"What are these, Benjamin," he inquired, at the same time holding up the letters. Benjamin smiled, and rather hesitated to reply. "So it seems you have been engaged in a controversy with John," continued Mr. Franklin. "You have both done very well, though I think there is some chance of improvement yet." "Have you read them all?" inquired Benjamin. "I have, and must say that, in some respects, John has the advantage of you." "In what has he the advantage?" asked Benjamin, with some anxiety. "Well, John writes in a more finished style than you do," answered Mr. Franklin. "His expressions are more elegant, and there is more method and perspicuity in his composition." "I rather think you are prejudiced," said Benjamin, with a smile. "_I_ rather think not," answered his father. "You have the advantage of John in correct spelling, and in pointing your sentences, which is the consequence of working in the printing-office. But I can convince you that less method and clearness characterize your letters than his." "I am ready to be convinced," added Benjamin. "I hardly expect I have attained perfection in writing yet." His father then proceeded to read from the letters of each, with the design of showing that John's writing was more perspicuous, and that there was more method in his argument. Nor was it a very difficult task. "I am convinced," said Benjamin, before his father had read all he intended to read. "I can make improvement in those points without much trouble. There is certainly a good chance for it." "That is what I want you should see," rejoined his father, "I am really pleased with your letters, for they show me that you have talents to improve. My only object in calling your attention to these defects is to aid you in cultivating your mental powers."