William F. Mistleton GRIFFITH AND FARRAN, (SUCCESSORS TO NEWBERY AND HARRIS). CORNER OF ST PAUL'S CHURCHYARD. MDCCCLXII. PREFACE. IF detailed narratives were committed to paper of the early life of many of the citizens of London, from their first youthful entry into the Great World, through the various scenes and trials which they have had to encounter, they would make more entertaining and instructive books for boys than any works that have ever been placed before them. But such records rarely meet the public eye. The story of a man's early struggles is often unknown beyond the immediate circle of his private friends. Nay; it as frequently happens that his own family know nothing more of his youthful doings, than that he came up to London, a poor and unfriended lad, and made his way by dint of perseverance or ability. The meagre outline of the early career of a successful London merchant was related to me by himself, and at his own table, a short time ago. By his |