<P_1>

<heading>

<font> LUDUS LITERARIUS </font> : OR , THE GRAMMAR SCHOOLE .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,1.3)

CHAP. I. (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,1.4)

<font> A DISCOURSE BETWEENE TWO SCHOOLEMASTERS , CONCERNING THEIR
FUNCTION . IN THE END DETERMINING A CONFERENCE ABOUT THE BEST WAY OF
TEACHING , AND THE MANNER OF THEIR PROCEEDING IN THE SAME . </font>
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,1.5)

SPOUDEUS . PHILOPONUS . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,1.6)

</heading>

<font> Spoud. </font> God save you , good Sir : (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,1.8)

I am glad to see you in health . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,1.9)

<font> Phil. </font> What , mine old acquaintance , M. <font> Spoudeus
? </font> (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,1.10)

<font> Spoud. </font> The very same , Sir . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,1.11)

<font> Phil. </font> Now , I am as right glad to see you well ;
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,1.12)

you are heartily welcome to this my poore house . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,1.13)

<font> Spoud. </font> Sir , I give you many thankes .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,1.14)

<font> Phil. </font> But how have yo {COM:sic} done these many yeeres ?
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,1.15)

<font> Spoud. </font> I thanke God I have had good health , ever since
we lived in the Colledge together : (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,1.16)

but for my time , I have spent it in a fruitlesse , wearisom , and an
unthankfull office ; in teaching a poore countrey schoole , as I have
heard , that <P_2> your selfe have also beene imployed in the same
kinde of life , and am therefore perswaded , that you have had some
experience of my griefe . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,2.17)

<font> Phil. </font> Experience , say you ? (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,2.18)

yea indeed I have had so much experience of that whereof you now
complaine , that if all other things were according thereunto , I might
bee able to teach very many . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,2.19)

But I pray you Sir , what good occasion hath brought you into these
parts ? (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,2.20)

It is a wonder to see you in this countrey . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,2.21)

I should hardly have knowne you <paren> it is so long since we lived
together , now above twentie yeeres , and also for that you seeme to
mee so aged </paren> but that I did better remember your voice , then
your favour . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,2.22)

<font> Spoud. </font> Sir , you see the proverbe verified in me ;
Curafacit canos . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,2.23)

Cares and troubles have made me aged long before my time .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,2.24)

As for my journey , a very great and necessarie occasion hath driven me
into these quarters , to come even unto you , to seek your helpe and
direction , in a matter wherein <paren> I hope </paren> you may
exceedingly pleasure me , without hurt any way , or so much as the
least prejudice unto your selfe . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,2.25)

<font> Phil. </font> You might thinke me very unkinde , and forgetfull
of our ancient love , if I should not be ready to shew you any
kindnesse ; especially sith you have taken so long a journey unto me .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,2.26)

But I pray you what is the matter ? (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,2.27)

<font> Spoud. </font> The matter <paren> if you wil give me leave
</paren> is this . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,2.28)

I have heard that you have long taken great paines in teaching ; and
that of late yeeres , you have set your selfe wholly to this happy
kinde of travell ; to finde out the most plaine , easie , and sure
waies of teaching , for the benefit both-1 of your selfe , and others :
whereby you have attained much happy knowledge in this behalfe .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,2.29)

Now my long journey hath been for this same very purpose , to desire
some conference with you , and to intreat your loving favour & helpe .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,2.30)

I should thinke my selfe for ever bound unto you , if you would
vouchsafe to impart unto me some of those experiments , which I have
been certainly informed , that by your travels you have obtained .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,2.31)

For , I myselfe have so long laboured in this moiling and drudging life
, without any fruit to <P_3> speake of , and with so many
discouragements and vexations in stead of any true comfort , that I
waxe utterly wearie of my place , (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,3.32)

and my life is a continuall burden unto me : Insomuch as that it
causeth me to feare , that God never called me to this function ,
because I see his blessing so little upon my labours ;
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,3.33)

neither can I finde any delight therein : whereas , notwithstanding , I
heare of some others , and even of our old acquaintance , whom God
blesseth greatly in this calling ; though such be verie rare , some one
or two spoken of almost in a whole countrey . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,3.34)

