How many of our dearest interests depend upon the one little beginning that we are to make to-night! PROLOGUE TO THE FIRST STORY.
Before I begin, by the aid of my wife's patient attention and ready pen, to relate any of the stories which I have heard at various times from persons whose likenesses I have been employed to take, it will not be amiss if I try to secure the reader's interest in the following pages, by briefly explaining how I became possessed of the narrative matter which they contain.
Of myself I have nothing to say, but that I have followed the profession of a traveling portrait-painter for the last fifteen years.

The pursuit of my calling has not only led me all through England, but has taken me twice to Scotland, and once to Ireland.

In moving from district to district, I am never guided beforehand by any settled plan.

Sometimes the letters of recommendation which I get from persons who are satisfied with the work I have done for them determine the direction in which I travel.

Sometimes I hear of a new neighborhood in which there is no resident artist of ability, and remove thither on speculation.