however, the middle one is represented by an initial only, always
write it uniformly. It is better, if the form with initial only has
not become really established, to use the full name, although it may
be long.

The form of one's signature and the style of the handwriting soon
become habitual. Therefore, every effort should be made to make and
keep it legible. An illegible signature is unpardonable,--save perhaps
on a page at the top of which a printed or engraved letterhead gives
the name in full. There is, however, the danger that the writer of the
illegible signature will sometime sign his name on a legal document,
or a sheet not bearing his letterhead, and the signature stand for
nothing.

_Letters of Introduction_

A letter of introduction should never be requested. If it is offered
it is a sign of great regard. If it is greatly desired, it might be
well to acquaint the person, in whose power it is to offer it, with
the circumstances and interests which make it desirable, but never to
do more than this.

The advisability of giving letters of introduction depends upon the
circumstances. Between business acquaintances and for business
purposes, it is a common form of establishing connection among various
interests, and, if done with discrimination, is to be approved. It
should, however, even in business be done sparingly, as it is a matter
of personal friendship, usually, and as no one has a right to make
numerous or exacting demands upon one's friends.

Socially it is a matter of great delicacy, and should have even more
restrictions put upon it than does the introduction in company. For
the written introduction is used because distance prevents the
personal one, and that usually throws the recipient of such a letter
into the position of host to the traveler or newcomer, or at least of
benefactor to some degree. It places upon him an obligation not
involved in the verbal introduction, and the presumption is that he is
to do some favor, or show some special attention.

Letters of introduction may be explanatory or brief. Brevity is
preferable, but circumstances must determine.

A visiting card is often used with the words "Introducing Mr. Allan
Golding to Mr. Morris," or similar form, written across the top. The
card should be enclosed in a small envelope and left unsealed.

A brief form of letter simply says: "Permit me to introduce to your
favorable notice Mr. Silas Emerson."

A more explicit form wo