If the case admit of it, it is not disadvantageous to begin with some new topic, or with some one which may excite laughter; or with some argument which has arisen from the present moment; of which kind are any sudden noise or exclamation; or with something which you have already prepared, which may embrace some apologue, or fable, or other laughable circumstance.

There, where the ancient and historic so stubbornly resist any changein Persia, India, China, and indeed all over that venerable Eastthe man who can recite the ancient apologues or legends of the past can always secure an audience and command the closest attention.