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Gentlemen,-Your name has been given to us | as buyers of large quantities of fruit, and we therefore | take the liberty of bringing the name of our Company | before you in the hope that we may be able to do some business with your firm. As merchants of all kinds of English and foreign fruits we are able to do a large business, and are capable of handling | quantities of fruit, including apples, pears, peaches, bananas, tomatoes, melons. We make a speciality of English and Guernsey tomatoes and grapes, best colmars and muscats. If you are open to (1) buy from us we could send you two or three | consignments a week, according to your requirements. It also occurs to us that perhaps you would be willing to sell | for us on commission, rendering Account Sales of your transactions. If so, we should be very pleased for you to | do this, you to render Account Sales at the close of each market day, which we believe in your district would be Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. Our usual terms to others who do business with us on these lines are | 3 per cent., monthly a/c., and we (2) should be willing to offer you these terms. We shall be very pleased to hear from you at your early convenience, saying if we may have the pleasure of sending you a trial consignment. We can refer you, if desired, | to clients in your neighbourhood. Awaiting your reply, yours faithfully, (250)

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The staid student should try, by every means in his power, to acquire the ability to pursue a train of thought steadily and without wandering from the plain plan he has set before himself. How can he hope to heap | up a multitude of facts, if he is continually hopping, as it were, from one branch of knowledge to another, not stopping long enough to gather the fruit from one branch, ere he stoops to examine another? Let a youth | but think a moment of such loose methods, and he will see that they amount to a mere loss of (1) time, and, it may be, of temper also. Now, it is foolish to experiment or tamper with that which we cannot repair; and it is well that we should recognise that a moment once gone is gone for ever. We may regret the time we have lost, but there is not the least hope of recalling it. Let us but | feel the full force of this remark, and, if we have wasted the golden moments in the past, we shall | follow another and better plan in the future. It is, of course, right to say that there is no royal (2) route to the well of knowledge and the fount of wisdom, and that he who would sound the depths of the one, and drink the waters of the other, must pass along the same rugged ways by which wise men of all ages have travelled before him. He will, to be sure, find difficulties in his way, and he may | have many a bitter fight ere he reaches the goal of his ambition. But these will only fit him for braver feats, and each victory will leave him stronger and better prepared for further effort, should such be necessary. Let (3) him but keep up his courage, and he may hope to cope successfully with any obstacle that may present itself to his progress. But, as we have said, it is above all things necessary that the student should be able | to fix his mind upon his subject, and keep it there; that he should be able to occupy his thoughts | and focus his powers upon one point, to the exclusion of all others for the time being; that, in a | word, he should have the power of applying himself to the mastery of the difficulty before him, and of refusing (4) to be drawn aside from his task upon any plea, no matter how plausible. And, if the student has not | this power of attention, he should try to acquire it by every means at his command. Let him set to work in earnest, and he will find that the acquisition is not the utter impossibility which, at first sight, it | may appear to be. He can, at any rate, choose the right time and the right place to study, and he can also do his best to chase away thoughts that would distract him. Patience and perseverance will work wonders. (500)

(To be continued.)

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THE LEGIBILITY OF PHONOGRAPHY.

A striking example of the legibility of Phonography came to my notice recently while spending my holidays in North Wales. The biography of the Rev. Michael Jones (once principal of the Bala Theological College, and founder of the Patagonia Welsh Settlement) has just been issued from the Welsh press. A quarter of a century ago the above named ger tleman created a great impression in Wales, and was considered an orator of the first order. He never kept notes, however, and it was only by a stroke of good fortune that his biographer has been able to publish a few of the deceased gentleman's most remarkable speeches and sermons. These were obtained from the verbatim notes of Mr Evan Jones, Llanbrynmair, who, though he had not read through the sermons since they were "taken" by him about twenty years ago, found no difficulty whatever in their transcription. Mr Jones is an expert writer both in English and Welsh, and in his capacity of Chairman of the District Council, and other public duties, his knowledge of the winged art has been invaluable. The above example is I think a good proof of the legibility of the system, as well as of the capability of the writer.

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PITMAN'S SHORTHAND TEACHER'S
CERTIFICATE.

The Pitman's Shorthand Teacher's Certificate has been granted to the following after examination :

Alsop R., 76 Sherburn terrace, Consett, Co. Durham
Byrne W., 18 Bath street, Tunstall, Staffs.

