 | Peter Ploddy, and other oddities |  |
INTRODUCTORY.
It was a source of wonder to the sarcastic Beatrice, that the
gentleman would still be talking when no one marked him; and,
in these rapid days, an intrusion in the shape of a preface, even
if that which is to follow were regarded as entitled to such formality,
is to encounter the risk of speaking without the compliment
of a listener. Whatever be the fate of his book, the writer may
feel tolerably sure that introductory remarks, on his part, whether
he affects humility, or takes credit to himself, are not likely to attract
attention. But, since it is the custom to endeavour to say
something on these interesting occasions, when there often is nothing
to be said—in the way of civility, perhaps, to greet the welcome
reader as he turns the page—it will probably suffice to intimate
that, like causes having like effects, the motive for publication
in this instance is much the same that leads to a similar result in
the generality of cases. However confined our sphere, or lowly our
ambition, it is a natural wish not to be passed over and forgotten
altogether; and, a previous volume of sketches having had the
good fortune to be received with favour, it affords encouragement
to the collection now offered.
It may be as well to state that a portion of the trifles thus included,
never appeared before, and that the other sketches were
published at intervals during the last year or two, in various periodicals
of the day. Under a suggestion that it would be acceptable,
if they were brought together in a less ephemeral shape, the deed
has been done; whether prudently or not, remains to be seen.
Something might probably be urged, as a palliating plea for
these multiplied offences, relative to the hurried and disadvantageous
circumstances under which they were perpetrated; but, as an
appeal of this sort cannot well avail, when the sin is voluntary and
with malice aforethought, it may be wise not to offer it in extenuation,
leaving “Peter Ploddy” and his attendant culprits to the
fate they are thought to merit. If condemnation is to fall on them,
it will be a lesson for the future. If not, we shall cheerfully acquiesce
in the justice of the sentence, and ever cherish it as a proof
of sagacity and judgment in those who sit upon the bench.
| Peter Ploddy, and other oddities | |