[Illustration:  This is the inventor of the telephone, and one of the most famous characters of the country.  This is a most pronounced signature indicating inventive genius and charity, with strong literary proclivities.]

[Illustration:  Joseph Zeisler, one of the best known physicians in the country.  This writing, while difficult to read, indicates a nervous body and active brain.]

[Illustration:  Thomas A. Edison, the famous inventor.]

[Illustration:  One of the richest men in America and a well-known philanthropist.]

[Illustration:  This signature evidences calm and clear judgment; the open “o’s,” fluency of speech; and the simply formed capitals, the modest, unpretentious nature.]

[Illustration:  The writing of one of the most famous characters in American politics.  His writing indicates firmness, love of notoriety and also a semblance of weakness.]

[Illustration:  The signature of Emil G. Hirsch, Rabbi of Sinai Congregation, Chicago, one of America’s best-known and most-respected Jewish citizens.]

[Illustration:  “Oom Paul” Kruger, formerly president of the Transvaal Republic.  This is the signature of a man that believed the world was flat.  He was “sot” in his ways—­stubborn, obstinate, unmovable.  His rugged character was never brought within the restraints of conventionality, and neither, apparently, was his handwriting.]

[Illustration:  One of America’s best-known educators.]

[Illustration:  Arthur N. McGeoch, Milwaukee, Wis., a well-known attorney.]

[Illustration:  Geo. E. Allen, Educational Director, American Institute of Banking.]

[Illustration:  Characteristic writing of business men in the early days of our country.  These autographs appear on the original agreement which formed the first stock exchange in New York City, in 1792.  Whirls, flourishes, and other peculiarities are remarkably plenty in the above, which is an indication of correct writing in those days.]

[Illustration:  One of the few legible signatures to the Declaration of Independence.]

[Illustration:  P.M.  Hanney, a leading Chicago business man, and a director in the great firm of Siegel Cooper & Company.]

[Illustration:  General counsel for the American Bankers’ Association, and authority on American banking law.]

[Illustration:  Retired Major General of the United States Army.]

AUTOGRAPH SIGNATURES OF THE PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES

[Illustrations]