Clayton W., Kelvinside, Consett, Co. Durham

Fox R., Donore road, Drogheda, Ireland

Gildon W., 25 Pierson street, North Ormesby, Middlesbrough
Hope W., Huyton terrace, Blackrod, Lancs.

Jackson J. F., 55 Chesterton road, North Kensington, London, W.
Kilkeary J. M., Market square, Dungannon, Co. Tyrone
Lewis A., Holywell lane, near Dawley, Salop
Martin A, 63 Cromwell road, Grimsby

McLean H. M., High street, Hetton-le-hole, Co. Durham
Moore Miss A. A., Ivy Bridge, Bourton, Dorset

More J., 9 Westbank terrace, Moor Park, Renfrew

Place J. F., 1 Windsor terrace, Darlington

Pryor J. C., 9 Westwell street, Plymouth

Santer F. T., 208 Birkbeck road, Beckenham, Kent

Smith Miss F. I., Wray, near Lancaster

Taylor J., Bradwall Reformatory, Bradwall, Sandbach, Cheshire
Thomson C. W., M.A., 185 Bo'ness road, Grangemouth
Turner A., Police Station, Calderbank, by Glasgow
Williamson J. G., 2 Holmhead Park, Cathcart, Glasgow

Full particulars relative to the examination for Pitman's Shorthand Teacher's Certificate may be obtained on application to Sir Isaac Pitman and Sons, Ltd., Phonetic Institute, Bath. The examination can be taken at any time or place, and the fee is 5s.

INC. SOCIETY OF SHORTHAND TEACHERS.

EXECUTIVE MEETING.

An Executive meeting was held at the Deansgate Hotel, Manchester, on Saturday, 12th Sept. There were present Messrs J. Singleton, Leeds, President (in the chair); S. Abson, Richmond, Yorks; J. T. Beck, Liverpool; H. E. Blain, London; J. W. Brooks, Manchester; E. J. Cross, Manchester; B. de Bear, London; F. Heelis, Leeds; J. Hynes, Manchester; J. Karfoot, Chorley A. Nixon, F.C.A., Sale; G. F. Sandiford, Manchester; Seth Whiteley, Sheffield; Miss K. Pickard, Bradford; and Mr W. H. Jones, Secretary, Manchester.

Election of Fellows.-The following were elected as Fellows of the Society :

Brazendale D., 6 Springbank road, Anfield, Liverpool
Eyre A. T., 14 Hinckley road, Leicester

Gripton J., 308 High street, West Bromwich
Lawson Miss S P., 256 Burley road, Leeds

Marshall W., Glentawe row, Ystradgynlais, South Wales

Moore J. F., 17 Ashville avenue, Leeds Moorhouse G., Shawcross, nr. Dewsbury

Munt F. W., 349 Collins street, Melbourne, Australia
Yeatman C., 65 Purser's Cross road, Fulham, London, S.W.

Art. 18-Mr H. E. Blain, London, having given up teaching shorthand was allowed to continue membership under Art. 18.

Accounts.-The Treasurer presented the statement of accounts and balance sheet for the year ended 30th June, 1903, which were approved to be printed and circulated among the members of the Society.

Students' Examinations.-The report of the students examination sub-committee showed that 575 applications for papers were received for the June Examination, from 38 centres, against 393 from 30 centres for the corresponding examination last year. There were 541 papers returned worked, with the following result:-329 passed, including 92 with distinction, while 212 failed. It was resolved (1) that the profits from the students' examinations for the past year be divided amongst the districts in proportion to the number of candidates entered by each. (2) That in future no centre for examination may be formed unless there are at least six papers applied for by such centre. (3) That the winter elementary, theory, and speed examinations be held on Friday, 11th Dec. next. All reprints of elementary and theory examination papers are sold, and are consequently out of print. Propaganda.-The propaganda sub-committee reported that they had arranged for Messrs Cross and Sandiford to visit the London District as representatives of the Executive on Saturday, the 26th Sept., and that Messrs Hynes and Nixon were appointed to attend a meeting of the North-East District at Newcastle on Saturday, 10th October. The Secretary read Mr Sandiford's report of his official visit to the Midland District on 4th July, after which a vote of thanks was accorded to Mr Sandiford for the same. MANCHESTER DISTRICT.

The quarterly meeting was held on 5th Sept. in the Food Reform Restaurant (late Marsden Café), Marsden street, Manchester. There was a large attendance. Mr G. Bletcher (Manchester) gave the model lesson "On the Vocalization of the pl and pr series," which was much appreciated. Messrs W. Lord, Smith, Collinge, Cross and Beardwell took part in the discussion. After tea Mr G. F. Sandiford read a paper Reason or Rote in the Teaching of Shorthand," which created much interest and was greatly appreciated.

