formation of a practical character. It is the most earnest desire of the writer to present an useful guide to a class of persons that merits the sympathy, advice, and protection, of the community at large; and to contribute, so far as lies within his power, to elevate and improve the condition of the emigrant, knowing as he does, that national and social prosperity has its foundation deeply and surely placed in the sum of individual happiness. The experience of emigrant life must excite his sympathies for a class of persons who leave home and country, their regrets and attachments, for the unknown fortunes and career about to open upon them, in a strange land. A residence of many years in the United States, and the opportunities furnished by observation, enquiry, and extensive travel, enables him to present the results of this experience, and of that sympathy for the real interests of the emigrant, which will be manifested on the perusal of this work.
In adopting his remarks to the wants and condition of his own countrymen, the writer was principally moved by the desire of rendering himself better understood, and more circumstantial, as he had a better knowledge of their individual and national character, habits, customs and circumstances. He is likewise of opinion that the Irish emigrant leaves his home
