This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1874. Not illustrated. Excerpt: … -*- to the discipline of the school. It was found very useful at the end of the school hours, to recall to the children all that had passed. Some of the individual reproofs are now omitted, as not suited for publication; but a few are retained, to show their style and nature. I here also omit the details of all the lessons, excepting those on the spelling, defining, and reading of English, which were always the first exercises of the morning, and are made more especially subservient to the main objects of the school. Before beginning the Journal I must, however, premise, in justice both to the school and myself, that, my record being made at the moment, a great deal was omitted. I found it impossible to seize and fix with my pen many of the most beautiful turns and episodes of the conversation, especially as I took part myself, and the various associations of thought in so large a company often produced transitions too abrupt for my tardy pen to follow, and graceful, humorous, and touching turns of thought and expression which could hardly be recorded by the most skilful reporter. December 29th.–When I arrived at the school-room, just after nine o'clock this morning, I found all the children sitting quietly at their desks, engaged in writing their journals or their spelling lessons. During this time of silent study, Mr. Alcott generally walks about the room, preparing pencils and pens at each seat, and making remarks. For the study of this lesson, an hour is generally appropriated, which gives time for the journalists also to learn it. About a quarter before ten, Mr. Alcott takes the seven younger members of this spelling class, as they cannot. use a dictionary very intelligently, and lets them spell the words over to him, and he tells them their meanings. Of …
