Waterbury, Conn., March 10, 189—.
Dear Frances:
My daughter Madge will present this letter in person, as she is about to enter school in your town for a several years’ course of study. Under these circumstances, and in memory of our own lifelong friendship, may I not ask that you will help her to forget some of the sorrow of this, the first parting her happy, young life has known? Trusting that you will do this for the sake of auld lang syne,
I am, as ever, your friend,
Margaret M. Blatchford.Mrs. Frances H. Page,
Portland, Me.
A still briefer form would be:
Baltimore, Md., November 20, 189—.
Dear Denton:
My friend, Louis Ross, will present this note. Any kindness you may show him will confer a favor upon
Yours truly,
Frank P. Breckenridge.To Mr. James Denton,
Ottumwa, Ill.
The envelope to a letter of introduction should be addressed as follows:
Mr. James Denton, Ottumwa, Ill.
Introducing Mr. Louis Ross.
Letters of introduction should not be sent indiscriminately, as no one has a right to force a possibly undesirable acquaintance upon a friend, while, at the same time, the individual asking such a favor should be thoroughly convinced that he is entitled to the privilege. Letters of introduction, where they are between ladies, may be left by the caller, together with her card. She must not, however, ask to see the lady of the house, who is expected, shortly after the receipt of such a missive, to call in person, and should endeavor, during her stay, to include her in a portion of her social plans for the season; circumstances, of course, governing the extent to which these attentions should be carried.
A gentleman, in presenting a letter of introduction to a lady, may, if she should be at home, make his first call when sending in his letter and card, whereon should be designated his hotel or place of residence. If this should not be the case, she will answer by sending her card with her reception day engraved upon it, or, if that be too far distant, a note, stating when he may call, should be sent; it may also be expected that her husband, son or brother will call upon him and offer what civilities are at command. Even should neither card nor note be sent, it is still permitted him to call once more. His responsibility ceases here, and if no attention follows he may conclude his friend has overstepped the limits of a slight acquaintance in giving him the letter of introduction.
A Letter of Recommendation
to some position or appointment is very much the same as one of introduction. Its reception, however, does not necessitate social attentions. The form is very simple: