21、If you are just starting to collect stamps, here is some advice for you to follow.

At the beginning, collect as many stamps as you can. The ones which you decide not to keep can be traded with other people. Never throw stamps away.

Don’t keep the envelope, unless it is unusual（与众不同）. However, do keep the envelope if it is the first date when that particular stamp is used. Some people are very interested in these “first day covers”.

Sooner or later you will decide that you want to collect a certain kind of stamps. It may be stamps from a particular country, or stamps of a particular kind, like stamps with a bird design on them, for example. This will make your collecting much more interesting. You can then look for new ones to add to your collection.

Do join group. There is a lot to learn about stamps and others can help you. Also it is great fun. You will soon learn which stamps other people are collecting and they will start to trade stamps with you, too.

Go to stamp sales and buy whatever you can afford. You can often pick up packs of used stamps very cheaply.

Old stamps that have not been used are usually more expensive than used stamps. Perhaps at the beginning you may only afford used stamps.

Sooner or later, you will find something unusual. It may even be valuable（有价值的，贵重的）. Finally, remember that stamp collecting is fun. It can be exciting to get stamps which you do not have yet. Also, many stamps have unusual and beautiful designs, so enjoy them!

1. What’s the first advice for you when you begin to collect stamp?

A. Throw away the ones you don’t need.

B. Only collect the stamps you need to keep.

C. Collect as many stamps as you can.

D. Only collect the stamps you want to trade with other people.

2. What should you do with the envelope?

A. Keep the envelope if it is unusual.

B. Throw away the envelope after you take off the stamp.

C. Keep the envelope every time.

D. Throw away the envelope before you take off the stamp.

3. What kind of stamps are usually more expensive?

A. Old ones.                      B. New ones.

C. Old ones that have not been used.   D. Old ones that have been used.

4. Which one is not the reason to join a group?

A. To enjoy great fun.

B. To learn something about stamps from other members.

C. To trade stamps with other members.

D. To learn how to make stamps from others.