The style of the composition is partly allegorical and partly narrative.

It claims no credit for literary excellence, but is published with the hope of arresting the attention of those who neglect to read works of a heavier and more solemn appearance, and impressing their minds with the worthlessness of human vanities and honors.
_Table of Contents._ PART I.
The beginning of Life .-- The first disappointment .-- Apprenticeship .-- Follies of Youth .-- Sin.
PART II.
The Child has become a young Man .-- He dissipates .-- The revelers of Vagrant Island .-- Religion scoffed .-- Follies and pains of an irregular life .-- Sickness .-- The Friend in need .-- Tempter.--"RECRUITS WANTED."-- Enlistment in a regiment of soldiers .-- Col.

Blood's speech.
PART III.
The Army .-- Advancement .-- Mortal succeeds Col.

Blood .-- The fury of War .-- The slaughter .-- Glory .-- Unhappiness .-- Honor to the brave .-- Major Sharper.
PART IV.
Mortal in love .-- He becomes wealthy .-- He travels .-- Vesuvius .-- The grave of General Gog .-- Gambling .-- Ruin.
PART V.
The last scene of all .-- Dr.Popular Gospel .-- Dimelover and Sharp die hopefully .-- John Mortal's last conversation with Mentor and Tempter .-- Despair and Death..