Rothsay Bay.—Of course, you should say grace before breakfast and dinner. A very usual form is, “For these, and all Thy mercies, we give Thee thanks, O Lord!” or, “O Lord! relieve the wants of others, and make us truly thankful.” It is certainly to be regretted that people who recognise the duty of returning thanks to God for the “daily bread” for which they pray, should mutter them hurriedly over, as if ashamed of them!
Bessie.—1. Cousins of any degree of nearness may be legally married. 2. May 27th, 1868, was a Wednesday.
Horseshoe inquires “why some people have different coloured eyes.” We will tell her if she can inform us why some people’s noses turn up and some turn down. Such peculiarities may be hereditary, but what the ancient origin of the distinctive features of various races may be we do not propose to investigate for our correspondents.
Heliotrope and Mary’s Lamb.—The word “marmalade” is of Greek origin, composed of two words, “apple” and “honey.” From the same source the French derive their kindred word marmelade, the Spaniards their mermelada, and the Portuguese their marmelo. The term is not merely applied to an orange confection, but likewise to one of apples and of quinces.
An Old Friend at Aachen.—We read your letter with much interest. We are not certain whether you intend to say you are earning £30 in English money and have also £30 income. If so, and you are now in a situation, you should dress on £20 and save the rest.
Vanity.—We have pleasure in directing attention to the opening of a home for destitute children of the upper classes at Tunbridge Wells. So much is done for the lower orders, and so very little for poor gentry, that we sincerely wish this little institution will meet with abundant support. Address Mrs. Ladds, hon. secretary, 11, South-grove, Tunbridge Wells. The objects are twofold—to provide a home for the children till able to earn a livelihood, and to offer temporary change of air to those whose parents (military, naval, or professional) can only make a small payment for it.
Jo.—1. We recommend you to go or write to the New Zealand Emigration Office in Victoria-street, Westminster, S.W., where you will obtain all the information you need. 2. The 14th of September, 1864, was a Wednesday.
Fauvette.—To fasten small shells on boxes, strong glue is used, or cement such as you buy at a chemist’s for mending china. We are much pleased that you value our paper. Of course, you are one of “our girls.”
Venture.—The poem is prose badly rhymed. How can you make a “thankoffering of a friend”? Your thoughts are confused, and your metaphors nonsense.
Alice Cann.—Your duty is to serve the Lord faithfully, relying on His grace and aid in whatever situation His Providence has placed you; but if one of special temptation, you may seek a less trying one when able. On no account, however, neglect your obedience to His command, and give up your attendance on His divine ordinances, especially that of Holy Communion. It would be the first step in a downward direction. We have a battle to fight, the “fight of faith,” and must “overcome evil with good.” You write a very pretty hand. Accept our best wishes.