Minis
Mini Copy Book

Each post in this section is a short précis (summary) of a passage in The Copy Book. All of them are in modern English. They are intended for students of English as a Foreign Language at Elementary Level.

Indian History

Diamond Pitt

Thomas Pitt’s tenure as Governor of Madras was regarded as a golden age, but what he is remembered for is his diamond.

Length: 114 words

Extracts from Literature

A Perpetual Summer

A transported convict writes home to England urging his wife to join him as soon as possible.

Length: 116 words

Liberty and Prosperity

The Friendship of Trade

As Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli stoked fears of Russian aggression, John Bright said that Russia was only threatening when she felt threatened.

Length: 115 words

Classical History

An Errand of Love

Leander recalls that first night when he dared the perilous waters of the Hellespont, and swam to meet his lover Hero.

Length: 170 words

Modern History

‘Never Let Your Men Look Over the Hedge’

Employees are the key to any entrepreneur’s success, and he must know them intimately, trust them completely and pay them generously.

Length: 60 words

Modern History

‘One of That Sort, Are You?’

Henry Maudslay, the great engineer, had seen enough apprentices to last him a lifetime.

Length: 114 words