whether you do this or not, remember that the more simple and consecutive
your thought, the easier it will be both to keep it in mind and to utter
it. The more orderly your plan, the less likely you will be to "get
bewildered," or to "lose the thread." Think it out so clearly that the
successive parts lead to one another, and then there will be little strain
upon your memory. For each point you make, provide at least one good
argument and one good illustration, and you can, after a little practice,
safely leave the rest to the suggestion of the moment. But so much as this
you must have, to be secure. Methods of preparation of course vary
extremely; yet I suppose the secret of the composure of an experienced
speaker to lie usually in this, that he has made sure beforehand of a
sufficient number of good points to carry him through, even if nothing good
should occur to him on the spot. Thus wise people, in going on a fishing
excursion, take with them not merely their fishing tackle, but a few fish;
and then, if they are not sure of their luck, they will be sure of their
chowder.

These are some of the simple hints that might be given, in answer to
inquiring friends. I can remember when they would have saved me some
anguish of spirit; and they may be of some use to others now. I write,
then, not to induce any one to talk for the sake of talking,--Heaven
forbid!--but that those who are longing to say something should not fancy
the obstacles insurmountable, when they are really slight.




VII

PRINCIPLES OF GOVERNMENT