| Citation |
BNL.748.001
21 Jan 1748:12 (2388)
From Farley's Bristol Journal, Octob. 10. As I have
frequently made my observations on the behaviour of many
married women, how much they have acted the termagent when
their husbands have gone astray, I cannot but censure their
ill conduct, bad consequences being often the result of it;
and do therefore advise to a quite different temper; to be
affable, kind, courteous, and condescending to their
husbands, that being the likeliest means to mend the matter
when they do amiss, and at length to prove an effectual
cure. An instance of this sort is a story . . . of which I
here recommend as a shining example, worthy of imitation by
both sexes. it is as follows;
On farmer potter, of the parish of Bow in Devonshire, (a man
much inclined to Sottishness) having occasion to sell a yoke
of oxen, drove them to Crediton Fair, about six or seven
miles distance; and meeting with a good fair, agreeable
entertainment, and jovial companions, he was mightily in his
element, and did not cry to go home; but tarry'd there some
weeks, singing the songs of the drunkard, until at last he
was disposed to set out for Bow, and taking his landlord
with him, they soon arrived at the farmer's house, where he
expected to meet with a warm reception from his wife; but
the good woman (as you'll find in the sequel) had formed a
better resolution.--. . . [he confessed all; she was kind,
softspoken and welcomed him; therefore they lived happily
ever after]: The farmer being so charm'd with the good
oeconomy of his wife Grace, told her, with tears in his
eyes, he would do so no more: and declared her his darling,
and the best of women: And from thence live temperate and
happy with dame Grace to the end of his days. But had she
storm'd him in the manner too many women are wont to do on
such occasions, there is the greatest probability in the
world, he would pursued his vicious course of life, and
bring down poor Dame Grace's grey hairs with sorrow to the
grave.
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