MERCHANTS, manufacturers and others in need of “Help” often use the columns of our metropolitan newspapers anonymously, rather than give publicity to their wants, and thus be annoyed by an army of personal applicants.

Such advertisements bring the advertiser hundreds of letters from writers of all grades, ages and degrees of qualification, and though the advertiser may have stated explicitly the age and requirements of the person wanted, probably one-half will send in their application who possess none of these qualifications, and as but one of the many applicants can secure the vacant position, the writer should bear in mind that the advertiser will examine these letters in every business way; all letters written on scraps of paper, foolscap or soiled paper, will be thrown at once into the waste basket without perusal. The letters containing misspelled words, errors in grammar, interlineations and erasures will be noted, the penmanship and style scanned, and quite a correct estimate of the character and competency of the applicant will be formed from the application. As a Letter of Application is the only means of representing one's abilities, and making a favorable impression, the following useful suggestions may prove opportune:

1. When applying for a situation in this way the writer should remember that the merchant will use his letters as a criterion by which to judge of the applicant's fitness to fill the position.

2. Before attempting a reply the applicant should satisfy himself that he possesses the necessary qualifications to fill the position advertised.

3. All such letters should be written with extra care, both in construction and penmanship, on good, plain note or letter paper, with envelopes to match and in applicant's own handwriting. Be brief; conciseness is one of the charms of letter writing, and at such a time will not fail to make a good impression upon the advertiser. Examine carefully every sentence and every word of the letter befbre sending it, and if a single mistake is discovered, re-write the whole. If the position is a valuable one the time spent in writing the application may prove time well spent. At the same time bear in mind that it is important that a letter of application should be dispatched immediately after hearing of the position or reading the advertisement; the delay of an hour may defeat such an application.

4. The writer of a letter of application should name the paper in which the advertisement appeared, and whenever the advertisement itself can be used, it would be well to paste the same at the top of the sheet upon which the application is written.

5. The applicant may state what advantages he has enjoyed, and express his intention of honestly endeavoring to perform the duties required, but should be careful and make no mention of his character or qualifications. These should be learned from his testimonials or references. While the letter should be modest, it should not, however, be sycophantic; it should be not only respectful, but also self-respectful. For a genuine self-respect is one of the surest passports to the respect of others.

6. It is best to enclose a copy of any testimonials the writer may have marking them as such, then if an interview is given, the originals may be shown.

7. Do not commence your letter by stating that “having seen the advertisement” you thought you would apply for the situation, or “looking over the paper,” or “through it,” or having “accidentally stumbled over the advertisement,” and being “out of employment, etc.,” or that you “can give the best of reference.”

Application for a Clerkship.

ROCKFORD, ILL., Jan. 15, 1879.

MESSRS. FULLER & FULLER,

Chicago.

Gentlemen:—Hearing through a friend (Mr. C. C. Clayton) of the vacancy of the position of junior clerk in your house, I take the liberty of making application for the same. I have had but little mercantile experience, yet I am not entirely unacquainted with business customs, having often assisted in my brother's store at this place. I am eighteen years of age and have relatives in your city with whom I would make my home.

For information as to my character, please inquire of W. J. Florence, Esq., and H. H. Hall, Esq., both of your city.

Very respectfully,

JAMES J. JACKSON.

Answering an Advertisement for an Entry Clerk.

(Advertisement pasted in.)

735 State St., Chicago, May 31, 1881.

X. Y. Z., TRIBUNE:

Sir:—I offer myself as a candidate for the position advertised in to-day's Tribune, and beg to refer to my present employers, Messrs. Haskell, Brown & Co., with whom I am engaged as entry clerk.

Respectfully,

ARTHUR M. BAKER.

Application for Position of Book-keeper.

WANTED-A bookkeeper, competent to take charge of a set of double entry books, and to assist with correspondence. Only those need apply who can furnish unexceptional reference as to character and ability. Address C. & F., Baltimore.

WESTMINSTER, MD., Jan. 23, 1879.

MESSRS. C. & F.,

Baltimore, Md.

Gentlemen:—In reference to the above advertisement, which appeared in to-day's American, I respecifully offer my services. I am at present assistant book-keeper with Messrs. Johnson & Co., but desire advancement.

I am perfectly familiar with the duties of the position applied for, and am at liberty to refer you to my present employers who will, I think, satisfactorily answer any questions, as to my character, and qualifications.

Very respectfully,

JOHN P. JONES.

Application for Position of Commercial Traveler.

WANTED--A good traveler, for a manufacturing and jobbing print works near Philadelphia. Answer, stating age, experience, and references. Address Prints, Ledger Office.

PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 10, 1880.

PRINTS,

Ledger Office, Philadelphia.

