as well as to please: for, while the surprising adventures and singular discoveries of our hero, can scarcely fail to give delight; the exhibitions of his conduct, and the occurrences of his life, are fraught with valuable instructions, which it is the duty of his historian to point out. It would have been gratifying, to have dwelt longer on the happy results of his voyages, in the extension of commerce, science, civilization, and religion; but it was necessary to confine the book within certain bounds, to adapt it for general circulation; especially among seamen, for whose use it is peculiarly designed. With this view, it does not come forth in the shape of a bulky tome, but assumes the form of a neat pocket volume, to be a suitable companion in voyages and travels.
In conclusion, the author would express his gratitude to his respected friends, who have liberally patronized and promoted this undertaking. In every quarter where he has had occasion to apply for information or assistance, he has received the most polite attentions: and as his obligations are too numerous to be acknowledged in detail, he entreats his correspondents and friends, who have furnished him with books, extracts, letters, registers, inscriptions, and oral information, to accept this general acknowledgment of their esteemed services. May the work which they have so kindly encouraged, afford them all the entertainment which they have expected; and may it prove an incitement to virtue and piety, to benevolence and temperance, to bold enterprise and patient continuance in well doing; to every thing, in short, that constitutes genuine goodness, and true greatness!
