the indulgent reception which the public and the profession have been pleased to accord to these memoirs having already rendered a second edition necessary, the volumes have been carefully revised. this has enabled me to correct some typographical errors, and so to modify certain passages, that, whilst the narrative remains essentially the same, it may be in some points presented in an improved dress. i have also availed myself of the opportunity of making some additions and corrections, which, though few, are not unimportant.

although not unacquainted with the fact that mr. abernethy had declined the honour of a baronetcy, no allusion was made to it in the first edition; because i was not then in possession of such evidence as appeared to me necessary in relation to a circumstance that had not fallen within my own knowledge.

by the kindness of the family, i have been enabled to correct an error in regard to those who were present in his last moments; which, if in an historical point of view immaterial, is by no means so with regard to the feelings of those whom it more immediately concerns.

g. m.

the court yard, albany,

nov. 14, 1853.