"They are not original with him, are they?" responded his wife.
"I think not; they must be a collection which he has made from time to time. It would not be possible for a boy of his age to produce such a code of manners and morals out of his own brain. Hear this," and he proceeded to read some of the "Rules."
"Associate yourself with men of good quality if you esteem your reputation, for it is better to be alone than in bad company."
"Good counsel, surely, and well expressed," remarked Mrs. Washington.
"It shows a degree of thoughtfulness and desire to be correct, beyond his years," added Lawrence. "The other rules are no less practical and significant." He continued to read:
"Every action in company ought to be with some sign of respect to those present.
"Speak not when others speak; sit not when others stand. Speak not when you should hold your peace. Walk not when others stop."
"That is paying attention to little things with a will," remarked Mrs. Washington.
"And that is what impresses me," responded Lawrence. "Most boys think that such small matters are beneath their notice, when attention to these secures attention to more important things."