The prison mirror. [volume] (Stillwater, Minn.) 1887-1894, 1891-01-08

upon, in proportion to our Increased faciil-
ties and the constantly enhancing develop
ment of our intellectual and moral forces.
In the past two centuries, during which our
cOuntrymen have achieved such marvels OF
personal sacrifice. and self-denial. such vic
tories over apparently insurmOuntable diff
cultiss in every department of social life
it is as much. nay even more, to tho un-
hsralded and uncrOwned heroes of the iA-
dustrial and humber ranks-tO the mon OF
brain, muscle and undaunted energy who
have had to fight every inch of the way
against encouragement, neglect, disparage-
ment. envy, and even organized opposition
that we owe Americas present proud posi-
ton in the departments of art, science,
commerce, and social ethics.
With but few exceptions. every man and
woman who has risen above the ordinary
level. and earned the proud distinction of a
''level. headed person. "has struggled, round
by round, up the ladder of fame and fort
une. They were not intimidated or dis
pirited by few slips or failures; they did
not start suddenly into public notice. like
the meteor across the lit sky--fashing
brightly for moment. only to descend stia
more rapidly into endless Oblivi0n-but they
rose step by step into the confidence and es-
TEEN of their fellow citizens, and the MEM
achievements will long outlive. in the hearts
of the people, the ''sculptured urn and mon
umental bust," of the high-bOrn and
wealthy.
What they have done. we can do;
but we must act out the same principles,
or we cannot expect similar results. 1st
We must not attempt too much at time.
''slOw but sure" must be our motto. What
we do learn, must be learned thoroughly
and well-frSt ascertaining whether or not
we have a special aptitude for the chosen
pursuit. Artists, poets, mechanicians, ad-
ministratOrs and scientists are born not
made. Nature alone can make us experts
education of itself can never impart it.
2nd. Having determined on certain course
of action or study. we must pursue it un-
finchingly. resOlutely, and not be turned
aside by ridicule. censure, dictation, or per-
suasen of any kind. Have the courage of
our opinions at all times. 3rd. We must
maintain strict integrity in thought. word
and action. If we commit an error, own
up at once. retrace our step, or repair if we
can-but never shuttle out of responsible
ity. 4th. We must not weaken or succumb
to pressure of opposition. adversely. or false
accusations; nor waste time in mourning
over calamities. All things are ours. if we
perseveringly and patiently wait. 5th. We
must never exercise the cowardly maneuver
of excepting on the fence;" or resort to
falsehood. subterfuge or fraud to gain our
ends. If we do so our triumph will be but
short; and our downfall inevitable and|fatal.
Strong and invincible in the justice of our
cause. we may let it rest on its merits and
defy all our enemies.
1t is in the power of each and every one
of us to be recognized as members of the
invincible phalanx of ''level- headed men,"
Put the past behind us. and look to that
only which is before; avoid having too good
an opinion of ourselves or our attainments;
and obliterate the word impossible" from
our dictionaries-and the victory will be
ours. F. j. G.
CharlestOwn Prison, Mass.