words in _-osity_ and _-ation_, as 'dictionary' words, and the like. But even

Lord Brougham would have found it difficult to dispense with _pomposity_ and

_imagination_."[34]

 

The short, vigorous Anglo-Saxon will always be preferred for passages of special

thrust and force, just as the Latin will continue to furnish us with flowing and

smooth expressions; to mingle all sorts, however, will give variety--and that is

most to be desired.

 

_Discuss Words With Those Who Know Them_

 

Since the language of the platform follows closely the diction of everyday

speech, many useful words may be acquired in conversation with cultivated men,

and when such discussion takes the form of disputation as to the meanings and

usages of words, it will prove doubly valuable. The development of word-power

marches with the growth of individuality.

 

_Search Faithfully for the Right Word_

 

Books of reference are tripled in value when their owner has a passion for

getting the kernels out of their shells. Ten minutes a day will do wonders for

the nut-cracker. "I am growing so peevish about my writing," says Flaubert. "I

am like a man whose ear is true, but who plays falsely on the violin: his

fingers refuse to reproduce precisely those sounds of which he has the inward

sense. Then the tears come rolling down from the poor scraper's eyes and the bow