PREFACE. ix 
From the general tenour of the explanations here given, it will 
perhaps be inferred that the perfection of the Atlas has been the 
principal object of concern; in fact, having no pretension to author- 
ship, the writing of the narrative, though bv much the most trouble- 
some part of my labour, was not that upon which any hope of 
reputation was founded ; a polished style was therefore not attempted, 
but some pains have been taken to render it clearly intelligible. 
The first quire of my manuscript was submitted to the judgment 
of a few literary friends, and I hope to have profited by the cor- 
rections they had the kindness to make ; but finding these to bear 
more upon redundancies than inaccuracy of expression, I determined 
to confide in the indulgence of the public, endeavour to improve 
as the work advanced, and give my friends no further trouble. 
Matter, rather than manner, was the object of my anxiety ; and if 
the reader shall be satisfied with the selection and arrangement, 
and not think the information destitute of such interest as might 
be expected from the subject, the utmost of my hopes will be 
accomplished. 
N. B. Throughout this narrative the variation has been allowed upon 
the bearings, and also in the direction of winds, tides, &c; the whole 
are therefore to be considered with reference to the true poles of the 
earth, unless it be otherwise particularly expressed ; and perhaps in 
some few cases of the ship's head when variations are taken, where 
the expression by compass, or magnetic, may have been omitted. 
VOL. I. 
* 
B 
