PREFACE. THE Editor's purpose in compiling this little volume, has been to provide a selection of poetry for use in the family circle and in the schoolroom, which may serve to foster and develope, all that is noble, true, and progressive among the rising generation. It is believed that much may be done in the formation of character by leading the youthful mind to contemplate and admire that which alone is truly generous and heroic-the exercise of the loftiest virtues, and adherence to the Gospel standard of " love to God and goodwill towards men." Much mischief is often done, especially in giving a false estimate of military glory, by placing in the hands of the young, compositions descriptive of the achievements of the battle-field, the triumphs of British military and naval heroes. This practice has, unhappily, prevailed in all countries. and much of the fatal pertinacity with which nations have clung to the barbarous custom of war, may be traced to the pernicious bias, received in early life, by the martial songs and odes with which the imaginations of youth have been fired, and their worst passions stimulated. Experience has shown that the enthusiasm of childhood may be kindled, and the liveliest interest excited, by poetry appealing to the affections rather than to the passions, and the Editor has endeavoured, in preparing this volume, to present such a collection of poems as should be most serviceable and attractive in the hands of the instructor, as well as of the general reader. E. F. |