Page:A Genealogical and Heraldic History of the Colonial Gentry Vol 1.djvu/7

 The Colonies form such an important portion of our Empire that a history of the leading families, and their connection with the mother country, cannot fail to be of interest.

The preparation of this work has already been the means of bringing together kinsfolk from both sides of the globe, and I trust that the result of my labours may still further tend to promote that family love and unity which has always been the characteristic trait of our race.

I have received, from every one of my correspondents, unvarying politeness and attention—from many, most important assistance—and to all I now beg to return my best and sincerest acknowledgments.

Many imperfections will be apparent, I fear, to the critic of these pages, but I may be permitted to say that the popularity of "" was not lessened by the fact that faults were numerous in the first edition. The publication of this volume, by inviting public criticism, is the only way to draw forth more detailed and correct information on the subject, and I cordially ask all persons interested to put themselves into direct communication with me, so that any points they may raise could be dealt with in a subsequent edition. I need not say that it will afford me much pleasure to reply to any questions affecting the various memoirs. THE EDITOR.

All communications to be addressed to of "The Colonial Gentry," at  and, 59, Pall Mall (S.W.), London.