With all his care and effort the author finds typographical errors have passed here and there undetected, especially among the Chinese characters. They are not many, however, and he comforts himself with the reflection that it is not human to be perfect, nor to produce a work in which a critical eye can detect no flaw.
The Author commits his work to the kind forbearance of the public. Advancing age admonishes him that this must be his last contribution to lexicography. He has done his best under the circumstances. He has laid the foundation upon which others may build a more complete and finished structure; and he is thankful that so much of the work has been given him to do.
The Author cannot take his leave without thanking his many friends who have encouraged him and sympathized with him in his work; especially Rev. O. H. Gulick of Kōbe, and W. N. Whitney, M.D., Interpreter to the U. S. Legation, who have kindly rendered him no little aid. But above all others is he indebted to Mr. Takahashi Goro, whose assistance throughout has been invaluable.
Yokohama, June, 1886.
