The former I pardon on account of their ignorance and the latter because I wish that Religion, which elevated society, should be respected.

I wish to be inspired with the spirit of him who gave me life and therefore desire to know about the obstacles encountered here in educational work." "The country will bless your memory, sir," said the schoolmaster, "if you carry out the beautiful plans of your dead father! You wish to know the obstacles which the progress of education meets?
Well then, under present circumstances, without substantial aid education will never amount to much; in the very first place because, even when we have the pupils, lack of suitable means, and other things that attract them more, kill off their interest.

It is said that in Germany a peasant's son studies for eight years in the town school, but who here would spend half that time when such poor results are to be obtained?
They read, write, and memorize selections, and sometimes whole books, in Spanish, without understanding a single word.

[63] What benefit does our country child get from the school ?" "And why have you, who see the evil, not thought of remedying it ?" The schoolmaster shook his head sadly.

"A poor teacher struggles not only against prejudices but also against certain influences.