He knew that philosophers never made a greater mistake than in insisting so much upon beginning abstract education from the cradle.

It is quite enough to attend to an infant's temper, and correct that cursed predilection for telling fibs which falsifies all Dr.Reid's absurd theory about innate propensities to truth, and makes the prevailing epidemic of the nursery.

Above all, what advantage ever compensates for hurting a child's health or breaking his spirit?
Never let him learn, more than you can help it, the crushing bitterness of fear.

A bold child who looks you in the face, speaks the truth, and shames the devil; that is the stuff of which to make good and brave--ay, and wise men! Maltravers entered, unannounced, into this charming family party, and stood unobserved for a few moments, by the open door.

The little pupil was the first to perceive him, and, forgetful of monosyllables, ran to greet him; for Maltravers, though gentle rather than gay, was a favourite with children, and his fair, calm, gracious countenance did more for him with them than if, like Goldsmith's Burchell, his pockets had been filled with gingerbread and apples.