It is
established as a principle that it is stupid not to know things,
and still more stupid to try and make other people aware that you
know them; and the apologies with which Maggie translated a French
menu at a house where we stayed with the children the other day
were delightful to behold.
I am very anxious that they should not be priggish, and I do not
think they are in any danger of becoming so. I suppose I rather
skim the cream of their education, and leave the duller part to the
governess, a nice, tranquil person, who lives in the village, the
daughter of a previous vicar, and comes in in the mornings. I don't
mean that their interest and alertness does not vary, but they are
obedient and active-minded children, and they prefer their lessons
with me so much that it has not occurred to them to be bored. If
they flag, I don't press them. I tell them a story, or show them
pictures. While I write these words in my armchair, they are
sitting at the table, writing an account of something I have told
them. Maggie lays down her pen with a sigh of satisfaction. "There,
that is beautiful! But I dare say it is not as good as yours,
Alec." "Don't interrupt me," says Alec sternly, "and don't push
against me when I'm busy.
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