We can use only such stories as, both in plot and handling, are of striking originality and universal interest, stories which never, either in whole or part, have appeared in print before, and which are free from padding, commonplace and attempted fine writing. No dialect stories, poetry, or translations will be considered. The Black Cat will give space only to

Fascinating Tales, Cleverly Told.

To receive attention, all manuscripts must bear the writer's full name and address, together with the number of words, which may range from fifteen hundred to five thousand, but must in no case exceed the latter number; they must be very legibly written, sent unfolded, and accompanied by sufficient stamps for their return. Manuscripts will be received and returned only at the contributor's risk. All stories will be judged purely on their own merits, and the writer's name or reputation will carry no weight whatever. Payment for accepted manuscripts will be made not according to length, but according to the editor's opinion of their worth. Manuscripts will be paid for on the day of acceptance.

THE SHORTSTORY PUBLISHING CO., 144 High St., Boston, Mass.

Specimen pages, etc.,
sent on application.
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