I would here acknowledge my indebtedness to Prof. Lewis B. Monroe, Dean of Boston University School of Oratory, for what I have learned of expression in elocution; to Prof. A. Graham Bell of Boston for valuable instruction in articulation and inflection; to Prof. Edward B. Oliver of Mendelssohn Musical Institute of Boston for his most excellent instruction in tone.

The method of study of this book is the result of the knowledge gained from these three superior instructors. The plan of Part Three will be found to be that of Monroe's Sixth Reader.

METHOD OF STUDY OF ELOCUTION.

Part First, a series of gymnastics to give strength and elasticity to the muscles used in speaking, to expand the chest, and to get a correct position of body, so that speaking may be without effort, and yet powerful.

Part Second, a system of vocal exercises for daily practice, to train the voice, and get command of tone, quality, pitch, inflection, force, stress, articulation, and right manner of breathing.

Part Third, the application of the vocal exercises to the reading of short extracts, showing the effect when thus applied, and showing the difference between the seven styles,—conversational, narrative, descriptive, didactic, public address, declamatory, and emotional or dramatic.

There will be found references to select pieces in Baker's "Reading Club and Handy Speaker," for practice in the different styles of reading.

Hoping this little book may be of benefit to many, it is sent forth to help those who love the art, but with no thought of recommending this book for self-instruction, and substituting it for the instruction to be gained from a good teacher of the art. If a good teacher is not to be had, use this book.

WALTER K. FOBES.

Cambridge, Mass., October, 1877.