Gentlemen:—In reply to your advertisement in the Ledger of to-day, a copy of which is attached herewith, I most respectfully ask your consideration of the enclosed testimonial from my late employer. My connection with said gentleman was severed by financial difficulties, arising from the present business depression. I am conversant with commercial traveling, and fully acquainted with the jobbing and retail dry goods trade, of both city and country, and believe I am on such terms with them as would enable me to secure a liberal patronage. I am thirty-five years of age, capable and willing to withstand the fatigues of the road, and if we enter upon any engagement, no effort shall be wanting on my part to merit your confidence and esteem.

Very truly yours,

MYRON PEARCE.

Application for Position of 0ffice Boy.

WANTED-A boy to do office work, must reside with his parents, and be well recomended; salary, $2 per week; address in own handwriting, J.J. box 1148 P. O.

New York, April 1, 1880.

J.J.,

Box 1148 P. O.,

Sir:—I would respectfully apply for the position advertised in to-day's Journal of Commerce. I am fifteen years old, reside with my parents in Brooklyn, and refer you to E. L. Brown, 45 Broadway, from whom I received the enclosed testimonial.

Very truly,

PETER FARLEY.

Application for Position of Salesman and Collector.

CHARLESTON, S. C., March 17, 1880.

MESSRS. RANDOLPH, HILL, & CO.,

Charleston, S. C.

Gentlemen:—I am recommended by Mr. Edward Frank to apply to you for the position of salesman and collector, recently occupied by him in your warehouse.

I am twenty-three years of age, and reside with my uncle in this city, who will give bonds for me if required. I have had some experience in your line of business, and should be pleased to have a trial with you, if preferable, previous to a permanent engagement. I am at liberty to refer to Messrs. Schenk & Co., Clothiers, 241 Broadway, New York, also to Messrs. Black & Brown, Druggists' Sundries, 66 Market St., Phila., Pa.

Very respectfully,

JOHN PALMER.

Applicant for Employment as Gardener.

AURORA, ILL., April 5, 1880.

CHARLES SESSIONS,

Elgin, Ill.

Dear Sir:—I have to-day learned you wished to secure the services of a competent gardener, and being at present without a permanent engagement, I would be pleased to have you examine the enclosed copies of testimonials of gentlemen by whom I have been employed.

I have had extended experience in the care of private grounds, and am acquainted with the management of the green-house and hot-house, also with the growth and culture of fruits and vegetables.

I am married and have a small family, which I should prefer to have with me; but would enter upon such no arrangement as shall prove satisfactory to you, should you entertain this application.

Yours very respectfully,

HIRAM D. PORTER.

Application for Situation as Coachman.

WANTED--A respectable young man, of good address, as coachman. Must thoroughly understand his businees, and have first-class references for honesty, sobriety, and capacity. Address Competent, Box 18, Times office.

NEW YORK, May 20, 1880.

Box 18, Times office, New York.

From to-day's Times, I take the above advertisement, and respectfully apply for the situation. I am a single man, thirty years of age, and have had considerable experience in the care and driving of horses. I am well acquainted with the drives at Newport, Long Branch, and Saratoga, besides being flamiliar with the streets and drives of New York and Brooklyn. I am permitted to refer to,—George D. Rutherford, Esq., No. 179 Fifth Ave.; Wm. W. Vermilyea, Esq., No. 65 Thirty-Fourth St.; Mrs. J. N. Clark, No. 25 Park Ave.

Your very obedient servant,

W. H. HOOD,

    No. 645 Third Ave.

Application of Man and Wife for Farm and Housework.

Wanted—a man and woman (married or single) to go a short distance in the country. Man to do farm work and take care of stock; woman for general housework, must be a good washer and ironer. Address J. T., Newton, Pa.

LEBANON, PA., March 3, 1880.

J. T., Newton, Pa.

In answer to the above advertisement which appeared in to-day's Herald (N. Y.), I should like to secure the situations for myself and wife, if the location is a healthful one, and the wages satisfactory. I understand farming and care of stock, and my wife is a good housekeeper and laundress. We enclose copy of testimonials received from our late employer. A line addressed as below will receive prompt attention.

Yours respectfully,

J. N. WHIPPLE,

    66 Main St.

NOTE.—In consequence of a delicacy on the part of clerks to ask of an employer an increase of salary, the following is introduced, believing it meet the wants of many a deserving employe, whose lndustrious habits and diligent discharge of duties may have escaped proper remuneration.

Application for an Increase of Salary.

NEW YORK, Oct. 1, 1879.

MESSRS. APPLETON & CO.

Gentlemen:—Without wishing to trespass upon your valuable time, permit me to ask your consideration of a subject which to me is of urgent neccesity, namely, the question of an increase of salary. I have been with you nearly two years, in which time you doubtless have determined upon my disposition, and ability to do the work required of me, and in calling your attention to this subject I do so under the belief it has escaped your notice, in the more pressing demands upon your time. It has been my constant endeavor to perform faithfully and punctually such duties as have been entrusted to me, and if I may venture to hope for encouragement from you, believe me ever ready and willing to respond to any and all demands your interests may require.

