"Lettres de Paris" is a completely revised and updated edition of a book that has stood the pragmatic test of being widely used. Its basic rationale emphasizes the need for the student to be able to use French productively. A prime requisite for meeting this need is to develop in the learner control of structure as well as a useful vocabulary which reflects contemporary language and culture. Central to structural mastery is the verb. This text stresses verb forms, especially through the first six units. The order of presentation of the structure has been determined by the principle of frequency of use, but in such a manner that pedagogical considerations have been given precedence whenever necessary.