TO THE READER. 



PERHAPS I ought to explain, it may be thought, the very unsatisfactory reason for my publishing this 

 humble attempt at a book, which I will do as shortly as I can. This is not my first production ; but the 

 other is the parent of this one. I began to illustrate the former book, and I found so much amusement 

 in the preparation of the plates that I got quite fond of the work. First the subject was to be chosen, 

 then the arrangement of the objects to be represented had to be considered, then they had to be 

 drawn and traced and taken to the printer, and as each was done it was a continual source of amuse- 

 ment and excitement to see how it turned out hoping and expecting each succeeding one to be 

 better than its predecessor. Now I admit being pleased to see the representations as they turned 

 up, but regretted always they were not more satisfactory to myself; and I must also admit that the 

 pleasant occupation and the kind of excitement were amusing, and caused a sort of irresistible 

 temptation to go on. We all like some occupation, and I strongly recommend such a harmless one 

 as this to your notice and consideration. 



Now, having explained this much, I, without permission, take the liberty to dedicate this book, 

 such as it is, to each one of you, hoping you either do or will condescend to take some little interest 



A 



