SOME THINGS A GIRL OF SIXTEEN SHOULD KNOW.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 7417, 31 May 1902, Page 3

SOME THINGS A GIRL OF SIXTEEN SHOULD KNOW.

(Woman.) First, about herself: Her chief bodily organs and their functions, and how to keep then in the best working order. Her leading traits of character, and how to develop Che right and curtail the wrong. Her duty to herself, iiod, in the family, church, and the world. Her rights, civil and moral. Second, in the education field: How to read aloud pleasantly and intelligently. How to write a note or letter in good English, with at least fair penmanship and, correct spelling of ordinary words. How to draw a cheque, or endorse it properly j and how to deposit money at the bank. How to calculate rapidly in the making oi cnange for purchases, even in the matter ot tractions — as two and a half yards of ribbon at s|d. How to keep simple accounts, tiome of tne leading authors of the day, with a backward glance at some of tihe oia masters, and some of the leading works ot each. A good deal aoout her own city and county, with a good general knowledge ot ncr own country, ita leaders, etc. A fair outline of the geographical position of the leading countries ot the civilised world, with a little information , as to the leading, rulers. A good deal of JtJible history, ilibie literature ana j>ible characters. xaurd, in tae home: How to sweep, dust and put a room in order, neatly, quietly, and with but Uttle expenditure ol vitality. How to set a table tastefully, wait on it gracefully (and cheerluily !), clear it away exp'ecuttously, and wasn tae dishes scientifically. How to make beds properly. How to wash, starca and iron such articles as she wears. How to cut, make, fit and mend her underclothing, hex plain dresses, and her commoa wraps. How to trim her own ihats, and repair all .her garments, except snoes. How to keep them in pertect order. How to make and .mend everything, above the mattress, on her bed. How to cook potatoes in at least half-a-dozen ways; 'common meats and vegetables; make at least fair bread, biscuits and griddle-cakes; some kinds of cake and a cup of tea, coffee, chocolate or cocoa, and something appetising for the family invalid; how to cook cereals, and no* have them eiOaer soggy or whishywashy. How to entertain, and 4»e entertained. . ' Fourth, among her associates: How to .make friends, hold them, overlook faults, and help build up the beßt that is in them. How to say "Yes," and stick to it; and how to say " No," graciously and with due regard to reason. • How to be dignified without seeming priggish, and !how to be bright and gay without being silly. n»» or sarcastic. Fifth, among older people: How to be deferential, helpful and " good company, without being forward and bold. Sixth, ia society: How to work for the general .good, forgetful of self and of selfisa ends, yet not allowing self to be entirely disregarded, but to hold the balance true, with keen discernment and nice adjustment. To be able to receive hospitalities with wisdom, and dispense tohem with "race. How to bring congsaial eltineats together, and to harmonise those wuicn are noc wholly bo. I±ow w> receive friends with cordiality, gifts wita expressed gratitude, and disappointments ! without fretful words, face or voice, now to do, rauaer than to spend the entire time,talent and strength im balking; With these accomplishment, and attritions, ever, a girl w.th a p^iai face plainer clothing, and few ornaments, save those of ! a mental and spiritual nature, wEI^ be a welcome addition in any ■home* or to any ' chuwh, eociety or circle *&*£*: is it a difficult thin* *» lbEW!a a * OOf k b

down and examine yourself in each department. Wherever you arer deficient, put in a certain amount of time each week. In a year you will see a gi-eat difference in your attainments. Half an hour a day devoted to selfimprovement will furnish your mind', and well ; for it will lay the foundations for something more. The great thing will be not to sit idly down and be content when you can do these things, but to go on, from one degree to a higher one. And while doing all this, and gaining afi this 'benefit, it -will help you if you will do all that is possible ia the way .of encouraging others to walk with you, to start on the road which will lead to happy life and a pleasant old age.