<font> Phil. </font> Indeed I have travelled in this too unthankefull a
calling <paren> as you doe most justly complaine </paren>
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,3.35)

and that in all this time , since we lived together . In the greatest
part wherof , I have been well acquainted with your griefes and
vexations ; which are no other then doe ordinarily waite upon this our
function : (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,3.36)

yet this I thankefully acknowledge <paren> according to your former
speech , and to give you likewise some reviving </paren> that now of
late , since I set my selfe more conscionably and earnestly to seeke
out the best waies of teaching by inquiring , conferring and practicing
constantly all the most likely courses , which I could heare or devise
, God hath granted unto me , to finde so great contentation , and joy
of this same labour in my schoole , that it hath swallowed up the
remembrance of all my former grievances . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,3.37)

For I doe plainely see such a change , that now I doe not only labour
in my place usually without griefe , or any wearinesse at all , but
that I can take ordinarily more true delight and pleasure in following
my children <paren> by observing the earnest strife and emulation which
is amongst them , which of them shall doe the best , and in the
sensible increase of their learning and towardnesse </paren> then anie
one can take in following hawkes and hounds , or in anie other the
pleasantest recreation , as I verily perswade my selfe .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,3.38)

And the rather , because after my labour ended , my chiefest delight is
in the remembrance thereof ; and in the consideration of the certaine
good , that I know shall come thereby , both-2 unto Church and
Common-wealth : <P_4> and also that my labour and service is acceptable
to the Lord , though all men should be unthankfull . So that now I am
never so well , as when I am most diligent in my place .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,4.39)

Yea , I doe seeme to my selfe to find withall so great a blessing upon
my labours , above all former times , that if I had knowne the same
courses from the beginning , I doe assure my selfe that I had done ten
times more good , and my whole life had been full of much sweet
contentment , in regard of that which it hath bin .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,4.40)

Although my labours have never been utterly unprofitable , but that I
have still sent forth for every yeere , some unto the Universities ,
and they approved amongst the better sort of those which have come
thither : yet this hath beene nothing to that good which I might
undoubtedly have done . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,4.41)

<font> Spoud. </font> Sir , I am perswaded that you speake as you
thinke : (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,4.42)

and therefore I doe grow into greater hope , that you having had so
much experience of the griefe in the one , and joy in the other , will
be more compassionate of me , and more readie also to impart your
experiments with me , to make me partaker of your comfort .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,4.43)

<font> Phil. </font> For communicating unto you , for your helpe and
comfort , what God hath made knowne unto me , I take it to be my dutie
. (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,4.44)

We all of us know the danger of hiding our talent , or keeping backe
our debt , when the Lord having given us abilitie , doth call upon us
to pay it . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,4.45)

<font> Spoud. </font> I thank God unfainedly <paren> good Sir </paren>
for this heartie affection , which I doe finde in you , and for this
readinesse to communicate with mee the fruits of your travels .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,4.46)

You shall see I hope , that I shall receive them , with like alacritie
and thankfulnesse , and be as readie to imploy them to the best , to
doe my uttermost service in my place and calling hereafter . So that
although my first beginnings have bin small , through ignorance of
better courses , yet I trust my after-fruits shall much increase .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,4.47)

Hereby my last dayes shall proove my best , and make some amends for
that which is past : (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,4.48)

and also my new comforts shall sweeten all the remainder of my life ,
and make me likewise to forget the <P_5> daies that are past .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,5.49)

How true is that Proverbe of wise <font> Salomon </font> , that
heavinesse in the heart of man doth bring it down , but a good word
doth rejoyce it ? (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,5.50)

You have revived my heart , and put new spirits into mee , by that
which you have already said . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,5.51)

<font> Phil. </font> The Lord will revive you , I hope , and all of us
also who labour in this toiling kind ; by causing us to find more sound
fruit , and pleasant content in our teaching , then ever yet we felt ;
if we will but set our selves to seeke of him , and readily impart our
several experiments for the good of all : (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,5.52)

if withall we will receive thankefully , and cheerefully put in
practice those gracious helpes of so many learned men , which he in
this last age of the world hath afforded aboundantly , above all former
times , very many whereof lie utterly hid and unknowne to the greatest
sort , unto this day : (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,5.53)

