ECOMMENDATIONS are those [letters] in which the writer, for the purpose of promoting the interest, happiness or benefit of another, commends, or favorably represents his  character  and  abilities.  Such a letter should be

composed with care. It is a guarantee to the extent of language, for the party recommended, therefore, should never be sacrificed to condescension, false kindness, or politeness. These testimonials are often received, and the bearer of them taken into service or confidence upon the representations contained in them— without further questions as to antecedents, etc., therefore never recommend an unworthy person. It may be hard to refuse a testimonial, but it is dishonorable to give a false one.

Recommendations may be special or general. A letter of recommendation addressed to some particular person, like an ordinary letter, is special; when not limited as to person or occasion, it is general.

General Recommendation.

ROCHESTER, N. Y., Dec. 10, 1879.

To whom it may concern:

The bearer, Mr. Howard Burlew, is personally known to me as a young man of sterling worth. He graduated at the Polytechnic Institute, and as a student distinguished himself for his diligence, accuracy, integrity, and conscientions discharge of every duty. As a member of society, he, being of good family, and with a character unblemished, is highly esteemed. I cordially recommend him to good people everywhere, and especially so to those to whom he may offer his services, whether commercially or socially.

Very respectfully,

HIRAM S. GRANT.

Recommending a Teacher.

NEW CASTLE, PA., Sept. 3, 1879.

JOHN THACKER, ESQ., Chairman,

Canton, Ohio.

Dear Sir:—The bearer, Mr. Henry Case, about leaving this district, where he has been engaged in the work of teaching, is, I am pleased to say, of good standing here. I have had two boys attending his school, and in their advancement he has proved himself possessed of tact, learning, enthusiasm, and a high begree of patience. His character is above reproach, and I cheerfully recommend him to a position in one of the district schools of your town.

I am, very sincerely yours,

AARON PIERCE,

Chairman School Committee.

Recommending a Salesman.

SPRINGFIELD, MASS., March 2, 1880.

W. W. BROWN ESQ.,

San Francisco, Cal.

Dear Sir:—The bearer, Mr. Preston Black, being about to leave our employ, it gives us pleasure to testify to his merit as a salesman, the capacity in which he served us. He has been with us during the past eight years, in which time he has invariably discharged his duties with skill and ability. He was very punctual at his work, was courteous to our customers, and reliable in his accounts, and by his care and attention to our out-of-town trade made himself specially valuable. He bears a good character as a gentleman as well as a man of business.

We are very truly,

B. F. GALE & CO.

Recommending a Book-keeper.

MILWAKEE, WIS., May 3, 1880.

MESSRS. PERCILSON & CO.,

St. Louis, Mo.

Gentlemen:—Mr. Frank Morgan, the bearer, who is now leaving our employ, has been in our counting-room for five years, during which time he has faithfully attended to his duties, proving himself to be industrious and thoroughly reliable. He is a good penman, correct accountant, and aqquainted with correspondence. We shall at any time cheerfully respond to all applications we may have regarding his character and abilities, and wish him every success.

Very truly yours,

J. ATKINSON & CO.

Recommending a Porter.

HARRISBURG, PA., July 11, 1879.

MESSRS. DUNLAP & YORK,

Baltimore, Md.

Gentlemen:—The bearer, Dennis O'Neil, has been employed by us as a porter for the past five years, and has faithfully discharged all the duties devolving upon him. He is industrious and reliable, understands the receiving and shipment of goods, is a good marker, and writes legibly for a man in his position. He is not addicted to spirituous liquors, and bears a good moral character.

We are, yours truly,

FOX, CLARKE & SMITH.

Recommending a Cook.

GRAND HAVEN, MICH., October 19, 1879.

John Kingsley, the bearer, has been employed by us as cook for several seasons past. He is capable of all kinds of cooking, is willing and obliging, and has at all times given satisfaction in the discharae of his duties.

CUYLER & CO.

Recommending a Gardener.

ROCKVILLE, CT., Nov. 15, 1879.

This testimonial of the capabilities of the bearer, James Morris, is to certify to his being thoroughly competent in the care of hot and cold graperies and greenhouses, also understanding floriculture and vegetable gardening. He has been employed by me during past six years, and very satisfactorily performed his duties. He is honest, good-natured, and trustworthy.

I am, etc.,

WM. F. SUMNER.

Declining to Recommend a Clerk.

ERIE, PA., May 6, 1880.

W. C. McCURDY, ESQ.,

Sir:—I regret that I cannot conscientiously write the testimonial you request of me. You are fully aware of the misconduct that caused your discharge from my service, and it would be doing a gross injustice for me to speak favorably to another employer. I think an honest confession, with a desire to reform, would be your best recommendation.

Regretting that it is entirely out of my power to grant your request,

I am, in spite of your error,

Your sincere well-wisher,

PERCIVAL LONG.