Set up and electrotyped. Published November, 1908.

Norwood Press
J. S. Cushing Co. -- Berwick & Smith Co.

Norwood, Mass., U.S.A.

TO

L. D. H.

AND THE MEMORY OF

G. A. H.

I DEDICATE THIS BOOK

ON THE GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY

OF THEIR MARRIAGE

PREFACE

This collection represents the gleanings of several years in some of the pleasant by-paths of American literature. Personal considerations have so frequently determined the selection that no defence can be offered against criticism. The reflection of a bit of bygone life, an odd or whimsical view of a situation, a swift and unconscious revelation of character, often merely the happy or individual turn of a phrase, – these and causes as slight have governed choice; while for no graver reasons other far weightier and perhaps worthier material has been rejected. Yet personal choice alone did not control; many letters that I wished to include are not here because of the impossibility of securing the copyright privilege.

To many librarians in many places I am grateful for patient and cheerful attention, and I am glad of this opportunity to express my appreciation of services without which the student's task would indeed be overwhelming. In particular, I would record the indebtedness of many years to the librarians of the Smith College Library and of the Forbes Library of Northampton, Mass.

One more debt -- and that the largest — must be acknowledged. From the first suggestion of this collection until the reading of the last page of proof, I have been aided constantly by my mother; and had my wish prevailed, her name would have stood on the title-page.

To the editors and publishers who have courteously granted the use of material from their publications, I offer my sincere thanks. It is a pleasure to express my grati