And that partly through lack of care and conscience , to do that good
which we might , and ought in our places ; partly through extreme
unthankfulnes , neglecting the rich gifts of the Lord , so plentifully
powred down from heaven upon us , to leave the world more without
excuse . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,5.54)

But as for mine owne selfe , all that I can promise is , onely my study
and desire , to doe you and all other the greatest good that ever I
shall be able ; (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,5.55)

and hereunto we have all bound our selves . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,5.56)

If I know any thing wherein I have , or you may receive benefit , I
acknowledge it wholly where it is due , even to him who giveth
liberally to all who seeke him aright , and casteth no man in the teeth
. (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,5.57)

And resting upo~ his rich bounty for a further supply , if you shall
propound in order the particular points , wherein you would wish my
advice , I shal very willingly go on with you , and acquaint you with
all things which hitherto I have learned in all my search , and more
hereafter as his wisdome shall adde unto me . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,5.58)

<font> Spoud. </font> I rejoice in your confidence ,
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,5.59)

& with that so it may bee . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,5.60)

In the meane time I like well of your motion , of going thorow in order
the principall matters of difficultie . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,5.61)

If therefore you shall thinke meete , I shall reduce all to certaine
heads , which a friend of mine shewed unto mee of late , <P_6> set down
in a certain Table , which it may be that your selfe have seene .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,6.62)

<font> Phil. </font> Let me heare what was contained in it ,
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,6.63)

and then I shall soone answer you , whether I have seene it or no .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,6.64)

<font> Spoud. </font> There was contained in it , a briefe summe of
sundry particular benefits , which may bee brought to Grammar schooles
, to make schollers very perfect in every part of good learning meet
for their yeeres ; and that all both Masters and Schollers may proceede
with ease , certainty and delight , to fit all apt Schollers for the
Universitie every way , by fifteene yeeres of age . Concerning which
severall heads , although it were a most happy worke if they could be
attained unto <paren> all of them being in my minde very excellent ,
and indeed the whole , such a worke as must needs bring a perpetuall
benefit , both-4 to Church , and Common-wealth , and that not onely to
the present , but to all succeeding ages </paren> yet that I may speake
freely , what I conceive of them , many of them seeme very strange unto
me . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,6.65)

And , although I will not say that they are utterly impossible : yet
indeed I take them to be altogether unlikely ; considering the
continuall paines and vexation that my selfe have undergone , and yet
could never come in many of them , neere unto the least part thereof .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,6.66)

<font> Phil. </font> By that little which you have mentioned , I take
it that I have seene the very same : (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,6.67)

and for them I doe not only thinke it , (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,6.68)

but also doe know assuredly , that by the Lord's gracious assistance &
blessing , through constant diligence they may be all effected ; for
that I have knowne so much triall of all of them , as is sufficient to
induce any man therunto : (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,6.69)

besides that they doe all stand upon plaine and sure grounds , as I
trust I am able to make evident demonstration in each particular so as
any man of understanding may perceive cleerely , that they may be done
. (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,6.70)

Neither doe I doubt but to satisfie you in every point , and to cause
you to yeeld unto the evidence hereof , before we part , if you will
but onely aske and still shew me wherein you are not satisfied .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,6.71)

Moreover , I am so very confident herein , not onely <P_7> upon mine
owne reason and experience , but because I have knowne the judgements
of sundry very learned and experienced both Schoolemasters and others ,
who have beene acquainted with these selfe-same heads , which you have
mentioned , who , though at the first reading of them , they have beene
of your judgement , and have thought as you doe , yet within a quarter
of an houre after that they have taken a little triall , in some of the
most unlikely , and seen the reason of them , have rested fully
satisfied and assured of the whole , that all might be done , as
standing on the like grounds . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,7.72)

And therefore I have no cause to distrust the like successe with your
selfe . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,7.73)

