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.

Bible and Saints

The Firebird’s Nest

Like the legendary phoenix, the Christian must spend his life making a nest fit for his rebirth in fire.

Length: 116 words

Free Speech and Conscience

No Danger in Discussion

It should never be labelled ‘dangerous’ to subject Government policy to calm and honest criticism.

Length: 56 words

Abolition of Slavery

Away with Compulsion!

John Wesley called for a world in which no one was forced to go against his conscience or to serve against his will.

Length: 57 words

Phaedrus

The Shipwreck of Simonides

Simonides always believed that a man with a trade was wealthier than a man with a full purse.

Length: 116 words

Abolition of Slavery

Make the Case Your Own

John Wesley wondered how those involved in the slave trade would feel if the tables were ever turned on them.

Length: 59 words

Liberty and Prosperity

War is Such a Taxing Business

Sydney Smith warned ordinary Americans that encouraging the hawks in Washington would cost them more than blood.

Length: 109 words