y gems has been a work of
pleasure, but the compiler shall say nothing of himself for, "the least
that one can say of himself is still too much."

DEDICATED

AFFECTIONATELY

TO

MY CHILDREN

JOHN PURVER AND ANNIE SUE,

AND

"_To mine own People: meaning those within
The magic ring of home--my kith and kin;_

_And those with whom my soul delights to dwell--
Who walk with me as friends, and wish me well;_

_And lastly, those--a large unnumbered band,
Unknown to me--who read and understand._"

CONTENTS

PAGE
PREFACE 3
Letter A 7
Letter B 27
Letter C 46
Letter D 99
Letter E 112
Letter F 119
Letter G 148
Letter H 168
Letter I 199
Letter J 210
Letter K 213
Letter L 220
Letter M 248
Letter N 295
Letter O 300
Letter P 306
Letter Q 332
Letter R 333
Letter S 344
Letter T 379
Letter U 399
Letter V 400
Letter W 402
Letter Y 433
Letter Z 435
INDEX 437

LIFE AND LITERATURE

A

1

_Abilities_--No man's abilities are so remarkably shining, as not to
stand in need of a proper opportunity, a patron, and even the praises of
a friend, to recommend them to the notice of the world.

--_Pliny._

2