~*

158 © DO NOT BE TOO POSITIVE.

mistaken. Let this teach you to be more
modest and careful in future ; and, instead of
saying you are sure, say, I think so and so;
or, I believe so and so. No person ought
ever to say that he is positive of a thing,
when there is the least chance of mistake.”

“Mamma,” said Ellen, “may I go and
see Jane Hanson? she asked me to come.”

‘When did she ask you?” said her
mamma.

“ Yesterday, yesterday afternoon.”

“ Not yesterday, my dear.”

“Yes it was yesterday, inetoaia'* I saw
her on the green by the church.

“ Do not be posites Ellen ; it could not
have been yesterday.”

“Yes it was yesterday; I am certain it was
yesterday; I met her on the green, and she
asked me to come. y, mamma, how
could I be mistaken? I know it was yes-
terday.”

“That cannot be, Ellen, for I have just
been at Mrs. Hanson’s; and Jane went to
Providence in the coach, which set out at
seven, yesterday morning.”