It is of the highest importance for you to have in mind a clear
conception of the end you wish to achieve by your speaking. This purpose
should characterize all you say, so that at each step in your speech you
will feel sure of making steady progress toward the desired object.

As a public speaker you assume serious responsibility. You are to
influence men for weal or woe. The words you speak are like so many
seeds, planted in the minds of your hearers, there to grow and multiply
according to their kind. What you say may have far-reaching effects,
hence the importance of careful forethought in the planning and
preparation of your speeches.

_The highest aim of your public speaking is not merely to instruct or
entertain, but to influence the wills of men, to make men think as you
think, and to persuade them to act in the manner you desire._ This is a
lofty aim, when supported by a good cause, and worthy of your greatest
talents and efforts.


THE KEY TO SUCCESS IN SPEAKING

The key to greatness of speech is sincerity. You must yourself be so
thoroughly imbued with the truth and desirability of what you are urging
upon others that they will be imprest by your integrity of purpose. To
have their confidence and good will is almost to win your cause.

But you must have deep and well-grounded convictions before you can hope
to convince and influence other men. Duty, necessity, magnanimity,
innate conviction, and sincere interest in the welfare of others,--these
beget true fervor and are essential to passionate and persuasive