But there is something more to be guarded against than even bad writing and worse spelling in a correspondence:  saying too much—­writing that kind of matter which will not bear to be read by other eyes than those for which it was originally intended.  That this is too frequently done is amply proved by the love letters often read in a court of law, the most affecting passages from which occasion “roars of laughter” and the derisive comments of merry-making counsel.  Occurrences of this kind prove how frequently letters are not returned or burnt when an affair of the heart is broken off.  Correspondence between lovers should at all events be tempered with discretion; and, on the lady’s part particularly, her affectionate expressions should not degenerate into a silly style of fondness.

It is as well to remark here, that in correspondence between a couple not actually engaged, the use of Christian names in addressing each other should be avoided.

Demeanour of the Suitor during Courtship.

The manners of a gentleman are ever characterized by urbanity and a becoming consideration for the feelings and wishes of others, and by a readiness to practise self-denial.  But the very nature of courtship requires the fullest exercise of these excellent qualities on his part.  The lover should carefully accommodate his tone and bearing, whether cheerful or serious, to the mood for the time of his lady-love, whose slightest wish must be his law.  In his assiduities to her he must allow of no stint; though hindered by time, distance, or fatigue, he must strive to make his professional and social duties bend to his homage at the shrine of love.  All this can be done, moreover, by a man of excellent sense with perfect propriety.  Indeed, the world will not only commend him for such devoted gallantry, but will be pretty sure to censure him for any short-coming in his performance of such devoirs.

It is, perhaps, needless to observe that at such a period a gentleman should be scrupulously neat, without appearing particular, in his attire.  We shall not attempt to prescribe what he should wear, as that must, of course, depend on the times of the day when his visits are paid, and other circumstances, such as meeting a party of friends, going to the theatre, &c., with the lady.

Should a Courtship be Short or Long?

The answer to this question must depend on the previous acquaintanceship, connection, or relationship of the parties, as well as on their present circumstances, and the position of their parents.  In case of relationship or old acquaintanceship subsisting between the families, when the courtship, declaration, and engagement have followed each other rapidly, a short wooing is preferable to a long one, should other circumstances not create an obstacle.  Indeed, as a general rule, we are disposed strongly to recommend a short courtship.  A man is never well settled in the