1838 printing of 1838 copyrighted text. This text on composition is for those who have already gained a knowledge of English grammar, particularly those in academies and elementary schools. Text states composition is rarely taught and teachers themselves are not required to compose well. It also claims students are often given subjects to write on which they know nothing about and that they think they must strive for originality. Real occasions of life after school or subjects drawn from the students' studies should be used. It is recommended that students be assigned a composition every week to be corrected by the teacher. Written as a catechism. Covers history of writing, beauty, taste, kinds of style (perspicuity, unity, harmony, strength, etc.) figurative language, and kinds of composition (letters, essays, orations, poetry, etc.). The Schultz Archive copy is roughly the complete 129 page text.