SCIOPTICON MANUAL. 95 



Except to a very limited extent, it is not practicable 

 (as many seem to suppose it is), to forward with a mis- 

 cellaneous selection of magic lantern slides a printed 

 lecture. 



In the absence of special provisions for supplying this 

 demand, some general hints in this direction may here 

 prove acceptable. 



In some assemblages (possibly in some Sun day-schools), 

 very little can be said to advantage on account of the 

 prevailing noise and confusion. The exhibitor having 

 (for love or money) accepted the situation, the question 

 arises as to how to make the best of it. 



In such cases in particular it is politic, as well as 

 proper, to select slides unexceptionable in their influence. 

 Grotesque and ridiculous representations gratify a de- 

 praved taste, and render a demoralized company still 

 more unruly. It is better to please by what is strikingly 

 excellent and beautiful. 



Without assuming the attitude of a reformer, one may 

 take advantage of the lull of expectancy preceding a 

 change of scene to give in a natural voice some interest- 

 ing particulars of the forthcoming picture. 



" Your mystical lore, 

 As coming events cast their shadows before," 



will be respected, and you may be able, by judicious 

 management, to strengthen your position on vantage 

 ground. Even in a civilized assembly (and we may 

 well hope to find ourselves in no other), some tact is 

 needful, as well as agreeable speech and faultless manipu- 

 lation. 



BIBLE PICTURES. 



Among standard colored lantern slides, Bible pictures 

 properly take the lead. They embody the genius of the 



