Character is property. It is the noblest of possessions. It is an estate in the general goodwill and respect of men. They who invest in it, though they may not become rich in this world's good, but will find their reward in esteem and reputation fairly and honourably won. And it is fair and right that in life good qualities should tell that industry, virtue and goodness should rank the highest and that the really best men should be foremost.

Character is formed by a variety of minute circumstances, more or less under the regulation and control of the individual. Not a day passes without its discipline, whether for good or evil. There is no act, however trivial, but has its train of consequences, as there is no hair so small but casts its shadow. The best sort of character, however, cannot be formed without effort. There is a need for the exercise of constant self-watchfulness, self-discipline and self-control. There may be much faltering, stumbling and temporary defeat. There may be difficulties and temptations manifold to be battled with and overcome. But if the spirit is strong and the heart makes an effort to advance, to arrive at a higher standard of character then we have reached is inspiring and invigorating. Even though we may fall short of it, we cannot fail to be improved by every honest effort made in an upward direction.

Energy of the will, self-originating force is the soul of every great character. Where it is, there is life. Where it is not, there is helplessness and despondency. ``The strong man and the waterfall,'' says the proverb, ``channel their own path.'' The energetic leader of noble spirit not only wins a way for himself, but carries others also with him. Energetic character is an inspiration to the weak.

Hence character is a precious thing in the world, therefore if character is last then there is nothing worth saving in this world.