I. THE EYE.

The use of the eye,-together with the expression of the countenance,-indicates, and heightens the effect of every emotion, to which the mind is subject. It is second only to the voice, of which it is an invaluable auxiliary. The eye, to be an efficient aid in Elocution, should be educated. This can only be done by careful observation, and by continuous practice before the mirror.

In personation, or vivid description, the eye must seem to rest directly upon the object portrayed, and even follow its supposed movements.

There must be in the mind of the speaker a distinct picture, of what he would thus describe.

In thoughtfulness, soliloquy, etc., the eye apparently gazes into space.

The various passions which the eye may indicate are shown by the following examples, which the student should practice until he can control his eyes and countenance, so as to express the feeling at will.

ILLUSTRATIONS OF USE OF THE EYE.

1. Indifference.

You may do as you please; it is a matter of not the least consequence to me.

2. Interest.

The subject of Elocution is one of vital importance. We can hardly estimate too highly, either the ennobling effects produced upon the minds of those who make it an object of diligent study; or the influence that they by its exercise exert upon the minds of others. 3. Pleasure.

Nothing is more gratifying to me, than to welcome you, my friends, to these joys.

4. Denial.

No, I shall never allow myself to be a partner, in so doubtful an undertaking.

5. Sorrow.

"O, Absalom, Absalom! would to God I had died for thee, my son Absalom!"

6. Fear.

'Tis no phantom. It is a living monster !

See, he comes! Where, Oh! where, shall 1 hide from his presence?

7. Anger.

It is false. Every word is false.

proofs. I dare you to show proofs.

8. Scorn.

"Banished from Rome!

Bring on your

What's banished, but set free from daily contact with the things I loathe ?"

II. ORTHOPHONY.

This term refers to the use, and cultivation of the voice.

In the study of Orthophony, there are certain particulars which deserve careful, and constant attention.

They are frequently called the "accidents of the voice." Different authors variously classify them. We think the following a simple, and yet sufficiently comprehensive schedule. (See Chart.)

1. Respiration.

2. Orthoepy.

3. Quality.

4. Force.

5. Pitch.

6. Time.

1.-RESPIRATION.

Under this heading we include position, vocal gymnastics, and breathings.

As an immediate preparation to reading or speaking, the student should practice respiration until his whole system is kindled to a genial glow.

Frequent exercise in breathing the lungs full of air to their utmost extent, and then expelling it entirely, will be found of great service, as a direct means of developing the student's vocal powers.

The position during these exercises should be erect; the shoulders thrown back; chest expanded, and the weight of the body thrown mostly upon the left foot. As a rule the speaker should inhale through the nostrils and exhale through the mouth. The kind of breathing controls and determines the force of utterance. The voice seems to ride out upon the breath. It also considerably affects the quality of tone.

Respiration may be divided into six classes; or kinds of breathings.

1. Effusive Breathing.

Draw in the breath gently until the lungs are full, and then expel it audibly, in a prolonged sound of the letter H.

2. Expulsive Breathing.

Draw in the breath as before, and expel it with a lively, energetic force, in the sound of H, slightly prolonged.

3. Explosive Breathing.

Fill the lungs more quickly, and then expel it suddenly and forcibly, as in coughing.

4. Sighing.

Suddenly fill the lungs both through the mouth and nostrils, and then expel it as fully as possible, but not very rapidly.

5. Gasping.

Fill the lungs with a sudden convulsive ef

fort, and then expel the air more gently and languidly.

6. Panting.

Inhale and exhale the breath quickly and violently. Let the expulsion of breath be loud and forcible.

The latter style should be continued but a short time, during any one exercise.

The student should ever bear in mind, that the ease and power with which one may use the voice, depends largely upon the amount of air in the lungs.

Rule. The lungs of the speaker should always be kept as fully inflated as possible.

No one can speak energetically and comfortably, without observing this rule.

Calisthenics, moderate Gymnastics, walking with the mouth closed, or any other exercises, that develop the muscles of the chest and invigorate the general system, are useful in adding to the power of the reader or speaker.

Sedentary habits are peculiarly pernicious.

Violent exercise, however, should not be taken just before elocutionary efforts.

All stimulants should be avoided.

The throat and chest should be dressed loosely, and not too warmly.