As the most interesting portion of the life of Cook was spent in his three successive voyages of discovery, it is chiefly from the published narratives of these voyages that his biographer must draw materials. At the same time, the author has availed himself of those illustrations of his character and discoveries, which have been furnished by cotemporary publications, and the journals of succeeding navigators; as well as by the writings of Missionaries, and others, who have resided for years in the countries which he discovered. A much more extensive use of such helps was at one time intended, and the value of the present work might have been greatly enhanced, by introducing more copious illustrations from Forster, Vancouver, Turnbull, Ellis, Beechey, and others. But the Voyages of Cook himself comprise so much interesting matter, that such additions could not have been made, without condensing that matter too closely, or extending the work beyond its proposed limits.
The abridged view of Cook's voyages and discoveries here given, is not copied from Kippis, but drawn up from the original narratives, with the assistance derived from other sources referred to. This volume is, therefore, not a mere abridgment, or compilation; but an original work, the result of much labour, and patient investigation. In a composition of this nature, great care is necessary, to exhibit a fair, perspicuous, and interesting view of successive transactions and events; with a judicious selection of details and illustrations, and an accurate statement of dates, localities, and other particulars: and, notwithstanding the pains bestowed on this work, the intelligent reader may
