The Principles of the Art of Conversation

by J. P. Mahaffy

(A) in the speaker, and these are either—

(α) Physical, viz.

(1) A sweet tone of voice ([§ 6]).

(2) Absence of local accent.

(3) Absence of tricks and catchwords ([§ 7]).

or

(β) Mental, viz.

(1) Knowledge, which may be either General (books, men), or Special (great topics, the topic of the day).

(2) Quickness.

or