Having written an excellent letter, and faultlessly addressed the envelope, all may be easily stamped as unbusiness-like, and spoiled, by improperly performing so simple a part as the folding.  Remember that excellent rule that, whatever is worth doing should be well done.

With the letter sheet lying before you, turn the bottom edge up so that it lies along with the top edge, thus making a fold in the middle, which press down with the thumb nail or with a paper folder.  Then fold the right edge over so that it falls two-thirds the distance across the sheet, and press down the edge.  Next fold the left edge of the sheet over to the right, breaking the fold at the edge of the part folded over just before.

In case a check, note, draft, bill or currency is to be sent by letter, it should be placed on the upper half of the sheet as it lies open, and then the letter should be folded the same as if it were not there.  This will fold the paper or document in the letter so that it will be difficult to extract it while being transmitted in the mails, and so that it will not be dropped or lost in opening the letter.

The letter is now folded so that it will be of equal thickness in every part of the envelope.  Insert the last broken or folded edge in the envelope first, with original edges of the sheet at the end of the envelope which the stamp is on; when taken from the envelope the letter will then be proper side up.

THE LITERATURE OF A LETTER.

To be able to compose a letter requires more ability than to give it the proper arrangement and mechanical dress.  A mind well stored with useful knowledge as well as command of language, is necessary in writing a letter on general subjects.  The strictly business letter requires a thorough understanding of the facts concerning which the letter is written, and these facts to be set forth in plain and unmistakable language.  All display of rhetoric or flourish of words is entirely out of place in the sober, practical letter of business.  The proper use of capital letters, punctuation, and correct spelling are essential to the well written letter, and with a little care and striving may be easily acquired.

ARRANGEMENT OF ITEMS.

As stated before, each item or subject in a letter should be embraced in a separate paragraph.  These should be arranged in the order in which they would naturally come, either in point of time, importance, or as regards policy.  Never begin a letter abruptly with a complaint, but rather bring in all unpleasant subjects toward the close.  If an answer to a letter of inquiry, take up the questions as they are asked, indicate first what the question is, and then state clearly the answer.  The first paragraph should acknowledge the receipt of the communication now to be answered, giving date and indicating its nature and contents, thus: