Women of the middle ranks—in their relations with public life, industrial morality, etc.

Public spirit is the salt of history. It most evokes the interest of the reader; its ennobling example makes the deepest impression on the mind. The English Revolution of 1640—bringing into action not only political, but in a still higher degree religious elements—was a movement in which both sexes and all ages could take part. The want of a community of interest and sentiment in man and woman with respect to public affairs, is well illustrated by the manner in which the public press is severally regarded by them. Women confine their attention to notices of personal incident—to them never lacking interest—from a marriage in high life, to a criminal execution. In one respect, and in one respect only, women of the middle ranks at present take an active interest in the condition of the people. The sense of moral shame is greater in woman than in man.