Character and Conduct – 13 July – Conversation

THE tone of good conversation is flowing and natural;  it is neither heavy nor frivolous;  it is learned without pedantry, lively without noise, polished without equivocation.   It is neither made up of lectures nor epigrams.   Those who really converse, reason without arguing, joke without punning, skilfully unite wit and reason, maxims and sallies, ingenious raillery and severe morality.   They speak of everything in order that every one may have something to say:  they do not investigate too closely, for fear of wearying:  questions are introduced as if by-the-bye, and are treated with rapidity;  precision leads to elegance, each one giving his opinion, and supporting it with few words.   No one attacks wantonly another’s opinion, no one supports his own obstinately.   They discuss in order to enlighten themselves, and leave off discussing where dispute would begin:  every one gains information, every one recreates himself, and all go away contented;  nay, the sage himself may carry away from what he has heard matter worthy of silent meditation.

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These quotes are from ‘Character and Conduct’ A selection of helpful thoughts from various authors arranged for daily reading.

Collected by Constance M Whishaw and first published in 1905 as a follow up to her volume of Daily Readings for members of the Being and Doing Guild who asked for an additional volume

In her preface Whishaw writes:

‘This collection of noble thoughts expressed by men and women of past and present ages who have endeavoured to leave the world a little better than they found it.’

It is my hope in publishing them here readers may be inspired to imitate the example of the authors.