Jemima.—1. We can only say to you what we have had to say to many—you must accept what terms you can get as a governess, your youth being against you: a “fault that will mend.” The trainer and caretaker, morally and physically, of children and young people under age is paid for her experience and extensive knowledge of many kinds, not merely for her acquirements in science and art. 2. “The Flowers of the Field,” by the Rev. C. A. Johns, is a nice book of the kind you require (43, Piccadilly, W.).
S. B. O. F. W.—We think your writing would pass for the examination you name; but if rounded a little it would be prettier. If you wish to know how you may serve Christ, read His own words (in the four gospels) and those of His apostles. Be much in prayer for the aid of the Holy Spirit, and try to perform the daily duties of life as in His sight. Deny yourself for others, control your temper, and set a good example.
MUSIC.
Dinah begs us to give her “a great ‘hunch’ of advice” as to the kind of instrument she may purchase for ten shillings, because, having rather limited means, amounting to “tenpence per week,” she “could not give a high price.” She thinks “a bango would suit her, because much like a nigger,” etc. We advise her to go to a musical instrument shop and see what she can get for the price she names.
Rob Roy.—One of the largest organs in the world is, we believe, that which you may see in the Royal Albert Hall, South Kensington. It is by Willis. It contains 111 sounding stops, and nearly 8,000 pipes. Next to it is the organ in St. George’s Hall, Liverpool, which has 5,739 pipes; and the Crystal Palace organ has 4,568 pipes. The organ may be splendidly played by a woman, but, on account of the foot pedals, it is by no means suitable for her. The strain upon the back and lower part of the frame is very apt to result in physical injury.
Mary Bird.—There is no reason why you should not play the flute, if you have one, excepting that it distorts the shape of the mouth—at least, for the time—and it is, we suppose, on this account unusual as an instrument for female culture. The clarionette would be equally objectionable for some faces, yet it is not unfrequently adopted by women. The oldest tune or piece of music in existence is of Hebrew origin—i.e., the “Blessing of the Priests,” which is used in the Spanish and Portuguese synagogues, and was sung in the Temple at Jerusalem from very remote times.
MISCELLANEOUS.
Sister to “Caged Beauty.”—Your request will be considered. We have a special interest in our girls and other readers scattered over our far-off colonies. Your letter is well expressed, and your handwriting is legible and fairly good.
“A Bothering Girl.”—The books of Esdras are in the collection called the “Apocrypha,” and this may be had from any library. These books are not inspired, though much that is good is to be found in them, together with curious fables and traditions. The books of the Maccabees are much thought of as historical works of great antiquity. A list of the canonical books of both the Old and the New Testaments is to be found in all Bibles, and that of the Lamentations of the Prophet Jeremiah is included amongst them.
Emma.—The reason that some words are printed in italics in the Bible is simply this: that there are no corresponding words in the original language from which the translation was made; but the English words supplied were necessary to give the meaning, which could not be understood without them. Perhaps when we give the following example you will understand what we mean. We all know what is meant when people say, “How do you do?” but translate it into French, word for word, and the meaning would be lost.