Independence Bell, The

"In Memoriam," (Extract)

Interesting Traveling Companion, An
Inventor's Wife, The

I Remember, I Remember

Isle of Long Ago, The

Italian on the Labor Question

Anon.

129

Alfred Tennyson

21

M. Quad

76

Thomas Hood

239

Rev. R. H. Barham

93

Victor Hugo

105

27

42

Anon.

245

.

John B. Gough

31

191

282

242

PREFACE.

HERE is a wonderful charm in the human

THERE

voice. With its marvelous gamut and its wide range of tone and pitch-from the silvery clearness of the upper register to the deep resonance of the lower notes-it is capable of reproducing all the emotions, from the softest words of endearment or sympathy to those of sternest denunciation. A good, flexible voice in speaking, is like music to the ear, and makes a pleasant impression upon every listener.

Next in importance to a good voice comes clear enunciation. Indeed, in a sense, it may be regarded as even more important, as careful and deliberate speech, in which every syllable is clearly pronounced, may not only make amends for whatever is lacking in vocal flexibility, but is frequently more impressive than the voice which, though richer in tones, is less careful in delivery. It is within the power of all to acquire the art of clear enunciation, and it is an art by no means to be despised, since upon its possession depends the success of everyone who aspires to read or recite acceptably, either in the home circle or in larger social gatherings.

This volume of Readings and Recitations has been compiled expressly to meet the needs of the very large class who have not had the advantage of professional training in the elocutionary art. While taking a wide range, including many of the best examples in dramatic, pathetic, humorous, descriptive, patriotic and religious literature, the examples are all well within the scope of the average reader. In this compilation will be found ample opportunity

for effective declamation to suit every taste and all sorts of audiences, whether they be disposed to mirth or sadness, comedy or tragedy. In the winter evenings, around the cheerful fire, and with friends and neighbors as auditors, or in the village hall or lyceum, or wheresoever the occasion may lead, these readings will make many an hour pass profitably and delightfully.

In reading or reciting, one should be natural, easy and unaffected. Nothing mars a reading so much as obvious self-consciousness. Speak slowly in all ordinary passages (sudden emotions should quicken the pace), pronounce every word, distinctly; and specially avoid "slurring" syllables or dropping the voice, as many do at the end of a sentence. Try to express character by tone, gesture and look, but always gently and in moderation. Do not attempt either high tragedy or broad comedy, but whatever the character or incident, let your delineation be temperate, with just force enough to give life and meaning to the interpretation.

With these few suggestions, we commend the volume to our readers, confident that they will find in it a genuine Treasury of Entertainment that will win for itself a hearty welcome everywhere.