_Correcting Mistakes._--A neatly made rather small letter above and a "carat" below (as in ordinary writing) may be used for an omission (fig. 192). A superfluous letter may be neatly struck out. Erasures are usually unsatisfactory, and a simple, unostentatious correction, besides disarming criticism, is in accordance with the proper freedom of the craft (see p. 174).
_Annotations, &c._, preferably in smaller _coloured_ writing, are very decorative in the broader margins (pp. 144, 315).
_Special Books._--A MS. book is necessarily unique, and some special or personal interest--either of the craftsman (see p. 142) or his "client"--inevitably attaches to it. This may affect its size and form, the treatment of the text, and the decoration and construction generally (see p. 100). Every legitimate opportunity of adding to its individual character should be taken by the scribe and illuminator. [p345]
Fig. 175 and Plate XX. are both taken from private prayer books or psalters; in each the name of the owner (e.g. "_Euanzelista famulo tuo_," Plate XX.) is frequently inserted. Plates XV. and XXII. are also taken from specially commissioned MSS., and many evidences of their ownership, such as portraits or coats-of-arms, form part of the decoration of such books.
_Church Services, &c._--(For a special church or person.) Church uses are so varied, that it is most important to ascertain the custom, use, or taste of the persons concerned--especially as to the order of, and the introduction or omission of, certain words, paragraphs, or parts, the colours used in the text, the notation of the music--and the manner in which the book will be used.
A service book for the use of a priest gives prominence to the parts in which he is concerned--the responses[95] may be smaller, and different in form or colour. The rubrics--in red (see pp. 140, 144)--are kept quite distinct, and may form a very decorative feature. For a private person the other parts--such as are said by the congregation--might be specially marked. In either case a certain amount of planning--_e.g._ completing prayers, &c., in an _opening_, to avoid turning over--may be justified by its convenience to the reader. Should very careful planning ever be required, a _pattern-book_ may be made, having the contents of each page roughly indicated in it.