English-Bisaya Grammar, in Twenty Eight Lessons

This compact grammar opens a window onto the Visayan‑speaking world of the Philippines at the turn of the twentieth century. Written by a missionary who wanted to help his fellow priests talk with the local people, the work combines a brief historical preface with clear, step‑by‑step lessons that introduce the basics of English‑Bisaya syntax. The author notes his own learning journey, making the tone modest and approachable for anyone new to the language.

The guide begins with a concise list of the twenty‑letter Bisaya alphabet, explaining each character’s sound through familiar English examples. Subsequent sections walk the listener through pronunciation nuances, common vowel confusions, and practical sentence patterns that a traveler or scholar could use right away. Listeners will appreciate how the book balances linguistic detail with cultural sensitivity, offering both a language tool and a glimpse into the early missionary efforts that documented it.