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Mr Collinge (Preston) read a paper on "Essentials," dealing with the essentials of successful teaching and of the successful teacher. The essentials of unskilled teachers were few. The essentials of a skilful teacher were many and varied, and for the sake of completeness he would mention some which were generally known and appreciated. He arranged his remarks under three heads; firstly, knowledge; secondly, experience; thirdly, personality. On the theoretical side it was essential that the successful teacher should have a thorough knowledge (1) of the subject taught; and (2) of the principles of instruction. Respecting the subject, the knowledge must be ample and accurate. There was no such thing as successful shorthand teaching by one who was one lesson ahead of his pupils. Then the principles of instruction should be known. He was afraid that this branch of the teacher's equipment was not sufficiently well appreciated. A knowledge of the principles of teaching would serve to make a moderate teacher into a good one, and a good one into a finished, accomplished artist. He mentioned the following as principles of instruction which should be thoroughly known: Co-operation, sympathy, gradation, association, analogy, repetition, and adaptation. Natural aptitude and the study of principles and methods, and of the lessons of experience were essential. On the practical side experience was essential. He linked method with experience, as it was only by experience that method could be properly studied and acquired. The would-be successful teacher must teach; he must explain, elaborate, supplement, it was not sufficient to repeat-be had to communicate knowledge and make it attractive. It was absolutely essential that he should have experience; he must practise on someone. He must be a very apt pupil. Discussing personality, by which he meant personal qualities, and personal qualificatiors, he mentioned as coming under this head, readiness, physical fitness, self-confidence, enthusiasm, dog natism, and humour, but tact was the supreme essential. Tact enabled the teacher to do the right thing at the right time. In conclusion Mr Collinge observed that there was a difference between a mechanical worker and an artist. Teachers should en leavour to be artists at their work, not mere artisans.

The following took part in the discussion on the papers: Messrs Bletcher, Prescott, Nixon, Luckhurst, W. H. Jones, Smith, H. Hewitt, Moss, Crookes, Hayward, Berry, and Hallam.

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LIVERPOOL DISTRICT. The next ordinary meeting of the Liverpool District will be held at Y.M.C.A., Mount Pleasant, Liverpool, on Saturday, 10th Oct., at 6.30 p.m. Items on the agenda are-Chairman's Address (Mr D. Beeby); lesson, First Meeting of an Elementary Class" (Mr E. Smith): open phonographic discussion, etc. In future the District will hold six meetings a year instead of four, to which all shorthand teachers in the district are heartily invited, whether contemplating membership or not. On being furnished with name and address, the Hon. Sec, Mr C. Thomas, 29 Russell street, will be pleased to notify the meetings to those desiring to be present. Members' entrance examinations are held at least twice a year.

LONDON AND THE PROVINCES.

The Editor will be greatly obliged by receiving marked copies of any local journals that contain paragraphs or comments on subjects likely to be of interest to the readers of this Journal.

The meetings of the Leicester and District S.W.A. (federated) are held in the smoke-room of the High Cross Coffee House every Tuesday evening. The programs for the winter session are now ready and may be had on application from the hon. secretary, Mr A. T. Eyre, 14 Hinckley road, LeicesThe program for the coming month is as follows:Oct. 6-Paper, "Homer's Clay Shoes (humorous clashes), Mr G. Walpole. ,, 13-Speed practice.

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20-Paper," English Castles," Miss E. M. Robson, F.I.P.S.

The Toronto (Canada) Daily Star says: "The Dominion Business College, which has had a wonderful growth, and is now one of the most popular business and shorthand schools in Toronto, is to be congratulated on securing the services of Mr R. D. Nimmo, one of the strongest business college men in Canada. Mr Nimmo was until recently senior principal of the Nimmo and Harrison Business College, where he earned an enviable reputation for thorough, efficient, and conscientious teaching. Friends and students of the Dominion Business College may look for a very large increase in the attendance during the coming year, especially from the city, where Mr Nimmo is so well and favourably known."

