I own it to myself as well as the public to state that these lectures were wholly extemporaneous, and that they are printed as they were reported by a stenographer. I was induced to have them reported and published by the king advice of friends, who made me hope that thus they might accomplish greater good by reaching a wider circle, and by speaking where my voice could not go or even after it is stilled in death.<br><br>The devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is becoming now so important, and awakens such enthusiasm in the Church, that even a small contribution towards it may be gladly received. The Archbishop and Bishops of the Province of New York have solemnly consecrated their dioceses to the Sacred Heart, and their voices only echo the language of the Supreme Pontiff.