even more powerfully than a more pretentious address. But a good and
appropriate speech will indelibly fix the thought, and be far more
satisfactory.

Where no particular kind of address is indicated by the nature of the
assemblage, stories and humor will generally be highly appreciated. A good
story has some of the perennial interest that surrounds a romance, and if
it is at the same time humorous, an appeal is made to another sentiment,
universal in the human breast. If people thrill with interest in unison,
or laugh or cry together for a time, or merely give attention to the same
thoughts, there will arise a sense of fellowship and sympathy which is not
only enjoyable, but is the very purpose for which people are invited to
assemblies.

More ordinary after-dinner speeches succeed by the aid of humorous stories
than by all other means combined. In a very ingenious book of ready-made
speeches the turning point of nearly every one depends upon a pun or other
trick of speech. While this is carrying the idea a little too far, still
it fairly indicates the importance placed upon sallies of wit or humor as
a factor in speech-making. The fellowship that comes from laughing at the
same jokes and approving the same sentiments may not be the most intimate
or the most enduring, but it is often the only kind possible, and should be
prized accordingly.

The chief use of toasts is to call out such speeches, and thus lead the
thought of the assembly along pleasant and appropriate channels--all
prearranged, yet apparently spontaneous.

A long speech is selfish and unpardonable. It wearies the guests, destroys
variety, and crowds others out of the places to which they have been