These Memoirs were originally designed for my chil dren alone, not supposing that other: could be much interested with minute, and often frivolous details of transactions affecting only my own family; but as I could not get them into a form that would insure their perusal without incurring the expense of publication, I was advised by some of my friends, to whom I read detached portions of the manuscript, to strike 03 several copies, as the expense would be but slightly increased, and an Opportunity would thus be afforded to those who from their acquaintance with the author, or from the very imposing title he has selected for his book, might be disposed to read it. To you, my children, however, this little volume is most sincerely and respectfully dedicated, and I trust you will at least, give to the sentiments and principles of conduct I have endeavored to embody herein, your seri ous and candid re?ection, for I feel assured that you will here find nothing of an injurious or immoral tendency.