why they gave _to the recipient_, and why _that_ present was
selected rather than another, and why _the speaker_ was chosen to
make the presentation. All of these items form a part of nearly every
presentation address, whilst some of them belong to all.

The novice will find much help in preparing his proposed speech by
selecting a few items that are generally appropriate; afterward he can
include anything which his own genius or wishes may suggest.

He may say that an abler speaker might have been selected for the pleasant
duty, but not one who could enter into it more heartily or with more good
wishes. He can refer to any circumstance which, if told briefly, will
show why he has been selected, notwithstanding his reluctance or sense of
unworthiness; or why he is pleased that the selection has fallen upon him.
Such reference is usually effective.

Then the nature of the gift may be described. Here is an easy field for a
little pleasantry. If a watch, it can be said, "Your friends are growing a
little suspicious of you, and, after due deliberation, they have determined
to a place _a watch_ upon you." If a cane is the article in hand, then
the painful duty of administering punishment for offenses by _caning_
is in order. A ring will afford an opportunity for many verbal plays. The
ring of friends about the recipient, the true ring of a bell, or of an
uncracked vase, a political ring--any of these can be made to lead up to
the little hoop of gold. The fineness of the material, its sterling and
unvarying value, the inscription on it, any specialty in its form--all
these will be found rich in suggestion. Silverware of any kind may also be
considered as to the form of the article, the use to which it is to be put,
and the purity of the metal. Hardly any article can be thought of which
will not allow some pleasant puns or _bon mots_. If a book is given,