Most of us seldom have occasion to write a note in the third person. We prefer to write informal notes - those in which we use the first person. Then instead of sending the message in a ready-made form, each one can express himself in his own way; he can be himself. For example:

Dear Miss Hall,

Mother and I are hoping that you can spend Thursday evening with us. Of course we shall expect you to dinner. You have not forgotten that our dinner hour is half past six ?

Cordially yours,

Ella W. Parker. 25 Gray Street, Dorchester,

Tuesday, November fifth.

Exercises

186. Accept the invitation in writing; decline it.

187. What characteristics of the writer come out in the following invitation? How many indications are there that she wished her guests to come and to come with the utmost ease? Consider the note addressed to you, and write a reply.

My dear Mr. Brown,

We should be happy to have you and your brother come down next Wednesday and stay with us over Sunday. A train that leaves Boston at three o'clock in the afternoon reaches Providence about four and gives ample time to take the train for Woodville in the same station at twenty minutes past four. Woodville is the terminus of the road, and our cottage is close to the station.

The best way is to buy a five-trip ticket to Providence, - we can easily take the extra ticket, - then a round-trip ticket from Providence to Woodville. You will need your tennis racquets, and the bicycles will not come amiss. We have at least one extra bathing suit. . . . You may be sure of a hearty welcome.

Very sincerely yours,

Mary Davis Leighton. Woodville, Rhode Island,

July fifteenth.

188. Invite your teacher to dine with you and spend the evening at your home. Make it clear in your note that you have consulted your mother in regard to the invitation.

189. Write a friend in order to show him that you appreciate the good time he gave you during your visit at his home.

190. Write a note to accompany a Christmas gift which is to be sent through the mail.

191. Write a letter of appreciation to a friend who has sent you a birthday gift.