"They who are learning to compose and arrange their sentences with BLAIR. PRINTED FOR LONGMAN, HURST & CO. LONDON; 1857. Price, bound, Four Schillings. INTRODUCTION. WHEN the number and variety of English Grammars already published, and the ability with which some of them are written, are considered, little can be expected from a new compilation, besides a careful selection of the most useful matter, and some degree of improvement in the mode of adapting it to the understanding, and the gradual progress, of learners. In these respects, something, perhaps, may yet be done, for the ease and advantage of young persons. IN books designed for the instruction of youth, there is a medium to be observed, between treating the subject in so extensive and minute a manner as to embarrass and confuse their minds, by offering too much at once for their comprehension; and, on the other hand, conducting it by such short and general precepts and observations, as convey to them no clear and precise information. A distribution of the parts, which is either defective or irregular, has also a tendency to perplex the young understanding, and to retard its knowledge of the principles of literature. A distinct general view, or outline, of all the essential parts of the study in which they are engaged; a gradual and judicious supply of this outline; and a due arrangement of the divisions, according to their natural order and connexion, appear to be among the best means of enlightening the minds of youth, and of facilitating their acquisition of knowledge. The author of this work, at the same time that he has endeavoured to avoid a plan, which or too extensive, defective in its parts or irregular in may be too concise their disposition, has studied to render his subject sufficiently easy, intelligible, and comprehensive. He does not presume to have completely attained these objects. How far he has succeeded in the attempt, and wherein 12078 |