ion of
disconnected sentences, referring to the usual exercises of the
Grammatical Methods, and by learning lists of words. The sentences are
only disconnected in that they do not always form question and answer,
but this the student can easily and profitably remedy. Besides all
speech is not dialogue. _See page_ 7. They are no more disconnected
than are so many soldiers of a regiment, moving at the impulse of one
mind, and marching to the attainment of one object. The connection is
that all the soldiers act in unison in execution of the command of their
officers. The connection between the so-called disconnected sentences is
that they have been selected to illustrate and inculcate the rule under
study. This is the true connection that unites and harmonises them all,
that each leads the pupil directly to the attainment of his object--the
mastery of the rule. The illusory connection of some insipid narrative
is only delusive.

What can a method be which, from the beginning excludes the mother tongue
of the pupil when he knows no other? it is necessarily confined to dumb
show and practice. It is no more to be compared for thoroughness to the
Grammatical Method than would be instruction in weaving by a weaver, with
the instruction of Master of the Technical School in constructing a
piece. Doubtless a person can learn to weave a piece in a Factory but no
one will compare such an acquirement with the course of instruction in
manufacturing, in the construction of a piece, imparted at the Technical
School, under the guidance, of Mr. Ashenhurst's text books. Grammar, in
the study of language is such a text book, it imparts order and method to
the study.

We have suffered from the divorce and the dissociation of theory and
practice. Until recently our universities, or seats of learning, catered
only for the aristocracy, the land-owning class, and the clergy: science
was neglected. Originating in the natural advantages of an abundant
supply of easily-worked coal and iron, an extensive coast line, and a
favourable geographical situation, we had achieved an undeniable
pre-eminence in industry and manufactures, which was supported by
abundant cheap capital and a spirit of enterprise; it was backed by
workmen possessed of natural ability, and such skill as practice and
highly sub-divided labour can impart. All this was found insufficient to
enable us to hold our own, our supremacy was passing away, and when the
cause