University of Virginia Library

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3

TO THE PUBLIC.

In presenting this little volume to your notice and consideration, the author is aware of the many defects contained therein. Indeed it is not as a competitor to Whittier, Lowell, Longfellow, Bryant, or Willis, that he appears before you; but as the unlearned representative of an oppressed race, who have been denied the capacity for anything intellectual—and indeed rather as a humble member than as a representative of that race.

Having written the first of these when but fifteen years old, having recourse to but a scant library; never having had the honor of attending any institution of learning; he feels confident, that while he may be criticised freely, a liberal and discerning public, will criticise with discrimination.