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THE

FRENCH STUDENT'S MANUAL,

OB,

SELECTIONS FROM FRENCH WRITERS:

CONSISTING OF

ANECDOTES, LETTERS, EXTRACTS FROM THE MOST CELEBRATED
DRAMAS, ETC., WITH NUMEROUS EXPLANATORY NOTES;
INTENDED FOR SCHOOLS AND PRIVATE STUDY.

BY N. ROY.

"LECTOREM DELECTANDO PARITER QUE MONENDO."

LONDON:

LONGMAN, BROWN, GREEN, AND LONGMANS,

AND

ROBERT PILTER, HUDDERSFIELD.

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PREFACE.

NOTWITHSTANDING the numerous works on the French Language which have secured public favour, it appeared to the compiler of the present volume, that something more could be done towards rendering the pathway more direct, easy and agreeable, to what, in this age of advancement, is considered almost an indispensable acquisition.

Works somewhat similar in form to this have been published, but even the most diligent student cannot but have discovered, that, although replete with the most beautiful specimens of French literature, they are by no means adapted to beginners and learners; but rather to those who, being acquainted with all the niceties of Grammar, idiomatical phrases, etc., desire merely to be gratified by peculiar characteristics of elegant composition.

The following pages are submitted, with the hope that, whilst they evince a due regard for method and arrangement, they will be found calculated to solve the difficulties of the pupil, and thus gradually lead him on to proficiency.

Brevity and simplicity have been the study of the compiler, and he flatters himself that, in the present effort, he has compressed much essence into little space.

By a cursory perusal, it will be seen at once that the chief object has been, by the aid of pleasing Anecdotes and Comedies, to facilitate the power of conversation. With respect to the latter, he has carefully expunged whatever might be considered objectionable, culling here and there from the best authors "their choicest sweets."

The pupil having duly mastered this portion of the work, his attention is next directed to the most interesting scenes of Tragic authors; among which, ATHALIE, the well-known chef-d'œuvre of Racine, plays the most conspicuous part. The best epistolary style is next selected; and, in a country essentially commercial, it has been thought proper to conclude by Letters adapted to the purposes of business.

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