+102. Letters of Friendship.+—While a great deal of information may be obtained from some letters of friendship, the real purpose of such letters is, usually, not to give information, but to entertain. You will notice that the information derived from letters of friendship differs from that found in business letters. Its nature is such that of itself it gives pleasure. Our letters to our relatives, friends, and acquaintances are but visits on paper, and it should be our purpose to make these visits as enjoyable as possible.
So much depends upon the circumstances attendant upon the writing of letters of friendship, that it is impossible to make any definite statement as to what they should contain. We may say in general that they should contain matter interesting to the recipient, and that they should be characterized by vividness and naturalness. Interesting material is a requisite, but that of itself is not sufficient to make an entertaining letter. Interesting material may be presented in so unattractive and lifeless a manner that much of its power to please is lost. Let your letters be full of life and spirit. In your descriptions, narrations, and explanations, express yourself so clearly and so vividly that those who read your letters will be able to understand exactly what you mean.
EXERCISES
1. Write a letter to a classmate who has moved to another town, telling
him of the school of which he was once a member.
2. Write to a friend, describing your visit to the World's Fair at St.
Louis.
3. Suppose yourself away from home. Write a letter to your little brother
or sister at home.
4. If you have ever been abroad, describe in a letter some place of
interest that you have visited.
5. Write to a friend who is fond of camping, about your camping
experience.
6. Suppose your mother is away from home on a visit. Write her about the
home life.
7. Write to a friend, describing a party that you recently attended.