I am yours truly,

SAMUEL MORRIS.

Another on the Same Subject.

PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 10, 1880.

MESSRS. MERRYIMAN & CO.,

Gentlemen:—I have been awaiting a favorable moment in which I could speak with you in relation to the promised advance in my salary. The increased amount of business in the past year has greatly added to my duties, and in the performance of them, I have ever tried to be prompt and accurate. I trust my efforts have met with your approval, and, therefore, that you will regard this matter as liberally as possible.

Very respectfully,

FRANK LITTLE.

Answer to an Advertisement for a Cook.

BROOKLYN, N. Y., Feb. 15, 1881.

MRS. C. A. NELSON,

Respected Madam:—Having seen your advertisement in the Herald of the 18th inst. I beg to offer myself for the place. I am a good, plain cook. I can roast, boil, make pastry, for which I have a light hand, and am willing to make myself generally useful in the house. My wages are $3.00 per week, and I can have a year's character from my last place. I shall be happy to call on you if you will permit me.

I am, Madam, your obedient servant,

MARY FOOTE.

Inquiry as to the Character of a Cook.

BROOKLYN, E. D., 1365 Fulton Ave., Feb. 15, 1880.

Madam:—MARY FOOTE, having replied to an advertisement for a cook in the Herald, refers me to you for a character. I feel particularly anxious to obtain a clean, active, and civil person, as my last occasioned me much trouble, and left under most unfavorable circumstances. I shall, therefore, feel obliged by your making me acquainted with any particulars referring to her character, and remain,

Madam,

Your very obedient servant,

MRS. C. A. NELSON.

To Mrs. CHARLES BORLAND.

Favorable Answer.

FORT GREEN PLACE, Feb. 18, 1880.

Madam:—I take an early opportunity of acknowledging the receipt of your note; and in answer to your questions long_word_to_justify_line

relative to the character of Mary Foote, I beg leave to inform you that she stayed with me in the capacity referred to, for the space of one year, during which time I generally found her attentive to her duties, to the performance of which she was fully equal. I always had full confidence in her honesty, which she never gave me any cause to question; and in regard to her cleanliness and civility, I had very little reason to find fault. I parted with her on account of ill-health, and recommend her with full confidence of her being likely to give you satisfaction.

I am, Madam, etc., etc.,

MRS. CHARLES BORLAND.

To MRS. C. A. NELSON.

Unfavorable Answer.

FORT GREEN PLACE, Feb. 18, 1880.

Madam:—In reply to your polite note, I beg leave to inform you that Mary Foote, who lived with me in the capacity of cook, left my service in consequence of her incompetency to the discharge of her duties (or name any other cause). In other respects I had no reason for discharging her. Believe me,

Madam,

Yours most respectfully,

MRS. CHARLES BORLAND.

To MRS. C. A. NELSON.

A Cook's Application for a Character.

16 KINNEY STREET, Feb. 24, 1881.

MRS. CHARLES BORLAND,

Madam:—I have the offer of a cook's place in Brooklyn, and I should feel greatly obliged if you would give me a character. The lady will write to you in inquire about me.

You were good enough to say that if 1 left this place you would recommend me, and although I know you dislike giving written characters, I hope you will oblige me.

I am, Madam,

Your obedient servant,

MARY FOOTE.

Application for a Situation as Ward Schoolmistress.

CINCINNATI, July 3, 1881.

Gentlemen:—Understanding that a vacancy for the situation of mistress to your Ward School has occurred, I beg to offer myself as a candidate, and to inclose my certificate, etc., from the Superintendent of the Board of Education. While I feel that these can better speak for me, than I can for myself, I venture to assure you that, should you honor me by conferring upon me the vacant appointment, I shall strive to discharge my duties earnestly and steadily, and shall ever remain,

Gentlemen,

Your grateful and obedient servant,

CLARA WHITNEY.

TO THE TRUSTEES OF THE FIRST WARD SCHOOL.

To a Firm, Seeking a Clerkship.

MACON, GA., April 26, 1881.

Gentlemen:—Perceiving by your advertisement in the Telegraph, that you are in want of a clerk, I beg to inclose testimonials, and venture to hope that from my previous experience in the line of business you pursue, I should be of some use in your establishment My habits of life are such as to assure regularity in the discharge of my dutics, and I can only insure you that, should you honor me with your confidence, I shall spare no pains to acquit myself to your satisfaction.

I remain, gentlemen,

Your obedient servant,

WILLIAM McLAIN.

TO MESSRS. CHENEY & CLAYTON.