The proportions of the writing, spacing, and margins will likewise properly settle themselves (see pp. [265], [103], [107]), but where the size of the sheet only is fixed, we have, broadly speaking, to decide between “large” writing with “small” margins (fig. [61]), and “small” writing with “large” margins (fig. [62]).
Generally a compromise is arrived at and the proportions are more evenly balanced (fig. [63]).
Ruling (see also pp. [258], [99]).—The mode of ruling marginal lines and writing lines is shown in fig. [65]. The ruling should be light, but firm and accurate. A fine pen, or hard pencil, or a blunt point may be used. Where the writing lines are double (as for round hands, p. [304]), it is best to have a double ruling point (see fig. [77]). Two hard pencils firmly [p090] lashed together make a convenient tool for large work: the distance between the points is easily adjusted by means of a small wedge.
PROBLEM I. (A SHEET OF PROSE)
To write out the Pater noster (50 words) in a formal round-hand (arranged in “mass” of equal lines) on a sheet of “foolscap” (i.e. 17 inches high and 1312 inches wide).
If the size of the writing be considered of the first importance, a few words are written out in a script chosen to suit the subject, the space, &c., and these are measured to find the area which the whole text so written would occupy (fig. [64]). The size of the script is then modified, if necessary, to suit the available area. [p091]