The Compiler has attempted to bring together inthis little volume the principles which should governconversation among persons of true refinement ofmind and character, and to point out some of themost common and easily besetting vulgarisms occurringin the colloquial English of our country and day.Part I. is an Address delivered before a Young Ladies'School, in Newburyport. Part II. is a Lecture addressedto the Literary, Scientific and Mechanics'Institution at Reading, England. Part III. is a reprintfrom the fourth English edition of "A Word tothe Wise, or Hints on the Current Improprieties ofExpression in Writing and Speaking," by ParryGwynne, a few passages not applicable to the habits[viii]of American society being omitted. Part IV. is composedof selections from two little English books,entitled, "Never too late to Learn: Mistakes of dailyoccurrence in Speaking, Writing and Pronunciationcorrected;" and "Common Blunders in Speaking[1]and Writing."
You have made me happy by your kind invitationto meet you, and to address you on this anniversary.A day spent in this room at your annualexamination, nearly two years ago, was a season ofprivilege and enjoyment not readily to be forgotten.I had previously entertained a high regard for yourinstructor. I then learned to know him by his work;and, were he not here, I should be glad to extendbeyond a single sentence my congratulations with youthat you are his pupils.
I have said that I accepted your invitation with[2]gladness. Yet, in preparing myself to meet you, Ifind a degree of embarrassment. This is for you aseason of recreation,—a high festival; and I amaccustomed to use my pen and voice only on graveoccasions, and for solemn services. I know not howto add to your amusement. Should I undertake tomake sport for you, my awkwardness would give youmore mirth than my wit. The best that I can do is toselect some subject that is or ought to be interestingto you, and to endeavor to blend a little instructionwith the gayer and more lively notes of the occasion.The lesson shall be neither tediously long nor needlesslygrave.
I propose to offer you a few hints on conversation.How large a portion of life does it fi