PREFACE.

THERE have been scores of books published containing selections for reading and speaking, but the author, in common with the public, has long felt the need of something different from what has yet appeared,—a book containing only the best-the choicest productions usually selected for public delivery-issued in a compact form, accompanied by a comprehensive, yet condensed, treatise on Elocution, sufficiently concise to be clearly understood, yet embracing the entire range of the subject.

To meet this want, the present volume has been prepared, with the heartfelt desire that it will fill the posiition for which it is designed, and prove effectual in its purpose.

It is earnestly believed that no person of fair natural abilities, by carefully studying and applying the principles presented in this book, and by giving the examples a reasonable amount of practice, can fail to become a good, effective reader and speaker.

The selection of pieces has been made with reference to their adaptation and intrinsic merit, and they will be found to cover the entire range of expression, many of them affording excellent opportunity for elocutionary effect. Each selection is accompanied by an explanatory

note indicating the manner in which it should be delivered. This will meet the ready appreciation of students and amateur readers.

In Part I. the author has endeavored to place before the reader the true principles of Theoretical Elocution, and in Part IV. Practical Elocution will be found exemplified. The exercises for Gesture, Calisthenics and Vocal Culture, it is confidently believed, are the best of their kind; and, if they are perseveringly practiced, advancement will be the inevitable result.

In conclusion, the author will merely say that, if this little book be the means of inspiring its readers to a higher knowledge of this beautiful art, it will have. performed its mission. F. H. F.