of opinion. Then note how the same words, spoken with a generally falling

inflection may denote certainty, or good-natured approval, or enthusiastic

praise, and so on.

 

In general, then, we find that a bending upward of the voice will suggest doubt

and uncertainty, while a decided falling inflection will suggest that you are

certain of your ground.

 

Students dislike to be told that their speeches are "not so bad," spoken with a

rising inflection. To enunciate these words with a long falling inflection would

indorse the speech rather heartily.

 

Say good-bye to an imaginary person whom you expect to see again tomorrow; then

to a dear friend you never expect to meet again. Note the difference in

inflection.

 

"I have had a delightful time," when spoken at the termination of a formal tea

by a frivolous woman takes altogether different inflection than the same words

spoken between lovers who have enjoyed themselves. Mimic the two characters in

repeating this and observe the difference.

 

Note how light and short the inflections are in the following brief quotation

from "Anthony the Absolute," by Samuel Mervin.

 

_At Sea--March 28th_.