Note 4 — Chapter I · The Youth of George Washington.
Reading edition
There were fifty-four of these rules. All were important. We give a few as specimens.
Read no letters, books, or papers, in company. But when there is a necessity for doing it you must ask leave.
Show yourself not glad at the misfortune of another, though he were your enemy.
Strive not with your superiors, in argument, but always submit your judgment to others with modesty.
Use no reproachful language against any one.
Associate yourself with men of good quality, if you esteem your own reputation; for it is better to be alone than in bad company.
Speak not of doleful things in time of mirth, nor at the table. Speak not of melancholy things, as death and wounds, and if others mention them, change, if you can, the discourse.
When another speaks, be attentive yourself, and disturb not the audience. If any hesitate in his words, help him not, nor prompt him without being desired. Interrupt him not, nor answer him till his speech be ended.
Labor to keep alive in your breast that little spark of celestial fire called conscience.