PREFACE 



In presenting this little volume to the public, the 

 compiler has been actuated solely by the desire to pro- 

 duce, as its title indicates, a complete index and guide 

 to the island of Nantucket, and in no instance has he 

 allowed his personal preferences or prejudices promi- 

 nence at the expense of veracity. 



Many valuable articles have been contributed to the 

 book, and in every case the author's name is given, with 

 full credit for the same. 



Although it has been the compiler's earnest wish 

 that the book should be accurate in every particular, 

 although he has consulted the best authorities and 

 labored hard to perfect it in the limited time at his 

 command, Le is aware that there are errors and omis- 

 sions; but he trusts that on the whole his volume will 

 meet the requirements demanded of it, and the only 

 excuse which he can offer for any imperfections that 

 may be found in the work is that the whole was accom- 

 plished amidst many interruptions, and other cares and 

 duties. 



The compiler begs to acknowledge his indebted- 

 ness and tender his most grateful thanks to all who 

 have so ably and kindly helped to make the book a 

 success. In but few instances (and in those he is 

 pained to say that it was flatly refused) has any inf or- 



