principally extracted from the works of the most esteemed authors of the present century, and particularly suitable for Recitation and Reading. Few of these pieces have ever appeared in any similar publication, and they are accompanied by some which are original. To those which more immediately rank under the head of Impassioned Pieces, as well as to those of a Comic character, are appended directions for their delivery; which, it is hoped, may render at least a trifling assistance to the scholar. To afford him some exercise in the figures of Rhetoric, the names of such as are exemplified in the various Impassioned pieces, are placed at the head of each, which it is believed has the advantage of novelty. The character of Poetry and the Laws of Versification, are, it is presumed, treated in such a way as to be thoroughly intelligible to the juvenile mind; and the principal Figures of Rhetoric are exemplified by extracts which have been selected, not only for their appropriateness, but their beauty. Under the head of Elocution, directions are given for the modulation of the voice and the expression of the passions, in as concise a manner as the nature of the subject will admit; the writer being convinced from long experience, that conciseness is particularly desirable in conveying instruction to youth. The observations on the Structure of Language present, at least, an interesting though a superficial collection of facts, and may possibly have the effect of drawing the attention of youth more deeply to the subject. In conclusion, the writer earnestly solicits indulgence for any inaccuracy that a critical eye may discover ; and, in extenuation, offers the fact of the work having been entirely compiled during such hours as are usually devoted to rest and recreation, after days spent in professional duties. 8, Upper Fountain-Place, City Road. |