Entered according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1866, by

J. B. LIPPINCOTT & CO.,

In the Clerk's Office of the District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.

INTRODUCTORY.

THERE is a pleasant old story, that once upon a time, Truth went into a library, and burnt all the books, save two or three! The compiler of a book, in his, or her best estate, must be considered one of the humblest servants of her Majesty. Nevertheless if there be

"A natural gift,

The lettered grain from lettered chaff to sift,"

such followers and gleaners have their value. The collection is a motley one;

"A thing of shreds and patches;"

But such is life—a mingled thread—"An April day; sunshine and showers alternate; joy follows close upon the heels of sorrow. The funeral procession scarcely passes, ere we are gazing on the wedding pageant."

As it is not yet determined by universal consent of naturalists, whether the egg preceded the hen, or the hen the egg, could I begin my mosaics better than to follow the order of one of the most authentic beginnings of life extant? namely, that of the "grand old gardener," and his wife; and introduce

my characters in Eden! If an Eden can be to mortals, perhaps the era of wooing and betrothal approaches it most nearly.

I would say, in conclusion, to all who read, to all who receive, and to all who give away this compilation, [may their number be Legion,] that if I haye collected pictures touching and graphic on many phases of human life; if I have gathered together quaint and valuable sayings; if I have been a faithful and loving step-mother to a pleasant and suggestive book, I have an abundant reward.

ELIZABETH A. THURSTON.