594381 COPYRIGHT, 1889, A. SOUTHWORTH AND F. B. GODDARD. Norwood Press: PREFACE. As its title implies, the design of this book is twofold: (1) to provide for children such training in the ready use of good English, as they can never get by the study of grammar alone; and (2) to teach them the essential facts regarding the structure of sentences, and the kinds, forms, and uses of words. In recognition of the importance of this training, material for it has been given in abundance and variety in the first nine chapters, while in the rest of the book the grammar of the language is so presented as to be thoroughly intelligible to children. Though both composition and grammar contribute in greater or less degree to the same end, the ability to use language intelligently and with facility, yet they differ essentially in their character and method of treatment. For this reason as well as to secure a logical and orderly presentation of subjects, in the arrangement of the book no attempt. has been made to intermingle exercises in composition with work in grammar. Indeed, such is the diversity of opinion as to when children should begin the study of grammar, and such the consequent difference in their previous training and practice in the use of language, that composition-work selected for one class of beginners might be wholly inappropriate for another. It has been thought best, therefore, to leave the teacher, who alone can judge correctly, to make selections in kind and quantity suited to the varying age, attainments, and needs of different classes. Beginning with the sentence at Chapter X. the essentials of grammatical form and structure are simply and clearly presented. Abrupt transitions are avoided, and with a view to educating the reason as well as the understanding, an effort has been made to have each part naturally and logically connected with what precedes and what follows it. Each subject, moreover, is fully explained and illustrated, often |