A thing that is worth the doing, ought to be done quickly when the time is ripe for it.  A prompt man or woman is valued, as he respects his word and has due regard for the convenience of others.

EXECUTIVE ABILITY.

Wavering, timid and uncertain, the man without executive ability never achieves distinction in active life.  Intelligence to decide on any measure, firmness in adhering to the decision, and force of will in carrying it out, constitute executive ability, and are as essential to the business man as his stock in trade.

The timid man never makes up his mind until after the opportunity is past, or decides, then recalls his decision, and feels incapable of promptly estimating all the facts in the case.  This weakness is oftentimes natural, but more frequently it is a bad habit which should be broken up.

Rashness is to decide and act without taking the trouble to weigh intelligently the facts in the case.  This is inexcusable folly, and always brings serious trouble sooner or later.

Through executive ability the labor or services of one man may be made to produce largely, or without proper direction such services may be almost worthless; and in the case of many employees [Transcriber’s Note:  The original text reads ‘employes’] under one executive head, the results of this combined labor may be great success, or where executive ability is wanting, a great failure.

The successful farmer, merchant, manufacturer, banker, and professional man must have this combination of ability, firmness, and will power.

PERSEVERANCE.

Those who put their minds on their work, whatever kind that may be, and persist in its thorough execution; who get interested in something for their own advancement, that they may become more capable as men and women of sense and tact; such persons have a lively appreciation of the fact that success is never more certain to be gained by any other course.

These people have a just pride in learning the best methods of giving expression to the faculties and powers they possess, and which they desire to make the most of.  It is incumbent that they do all in their power for their own and other people’s good.  Feeling this, an ever present incentive keeps them employed, and they are never idle.

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If one does not succeed from persisting in doing the best he knows how, he may conclude that the ministry of failure is better for him than any worldly success would be.

CIVILITY.

Good behavior is an essential element of our civilization.  It should be displayed every day through courteous acts and becoming manners.

Politeness is said to be the poetry of conduct; and like poetry, it has many qualities.  Let not your politeness he too florid, but of that gentle kind which indicates a refined nature.