Morse Family letters & addresses

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(1 Nov '99) Directions for the behaviour of Samuel Finley Breese Morse by his Father--

1 Rise early in the morning-- read a chapter in the Bible, & say your prayers-- Read the Bible in course. The Old testament in the morning. The New Testament at night--

2 After a serious performance of these religious duties,-- comb your head & wash your face, hands & mouth in cold water, not hastily & slightly but thoroughly--

3 Get your lesson morning lesson well-- Behave decently at breakfast. Go regularly & reasonably to the Academy-- While there, in study hours, attend your lesson & get it thoroughly & try to be the best scholar in your class.

4 In play hours, while at play behave manly & honorably

Avoid everything low, mean, indecent, or unfair-- And endeavour to play in such a manner as that all may wish to have you on their side.

5. Obey your instructors in all things, promptly & cheerfully-- & that they may love you, & be able to give you a good character to your Parents.

6. Above all things, my Son, avoid lying & equivocating-- but speak the truth always however it may be against you. --And use no bad language nor any thing that is indecent or provoking-- Avoid quarrelling & live in love & peace will about you-- & conduct in all respects so that all may be your friends.--

7 At night say your prayers after reading a chapter & go to bed in season--

Pray every night & morning that God would forgive your Sins, & keep you from doing that whch is displeasing to him.-- added afterwards

8 Use your Instruction carefully, my Son,-- keep your books, your pen & ink & all other things in nice order. Let nothing be wasted ^{for want} of due attention.

Rules for my good Behaviour