In the preparation of this little work the writer has kept one end in
view, viz.: To make it serviceable for those for whom it is intended,
that is, for those who have neither the time nor the opportunity, the
learning nor the inclination, to peruse elaborate and abstruse treatises
on Rhetoric, Grammar, and Composition. To them such works are as gold
enclosed in chests of steel and locked beyond power of opening. This book
has no pretension about it whatever,--it is neither a Manual of Rhetoric,
expatiating on the dogmas of style, nor a Grammar full of arbitrary rules
and exceptions. It is merely an effort to help ordinary, everyday people
to express themselves in ordinary, everyday language, in a proper manner.
Some broad rules are laid down, the observance of which will enable the
reader to keep within the pale of propriety in oral and written language.
Many idiomatic words and expressions, peculiar to the language, have been
given, besides which a number of the common mistakes and pitfalls have
been placed before the reader so that he may know and avoid them.

The writer has to acknowledge his indebtedness to no one in _particular_,
but to all in _general_ who have ever written on the subject.

The little book goes forth--a finger-post on the road of language
pointing in the right direction. It is hoped that they who go according
to its index will arrive at the goal of correct speaking and writing.




CHAPTER I