<font> Spoud. </font> Sir , if you shall doe this for me , I shall
acknowledge my selfe to have received a very great benefit , and be
thankfull unto the Lord & to your selfe as his instrument ; and doe my
uttermost endevour to put them all constantly in practice , that I may
confirme them by mine owne experience , and finde the same happy
comfort , that your selfe have done . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,7.74)

I will therefore beginne in order according unto those heads , and so
propound the questions , how each thing may be done , and desire your
answer unto them severally . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,7.75)

<font> Phil. </font> Nay rather , for the manner of proceeding , I take
this to be far more easie and commodious to us both , and wherby God
may direct this conference so , as to profit many others besides our
selves ; To go thorow all the whole course of learning , from the first
step , beginning at the very first Elements , even at the A.B.C. and so
to ascend to the highest top of learning , which can bee required in
Grammar schooles ; to make a scholler each way fit for the University .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,7.76)

Thus to run thorow all the necessary points appertaining to the same ,
as neere as we can remember ; To make hereby the whole way easie and
ready to all good learning , and to ranke every head in the right order
& proper place , according to the due manner of proceeding in Schooles
. (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,7.77)

So wee may insert these points which you have spoken of ; dividing the
whole into several Chapters , for the full distinguishing and <P_8>
plain setting down of every matter . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,8.78)

To the end therefore that I may bee the better guided and occasioned to
impart all things unto you , I shall request you , first to propound
all the severall points of learning in order , from point to point as
wee preoceed . Secondly , in the propounding of them , to shew mee in
every one , what course you your selfe have taken , wherein you have
found so little fruit or comfort , as you complaine , and which you
thinke to be most ordinary in the countrey schooles . Wherein you shall
faile in omitting any necessary head or Chapter , or in misplacing any
, I shal afford you my best direction . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,8.79)

<font> Spoud. </font> I will accomplish your desire so well as I can .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,8.80)

I doubt not of your patience seeing you take mee thus of a suddaine ;
and that you who have beter thought of these things , wil guide me
continually , until we have gone thorow the whole .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,8.81)

<font> Phil. </font> I trust you are so perswaded of mee .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,8.82)

Therefore I pray you begin . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,8.83)

{COM:insert_helsinki_sample_1_here}

<P_16>

3 . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,16.86)

You may helpe them to spell thus , besides that course which is usuall
. (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,16.87)

Let so many as are beginners , or who $can $not {TEXT:cannot} reade
perfectly , stand together , (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,16.88)

and then poase them without booke , one by one . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,16.89)

First , in syllables of two letters , as they are set downe in their
A.B.C. (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,16.90)

and where one misseth , let his next fellow tell :
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,16.91)

if he $can $not {TEXT:cannot} , then , let some other .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,16.92)

Then examine them in syllables of three letters , after in moe .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,16.93)

And ever what {COM:sic} syllable they misse , marke it with a dent with
the nayle , or a pricke with a pen , or the like :
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,16.94)

and when you have marked out those wherein they so misse , poase them
oft over , not forgetting due praise to them who doe best .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,16.95)

One halfe houre would be spent daily in this kind of examining , untill
they be perfect in any syllable , or word . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,16.96)

To make children to take a delight in spelling , let them spell many
syllables together , which differ but only in one letter , as hand ,
band , land , sand , &c . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,16.97)

These syllables and words following , I have observed , to bee of the
hardest for children to spell : (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,16.98)

I will set you them downe together in this short briefe .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,16.99)

They may serve for spelling , reading , or writing ,
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,16.100)

and may soone be gotten by being often poased , read or written over .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,16.101)

{COM:word_list_omitted}

<P_17>

These are some of the hardest syllables , as I said :
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,17.104)

your selfe may adde moe as you meet with them . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,17.105)

Also this is to be observed in spelling ; that before <paren> on
</paren> you spell or write commonly <paren> ti </paren> not <paren> ci
</paren> as salvation , not salvacion , though we pronounce it as
<paren> ci . </paren> (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,17.106)

But this is to be knowne chiefly , by the Latine words from whence they
come . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,17.107)

