iv PREFyVCE. 



The peninsular war has likewise been carrierJ on 

 with unusual vigour; and the storming of two 

 strong fortresses, with an action in the field of greater 

 magnitude than had before occurred between the 

 chief contending parties, followed by the liberation 

 of the southern provinces of Spain from its invaders, 

 offer splendid materials to the military historian of 

 this period. At the same time, the adoption of 

 free governments in Spain and Sicily will equally 

 interest the philosophical observer, provided their du- 

 ration shall correspond with the zeal displayed in their 

 establishment. 



Another event which has added to the confusion 

 and calamity of the times, and perhaps will be the 

 parent of consequences more momentous than any 

 which are yet apparent, is, the unfortunate com- 

 mencement of a war between Great Britain and 

 those Transatlantic States to which she gave birth, 

 and has communicated the most valuable of her 

 treasures, her laws and liberty. To this country, 

 mdeed, the war has been little more than an addi^ 

 tion to its drains and losses ; but to the United 

 States its continuance must prove a severe trial of 

 the strength of that federal union which has hitherto 

 contributed so essentially to their prosperity and 

 security, and ^A\\ probably give origin to those 

 evils which press so heavily upon all old govern^ 

 ments. f? lO 



In 



