When all of the papers of an examination have been rated and reviewed, those of each competitor are then, for the first time, assembled or brought together, his average percentage is ascertained, his declaration envelope is opened, and the declaration sheet to which he has signed his name is attached to his examination papers. The identity of the competitor, therefore, is not disclosed until his papers have been rated and reviewed and his average percentage determined. As the charges for specific errors are all fixed by the rules for rating, and as each subject is rated by two examiners acting separately and then reviewed by both jointly, it will be seen that absolute impartiality, accuracy and uniformity are secured in the work. Appeals from the ratings are sometimes made by competitors, but the prospect of securing a higher rating is very remote. Errors on the part of examiners in making charges are seldom found, as the work of each examiner is verified and checked in every particular by another. CHAPTER XI. THE ELIGIBLE REGISTER. How Names Are Placed on Eligible List and Mode of Certification to Postmasters. Usually it takes from three to six months to rate all papers after an examination. Candidates that make 70 per cent. or over are then notified of their relative standing. The period of eligibility for original appointments is one year from the date of entering the name on the register. When a name has been placed upon a register it is not disturbed until a postmaster calls for a list of eligibles. Then the proper number of names are certified to him and he chooses those he needs. The names of all others are returned to the eligible register to await further certifications. In making appointments the postmaster has the privilege of selecting one out of three down the list: If he had but one vacancy he could select the third name, but could not take the fourth; he also is permitted to appoint in regular order straight down the list, if he so choose. The probationary period for letter carriers and clerks begins upon their promotion to the regular force and not at the date of original appointment as substitutes. The period of probation is limited to six months and cannot be extended. At its close a probationer must either be absolutely appointed or dismissed. CHAPTER XII. RULES FOR RATING. Formula by Which Percentage Is Attained and Credited to the Competitor. All examination papers are rated according to the following rules: Every correct answer, 100. Every faulty answer according to its value on a scale of 100 and deduct the sum of the error marks of each answer from 100. The difference between the sum of the error marks of each answer and 100 will be the mark of the answer. Rules for Rating Spelling. From 100 deduct--