"As the Sun when it ariseth in the high Heaven: so is the ECCLUS. Xxvi. 16. LONDON: JOHN HATCHARD AND SON, 187. PICCADILLY. 1831. BIBI DEDICATION. She In presenting this little volume to the public, the author is called upon for a dedication. cannot, consistently with her desire to remain unknown, solicit an honour to which she might otherwise aspire. : To her countrywomen, then, she inscribes it and she may be permitted, without incurring the charge of presumption, to call their attention to that bright example of feminine excellence which is placed before them all. While those whose rank and station obtain for them a nearer view of that most gratifying union of the most exalted rank with all that is in itself most lovely and amiable, each rank and degree may be allowed to claim a share in that improvement in good order and sound morality, which may be anticipated from Her Majesty's unaffected pre-eminence in every female domestic virtue. PREFACE. In presenting the following pages to the public, something may be justly due in the way of apology. More accustomed to the cultivation and the practice of those arts and employments which may strictly be termed feminine, the writer claims no literary fame; but she has sought to disarm criticism, by carefully avoiding the affectation of superior acquirements: and would fain secure indulgence by the purity of her intentions and the simplicity of her purpose. Truth has guided her pen, and that which she believes to be common sense. The result of much observation, and a practical knowledge of those duties which she has sought to advocate, have dictated her senti ments. With this avowal she commits herself and her performance to the world: neither in |