APRIL 14
Possibly you may have another difficulty to encounter, and one of a still more trying nature. Your mother, or your husband’s mother, may live with you; and you will do well to shew her all possible respect. But let her on no account have the least share in the management of your children. She would undo all that you had done; she would give them their own will in all things. … In fourscore years I have not met with one woman that knew how to manage grandchildren. My own mother who governed her children so well, could never govern one grandchild. In every other point obey your mother. Give up your will to hers. But with regard to the management of your children, steadily keep the reins in your own hands.
The Education of Children
He prepares occasions of fighting, that you may conquer.
Letter, 6th May, 1774
