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31 his book gratuitously, particularly among those who were about to succeed the generation which was then passing away; and there can be no doubt that his conscientious efforts made a deep and useful impression upon most persons who perused what he had written, with the attention which it certainly merited. On the last page of this curious production, Lay gives the following critic on his own labours; and the candour, simplicity, and humility with which it is clothed, furnish conclusive evidence of the sincerity and urbanity of his character.

"Courteous and Friendly Reader,

There are some passages in my book, that are not so well placed as could have been wished; some errors may have escaped the press, the printer being much encumbered with other concerns: thou art lovingly entreated to excuse, amend, or censure it as thee please: but remember that it was written by one that was a poor common sailor, and an illiterate man.—B. L."