INTRODUCTION

This new edition of Madame Thérèse has been prepared with regard to the needs of the class-room. Inasmuch as the text was too long to be read with interest, this edition has been reduced to about two thirds of the original. Notes are very few, but it is confidently hoped that all information needed for a thorough comprehension of the text will be found in the vocabulary.

In their report, given out last December, the Committee of Twelve of the Modern Language Association of America recommended reading Erckmann- Chatrian's stories as a preparation for college. It is thought that, among the numerous works of those prolific writers, there can be found none more interesting than Madame Thérèse in its reduced size.

The style is simple and easy, but conducive to the acquiring of a practical and somewhat extensive vocabulary, the text containing about 3,800 different words. One of the most conspicuous features of this book will be found in a map illustrating the campaign of the French, Austrian, and Prussian armies in 1792-93, thus introducing students to one of the most stirring periods in the history of France.

This text should be taken up either during the second half of the first French year, or at the beginning of the second, according to the age and grade of pupils. In its new garb it is hoped that Madame Thérèse will prove both useful and interesting to teachers and pupils.