vi PREFACE. 



source of employment are out off, or maintenance 

 is rendered unusually difficult by the exorbitant 

 price of the necessaries of life. This last cause has 

 prevailed during this year to a degree almost be- 

 yond all former example, but, it is to be feared, not 

 beyond what may in future be expected as long as 

 public burdens and expenses are proceeding in an 

 unlimited increase. 



With respect to the conduct of our publication, 

 we have little to remark in addition to the statements 

 given in our last preface. It has not been found 

 necessary to make any further alterations in the plan ; 

 and we are happy in being able to verify, and even to 

 surpass, the expectations held forth of a future early 

 appearance of our annual volume. 



CONTENTS. 



