Admiring legislators hung with rapture on the lips of "the Old Man Eloquent," and millions eagerly perused the sentiments he uttered, as they were scattered by the press in every town and hamlet of the Western Continent.

At his decease, there was a general desire expressed for a history of his life and times.

A work of this description was understood to be in preparation by his family.

It was not probable, however, that this could appear under several years, and when published, would undoubtedly be placed, by its size and cost, beyond the reach of the great mass of readers.

In view of these circumstances, there was an evident want of a volume of more limited compass--a book which would come within the means of the people generally,--and adapted not only for libraries, and the higher classes of society, but would find its way into the midst of those moving in the humbler walks of life.