eight o'clock in the
evening
They have always paid nurses for the sick , sent them every proper refreshment , and allow the same sum weekly which the sick person could have gained , that the rest of the family may not lose any part of their support by the incapacity of one . When they found their fortunes would still afford a larger communication , they began to receive the daughters of persons in office , or other life-incomes , who , by their parents ' deaths , were left destitute of provision ; and when , among the lower sort , they meet with an uncommon genius , they will admit her among the number . The girls you see sit in the room with us are all they have at present in that way ; they are educated in such a manner as will render them acceptable where accomplished women of a humble rank and behaviour are wanted , either for the care of a house or children . These girls are never out of the room with us , except at breakfast and dinner , and after eight o'clock in the evening , at which times they are under the immediate care of the housekeeper , with whom they are allowed to walk out for an hour or two every fine day , lest their being always in our company should make them think their situation above a menial state ; they attend us while we are dressing , and we endeavour that the time they are thus employed shall not pass without improvement . They are clad coarse and plain for the same reason , as nothing has a stronger influence on vanity than dress . Each of us takes our week alternately of more particular inspection over the performances of these girls , and they all read by turns aloud to such of us as are employed about any thing that renders it not inconvenient to listen to them . By this sort of education my friends hope to do extensive good , for they will not only serve these poor orphans , but confer a great benefit on all who shall be committed to their care or have occasion for their service ; and one can set no bounds to the advantages that may arise from persons of excellent principles , and enlarged understandings , in the situations wherein they are to be placed .