OBJECTIVE.

85

case which contains the particular type called for, and deftly arrange it wrong-end first in the proper relation to its fellows contained in the composing-stick. To read the copy (often most illegible) ; to supply or correct punctuation; to determine the type, spaces, leads, etc.; to observe the in­tended sense of the writer; to separate sticky type, keep them on their feet, place them correctly, dulyspaced andleaded, as w r ell as punctuated; keep the place in the copy; and do all these quickly, sometimes with cold hands, and with various interrup­tions, it is obvious, is an employment that is most exacting of mental concentration and manipulative rapidity. A good female com­positor can set and correct thirty thou­sand ems per week, for which she would receive thirty cents per thousand, although many are employed at a set sum per week, rarely exceeding ten dollars; and at this rate she would be expected to be able to set nearly six thousand eins per day, to accom­plish which it will be seen that there must 8