Right pronuntiation of words , and continuall practice in spelling ,
are the surest way to come to spell truely . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,17.108)

If you pronounce the word false , which you would have your childe to
spell , hee spelleth it false : (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,17.109)

for he spelleth according as it is pronounced to him , or as he useth
to pronounce . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,17.110)

As for example ; aske the childe how hee spelles a strea , <paren> as
in many places the countrey manner is to pronounce it </paren> hee will
spell strea or stre : (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,17.111)

but aske him how hee spels a strawe and to pronounce it ,
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,17.112)

and he will spell strawe . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,17.113)

To direct further how to come to perfection in spelling or writing
right , I shall have occasion to speake after . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,17.114)

In joining syllables together , they must be taught to utter every
syllable by it selfe , truely , plainely , fully , and distinctly , as
we heard of the letters before ; and so also as that others who heare
may understand ; ever sounding out the last syllable : as sal-va-ti-on
. (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,17.115)

Thus they may goe thorow their Abcie , and Primer .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,17.116)

And if they reade them twise over , that they may be very perfect in
them , it will be the better for them . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,17.117)

For , the second reading of any booke doth much incourage children ,
because it seemeth to be so easie then ; (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,17.118)

and also it doth imprint it the more . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,17.119)

Besides that , they will runne it over so fast at the second time , as
it wil be no losse of time at all unto them . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,17.120)

After these they may reade over other English bookes . Amongst which ,
the Psalmes in metre would be one , because children will learne that
booke with most readinesse <P_18> and delight through the running of
the metre , as it is found by experience . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,18.121)

Then the Testament , in which the discreet Master may keepe his
scholler lesse or more , untill he think him meet to enter into the
Accedence . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,18.122)

If any require any other little booke meet to enter children ; <font>
the Schoole of Vertue </font> is one of the principall and easiest for
the first enterers , being full of precepts of civilitie , and such as
children will soone learne and take a delight in , thorow the
roundnesse of the metre , as was said before of the singing Psalmes :
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,18.123)

And after it <font> the Schoole of good manners </font> , called ,
<font> the new Schoole of vertue </font> , leading the childe as by the
hand in the way of all good manners . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,18.124)

By these meanes , children if they be well applyed , and continually
kept unto it , may be taught so to reade within a yeere or little more
, as they may bee meet to enter into their Accedence , by that time
that they be six yeere old at the uttermost ; especially if they bee in
any measure apt , and much practised in spelling the hardest syllables
. (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,18.125)

For dividing or distinguishing of syllables , this one observation is
to be remembred ; That what consonants are usually joined in the
beginnings of words , those are not to be disjoined and separate in the
middest of words , except in Compound words . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,18.126)

But of this wee shall speake more fitly after . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,18.127)

And thus much may suffice for the present , for the speedy reading of
English ; (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,18.128)

for hereof I have had much certaine experience .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,18.129)

<font> Spoud. </font> I $can $not {TEXT:cannot} justly dislike of
anything which you have said herein , (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,18.130)

it standeth all with so great reason : chiefely to make children so
perfect in the hardest syllables . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,18.131)

For , they being perfect in these , must need attain all the rest in a
short space . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,18.132)

Except onely one thing which you uttered ; which indeede seemes a
strange Paradox to mee : Namely , that some wise & experienced , would
have childre~ taught to call and pronounce all their letters , and to
spell any syllable before they know a letter on the booke .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,18.133)

<font> Phil. </font> This is very true which you say ;
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,18.134)

it may seeme a Paradox to them who have not tryed it .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,18.135)

I my selfe was of <P_19> your minde when I heard it first .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,19.136)

Yet setting my selfe to make some triall of it , for the reverence I
bare to him of whom I heard it , and for that he shewed me experience
of it in a child not foure yeeres old , I found it the easiest ,
pleasantest and shortest way of all , where one would begin in a
private house with little ones playing . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,19.137)

The manner is thus . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,19.138)

1 . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,19.139)

