When a compositor is uncertain as to the proper use of quotation-marks in copy not systematically prepared, he should use quote-marks for the exact words only of the writer or speaker.
This was his written promise to me: "I agree to pay you one hundred dollars on the first day of June, 1896."
But there should be no quotation-marks when the statement is worded after this manner:
He advised me by letter that he would, on the first day of June, 1896, pay me one hundred dollars.
Quotation-marks are frequently used in editorial comment to stigmatize objectionable quoted words.
His fondness for the big or unusual words and phrases "empyrean," "nadir," "capriccio," "cui bono," "coup d'état," shows that he has been to a feast of languages and stolen the scraps.
When a compositor finds these marks in his copy he must follow copy, even if he doubts, as does the writer, whether the quote-marks add anything to the force of the comment.
When a word or phrase has been made the subject of special and caustic criticism, this word or phrase is usually inclosed in quotes when it first appears in the comment; but if the quoted word or phrase has to be frequently reprinted, the quotation-marks may be suppressed in the repetitions.
