To the Members of My Family. The manuscript from which this volume was printed was submitted to me for my inspection, with the invitation to express myself as to the accuracy of the narrative, if I felt so disposed. After a very careful reading of it I am pleased to say that wherein it purports to detail the experiences of my life, it is entirely correct not only as to the main facts, but also with respect to the circumstances surrounding the events detailed. I must also say that I particularly approve of the spirit in which the history is written, and the family is greatly indebted to Jesse for his labor in preparing it. My sons and daughters, at family gatherings and on other occasions from time to time, have manifested a great deal of interest in the many experiences through which I have passed, and to gratify their wishes as well as to satisfy my own feelings, I have for some years past greatly desired that the members of the family possess a more complete history of my life than has heretofore been written. It will, of course, be noticed that at numerous places throughout the volume, there occur statements and references of a highly complimentary nature, which I know have been written in utmost sincerity, but which I nevertheless feel are more than I deserve. However, Jesse suggests that any objection I may offer to the work on that ground will be promptly overruled, and by reason of this threat I feel obliged to submit. 241 pages