You must teach them , as I said , to call their five Vowels , and to
pronounce them right : Which they will presently learne , if you doe
but onely cause them to repeat them oft over , after you , distinctly
together thus : <font> a , e , i , o , u </font> , after the manner of
five bels , or as we say ; one , two , three , foure , five .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,19.140)

2 . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,19.141)

Then teach them to put the consonants in order before every vowell ,
and to repeate them oft over together ; as thus : to begin with <font>
b </font> , and to say , ba , be , bi , bo , bu .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,19.142)

So <font> d . </font> da , de , di , do , du . <font> f . </font> fa ,
fe , fi , fo , fu . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,19.143)

Thus teach them to say all the rest , as it were singing them together
, la , le , li , lo , lu ; (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,19.144)

The hardest to the last , as ca , ce , ci , co , cu : and ga , ge , gi
, go , gu . In which the sound is a little changed in the second and
third syllables . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,19.145)

When they can doe all these , then teach them to spell them in order ,
thus ; (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,19.146)

What spels b-a ? (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,19.147)

If the childe $can $not {TEXT:cannot} tell , teach him to say thus ;
b-a , ba : so putting first <font> b . </font> before every vowell , to
say b-a ba , b-e be , b-i bi , b-o bo , b-u bu .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,19.148)

Then aske him againe what spels b-a , (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,19.149)

and hee will tell you ; (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,19.150)

so all the rest in order . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,19.151)

By oft repeating before him , hee will certainly doe it .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,19.152)

After this if you aske him how hee spels b-a , he will answer b-a ba .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,19.153)

So in all others . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,19.154)

Next these , teach them to put the vowels first , as to say , ab , eb ,
ib , ob , ub . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,19.155)

Then thus , a-b ab , e-b eb , i-b ib , o-b ob , u-b ub .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,19.156)

After , what spelles a-b , e-b , &c . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,19.157)

Thus to goe with them backward and forward , crosse , in and out ,
untill they can spell any word of two letters . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,19.158)

Then you may adjoine those of three letters : (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,19.159)

Afterwards , all the hard syllables , to tell what any of them spels ,
till they be perfect in all , or as you shall thinke meet .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,19.160)

By this meanes , and by a little repeating of the letters of the
Alphabet over before them , by three or foure letters together , as
they stand in order , so <P_20> as they may best sound in the
children's eares , they will soone learne to say all the letters of the
A.B.C. if you will . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,20.161)

As to repeat them thus : {COM:alphabet_omitted} (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,20.162)

To say them thus by roat , will nothing hinder but further them .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,20.163)

Then they may presently be taught to know the letters upon the booke ,
either one by one , finding first which is <font> a </font> , in the
Alphabet ; and after in any other place . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,20.164)

Then to finde which is <font> b </font> , and so through all the rest
as you will . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,20.165)

Then when they are cunning in their letters and spelling , if you make
them to understand the matter which they learne , by questions , for a
little at the first , they will goe on in reading , as fast as you will
desire . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,20.166)

The easier and more familiar the matter is to them , the faster they
learne . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,20.167)

Thus may any poore man or woman enter the little ones in a towne
together ; and make an honest poore living of it , or get somwhat
towards helping the same . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,20.168)

Also the Parents who have any learning , may enter their little ones ,
playing with them , at dinners , and suppers , or as they sit by the
fire , and finde it very pleasant delight . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,20.169)

So they may helpe to gaine their children a yeere or two in learning ,
at the beginning , & also the Grammar Schooles of this labour and
hindrance . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,20.170)

<font> Spoud. </font> You have perswaded mee very much concerning this
doubt also . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,20.171)

Surely , Sir , howsoever this may seeme but a toy , yet all tender
parents will much rejoice in it , and acknowledge it an exceeding
benefit , to have their children so entred ; (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,20.172)

and this time being gotten in the beginning , will bee found in the end
as you truely said . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,20.173)

Yet there is another matter that comes unto my remembrance , about
which I have taken no small griefe and discouragement many a time ,
concerning this point of reading English . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,20.174)

I will mention it here , (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,20.175)

and desire your judgement how to redresse it , although it might
happely come in fitter afterwards . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,20.176)