The members of the Hartlepools and District S.W.A. (federated) are now getting into thorough working order for the winter session. The program, the North Eastern Daily Gazette states, includes lectures and discussions on various subjects connected with the art, practice, and literature of shorthand and typewriting, and also on other topics of literary and general interest. The lectures hitherto delivered before the Association have been of a high average of excellence, and have proved exceedingly interesting. There will be the usual examination in shorthand for speed certificates, and prizes, too, will be offered occasionally for competition among the members. It is also the intention of the committee to form a library of shorthand and other works for the free use of the members, and towards this aim the cooperation of those interested is desired. At the meeting held on 14th September, speed practice was taken at various rates, the readers being Messrs W. J. Hewitt and A. Greig. A large number of new members have joined, and altogether the prospects for the coming session are of the brightest. The Secretaries would be pleased to hear from any phonographers, ladies or gentlemen, desirous of becoming members.

The winter session of the Oldham Shorthand Association (federated) was opened at the Unity Hall, King street, on 16th September, when a social evening was spent. There was a fair attendance of members and their friends, presided over by the President (Mr L. J. Driver) who gave a short address on the objects of the Association in providing a pleasant means of promoting the knowledge of Phonography. A musical program and gramophone selections followed. Shorthand practice commenced on the following Wednesday evening. A hearty welcome is extended to all local phonographers to join the Association,

The adjourned annual meeting of the Bolton and District S.W.A. (federated) was held last month, at the Clarence street Council School. The President (Mr S. A. Mayers) occupied the chair, and was supported by the Vice-President (Mr C. E. Garn). The Chairman gave a resumé of the work of the last session, which stated that the membership had been 37. compared with 45 in the previous year. He hoped the undesirable falling off in members would be remedied during the coming year. The financial report showed a small balance in hand. The meetings had been well attended. That the practical exercises were of benefit to members was testified to by the examination results, and showed that while the Association did not claim the entire credit of the results, it was a valuable ally to both shorthand writers and teachers. He asked for the hearty co-operation and assistance of all stenographers in the district. The report was adopted, as was the balance-sheet, subject to audit. Rule 4 was amended so as to read: "That no person remain in the same office more than three years in succession," and also that the meeting night be altered from Thursday evening to Wednesday. The following officers were elected:-Hon. President, Col. Hesketh; Hon. Vice-Presidents, Lord Stanley, M.P., Capt. F. Thomasson, J.P., Messrs H. Shepherd-Cross, M.P., and G. Harwood, M.P.; President, Mr J. M. Horrocks; Vice-Presidents, Mr Garn and Miss Rothwell; Treasurer Mr Mayers; Hon. Secretary, Mr T. Ellis; Assistant Secretary and Official Reporter, Miss Roscow; Auditors, Messrs Battersby and Brodie; Librarian, Mr John Pendergast; Committee, Misses Hogarth and Lord, Messrs Pendlebury, Kirk and Hough.

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS.

Teachers of Phonography and Secretaries of Shorthand Writers Associations are invited to send us Announcements of Classes, Meetings, Lectures, Discussions, etc., for this column. Announcements are inserted free of charge.

BIRMINGHAM. Station road, Harborne.-The City of Birmingham Education Committee have arranged for evening classes to be held in the Station Road Council School, Harborne, during the autumn and winter months. The classes are held every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday evening, from 7 45 to 9.30. The commercial subjects taught in the school are commercial arithmetic; book-keeping, elementary and advanced; shorthand, elementary and advanced; reporting, elementary and advanced; commercial correspondence and office routine, etc. The classes are open to men and boys, women and girls. Books and apparatus are provided free of cost, and the fee is returned under certain conditions. Prizes will be awarded for regular attendance and progress and proficiency of work. Mr J. R. Taylor, F.I.P.S., A.T.S.C., the head master, and his assistants will cordially welcome any intending pupils.

DERBY. FIRS ESTATE BOARD SCHOOL.-The shorthand and typewriting classes are now being held at this school and are again conducted by Mr A. Turner, F.I.P.S. (teacher's diploma) on Monday and Thursday evenings, at 7.30 pm. Prizes and certificates will again be awarded to successful students. Mr Turner will be pleased to welcome any of his old pupils to these classes (elementary, intermediate, advanced and speed).

ECCLES AND PATRICROFT -Shorthand classes. Patricroft, Elementary classes, Monday, 7.30 to 8 30; advanced, 8 30 to 9.30; Eccles, Elementary classes, Thursdays, 7.30 to 8 30; advanced, 8.30 to 9 30. Teacher, Mr A. Wolstenholme, F.Inc. S.T.

HALIFAX.-Mr Edwin Nicholl, F.I.P.S. (teacher's diploma), Society of Arts' medallist and first prizeman for book-keeping (1903), is booking students for shorthand and book-keeping tuition during the ensuing winter months. Enquiries promptly answered. 48 Kliffen place, Coronation road, Halifax.

