It is useless for attendants to try to argue patients out of a belief in their delusions, and to do so often results in fixing them more firmly in the mind. We should not however pretend to believe them, nor humor their belief, nor allow them to carry out their delusions in their dress, conduct, and general behavior. _The Character of an Attendant._--The insane should always be treated with kindness, and nowhere is the golden rule "thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself" more necessary of application than in caring for them; and it is well for attendants, when tempted, to stop and think how, under like circumstances, they would want their mother or sister or brother treated. Keeping this noble teaching and this high motive for right-doing ever in mind, an attendant cannot go far astray. It is a development of character to care for the insane, and instead of being brutalizing, as some ignorant people say, it is elevating and humanizing. Attendants should never gossip, either among or about themselves, or of their patients. It is a mean and degrading habit to indulge in; it will undermine a good character, and often become overpowering and malicious. On the other hand, never be afraid to speak the truth, and never let a lie, or the semblance of a lie, pass your lips, or remain for a moment in your heart. Of all things be truthful. Attendants must acquire a spirit of willing obedience, of cheerful execution of all commands and directions, and of faithful performance of every duty that devolves upon them. Unless they have this spirit, they will be unable to successfully assume positions where obedience is to be exacted from others. They should preserve their own self-respect; in all things set a good example; be neat and tidy in their dress, gentlemanly or ladylike in their conduct; considerate of the wants and feelings of other attendants; they should "cherish a high sense of moral obligation; cultivate an humble, self-denying spirit; seek to be useful; and maintain at all hazards their purity, truthfulness, economy, faithfulness, and honesty" (Utica Asylum Rules and Regulations). In their relation to the institution, attendants should fulfil all their engagements with the same sense of right, that they expect will be observed towards them by those who employ them. It is a business contract that is assumed, and brings with it mutual legal responsibilities, rights, and obligations. Attendants should strive to so conduct themselves, that when they leave their employment they can go away with the respect of every one, and bear with them the reputation of a good character and of work well done.