In May of the present year, a number of these chapters were read by the author to the late Hon. James Russell Lowell, at the latter's request, in the study at Elmwood; and more than one friendly criticism then received has been heeded in the final revision. Mr. Lowell took a warm interest in the work; and the author had hoped to have the happiness on one of these autumn days of placing the published book before him. But 'this was not to be; for just as the first pages were going to press, the summons came, and under the trees of Elmwood their owner passed for-the last time.