Marginal Lines.—These, the terminals of the writing-lines, are frequently made double, with about 14 inch between (see Plates [XX.] and [XV.]). On the left this space is utilised for marginal capitals, or is left blank; on the right the first line acts as a warning mark and the normal termination of the text, the second as a barrier beyond which the writing should not go. The double lines, in being more obvious than single lines, are also more effective in “straightening” the page (p. [109]): presumably for this reason the two upper and two lower writing-lines were often ruled from edge to edge of the page (see [Plate XI.]).
Ruling.—Marginal and writing-lines, once ruled, are to be left intact, and may be regarded as actual component parts of the finished pages. They are best made with a hard blunt point (p. [108])—the furrows so made give an interesting character, almost a “texture,” to the smooth surface of the page. But they may be ruled with a fine lead pencil, or with a fine pen and faint black or [p344] coloured inks. Inked or coloured lines, however, are not generally written upon (see footnote, p. [305]), but between (see Plates [XIII.], [XVII.], [XX.], &c.).
Correcting Mistakes.—A neatly made rather small letter above and a “carat” below (as in ordinary writing) may be used for an omission (fig. [192]). A superfluous letter may be neatly struck out. Erasures are usually unsatisfactory, and a simple, unostentatious correction, besides disarming criticism, is in accordance with the proper freedom of the craft (see p. [174]).
Annotations, &c., preferably in smaller coloured writing, are very decorative in the broader margins (pp. [144], [315]).
Special Books.—A MS. book is necessarily unique, and some special or personal interest—either of the craftsman (see p. [142]) or his “client”—inevitably attaches to it. This may affect its size and form, the treatment of the text, and the decoration and construction generally (see p. [100]). Every legitimate opportunity of adding to its individual character should be taken by the scribe and illuminator. [p345]
Fig. [175] and [Plate XX.] are both taken from private prayer books or psalters; in each the name of the owner (e.g. “Euanzelista famulo tuo,” [Plate XX.]) is frequently inserted. Plates [XV.] and [XXII.] are also taken from specially commissioned MSS., and many evidences of their ownership, such as portraits or coats-of-arms, form part of the decoration of such books.
Church Services, &c.—(For a special church or person.) Church uses are so varied, that it is most important to ascertain the custom, use, or taste of the persons concerned—especially as to the order of, and the introduction or omission of, certain words, paragraphs, or parts, the colours used in the text, the notation of the music—and the manner in which the book will be used.
A service book for the use of a priest gives prominence to the parts in which he is concerned—the responses[95] may be smaller, and different in form or colour. The rubrics—in red (see pp. [140], [144])—are kept quite distinct, and may form a very decorative feature. For a private person the other parts—such as are said by the congregation—might be specially marked. In either case a certain amount of planning—e.g. completing prayers, &c., in an opening, to avoid turning over—may be justified by its convenience to the reader. Should very careful planning ever be required, a pattern-book may be made, having the contents of each page roughly indicated in it.