Etrennes de la vertu pour l'année

Gifts of virtue for the year 1786 proposes morally sound stories for adolescents. In its fifth annual edition, the book aims to please both children and parents alike, through compelling tales of moral fortitude. In the preface, the editor expresses how deeply it touches young minds and appeals to parents concerned with their children’s moral education:

We have the satisfaction of learning that the young people wait for it impatiently, read it avidly, and that even, at certain parts, we have seen them cause gentle tears. Such sensitivity must be the most favorable prejudice for parents. And how an honest father is not flattered, in seeing his children enjoy a story of virtuous action! tacitum pertenant gaudia pectus; A secret joy then penetrates his soul. He tells himself indulgently, affectionately: My children have a good heart, because they are sensitive. In all likelihood they will be compassionate, generous humans, they will do good.