, United States (USA) (American Colonies)
1857 - Advice to Wives

ADVICE TO WIVES - A wife must learn how to form her husband's happiness, in what direction the secret of his comfort lies; she must not cherish his weaknesses by working upon them; she must not rashly run counter to his prejudices; her motto must be, never to irritate. she must study never to draw large upon the small stock of patience in a man's nature, nor to increase his obstinacy by trying to drive him; never if possible to have scenes. I doubt much if a real quarrel, even if made up, does not loosen the bond between man and wife, and sometimes, unless the affections of both are very sincere, lasting. If irritations should occur, a woman must expect to hear from most men a strength and vehemence of language far more that the occasion requires. Mild, as well as stern men, are prone to this exaggeration of language; let not a woman be tempted to say anything sarcastic or violet in retaliation. The bitterest repentence must needs follow if she does. Men frequently forget what they have themselves said, but seldom what is uttered by their wives. They are grateful, too, for forbearance in such cases for, whilst asserting most loudly that they are right, they are often conscious that they are wrong. Give a little time, as the greatest boon you can bestow to the irritated feelings of your husband.

Elmwood Advertiser
Elmwood, Kansas
Thursday, July 16, 1857

Visit United States (USA) (American Colonies)
Discover the people who lived there, the places they visited and the stories they shared.