ht," a maxim that did not come exactly "ex cathedra,"
but is full as profound, and correct. If I have been so fortunate as to
contribute to, or become the cause of innocent delight, I shall think
that the "Forecastle Yarns" have not been written in vain.

It was objected to my two former works that they contained strictures,
and remarks, upon what are commonly called orthodox principles. In the
present volume, I have studiously endeavored to steer my footsteps clear
of the tender toes of every religious sect except the Catholics; whom,
in imitation of the Protestant clergy and laity all around me, I have
handled without mittens whenever I could get a chance.

I cannot close without repeating that if I have succeeded in helping to
make

"The wheels of life gae down hill scrievin',
Wi' rattlin' glee,"--

I shall feel more gratified than if I had squared the circle, or drawn
up a tariff that, like Shakspeare's barber's chair, should fit all
parties.

N. A.
_Providence, October 1, 1833._

P. S. More than a year ago the following pages were written and prepared
for the press, under the title of "Forecastle Yarns," but a gentleman
connected with the New York Mirror took a fancy to that title, and
immediately appropriated it to himself with the most genteel
indifference as to the prior right of another. In consequence, I have
been obliged to adopt a new name. The "Pirate of Masafuero" was written
after the above preface was prepared. "Old Cuff" has already been before
the public in the columns of the first and only number of a new
magazine[1] that expired for want of patronage, and support, having just
survived long enough to give ample proofs that it deserved the
patronage, and support, that were denied it. The very favorable notice
that the Evening Star took of "Old Cuff," is proof positive that it is
much higher than "fair to middling;" and if it is true that "the proof
of the pudding is eating the bag," (and the reader will consider "Old
Cuff" as the bag,) I think it follows that the pudding now set before
him cannot be a bad one.

_November, 1834._

[Footnote 1: American Spectator and National Magazine.]

* * * * *

MARY BOWLINE.

* * * * *

MARY BOWLINE.