adequate preparation such an impertinence. And it is this that sends such

thrills of indescribable joy through the orator's whole being when he has

achieved a success--it is like the mother forgetting her pangs for the joy of

bringing a son into the world.

 

--J.B.E., _How to Attract and Hold an Audience_.

 

There are four fundamental methods of delivering an address; all others are

modifications of one or more of these: reading from manuscript, committing the

written speech and speaking from memory, speaking from notes, and extemporaneous

speech. It is impossible to say which form of delivery is best for all speakers

in all circumstances--in deciding for yourself you should consider the occasion,

the nature of the audience, the character of your subject, and your own

limitations of time and ability. However, it is worth while warning you not to

be lenient in self-exaction. Say to yourself courageously: What others can do, I

can attempt. A bold spirit conquers where others flinch, and a trying task

challenges pluck.

 

_Reading from Manuscript_

 

This method really deserves short shrift in a book on public speaking, for,

delude yourself as you may, public reading is not public speaking. Yet there are

so many who grasp this broken reed for support that we must here discuss the

"read speech"--apologetic misnomer as it is.