Responding to “Garcon” and his description of “The Wife I Want” in The Young Woman’s Journal of December, 1893, “Muchacha” describes her “Model Husband” in The Contributor of March, 1894:

If ever I marry, which I hope some day to do, I will wish for a man possessing as many as possible of the following characteristics. Perhaps, however, men will be as scarce as “the gold of Ophir” before I have any opportunity to wed, in which event I suppose they will be so noble as to be almost above criticism:

I would like him to be of good parentage, for with mankind as with animals, much depends upon the stock.

He should honor his parents, and love the Lord with all his heart; I will then be able to fearlessly follow wherever he may lead.

I desire him, if possible, to be of good outward form, but more particularly to be pure and upright in spirit, as these qualities will make a person beautiful and attractive whatever may be his peculiarities of for or feature.

I desire him to be industrious, methodical and prompt in the performance of all his duties, but never to be so much occupied that he cannot spend some portion of his time in conversation with myself and our children, if God blesses us by the bestowal of such gifts.

I desire him to consider me his helpmeet, and not his slave; thus he will talk with me about his business, that when the cares of life burden his soul, I may be allowed to help carry the load, as in his prosperity and blessing I expect to share the joy.

I desire him to give me a monthly allowance, such as he can afford, for personal use and household expenses, so that I may not be taunted by him with the words “It’s money, money, money, whenever I come in the house.” I hope to have some wisdom about expenditures, and not be required to ask my “lord” for every nickle I need, or to render an account for every dime I expend.

I want him to help make a HOME, whether the place of abode be a hovel or a palace. The way to assist in this is by his making his cheerful presence felt there as often and as much as his duties will permit.

I want him to reprove me kindly for my mistakes and short-comings, but not to compare me with other women either dead or alive whose qualifications may excel my own.

He should not torture me by even appearing to take more delight in the society of other women than myself. Plural marriage not being now possible, he should not waste his time or try my soul by “flirting” with other females.

His character and actions should be such as he would delight to see reproduced in his children.

He should be faithful in the gospel, courageous in spirit, wise in leadership, just in decision, kind in reproof, industrious in work and study, and truthful continually.

I want him to be proud of me, and not feel ashamed to introduce me in all society where he goes as his wife.

I would like him to be charitable in considering my failings, and when I give offense offer me kind reproof, but never treat me with silent contempt.

I will admire him, though it may sometimes cause me disappointment, if he will steadily and unswervingly pursue the path of duty, attending with fidelity and promptness to every requirement of his religious office.

I desire that he should speak to me kind words of encouragement to show that he appreciates my efforts to please him, and not take everything in a matter-of-fact way, as though it was exactly what he should receive. Even if he is worthy of my deepest thoughts and most devoted labors to please and comfort him he might occasionally express a word of praise.

I want him to be the head of the household, directing the footsteps of myself and family towards the goal of future and eternal glory and exaltation, where I hope we may be found worthy to dwell in the presence of our Maker.