The Mirror of True Womanhood

The chief object which the author had in view in undertaking to write this book was to help, so far as his abilities permitted, in withstanding the spread of the prevailing naturalism, which is daily invading more and more our homes, the minds and lives of parents as well as of children. If we can preserve the Home from its influence, by making of every mother a supernatural woman, living a life of faith, loving above all things selfdenial and self-sacrifice, fondly attached to the heroic ways and virtues of our ancestors, the Home, in our midst, will bring forth supernatural men and women, unselfish, pure, truth loving, trustworthy, and devoted to the best interests of country and religion. What is attempted here may encourage others to pursue the same theme with far better prospects of success. This holy emulation would in itself reward the labour bestowed on this book; and who knows but, imperfect as it is, it may bring happiness to more than one hearth, light to more than one mind, and nobler aims to more than one life hitherto wasted. It is not only the ripe fruits which autumn pours into our homes that are treasured by young and. old alike; the very last withered leaves which the storms of the dreary November weather whirl along the roadside, or through the forest wastes, may serve as a welcome couch to the benighted wayfarer or the homeless outcast.