PREFACE.
I have explained so fully in this work my reasons for writing it, that a further account of those reasons would be superfluous. I might therefore, so far, let it go out into the world on its own merits, without an additional word.
Some kind of preface, however, is recommended by custom, to which it is always becoming to conform.
I avail myself therefore of the opportunity, first, to thank Lord Elphinstone, who was my companion during the more interesting part of my journey, for the use which he has allowed me to make of his portfolio of sketches; and secondly, to request my Colonial readers, when they find me quoting anonymous opinions or conversations, to abstain from guesses, which will necessarily be fruitless, at the persons to whom I am referring.
The object of my voyage was not only to see the Colonies themselves, but to hear the views of all classes