NOTE: 48

CHAPTER 14: Rules for Speaking with Grace.

It is necessary for a polite man not only to speak good words, but also to speak in a good manner. For whatever the speech may be, if it is confused and disordered, the hearer understands nothing and grows weary. a. It is necessary, therefore, that we set order in our words; that we speak not that which is to be said last first, nor that which is to be said first last; but every word in its [proper] place, so that the hearer’s mind may rest and be delighted. b. It is necessary that we keep in mind what we have previously said, and make no superfluous repetitions, nor weary the hearers by mentioning useless details. Hence, one must beware of all lengthy and superfluous things, which destroy the grace of speech and disgust the hearers. c. When we have begun to speak of a thing, or to make a narration, if in the midst of the speech [there occur] other [things] similar to what we have related...