KINGSTON, IRELAND. MUNICIPAL TECHNICAL SCHOOLS.Shorthand classes conducted by Mr Edward Kelly (teacher's diploma) will resume work on 1st October. Last year 14 Pitman's certificates were won, including three speed certificates at 110 words, and two at 60 words per minute. The fees are nominal. Classes in typewriting and book-keeping are also conducted in the school. Prospectus free from the Principal, Mr R. Macdonald, M.A., B.Sc.

LEEDS. Chapeltown, 22 Methley Mount.-Private School of Shorthand for students and teachers of Phonography. Principal, Mr G. A. Barton, F.I P.S. (late special instructor, London School Board), Coaching for Pitman's, Society of Arts, I.P.S. diploma,

and other shorthand exams.
at Christmas.
Courses carefully adapted to meet
the needs of individual students. Further particulars and pros-
pectus free.

LEICESTER.-Mr A. Eyre, F.Inc.S.T., 14 Hinckley road, is prepared to receive pupils for tuition in shorthand, either elementary, advanced or reporting. Beginners class Monday evenings. 8 p.m. Terms moderate. Typewriting taught.

LIVERPOOL. North Liverpool Y.M.C.A. Public Higher Evening Commercial School, Foley street, Kirkdale.-The subjects include book-keeping and accounts, commercial arithmetic, commercial correspondence, commercial English and précis-writing, business routine, Spanish, French. In shorthand the teacher is Mr C. Thomas, F.Inc.S.T., and the arrangements are as follows: Elementary. Monday, 8 to 9; Intermediate, Tuesday, 8 to 9; Advanced, Monday, 9 to 10; Speed, Tuesday 9 to 10. By special arrangement the speed students may meet for practice together later in the week without extra charge. All students have to attend regularly, or give reasons for abstention, and it is a condition of admission that they prepare for and take the examinations (if any) required in the subjects they study.

LONDON. RUTLAND STREET COMMERCIAL SCHOOL, E.The session 1902-3 proved to be the most successful in the history of the school, the literature (Mrs H. Warshaw), French (Miss C. Latham), Civil Service (Mr F. W. Green), book-keeping (Mr J. H. T. Snook), and typewriting (Miss A. Carr) classes being very well attended. The attendance at the shorthand classes from October to Easter averaged nearly 70; the advanced class averaging 40 during the whole of the session. Several shorthand examinations were held. On 18th Dec. 75 students presented themselves for examination in theory and speed; the best theory papers being handed in by G. Morris, R. Coral, E. Cohen, L. Oliver, N. Knott, and R. T. Markall; speed, G. Morris, 140; W. Land, 100; and E. Clarke 60 words per minute. Elementary theory, B. Josephs, J. Isaacs, and J. Sterling; speed, F. Benjamin, J. Isaacs, and N. Williams 50 words per minute. Fifty-six students entered for the Society of Arts examination, but owing to illness and pressure of business, only 46 were able to sit. Fortyfive presented themselves for Pitman's examination in May. The following students gained certificates at these examinations: W. Sim, 150 Pitman's, 140 Society of Arts; G. Morris and H. J. Etchells 130 Pitman's and 110 Society of Arts; R. Begner 120 Pitman's and 110 Society of Arts; A. Yeo and L. Humphries 120 Pitman's; A. Ward 110 Society of Arts; M. Marks, J. F. Coles, W. Land, E. Land, C. Masters, E. Cohen, and R. Coral 100 Pitman's and 80 Society of Arts; A. Mawditt and A. Lawrie 90 Pitman's and 80 Society of Arts; B. Orchard and M. Freeman 80 Pitman's and Society of Arts; G. Bleaver, A. Yeo, M. Hart, L. Humphries, R. T. Markall, E. Bevan, B. Levoritz, A. Millar, B. Sparks, and G. Wilson 80 Society of Arts; P. Allen, N. Knott, M. Hiscock, E. Emery, L. Oliver, and E. Clarke 80 Pitman's; and L. Horton 60 Pitman's. Ten students were awarded a Society of Arts certificate in Grade 1. Elementary certificates, G. V. Lord, K. Katin, P. Bernstock, and A. Land, 60; N. Williams, S. Jaffee, M. Milstein, W. Cottis, H. Levy, and B. Berkovsky 50; N. Kaplan, A. Swyer, H. Owen, M. Hallett, G. Browning. D. Levy, and E. White 40 words per minute. Sixty-one students competed for the teachers' prizes and the special prizes given by the Board. The best papers in the advanced section were handed in by G. Morris, W. Sim, and R. Coral; intermediate, B. Orchard and L. Oliver; elementary, W. Cottis, S. Jaffee and N. Williams. N. Knott and E. Clarke won the teacher's prize (fountain pen) for the most correct papers in theory. The literature class came second in the competition for the Rev. Stewart Headlam's prize. The judge remarked, "I commend the Rutland street class for their Julius Cæsar' scenes; the best Mark Anthony was that of the gentleman belonging to this class." A special prize was awarded. The average attendance for the whole school was 250. The students were very regular, and good, solid work was done throughout. A very large number of students were enrolled on the opening night, 15th Sept. The following certificates were gained by the different classes :-German, 2; typewriting, 8; French, 13; book-keeping, 25; Civil Service, 46; and shorthand, 77. Messrs W. R. H. Ebdon, R. J. Daly, and A. H. W. Owen are in charge of the shorthand classes. Principal, Miss A. Potts. LONDON. Exeter Hall, Strand and Aldersgate street Y.M.C.A. -The shorthand classes at these two centres are now commencing the winter session, and intending students should enrol at once. Prospectus giving full particulars and fees of the various classes can be obtained post-free upon application to the Secretary.

