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8  Juvenile Letters.

Letter III.

Master John Learner to his Sister.
Boston, July 15, 1799.

Dear Sister,

It has become so fashionable of late, in our family, to write letters, that I have ventured to take up the pen to see what I can do in that way. When I asked leave of our master to write my letter in school, he offered to furnish me with a copy ; but I told him that I was not afraid to expose my composition to sister Becky. I had two reasons for not accepting his kind offer. One was, I thought I should learn more by making my own sentences; and the other, that I did not know but I might wish to write something of a private nature. He commended my resolution, telling me that practice was the only thing to make one perfect.

I have read Eliza's "Birth Day Present," with great satisfaction. Cannot you recommend an entertaining book to me? I have a little


Juvenile Letters. 9

little time to read, every day, beside attending to my lessons ; for you must know that my kite does not engross all my leisure hours. 

When I see you, I shall have many things to tell you. Till then, I remain
Your affectionate brother,
JOHN LEARNER

Miss Rebecca Learner.


Letter IV.
Answer to the foregoing.
Salem, July 20, 1799

Dear Brother,

Your letter gave me great pleasure; especially as you therein discover a disposition to acquire useful knowledge to reading. Your kite and your ball may doubtless be made beneficial to your health, when used at proper times ; but how few there are, of your age, who have resolution to judgment sufficient to adopt your plan! And how thankful ought we

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