Doubtless the teachers selected their best scholars for the test—I think even Northern schools sometimes do that—but there can be little opportunity for deception in the reading of an unlearned lesson in a book, or in answers to questions in mental arithmetic, propounded by the visitors themselves.
Reid reflects on the selection of students for proficiency tests, suggesting a common practice in education.
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Brushing aside, then, these bugbears, gentlemen, what are the obvious duties of the hour?
I would rather give up my crop to the negroes than the lives of my wife and children.
The people have generally more education and refinement than in other parts of the State; their public improvements are better, and their country is every way more attractive.
Above all, if there is a trace of politics in their work, or of seeking for political effect at home, they will fail, and deserve to fail.