Special attention of the reader,1 and generally a set inscrip-

Subjects tion looks best if the lettering be comparatively

large—covering most of the given surface, and
leaving comparatively narrow margins. The frame
or moulding, or the natural edge or environment
of the circumscribed space, is very often sufficient
“margin” (see Plate XXIV).

The margins vary, however, according to cir¬
cumstances; especially the foot margin, which
may be very narrow if all the space is required
for the lettering (see fig. 211), or very large2 if
there is plenty of space (see fig. 210). And,
as in special pages or terminal pages of books, so
in single sheets, panels, &c., the “foot margin”
may show—as it really is—as the space which did
not require to be filled, and was therefore “left
over.”

Number of Different Types.—While in a book of
many pages considerable diversity is allowed, it is
essential to the strength and dignity of a single
sheet or set inscription to limit the number of
types employed in it. Three or four ordinary
types will generally give sufficient variety, and
if it be necessary—as in notices and placards—
that Important Words be put in special types to
catch the eye, let two—or at most three—special
types suffice; and let the remainder of the text
be as quiet and reserved as possible. “Display
Types” commonly defeat their object by being
overdone. A simple contrast is the most effective
(fig- I97)-

1 E.g. all ordinary written and printed matter intended to be
read at a short distance (see pp. 69-72), and generally held in the
hand.

1 As much as two-thirds, or more, of the whole space.

316

CAPITALS

in the head-line, large and spaced wide, are
contrasted with a mass of smaller lettering
below (see p. 294). Note.—Generally a
finer—though less striking—effect is obtained
by keeping large capitals rather slender—con¬
trasting size rather than weight (p. 292).

Fig. 197.

Special

Subjects

ILLUMINATED ADDRESSES, &С.

Forms of Addresses, &c.—The writer should be
prepared to advise his “clients” on the form which
the address may take, on special features in its writing
and illuminating, and on its general treatment.

Ordinarily an Illuminated Address is prepared
either as a Framed Parchment (p. 320), a Parchment
Scroll, or sheet (p. 320), or a small bound MS. (i.ei
in book form : p. 321 ).1

The wording commonly consists of three parts:
the Heading (usually the name of the addressee),
the Text (usually divided into paragraphs), the
Signatures (or a list of names) of the subscribers.

An address is commonly in the ist or 3rd person,
and in case of any confusion of these, any slip of
the pen, or other oversight in the draft, the penman

1 The addressee’s taste and convenience ought to be con¬
sidered : e.g. to one the framed inscription might be an embarrass¬
ment, while by another it might be preferred.

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