MIDDLESBROUGH.-The winter session of the Middlesbrough S.W.A. commences on Friday, 2nd October. Subscription 2s. 6d. per quarter. Intending members must be able to write at a speed of 80 words per minute. Prize competitions will be held

A lecture, entitled "Our Mother Tongue," will be Adgiven on Friday, 16th October, by Mr Angus Macpherson. mission free, by ticket, which can be obtained from the Secretary, Mr H. Byers, 1 Railway Crossing, Middlesbrough. WOLVERHAMPTON. Higher Grade Evening School.Shorthand classes, Teacher, Mr B. G. Firkin, A.I.P.S. The three classes held at the above school last year were such a great success that it has been decided to form a fourth class, viz.: rapid reporting class (80 words per minute and upwards). The classes will then be (a) Elementary; (b) Advanced; (c) Reporting; (d) Rapid reporting; and there is every prospect of commencing the season well. Pupils are prepared for Pitman's, Midland Union and Society of Arts examinations.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Answers to all inquiries relating to Shorthand, Typewriting, Commercial Education, Commercial Law, the Civil Service, and kindred subjects, will be published as soon after receipt as possible, but correspondents are requested to bear in mind that in some instances research taking time may be needful before satisfactory information can be furnished, and also that this Journal is sent to press eleven days in advance of the date of publication. Correspondents can be answered under initials or a pseudonym, whichever they prefer, but their names and addresses must be forwarded as a guarantee of good faith. All letters of inquiry should be addressed EDITOR, PITMAN'S PHONETIC JOURNAL, PHONETIC INSTITUTE, BATH.

RECORDING EVIDENCE IN COURT.-M. R. is the Deputy Registrar in an Indian high court, and a part of his duties consists in recording evidence in longhand and taking notes of judgments. As the latter are delivered at rates varying from 60 to 120 words a minute, he has taken up the study of shorthand in order to cope with these effectively. In recording evidence in longhand, he is able to write for five hours at the average rate of 40 words a minute. This has been ascertained by actual counting, and as there were from time to time pauses during the sitting, this affords conclusive evidence that a considerably higher rate was reached. Although a higher speed is desired by the bench and the bar, we consider that our correspondent's rate is as high as can be reasonably expected or is, in fact, attainable in work of this description. The only method by which a more expeditious record can be secured is by the use of shorthand. In some Scottish courts, and in most of the American courts, the evidence is taken in shorthand by the court stenographer, and a great saving of time is thus effected. Our correspondent would do well to attain a good speed in shorthand, and endeavour to introduce this method. We do not think that any particular style of holding the pen would enable him to write longhand faster. The use of the writing machine would, as he recognises, be impracticable in court.

THE BREWING AND HOTEL TRADES.-H. H. mentions in reply to Brewclerk's query of 5th Sept., that a volume on the brewing trade (he does not mention the title) is sold by Mr W. R. Loftus, 321 Oxford street, London, W. H. H. himself inquires for a work dealing with hotel book-keeping.-He will find the tabular system of book-keeping fully treated in Pitman's "Advanced Bookkeeping" (price 2s. 6d.).

SOCIETY OF ARTS CERTIFICATES-In answer to Would-be, at present there is no certificate higher than first-class Grade II. granted by this Society. There are medals given, however, which imply a higher grade of efficiency. There is no special qualification in the form of a diploma required for a teacher of bookkeeping. As the West Riding County Council holds examinations in this subject, it is highly probable that in selecting teachers preference would be given to those who hold the certificate of the Council.

BANK CLERKS.-H. F. should apply to the Secretary of Pitman's Metropolitan School, Southampton row, W.C., for a copy of the prospectus, which will give him all the information he requires. The examination is a fairly easy one, and is qualifying only-not competitive.

Wear and Tear.—P. S. should get some lessons in bookkeeping, when he would learn that "wear and tear" is not something paid for, but an allowance made out of the profits from time to time in reduction of the book value of premises, etc., so that the book (nomina)) value and the actual value should be the same.

ASSISTANTS OF CUSTOMS.-Smush asks where he can obtain the last examination papers and for a complete guide to the examination.-The age limits are 18-21 on the 1st of the month in which the examination is held, the examination fee £1, and the subjects handwriting, arithmetic, English composition (essay, précis-writing, and orthography), geography (general), digesting returns into summaries, and copying manuscript. The papers published by Eyre and Spottiswoode will show the scope of the examination.

CIVIL SERVICE APPOINTMENT.-E. B. is 15 years old, and a solicitor's clerk: he asks for what Civil Service appointment he could sit. At present only Boy Clerks (15-17), commencing at 155. weekly, or Learner, G.P.O., London or Provincial (age 15-18), from 12s. weekly to £160 per annum. Boy Clerks leave the service at 20, but Male Learners are established, i.e., permanent officials. Boy Clerks thus obtain other appointments, such as Sorterships or become Assistants of Customs or Excise, or Assistant or Second Division Clerks, but for all these they have to pass a further examination. E. B. should obtain Cassell's Guide to Employment in the Civil Service," and study the appointments indicated therein.

CIVIL SERVICE MEDICAL EXAMINATION.-Seven-seventeen asks whether a slight spinal curvature would disqualify a candidate successful in the literary examination.-The Commissioners regard as a disqualification "the existence of any serious congenital or acquired defect or malformation especially in head, feet, or hands. Paralysis, weakness, considerable lameness, impaired motion or contraction of the upper or lower extremities, from whatever cause. Distortion of the spine, of the bones of the chest, or pelvis, from injury or constitutional defect." From this Seven-seventeen must judge for herself as to the probability of disqualification, but there is a height limit of at least 5 ft. for all female candidates for the Post Office. It does not apply to Typists, for which post, however, a nomination is required. Personally we should say pass the literary examination and take the risk-a Civil Service success does not endanger one's business prospects, but if the curvature implies physical weakness, rejection by the Post Office medical officer is probable. We suggest Female Learners G.P.O. Provincial.

ASSISTANTS OF EXCISE.-W. C. is 19 years of age, and passed the seventh standard test two years ago. He asks whether he would have a reasonable chance of passing the Excise after one year's coaching.-It depends entirely on the amount of hard work he is prepared to do, but as he can sit until he is 22, he should work from this moment until, if necessary, he has reached the limit of age. A seventh standard education alone is not, in our opinion, of the slightest use for any Civil Service examination.

ASSISTANT OF CUSTOMS.-A. T. purposes sitting for this examination, and asks whether he can possibly succeed if he omits the geography paper. He asks for our opinion on books which he has been advised to obtain, and upon his handwriting.-The result will not depend so much upon the books he uses as upon the amount of hard work he devotes to his preparation. He cannot succeed without fairly good marks in geography, and his list of books includes no book of copying manuscripts. We have mentioned the books we prefer in the subjects A. T. will have to take in recent numbers of this Journal, to which our correspondent should refer. His writing is not, at present, suitable for Civil Service purposes, nor his English.

RECEIPT STAMP.-Learner is informed that it is necessary to affix a penny stamp to any written acknowledgment of the receipt of two pounds or upwards. The exemption only applies in the case of receipts for less than two pounds.

BANKRUPTCY-UnDistributed Surplus OF ESTATE.-J. H. mentions an instance in which there remains to the credit of a bankrupt's estate a sum insufficient to provide a dividend of so little as one farthing in the pound on the amount owing to the creditors, and asks what is done with the balance.-Wherever there is a balance in the hands of the trustee too small to warrant the declaration of a dividend, the proper course is for the trustee to pay the amount into the Bank of England to the credit of a Government account known as "The Bankruptcy Estates Account," for which purpose directions may be obtained from the Board of Trade. If, as sometimes happens, further assets fall in unexpectedly at a subsequent time, the sum so paid in will, together with the further assets, be available for payment of a further dividend. Otherwise, it will ultimately become the property of the nation.

