236. _What key of the voice should be most diligently improved?_ The natural key, or that which is used most.
237. _What is meant by the natural key or pitch?_ That which is peculiar to the individual, and in which he can use most easily to himself, and most agreeably to others.
238. _How can the natural tone of voice be strengthened?_ By reading and speaking as loud as possible, without suffering the voice to rise into a higher key.
239. _What is the best method of strengthening the natural key?_ By speaking and reading strong, animated passages in a small room.
240. _How may low tones be acquired?_ By continued practice in a lower key than the natural.
241. _How may a high key be acquired?_ In the same manner as a low key; by pitching the voice first a little higher than the natural, and mastering that thoroughly, then still higher and higher.
242. _What is meant by Rotundity of the voice?_ That peculiar form of tone which the Romans called "Ore rotundo," which signifies "Round mouth."
243. _In what kind of sentences is the Rotundity of the voice exemplified?_ In the hailing of vessels, and is used especially by sailors and officers.
244. _Which is the most difficult: to raise the voice to a higher pitch, or to bring it to a lower?_ The lowering of the voice is more difficult, and requires great care and practice.
245. _What is a common fault with most public speakers?_ To run the voice into too high a key, and thus weary the hearers.
246. _What is a good rule by which to govern the voice?_ To start on a key lower than the natural, and thus avoid running too high.
247. _What are the principal styles of different reading selections?_ Descriptive, Narrative, Senatorial, Moral, Didactic, Dramatic, and Amusing.
248. _What tone of voice should be used in reading a Descriptive selection?_ The ordinary, natural tone, with a careful use of emphasis.
249. _What tone of voice is best adapted to the reading of a Narration?_ The conversational tone, with as little reference to the printed page as possible.
250. _What style is the best adapted to Senatorial reading?_ An imitative style and tone, being careful in the use of the emphatic pause.
251. _What tone is best adapted to the reading of Moral and Religious selections?_ Low and moderate tone, expressing feeling and sentiment, being careful not to read too fast.