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It is undoubtedly true, that, as a generalrule, tales which are intended for the useof young persons, should contain delineationsof character as formed by ordinaryinfluences, and a picture of circumstanceswhich are not uncommon. It is desirable,however, occasionally to representthe developement of virtues of every-dayuse, (and therefore of the highest value,)by peculiar influences, as well as the extraordinarybeauties of character whichmay be made to grow out of the commonexperience of life; since there are alwayssome who are remarkably placed, and,vialas! very many who appear to supposethat, in common circumstances, they maybe content with a common character. Itis possible that, in reading books like thefollowing, not only motherless daughtersmay be interested by a narrative whichcomes home to their feelings; but thatsome who have mothers may be roused tosuch reflection, to such comparison oftheir own situation and character withthose of others, as may be of no littlebenefit to their affections. Such, at least,is the effect of the comparison in actuallife, of which it is the highest ambitionof this little work to be a faithful transcript.

Norwich, 1830.