University of Virginia Library

To the true friend, who, from boyhood to manhood,
has always maintained for me the same countenance—
whose friendship no change of situation or circumstance
has impaired or affected—whose advice has counselled
—whose regards have cheered—whose encouragement,
when I would have desponded, has stimulated and
strengthened—who would not let me fear, and who
taught me a familiar habit of hope—I dedicate this
book, with the single wish,—not to seem extravagantly
selfish,—that it may appear as worthy in the sight of
others as he is estimable in mine.