INTRODUCTION, 
t 
On the 12tli of September, 1856, a small vessel was 
seen leaving the West India Docks. Its hold contained 
the usual general cargo ; the cabin was occupied by tlie 
writer, Mrs. Gamble, their two little children — one an 
infant of ten weeks old — and a little maid. Once in the 
Thames the steam-tug lays hold, and quickly takes us 
down the river. Soon the smoke of London, and the 
bustle of Blackwall, are left behind, and we are quietly 
moving on between winding banks and numerous small 
craft, to Gravesend. As we thus commence our voyage, 
the heart is full for many loved ones left, perhaps never 
to be seen this side Jordan ; the mind is full — busy with 
the past that is fading away in the distance, — busy with 
the unseen, unknown future, striving in vain to pierce 
it. And though thus occupied in heart and mind, the 
beauties around are not imnoticed. The day was fine, 
and the eye rested calmly upon the green marshes of 
Essex; while, on the right bank, a pleasing view of hill 
and dale, and field and wood, gladdened and refreshed 
us as we gazed upon it. And though hearts were full 
and minds were busy, we were happy ; friends were with 
us who cheered us by their smile and company. Our 
little girl was ruiming about, much to her own delight, 
at the new objects that met her eyes, tliough not a little 
to her mother’s fears, lest she should escape from the 
hand of her nurse. Our little Willie nestled upon his 
mother’s bosom- unconscious, and, therefore indifferent, 
that he was leaving the land of his birtli. We were 
happy : we knew that the wide ocean rolled between 
