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If the reader should inquire what specialclaims the present author can put forwardto treat so complex and indeed novel asubject, the first reply is, of course, that hehas thought a long time and with muchcare about it, and this, for a theorist, issufficient vindication. But it may fairlybe added that a writer on the principlesof conversation ought to live in a countrywhere the practice of it is confessedly ona high level, and where the average manis able to talk well. This is an additionaljustification. Lastly, though examplescannot teach the art, it is to be expectedviiithat the writer should not live altogetherin his study, but should go out and hearas many good conversations as possible,in order to bring his theories to thepractical test. These three conditionshaving been honestly fulfilled, the failureof the book will rather be due to want ofability than to want of honest preparationin the author.

The generality of the treatment mayperhaps mislead the reader to think thatthere is nothing but speculation attempted.This is not so, each single case of generaldescription being drawn from instancesunder the author’s own observation, sothat not a few will be recognised by thosewho have moved in the same society.But, if justly drawn, they ought to befound in every society.

ixIn seeking for advice among thosewhose conversation has supplied the bestmaterials for his theory, the author hasbeen fortunate enough to obtain the assistanceof the Marchioness of Londonderryand Lady Audrey Buller, whohave made suggestions and criticismswhich he here cordially acknowledges.