For inserting commas or other points after, before, or within brackets, the same rules apply as in case of marks of parenthesis.
Whether when a noun singular terminates in s, its possessive case requires an additional s is yet an open question. We have no hesitation in giving an affirmative answer, especially in the case of proper names. If Mr. Adams were to manufacture ale, one might, perhaps, from prohibitory considerations, advise him to advertise it as “Adams’ ale”; but should Mr. Adams have no fear of the law, he would avoid all misunderstanding by calling it “Adams’s ale.” It may be objected that the position of the apostrophe makes the matter sufficiently clear without the additional s. Yes,—to the eye; but to the ear the propriety of the additional s becomes very apparent. “Jacob’s pillow” and “Jacobs’s pillow” may be of very different materials. But, to avoid too much sibilation, we read “for conscience’ sake,” “for goodness’ sake,” etc.
The apostrophe, with s subjoined, is used to denote the plural of letters and figures.
“The discipline which is imposed by proving that some x’s are some y’s, and that other x’s are all y’s, will enable you to pulverize any hot‐headed deacon who may hereafter attempt to prove that you had better be looking out for another pastorate.”—Ad Clerum.
“This 7 differs from the other 7’s.” {p95}
The apostrophe may be used in denoting the plural whenever its use will assist in avoiding obscurity.
“The children called loudly for their pa’s and ma’s.”
For convenient reference we append a series of rules and examples, which, we think, will be found useful by teachers and scholars, and our friends of the press.