The Art of Penmanship

"Exercises are the most essential part of a penman's daily duties. No matter how expert the penman may be, he continues to rely upon practicing exercises to retain control...As the oval is the basis upon which the capitals are formed, the student should give the direct oval a half hour's practice each day.

The ovals should be made rapidly to count or to the music of a phonograph. In the use of a phonograph be sure the rhythm is such as can be followed. A march, one step or two step is best for exercise practice. Play rapidly and keep your motion in time with the rhythm.

If your lines are wavy, you are writing too slowly. If the lines vary in color, you are using the fingers. If your letters are not uniform, you are probably writing too rapidly."

Real Pen Work - Self Instructor in Penmanship
Knowles & Maxim (publishers) 1881

The New Spencerian Compendium Of Penmanship
Spencerian Authors 1879

by Professor GA Gaskell
**read comments below**
Knowles & Maxim 1881

Palmer's Penmanship Budget
A.N. Palmer, 1919

Knowles & Maxim 1881

The International Association of Master Penmen, Engrossers and Teachers of Handwriting have about 20 vintage writing books online - I only (dare I say) dipped my quill into a few today.