Having thus, I trust, obviated every feeling of disgust which accompanies all kinds of presumption, and which would, most probably be attached to me, were I to dare to think myself qualified for a biographer of savants, there yet remains something for me to say to those to whom I am. Unknown; for, when an individual starts from a private circle to give an account of an illustrious public character, it becomes necessary to vouch for the veracity of details, and to explain the opportunities afforded for observation. This will be best done by a short history of my intercourse with the Cuvier family, an introduction to whom took place through our mutually cherished friend, Dr. Leach, of the British Museum.