It was not his
intention, therefore, to have them reprinted in this country. He
has, however, observed several of them from time to time inserted in
periodical works of merit, and has understood that it was probable
they would be republished in a collective form. He has been induced,
therefore, to revise and bring them forward himself, that they may
at least come correctly before the public. Should they be deemed of
sufficient importance to attract the attention of critics, he solicits
for them that courtesy and candour which a stranger has some right to
claim, who presents himself at the threshold of a hospitable nation."
Mr. Irving's solicitations were not made in vain, as the rapid sale
of several editions must have convinced him; while every journalist
in the empire hailed the work as the most beautiful specimen of
Transatlantic talent which had been recognised in this country.
The two volumes of the Sketch-Book appeared at different periods;
and, at the conclusion of the second, we find the following
apologetic postscript: "The author is conscious of the numerous
faults and imperfections of his work; and, well aware how little
he is disciplined and accomplished in the arts of authorship. His
deficiencies are also increased by a diffidence arising from his
peculiar situation. He finds himself writing in a strange land,
and appearing before a public, which he has been accustomed, from
childhood, to regard with the highest feelings of awe and reverence.
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