g, when unfortunately I was very unexpectedly called from home on
very important business.

I regret my disappointment, but hope that the future may afford us many
pleasant meetings.

Sincerely your friend,
IRVING GOODRICH.

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_8.--Form of an Excuse for a Pupil._

Thursday Morning, April 4th.

Mr. Bunnel:

You will please excuse William for non-attendance at school yesterday, as I
was compelled to keep him at home to attend to a matter of business.

MRS. A. SMITH.

_9.--Form of Letter Accompanying a Present._

Louisville, July 6, 1894.

My Dearest Nelly:

Many happy returns of the day. So fearful was I that it would escape your
memory, that I thought I would send you this little trinket by way of
reminder. I beg you to accept it and wear it for the sake of the giver.
With love and best wishes.

Believe me ever, your sincere friend,
CAROLINE COLLINS.

_10.--Returning Thanks for the Present._

Louisville, July 6, 1894.

Dear Mrs. Collins:

I am very much obliged to you for the handsome bracelet you have sent me.
How kind and thoughtful it was of you to remember me on my birthday. I am
sure I have every cause to bless the day, and did I forget it, I have many
kind friends to remind me of it. Again thanking you for your present, which
is far too beautiful for me, and also for your kind wishes.

Believe me, your most grateful
BERTHA SMITH.

_11.--Congratulating a Friend Upon His Marriage._

Menton, N.Y., May 24th, 1894.

My Dear Everett:

I have to-day received the invitation to your wedding, and as I cannot be
present at that happy event to offer my congratulations in person, I write.

I am heartily glad you are going to be married, and congratulate you upon
the wisdom of your choice. You have won a noble as well as a beautiful
woman, and one whose love will make you a happy man to your life's end. May
God grant that trouble may not come near you, but should it be your lot,
you will have a wife to whom you can look with confidence for comfort, and
whose good sense and devotion to you will be your sure and unfailing
support.

That you may both be very happy, and that your happiness may increase with
your years, is the prayer of

Your Friend,
FRANK HOWARD.

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[Illustration: Declaration of Affection]

Any extravagant flattery should be avoided, both a