Two boys were passing an orchard on their way from school, in which there were some plum trees, full of nice fruit. “Come, Thomas,” said Henry, “let us jump over and get some plums. Nobody will see us. We can scud along through the tall corn, and come out on the other side.” Thomas replied, “It is wrong. I don’t like to try it. I would rather not have the plums than steal them, and I will run along home.” “You are a coward,” said Henry. “I always knew you was a coward; and if you don’t want any plums, you may go without them. But I shall have some very quick.” Just as Henry was climbing the wall, the owner of the field rose up from the other side. Henry jumped back and ran off as fast as his legs could carry him. Thomas had no reason to be afraid, and he walked along as if nothing had happened. The owner, who had heard the conversation between the two boys, then asked Thomas to step over and help himself to as many plums as he wanted.
This story teaches two lessons: (1.) It shows the advantages of honesty. An honest person is not afraid to look others in the face; and honesty, in the end, always turns out more to one’s advantage than dishonesty. (2.) It teaches wherein true courage consists: It is, in being afraid to do wrong. Henry called Thomas a coward, because he was afraid to do wrong; but he himself sneaked away like a whipped spaniel, the moment he saw any danger. Henry was the coward. He had neither the courage to resist temptation nor to face danger.
Fruits of dishonesty.
A young man from the State of Maine, of good abilities, went to Washington city, where he was admitted as a member of the bar, to practice law, with fine prospects. He was respected in society, and was a leader in the choir, in one of the churches in the city. But, in an evil hour, he discovered that there was a considerable amount of money in the Treasury, which had been allowed to claimants, but which had never been called for, and was not likely to be. The young man, thinking he should not be likely to be detected, forged drafts, and obtained money to the amount of several thousand dollars. But, it was not long before his sin found him out. He was detected, found guilty, and sent to the state’s prison.
CHAPTER VIII.
PURSUIT OF KNOWLEDGE.
Section I.—Reading.
HE that reads to be amused, will be like him that eats to gratify his appetite—an epicure. But he who reads to obtain useful information, and to improve his mind, will be like him who eats to sustain nature—strong and healthy. The former will be satisfied with nothing but dainties—the latter will prefer plain strong food.
Sir William Jones rose to great eminence. When he was a mere child, he was very inquisitive. His mother was a superior woman of great intelligence, and he would apply to her for the information which he desired; but her constant reply was, “Read and you will know.” This gave him a passion for books, which was one of the principal means of making him what he was. But, it is not every one who reads that will become wise.