Digression as regards Conditions—

(α) too general—Moral Worth and Truthfulness.

(β) too special—Wit and Humour.

Objective Conditions,

(B) in the hearers, which are either in—

(1) Quantity, for we speak with (α) one, (β) a few, (γ) many.

(2) Quality, for we speak with (α) equals, (β) superiors, (γ)

inferiors.

(3) Differences (A) of age, (1) older, (2) younger,

(3) equal; (B), of sex—men and women.

(4) Degrees of Intimacy, (α) relations, (β) friends, (γ)

acquaintances (familiar, slight).

The Principles of the Art of Conversation · 第 13 / 46 题