TO JOHN ANSTER, ESQ., LL.D.
My dear Anster,
If you knew how often I have thought of you as I was writing this book,—if you knew how there rose before my mind memories of long ago—of those glorious evenings with all those fine spirits, to think of whom is a triumph even with all its sadness,—and if you knew how I long to meet once more the few soldiers who survive of that “old guard,”—you would see how naturally I dedicate my volume to him who was the best of us. Accept it, I beg you, as a token of recollection and regard from your affectionate friend,
CORNELIUS O’DOWD.
Lago Maggiore, July 20,1864.
NOTICE.
AMIABLE AND ACCOMPLISHED READER,
As I have very little to say for myself that is not said in some of my opening pages, there is no need that I should delay you on the threshold.