http://worldcat.org/entity/work/id/14684883

The book of good examples : drawn from authentic history and biography : designed to illustrate the beneficial effects of virtuous conduct

"In proposing Historical Examples to the young, the author of this work hopes to incite them to the study and practice of those active duties and virtuous habits which form the basis, not less of success in life and private happiness than of distinction and honour among men. Example is said to be better than precept. It certainly is more effective, inasmuch as it leads the pupil gently along that difficult path where precept seeks to drive, or merely to point the way. Precept says, "Go on!" Example says, "Come on! follow me!" The greater efficiency of the latter exhortation, especially with the young, who are naturally more imitative than obedient, must be obvious to every one. "Wise saws" are very good things; but "modern instances" are better. It must be observed, however, that in referring to the worthy actions of historical personages, these particular actions only are set forth as examples for imitation. Other well known deeds or traits of character, of the same personages, may be unfit for imitation, either by reason of the different position of the person, or the imperfection of those other traits of his character. The young reader, therefore, will understand that it is by no means the author's intention to recommend every historical personage, mentioned in this volume, as a model for imitation in his general character; but only with reference to the particular action or sentiment, which is the subject of commendation in the following pages"--Preface. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2009 APA, all rights reserved).

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