The trouble is this : That when as my children doe first enter into
Latine , many of them will forget to reade English ,
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,20.177)

<P_21>

and some of them bee worse two or three yeeres after that they have
been in construction , then when they began it .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,21.179)

Now if you could teach me how to helpe this likewise that they might as
well goe forward still in reading English as in Latine , I should
account this a very great benefit . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,21.180)

For , some of their Parents , who use me the kindliest , will bee at me
, that their children may every day reade some Chapters of the Bible ,
to helpe their reading of English . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,21.181)

Now this I $can $not {TEXT:cannot} possibly doe , but they must needs
bee hindred in their Latine , in some lessons or necessarie exercises ;
and either be behinde their fellowes , or else trouble all their
fellowes very much , that they $can $not {TEXT:cannot} goe so fast
forward as they should , but stay for these readers .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,21.182)

Others being more ignorant or malicious , upon every light occasion ,
are readie to rage & raile at me , for that their children , as they
say , doe get no good under me , but are worse and worse .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,21.183)

For , where as they could have read English perfectly <paren> it may be
</paren> when they came to me , now they have forgotten to doe it .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,21.184)

Thus am I grieved on every side , and vexed daily , let mee labour
never so much , and spend my heart amongst them for to doe them good .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,21.185)

<font> Phil. </font> Sir , herein I can say , as she in the Poet ;
<paren> Haud ignara mali miseris succurrere disco . </paren>
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,21.186)

For I have tasted deepely of the same griefe untill verie lately ,
within this yeere or two . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,21.187)

Yet now I seeme to my Selfe , to finde as sensible and continuall a
growth amongst all my Schollers , in their English tongue as in the
Latine . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,21.188)

And not onely for the reading of it , but also for understanding it ,
and abilitie to utter their mindes of any matter , wherewith they are
acquainted , or which they learne in Latine ; and also how to expresse
the meaning of the Latine in proprietie , and puritie of our owne
tongue : so that I am quite delivered from that clamour .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,21.189)

But to tell you what I thinke , wherein there seemes unto mee , to bee
a verie maine want in all our Grammar schooles generally , or in the
most of them ; whereof <P_22> I have heard some great learned men to
complaine ; That there is no care had in respect , to traine up
schollers so , as they may be able to expresse their minds purely and
readily in our owne tongue , and to increase in the practice of it , as
well as in the Latine or Greeke ; whereas our chiefe indevour should be
for it , (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,22.190)

and that for these reasons . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,22.191)

1 . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,22.192)

Because that language which all sorts and conditions of men amongst us
are to have most use of , both-2 in speech and writing , is our owne
native tongue . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,22.193)

2 . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,22.194)

The puritie and elegancie of our owne language , is to be esteemed a
chiefe part of the honour of our Nation : which we all ought to advance
as much as in us lieth . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,22.195)

As when Greece and Rome and other nations have most flourished , their
languages also have been most pure : (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,22.196)

and from those times of Greece and Rome , we fetch our chiefest
patterns , for the learning of their tongues . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,22.197)

3 . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,22.198)

Because of those which are for a time trained up in schooles , there
are very few which proceed in learning , in comparison of them that
follow other callings . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,22.199)

<font> Spoud. </font> This complaint is not without just cause :
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,22.200)

for I doe not know any schoole , wherein there is regard had hereof to
any purpose ; notwithstanding the generall necessitie and use of it ,
and also the great commendation which it brings to them who have
attained it : (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,22.201)

but I thinke every minute an houre , untill I heare this of you , how
my trouble and shame may be avoided , and how I may obtaine this
facultie to direct my children , how they may goe thus forward , not
only in reading English perfitly , but also in the proprietie , puritie
and copie of our English tongue , so as they may utter their mindes
commendably of any matter which may concerne them , according to their
age and place . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,22.202)

<font> Phil. </font> I will but name the meanes unto you now :
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,22.203)

for I shall have occasion to shew them all more particularly hereafter
. (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,22.204)

Besides the daily use of distinct reading over their English parts to
get them perfectly , and of right reading all other things which they
learne in Latine , as your selfe doe know ; these meanes following , by
the blessing of God will accomplish your desire .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,22.205)

