and independent lfe-independent through
v~irtuous and useful employment, looking as
. does the other sex to some respectable and
! honorable business. Let woman learn that
/, If necessary she can gain her own livelihood;
e let her spurn the tyrannies Of custom and
fashion, boldly launch into the employment
best suited to her capacities, and by perse-
yerance, by calm dignity and a lovely sense
T of duty, set before others an example, main
/, tanning ever her own independence, though a
. whole world may sheer. She would no Ion
ger be a mere doll in the matrimonial market
s but would look upon the woman that marries
for convenience, as one that forfeits all love
n and respect for the man she marries not uni
q ting herself for hope, heart, happiness, bat
for a home. She would have men and womef
'e mary, "f their inclinations, based upon g
D, true appreciation of character, a well foundee
esteem united to a deep and earnest affection
% prompt them to do SO; but she would rathei
V see a nation Of old maids, and old bachelors
= than a nation of unharmonious, u%nloving wed
IN ded wretchedness and Indifference" Let th'
sp Lords of Creation look at woman's genera
education when they would point the ffnge
an of scorn at her knowledge and ~frailties, ant
= be not surprised. Let her instructors b
such as they should be, let there be less ST
%perficial, and more genuine knowledge taugh'
'er let them but enjoy the advantages Of the otf
or sex, and woman will stand surpassed b
he none.