Chapter I: Preface

This collection of essays will show very plainly that they were not written with a view to publication in a book. As a result of this, the subject-matter is not treated consecutively, systematically, or exhaustively. Some references to momentary events at the time of writing, even, have been left unchanged.

It is hoped, however, that, even with the acknowledged imperfections, the book may be found suggestive and useful by those to whose service it is dedicated in the title-page.

Some of the chapters are slightly technical, having been originally addressed to proof-readers only; but even these are thought to be sufficiently general in their composition to be interesting and useful to authors and editors.

CONTENTS.

The Proof-room 7

Some Practical Criticism for Proof-readers 11

The Proof-reader’s Responsibility 17

Style and Style-cards 22

Whim versus Principle 26

Authorities and Opinions 32

Authoritative Stumbling-blocks in the Study of
the English Language 37

Preparation of Copy 43

Copy and Proof-reading 48

The Dictionary in the Proof-room 53

The Proof-room Library 58

The Copy-reader 62

Proper Order of Parts in a Book 68

The Book Make-up 73

Grammar and Diction 79

Form of Words 86

Spelling and Dictionaries 97

PROOF-READING.