University of Virginia Library

INTRODUCTION.

Among the publications of late years, we have
Pencil Sketches, Crayon Sketches, Pen and Ink
Drawings, Pencillings by the Way, and other
works deriving their titles from the pursuits of the
draughtsman. To avoid plagiarism, therefore,
while following the fashion, this humble volume
is presented bearing the unambitious name which
heads its pages. There is certainly nothing very
imposing about it; but charcoal has its uses and
its capabilities; and the sketcher is content if he
has been able even to approach any of the broad
effects which can be dashed off by the aid of an
article so homely.

A number of the trifles contained in the volume
are familiar to newspaper readers, under the general
title of “City Worthies.” Although mere fancy
portraits, farcical in their nature, and written for a
temporary purpose, they were received with such
unexpected favour as to induce their publication
in the present form. The collection also comprises

other sketches which at least have novelty on their
side, if “worthy” of no other credit.

But whether the letter-press be amusing or not,
the illustrations by Johnston are replete with humour
and graphic skill. They who yawn in the
perusal of our pages, can therefore turn for refreshment
to the comicalities of the etcher, and excuse
the dulness perpetrated by the pen, in laughing
over the quaint characteristics embodied by our
American Cruikshank.

Trusting that some portion of the Charcoal
Sketches may be well received, they are now committed
to the reader. If he will not smile, the
writer has laboured in vain; and if he frown,
there is no remedy but submission. To avoid mistake,
however, and to borrow a hint from the
familiar story of the painter who was advised to
place beneath his pictures the name of the object
he wished to represent, it may not be amiss to
state that these productions involve a design upon
the risibles of the “pensive public.” Should there
be a failure in our deep intent, it adds another to
the long list of cases wherein the will has been
unable to achieve the deed.