And why does the ideal wife fail to give the man happiness? Is it not because of her thought that her performance of many services entitles her to hope for more love and ampler appreciation? So when she does not obtain all this, she feels a stab in the very heart of her pride. And here are some proofs to support what I am about. It is natural that you should occupy one corner of your mind with a reckoning of your husband's finances, and I do not counsel you to lavishness and waste; but have you thought how deep a wound you send into his soul when he receives from you an answer like this to his gift: "But, my dear, you cannot afford to buy this!..."

He wished to express his love for you; so occupy your mind with nothing but the beauty of the gift, and with praise of his sound taste in choosing it.

Among the most sacred of duties is that you lend a hand to help him without his feeling his weakness, or his inability to carry out that task. And do you believe that he has absolute freedom, so that it is no duty of yours to concern yourself with his conduct? No, Madam — do not turn a blind eye to his movements; for a little jealousy, of the kind that does not spoil your aim, makes him feel your concern encircling him on every side.

Let him share your tears: do

not shed them out in the open, or in your hours of solitude, for fear he should suffer at the sight of you sad; for he feels happiness and reassurance when he shares your adversity. Do not deprive him of that pleasure, so that he may show his strength and his love for your life. And finally, let him feel that his presence brings you happiness, comfort, and contentment.

These are the opinions of writers of experience, which I have passed on to you; and you are bound to have an opinion of your own — either you will agree with what you have read or contradict it. But I hope that I have arrived with you at the goal toward which we set out!...