"In this short sermon the text with the word 'Brethren' constitutes the introduction; the phrase, 'you hear the condition,' is a good transition to the discussion contained in the next member, 'if you like the security,' which assumes the truth of the text, makes its general declarations present and personal, and prepares the way for the forcible and practical, if not very elegant conclusion, 'down with the dust.'" (Extempore Speech, pp. 53, 54.) _Extempore Speech:_ Extempore speech does not lose its special character, though some scattered quotations be read or repeated from memory. To pick up a book, in the midst of a speech, and read a theme or argument, or the statement of another's position, does not make the discourse composite in character, unless such reading be the principal part of it. * * * * Unwritten speech does not preclude the fullest preparation. The plans advocated in this volume will enable a speaker to gather materials as widely, arrange them as systematically, and hold them as firmly in hand, as if every word was written; while at the same time he may have all the freedom and play of thought, the rush of passion, and the energy of delivery that comes in the happiest moment of outgushing words. (Extempore Speech, Pittenger, p. 25-6.) _Preparation for Extempore Speech:_ On all ordinary occasions a good speech must result from a previous ingathering of materials--the formation of a mental treasury in connection with a special subject. The speaker works for days or weeks in collecting from all sources and arranging in the happiest manner that which his hearers are to receive in an hour with no other labor than that of listening. The great advantage of writing is supposed to lie in this preparation. Today an orator may write everything he knows about a subject; tomorrow, by means of reading, conversation, or further thought, he may have more ideas to record; and he may thus continue to widen and record his knowledge, until his time, or the subject itself, is exhausted. Then he may revise, select what is most appropriate, refine and polish his language, and finally come before an audience confident that he holds in his hand the very best that he can give them. (Extempore Speech, Pittenger, pp. 27-8.) Footnotes 1. _Note to Teacher_.--It would be well for the sake of giving variety to our exercises, as also for the excellence of the exercise itself, to make no assignments of the sub-divisions of the subject of these special lessons to individual members, but let it be a subject for general consideration by all the quorum during the week preceding its treatment in the class; and then call upon the members to speak to the subject without previous warning or notification. In a word, let it be an exercise in extemporaneous speaking. (See suggestions in the _Introduction._) LESSON V. SCRIPTURE READING EXERCISE. _BOOKS OF THE NEW TESTAMENT. (Continued.)_