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then the alphabet. Afterwards the names of objects around are 
taught, the instructor touching the article mentioned and writing 
the name down, &c. Then nouns must be taught singly, and 
combined with the articles ‘‘a” and “the.” Simple interroga- 
tives follow such as ‘‘ what ?”’ and ‘‘ who ?” In teaching verbs the 
pupil performs the action, and their reason and language become 
developed, and deaf mutes become equal to hearing children in 
society, except in the power of hearing. Sight becomes so 
quickened that they can follow almost any conversation from 
observing the motion of the lips and face. 
Seeing that such results can be obtained I think it is the 
duty of the State to step in and give help to these helpless ones, 
equally with the blind and the idiots. Almost all could be trained 
to provide for their own existence, and most of them would 
doubtless become intelligent citizens. 
SHORT ANONYMOUS CONTRIBUTIONS. 
NOVEMBER 4th, 1884. 
1.—‘ BY THE way.” 
The paper styled ‘“‘ By the Way” was a protest against the 
modern word-twisting abortions intendedfor puns. The simple 
pun, z.e., the making use of a genuine English word in a double 
sense, as found in the writings of Tom Hood, might be excused 
for having at one time passed for wit, but that kind of joking had 
surely had its day. By way of warning, and as an illustration of 
the demoralizing effects of this species of humour, the author 
submitted an original sketch, entitled ‘‘ The un-nappy history of 
Thomas Beaver.’’ This production was in rhyme, and every 
stanza contained specimens of the pun. 
2.—‘* PRONUNCIATION.” 
The second paper opened by saying that ‘There are 
‘few things more distressing to the cultivated ear than bad 
pronunciation; a false note in music is not more jarring to 
the susceptibilities, or more destructive of the celestial harmonies 
in the mind of a musician, than is an inaccurate vowel sound or 
other mispronunciation, spoken in the hearing of one who loves 
his native tongue, and takes a proper English pride in its 
sweetness and melody. How many lofty thoughts clothed in 
most eloquent language, how many great moral lessons and 
spiritual truths have perished and crumbled to dust at their 
birth, through some ludicrous or silly effect of sound attributable 
