Each one to do something for somebody, outside and apart from himself, every day of his life.

They all agreed to this, and told me to allot the tasks.

If I could have afforded it, I would have gotten a horse and cow, and had them take charge of them; but I could not do that, so I invested in a pair of rabbits for Jack, a pair of canaries for Carl, pigeons for Ned, and bantams for Willie.

I brought these creatures home, put them into their hands, and told them to provide for them.

They were delighted with my choice, and it was very amusing to see them scurrying about to provide food and shelter for their pets, and hear their consultations with other boys.