be introduced--yet, when that point _is_ reached there must be no
hesitation. It is well to memorize carefully the very words which express
the pun, or the flash of wit or humor which is the climax of the story. The
story itself may be found in such a manual as this, or in some volume of
wit and humor.

There is no disadvantage in using wit gathered from any source, if it has
not been so often used as to be completely worn out. When a good story is
found anywhere and fully memorized and all its bearings and fine points
thoroughly understood, there are two ways of getting it before an audience.
The direct way is to say frankly that you have read a story and will tell
it. This will answer very nicely when called upon for a speech. Few festive
audiences are unwilling to accept a story for a speech, and a proposal to
compromise on such terms is very likely in itself to bring applause. But
the story in this case should be longer than if it is given as part of a
speech. If, however, it should prove a failure, your performance will make
a worse impression than when a poor story is introduced into a speech,
although the story may only feebly illustrate any portion of it.

For these as well as other reasons most persons will prefer to make an
address, even if it be very brief, and will endeavor to make the story fit
into it. All stories that suggest diffidence, modesty, backwardness, or
unwillingness to undertake great things, can be introduced to show how
reluctant the speaker is to attempt a speech, and if these characteristics
are only slightly referred to in the story it may still be used effectively
and will leave a favorable impression.

If a topic, a toast, or a sentiment is given for a response, any of them
may suggest a story; and after a good story has been told--one that has
real point--it will be better to stop without making any attempt at