PREFACE
In presenting to the public a new History of the United States, the indulgence of the reader is asked to a few preliminary remarks respecting the object had in view in these volumes, and the claims which they have upon the attention of the American people.
The one great object ever before me has been to present a truthful, impartial, and readable narrative of the origin, rise, and progress of that mighty Republic which, extending from ocean to ocean, is destined to assume yet higher rank, and to wield larger and larger influence among the family of nations. Having an entire and thorough conviction of the superintending care and control of Divine Providence in our country's affairs; having no ends to gain but those of truth and right; having no theories to establish, no partisan views or wishes to gratify; I have honestly endeavored to ascertain what the truth is, and then to set it forth as clearly, and as fully, as was possible within the limits to which I was restricted. Mere speculations on historic points, I have avoided; attempts to penetrate or pronounce upon the motives of men and nations, beyond what may be regarded as plainly and fairly deducible from their acts, I have deemed of little value; and, in general, I have preferred to leave the intelligent reader to draw his own conclusion from an impartial presentation of the facts and circumstances of the case. At the same time, in cases of difficulty or doubt, I have carefully and conscientiously sought to compare and sift conflicting accounts, and to arrive at that which seemed to be the nearest approximation to the truth which, probably, under the circumstances, can now be attained.
