ALTHA; OR, SHELLS FROM THE STRAND.
BYMRS. ADA M. FIELD.
"There is a spirit in man, and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth understanding." —JOB, XXXII: 8.BOSTON: JAMES FRENCH AND COMPANY.
1856.Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1856, by JAMES FRENCH AND COMPANY, in the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the District of Massachusctts. Stereotyped at the UNITED STATES FOUNDRY, 41 Congress Street, Boston. C. HOBBS, PROPRIETOR.
TO THE
ESTEEMED FRIENDS
AND
RESPECTED CTITZENS,
WHO GENEROUSLY ENCOURAGED ME
TO PUBLISH THE MANUSCRIPT
THIS BOOK IS
GRATEFULLY DEDICATED.
INTRODUCTION.
WHY have I ventured to launch my frail bark among so many noble-freighted and gallant vessels, upon the ever-changing sea of public opinion? I answer—that I may place before you its simple freight of shells—an offering of love, hope and duty;—love for the noble hearts, unchanged by Time's stern teachings; hope that it may strengthen some faint heart yearning for the good, yet lingering by the way-side; and duty, that whispers in spirit-voices, on, on, ever on, toward the right, where shines the Eastern Star, emblem of God's light and love!
I have gleaned them, journeying in storm and sunshine,—pictures of home life; they were mine; they are yours.
