The object of the following story has been to weave simple facts into form dependent upon the usages of society during the administration of Sir Howard Douglas, 1824-30.

The style is simple and claims no pretensions for complication of plot.

Every means has been employed to obtain the most reliable authority upon the facts thus embodied.

The writer is deeply indebted to several gentlemen of high social position who kindly furnished many important facts and showed a lively interest in the work, and takes the present opportunity of returning thanks for such support.

In producing this little work the public are aware that too much cannot be expected from an amateur.