<P_23>

1 . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,23.207)

The continuall use of the bookes of construing of <font> Lillies
</font> Rules , by causing them to learne to construe , and to keepe
their Grammar rules , onely by the helpe of those translations .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,23.208)

This I finde one very good use of these books , besides some other
which I shall mention after . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,23.209)

2 . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,23.210)

The daily use , and practice of Grammaticall translation in English ,
of all the Schoole Authours , which the yonger sort doe learne ;
causing them each day out of those to construe , and repeate ,
whatsoever they learne . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,23.211)

This I also have prooved by happie experience , to be a rare helpe to
make young Schollers to grow very much , both-2 in English and Latine .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,23.212)

But of all these , for the manner , benefits , and use of them , I
shall have occasion to speake at large . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,23.213)

3 . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,23.214)

Besides these , they would have every day some practice of writing
English heedily , in true Orthographie ; as also of translating into
English ; or , of writing Epistles , or familiar Letters to their
friends , as well in English as in Latine . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,23.215)

Amongst some of them , the reporting of a Fable in English , or the
like matter , trying who can make the best report , doth much further
them in this . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,23.216)

And generally , amongst all those that can write , the taking of notes
of Sermons , and delivering them againe , or making repetitions , is a
speciall meanes . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,23.217)

Also striving to expresse whatsoever they construe , not onely in
proprietie , but in varietie of the finest phrase , who can give the
best . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,23.218)

This chiefly in the higher fourmes : (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,23.219)

So reading forth of Latine into English ; (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,23.220)

first in proprietie , (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,23.221)

then in puritie . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,23.222)

By these , and some use of the Historie of the Bible , and the like ,
which I shall be occasioned to mention after ; you may finde their
growth , according to your desire , and much above your expectation .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,23.223)

<font> Spoud. </font> Undoubtedly Sir , these must needs be very
availeable ; because schollers may have hereby , so much use of the
English every day , above that which is practised in any Schoole which
I have knowne . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,23.224)

But for any such translations of the Schoole-Authors , I have not heard
of them . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,23.225)

<P_24>

Onely I have seene the bookes of construing <font> Lillies </font>
rules , (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,24.227)

and some of my children have them , though I feared that it would
rather make them idle , being but a truant's booke .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,24.228)

Indeed I never conceived so much of them as you say :
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,24.229)

I shall better thinke of the use thereof . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,24.230)

<font> Phil. </font> There is not the best thing but it may be abused .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,24.231)

But for that booke as the others , I shall shew and prove unto you the
commodities of them , above all that you would imagine .
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,24.232)

Experience makes mee confident : (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,24.233)

Yet to returne unto your selfe , concerning the complaint of the
Parents for their children going backward in reading English , when
they first learne Latine ; the chiefe fault in truth is in the Parents
themselves ; although wee poore schoolemasters must be sure to beare
all . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,24.234)

For if such murmuring Parents would but cause their children , every
day after dinner or supper , or both , to reade a Chapter of the Bible
, or a piece of a Chapter , as leisure would permit , and to doe it
constantly ; thereby to shew their love to the Lord , and his Word ,
and their desire to have the Word dwell plentifully in their houses ,
to have their children trained up in it , as young <font> Timothy
</font> was ; then , I say , this complaint would soon be at an end :
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,24.235)

for they should either see then , their children to increase in this ,
(BRINSLEY-E2-P1,24.236)

or else they should discerne the fault to bee in their children's
dulnesse , and not in our neglect . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,24.237)

Notwithstanding , sith that they are so very few of whom wee can hope ,
that they have any care of this dutie in their houses , in respect of
all the rest who omit it , and yet all the blame must surely rest on us
, it concerneth us so much as we can to redresse it ; and therefore use
all good meanes , to cut off all occasions of clamours , and of
discrediting ourselves , and our schooles , and to contend for the
greatest profiting of our children , as well in this , as in any other
part of learning ; the use of this being , as we heard , most generall
and perpetuall . (BRINSLEY-E2-P1,24.238)