After a careful perusal of this work, we are decidedly of opinion, that
it is the only _successful_ attempt of the kind. The rules are copious,
and the author's explanations and illustrations _are happily adapted to
the comprehension of learners_. No school should be without this book,
and it ought to find a place in the library of every gentleman who
values the attainment of a just and forcible elocution.--_Pittsburgh
Mer. April,_ 1834.
Mr. Kirkham has given rules for inflections and emphasis, and has
followed them by illustrative examples, and these by remarks upon the
inflection which he has adopted, and the reasons for his preference of
one inflection to another--a most admirable plan for such a work.
Copious examples occur in which all the various inflections and the
shades of emphasis are distinguished with great accuracy and clearness.
The catechetical appendages of each chapter, give the work new value in
a school, and the selections made for the exercise of scholars, evince
good taste and judgment. _U.S. Gazette, Philadelphia, Sept_. 17, 1834.
The Essay now before us, needs not depend on any former work of its
author for a borrowed reputation; it has intrinsic merits of its own. It
lays down principles clearly and concisely. It presents the reader with
many new and judicious selections, both in prose and poetry; and
altogether evinces great industry combined with taste and
ingenuity.--_Courier of Upper Canada, York, Oct_. 12, 1833.
Of the talent and judgment of Mr. Kirkham, we have already had occasion
to speak in terms of honest praise. His work on Elocution raises him
still higher in our estimation.--The book would be of great utility in
schools--such a one as has long been wanted; and we are glad to see it
forthcoming.--_Baltimore Visitor, July,_ 1833.
Every facility for teaching Elocution, which I have so often needed, but
never before found, is exactly furnished in this work:--principles are
clearly and concisely laid down, and _are very happily adapted to the
comprehension of the learner_. Thoroughly convinced of its utility, I
shall lose no time in introducing it into my school. _Hartford, Conn.
Aug._. 20, 1534. NATHANIEL WEBB.