teachers, the Press, and the Education Department. The last-named has made a material advance, and from being antagonistic have now declared that “The revisors of Handwriting for the Education Department” (Whitehall) “will place Vertical writing on the same footing with other styles of writing.” Through many of its representatives (H. M. Inspectors) the Department speaks still more decisively in favour of Upright Penmanship. We quote from the Blue Books of 1890, 1891, and 1892: “Vertical Writing appears to be most easily taught, and to be the best for the right physical conditions of the eyesight and the spine” (Rev. T. W. Sharpe, M. A., Senior Chief Inspector).
“Many schools are now adopting the Vertical style of writing. It is said to be easily acquired, and to enable the children to adopt a more upright and therefore more healthy posture while writing. It has also the merit of clearness and legibility, so that I have no doubt it will spread” (Rev. C. F. Johnstone, Chief Inspector).
“A growing tendency to an Upright rather than a sloping style” (R. Ogilvie, Esq., M. A., LL. D., Chief Inspector).
“Handwriting has improved, especially in those schools in which the Upright style of writing has been adopted” (F. B. de Sausmarez, Esq., H. M. I.).
Another Chief Inspector says “The writing was about the best I have seen. The boys are taught the Upright or Jackson’s Style.”
Then finally the attitude of the Press has entirely changed; from being cynical, then patronising, it has become appreciative and sometimes enthusiastic. There is no doubt whatever that all classes of the community are recognising the claims of Upright Penmanship more widely every day, and that the lethargy of the past is quickly disappearing and giving way to an interest which occasionally rises to excitement.
