give copious illustrations selected from actual correspondence as to the best usage or styles to be followed or avoided. It is a reference only, but as such it is hoped that it will prove stimulating and productive of greater originality, and be successful in getting more of the personal touch into business communication, a thing so lacking yet generally desired. When we reflect upon the truth of the statement that three-fourths of the writing we do after leaving school is in the form of letters, we should take especial care to learn how to write letters proper in form and skilful in expression. The tendency of modern business to depend more and more upon the mail for the marketing of goods, has put tremendous importance upon adequacy of expression in business letter writing. If the medium be faulty one cannot expect the fullest measure of success in the conduct of the enterprise. The ability to make written exposition in direct, cogent and simple English, with the observance of proper form, is the end aimed at in this book. Philadelphia. C. O. A. Business Letters CHAPTER I ARRANGEMENT OF THE LETTER A BUSINESS letter does not differ materially in construction, from letters for other purposes. In the number and arrangement of its parts it is like the form used in social correspondence. But in its phraseology, its subject matter, it is often radically different. The recognized parts of a business letter are: (a) The Heading. The Form of Closing. (f) The Signature. That which we here style the introduction is sometimes known as the name and address of the firm or person to whom the letter is written. As to the place it shall occupy, before the salutation or after the close of the letter, is a matter of opinion. The general concensus puts it before the salutation in strictly business writing. When used after the letter, toward the left, on the lines below the signature, the letter appears rather less formal than in a strictly business presentation. When the writing is by hand it is essential that neatness, legibility and correct spelling be observed. The importance attaching to their observance is incalculable. Not a business house or office but still desires neat, accurate and ready penmen. If then one can combine these qualities with clear and forceful expression, he is excellently equipped for a start in business life. This implies thoroughness in the mastery of the details of correspondence, a quality absolutely essential. The increasing and general use of the typewriter has emphasized the necessity for observing with greater care the form or arrangement of letter writing. Errors, whether in arrangement, punctuation or spelling, are more glaringly set out by its use, where they might go unnoticed in hand-written communications. The following letter will serve to illustrate the arrangement, showing also correct punctuation: |