HARVARD Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1867, by WILLIAM V. SPENCER, In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the District of Massachusetts. PREFACE. THE writer of this little book makes no claim to originality, excepting in the plan and arrangement of it. She has availed herself, without hesitation, of the best words and thoughts of the living and of the dead which have come within her reach, feeling assured that this cannot impoverish them, while it will greatly enhance the value of her teachings. The preface of the book is, therefore, simply an acknowledgment of her many obligations, and a hearty giving of thanks to the many kind friends who have aided her by advice, or suggestions, or criticisms; and, above all, to Him who inspired in her the desire to undertake the work, has given her so much pleasure in the exe |