The Ladies’ Vase, or Polite Manual for Young Ladies, by “An American Lady” (©1847, published 1849). A small book of advice on etiquette and health. Includes topics such as “Politeness,” “Self-Possession,” “Sisterly Virtues,” and “Novel-Reading.”

I haven’t been able to find any information about “An American Lady.” She had some interesting ideas, though. In addition to calling avid novel-readers literary inebriates, she suggests sucking on charcoal to freshen the breath and outlines the argument for and against the education of female children. A rather far-ranging little tome.

Thanks to Julia Miller for Post-processing this book!