And just as surely as you pursue this line of conduct for ten years, just so surely will you find yourself at thirty far more attractive than at twenty, and at forty more lovely than at thirty. Learn to be a linguist, and acquire skill upon some one instrument, that you may entertain those who care to converse, and give pleasure to those who wish to be silent.
You are young, and life with its splendid possibilities is before you. There is nothing a woman with youth, will-power, and love may not accomplish—even to the convincing of the world that she is beautiful, when her mirror may say otherwise.
For enduring and all-encompassing beauty is a composite thing, and unless a woman possesses the spiritual and mental portions, the physical phase soon loses its attractions for the cultivated eye; while with the development of the first two, the third is certain to come.
Begin to-day, my dear girl, to grow beauty which shall make you a power and an influence in the world where you move, and which shall invite, rather than fear, the approach of time.
To Mrs. White Peak
One of the Pillars of Respectable Society
Ever since your call and our conversation regarding Sybyl Marchmont, I have felt a rising tide of indignation. It has reached the perigee mark and must overflow. If it reaches you and gives you a thorough soaking, I shall feel satisfied.
I have always known you were only half-developed. There are many such people in the world. They serve their purpose and often do much good. They miss a great deal of life, but as they rarely know that they miss anything, it is a waste of sentiment to pity them.