HANDWRITING.-M. W. and Anxious need instruction under a good teacher in order to develop a good style of handwriting.— M. W. M.'s style is very well suited for business purposes.

MISCELLANEOUS.-Pool may sit for any one of Pitman's certificates quite independently of the others, and could consequently sit for a speed certificate without having taken either the elementary or the theory. "Cassell's Biographical Dictionary" (price 3s. 6d.) furnishes information about eminent men and women of all ages and countries, and "Chambers's Etymological Dictionary" (price is. net) has a select list of mythological names with descriptive particulars, which is excellent in its way. These works would probably meet our correspondent's needs. In reply to Excelsior, we desire to say that the working of problems in arithmetic is outside the scope of these answers.-The use of the colon to which G. F. H. calls attention (after abbreviations such as Co. and Esq.), is absolutely incorrect; the full stop must be used in these cases.-F. E. F. will find the methods adopted for the production of engraved shorthand in our publications fully described in Chap. XVI. of the "Life and Work of Sir Isaac Pitman.". Curious has been supplied with a review of the system of shorthand to which he directs attention.-We are not acquainted with any book on German texting, but our correspondent will find excellent models for the various text hands in "Vere Foster's copy book No. 10, Original Series, Plain and Ornamental Lettering" (price 2d.).-W. R. C. would do well to avail himself of a course of correspondence lessons in commercial subjects, if there are no evening schools within reach; we do not consider that he would be likely to pass a Civil Service examination, as he is probably backward in other subjects in addition to handwriting. As our correspondent has a taste for mechanics, we think it possible that some opening of this kind would prove preferable to clerical occupation, unless W. R. C. can thorougly equip himself in those subjects which the modern clerk is expected to know.-A large number of answers are unavoidably held over.

PITMAN'S SHORTHAND CERTIFICATES.

The following Certificates are issued :—

"

THIRD CLASS or Elementary CERTIFICATE, for thorough knowledge of the "Phonographic Teacher": Shorthand Primer, Book I."; or 20th Cent." Manual" or "Instructor," as far as Chap. xvii. Fee 6d. Every student after having worked through the "Teacher" is recommended to test his knowledge by applying for this Certificate.

SECOND CLASS OR THEORY CERTIFICATE, for a thorough knowledge of the 20th Cent." Manual " ; or Instructor," Chaps. i-xxvi.; or "Shorthand Primer, Book II." Fee 25.

FIRST CLASS or Speed CERTIFICATE. Speed Certificates are granted for 60 words per minute and upwards. Fee is. 6d. FULL CERTIFICATE OF PROFICIENCY.-When a Second Class Certificate and a First Class Certificate for 80 words have been obtained, a Full Certificate is issued, certifying that the holder has a thorough theoretical and practical knowledge of Phonography. Fee Is.

Forms of Application for the above Certificates, containing full particulars, can be had gratis and post-free from any of the Offices of Sir Isaac Pitman & Sons, Ltd.

NOTICES.

Each Notice should be written on one side only of a separate piece of paper. Every Notice under the head of Correspondence must give full name and address.

Correspondents are requested to write their address clearly in ordinary longhand. If they wish to receive replies in Phonography, a star should be attached to the name; thus, John Smith.*

Notices of all kinds must reach Bath at least eleven days before the date of the Journal for which they are intended.

Every communication addressed to the Editor of this Journal must be authenticated by the name and address of the writer.

Exercises Corrected Gratis (enclose stamped and addressed envelope) by

Cope G. S.. 111 Stroud Green rd., Tollington Park, London, N.
Cullen T. J., Coolowley, Grogan, Ballybrophy, Queen's Co.
Goldsmith R., 9 Trafalgar st., Lakenham, Norwich
Irving G. F., 80 Highbury New park, London, N.
Lyndridge A. W., 48 Norfolk avenue, Southend-on-Sea
MacNaulty P. E., Fern Lea, Bolton rd., Atherton, nr. Manchester
Nunn T. Louis, 285 Dewsbury rd., Leeds
Pass J., 48 Ellgreave st., Burslem, Staffs.
Rice H. D., Ark House School, Banbury
Stephenson H. B., 1 Florence st., Dublin

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