We see no harm in your engaging in business with your husband’s consent, but if he does not wish it and can provide well for you without, we should certainly advise you to yield to his wishes. Married women can discover many home occupations and amusements, and in other ways develop their minds and talents. There is no necessity for home life becoming monotonous. The question of propriety does not enter into the subject. Consider your husband’s wishes because you love him and do not disagree with him unless it is a matter of principle. What did you marry him for if you wanted to go into business? If he had desired a business woman for a wife he would probably have married one.
“I am eighteen years of age and am very much in love with a young man, but there are several things about him which annoy me exceedingly, and I hope you will be kind enough to give me your opinion. This young man wears very good clothing, but when we go out together I frequently notice that his garments need brushing, his linen is soiled and his finger nails are in a dreadful condition. Are these faults serious, or are they only trifles? I have been brought up to be very particular, but I do not intend to be over-fastidious. Ought not a man to always be clean shaven when he goes out with a lady?
“Arabella W.”
We can understand your feelings perfectly, my dear girl, for there is hardly anything more repulsive than uncleanly habits. It is possible the young man has had no training in this direction, but, of course, this does not excuse him entirely. We would advise you to use a little tact in throwing out hints.
Speak admiringly of the neat habits of others whom you meet, and see if you cannot awaken him to a sense of his own shortcomings. If he does not mend his ways, and you really intend to marry him, we should advise you to call his attention to each defect, kindly and considerately. If he becomes indignant and refuses to yield to your suggestions, we would certainly advise you to give him up. “Cleanliness is next to godliness,” and it is much easier to acquire. There is no excuse for either man or woman possessing uncleanly habits.
“A young man whom I have known for a month has asked me to marry him. He is handsome and agreeable, and I love him dearly. Do you think it is wrong to marry on such short acquaintance? He is nearly six feet tall and looks lovely on horseback. It will break my heart if you advise me not to marry him.
“Lida D. B.”
Poor Lida! We feel sorry for you, but what can we say? We have no desire to break your heart, but if we answer you at all we must try to speak honestly.