Hence their greater tact as displayed in the management of others,
women of apparently slender intellectual powers often contriving
to control and regulate the conduct of men of even the most
impracticable nature. Pope paid a high compliment to the
tact and good sense of Mary, Queen of William III., when
he described her as possessing, not a science, but (what was
worth all else) prudence.
The whole of life may be regarded as a great school of experience,
in which men and women are the pupils. As in a school, many of
the lessons learnt there must needs be taken on trust. We may not
understand them, and may possibly think it hard that we have to
learn them, especially where the teachers are trials, sorrows,
temptations, and difficulties; and yet we must not only accept
their lessons, but recognise them as being divinely appointed.
To what extent have the pupils profited by their experience in the
school of life? What advantage have they taken of their
opportunities for learning? What have they gained in discipline
of heart and mind?--how much in growth of wisdom, courage, self-
control? Have they preserved their integrity amidst prosperity,
and enjoyed life in temperance and moderation? Or, has life been
with them a mere feast of selfishness, without care or thought for
others? What have they learnt from trial and adversity? Have
they learnt patience, submission, and trust in God?--or have they
learnt nothing but impatience, querulousness, and discontent?
The results of experience are, of course, only to be achieved by
living; and living is a question of time.
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