As it is a common practice to present patrons with a portrait of the venturesome culprit who aspires to engage the temporary notice of the public, by works of this kind, it is possible that some readers may, perchance, procure books with such expectations in view, and feel disappointed if no such custom has prevailed. Now, therefore, the writer has overhauled his effects and brought to light a picture which, “though not as new as it was,” is a fair specimen of the photographer’s handicraft, which represents your hopeful tyro upon his original velocipede, one made by himself in 1868–69. This machine was probably the earliest single-track crank-machine made in the State of Ohio and one of the first in the United States.

Looking at the reproduction herewith annexed, I notice, with regret, that the rider has not improved as rapidly as have the machines.

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