Section 159. THE[1] WAY TO MASTER THE TEMPER.
Reading edition
Section 159. THE[1] WAY TO MASTER THE TEMPER.
A London (S. 157, N. 4) merchant, having[2] a dispute with a Quaker concerning a business account, determined[3] to institute a law-suit against him. Desirous of amicably settling[4] the matter, the Quaker called at the house of the merchant, when[5] the latter became so enraged that he vehemently[6] declared to his servant that he would (App. §§ 28 and 30) not see his opponent. “Well, friend,” said the Quaker quietly, “may[7] God put thee in a better mind.” The merchant was[8] subdued by the kindness of the reply, and, after careful consideration, became convinced that[9] he was wrong. He sent[10] for the Quaker, and[11] after making a humble apology, he asked: “How were you able to bear my abuse[11] with so much patience?” “Friend,” replied the Quaker, “I was naturally[12] as hot[13] and violent as thou art, but I knew that[14] to indulge my temper was sinful, and also very foolish. I observed that men in a passion always spoke very loud, and I thought that[15], if I could control my voice, I should keep down my passion. I therefore made[16] it a rule never to let it rise above a certain key; and by a careful observance of this rule I have, with the blessing of God[17], entirely mastered my[18] natural temper.”—Alcott.