PHRSONAL AND SOCIAL CONTACTS 117 



Eeplies to definite written inquiries of farmers are prob- 

 ably the most effective letter contacts, since they represent 

 a definitely expressed need and effort on the part of the 

 inquirer writing the letter. But personal letters originated 

 by the agent with the purpose of suggesting improved 

 methods, stimulating and encouraging to action, wisely 

 used, are full of helpful possibilities. 



Letters are likely to be of value to the receiver in direct 

 proportion as they give a satisfactory answer to a real need 

 for information and advice, or as they encourage and stimu- 

 late desirable reactions. The effectiveness of letter writing 

 also depends upon the extent to which the writer puts his 

 personality into the letter and gives his information indi- 

 vidual and personal application. Since it is more difficult 

 to do this in a circular letter than a personal one, circular 

 letters are less useful. 



Promptness in attending to correspondence is a necessary 

 virtue. Failure on the county agent's part to answer 

 letters promptly and satisfactorily not only wastes an op- 

 portunity for useful service but very often results in actual 

 injury to the work in the county. Any one who has had 

 large experience in handling correspondence knows the 

 vital importance of prompt answer to inquiries. 



Sarcasm and acrimonious debate have no place in letters. 

 Every county agent will receive letters asking inexcusably 

 foolish questions, making impossible proposals and sugges- 

 tions and often severely criticizing himself or his work. 

 One may write a sarcastic, critical or argumentative reply 

 if he must; but it will always be better, having relieved 

 himself of his thoughts, to hold the letter over night and 

 then to tear it up or forget to mail it. Experience has 

 proved this course not only safe but wise and satisfactory. 



