PREFAX CE



SEVERAL of the within es'says were delivered as
addresses before literary Alumni Societies, and
revision has not wholly availed to clear them
from the rhetoric which insensibly crept into
them. Being, however, upon topics as to which
there is much diversity cf sentiment, this form
of expression will at least serve to show the
state of feeling where they were delivered and
thus may not be without its use. The substance
of the papers is what the author earnestly be-
lieves and what lie is satisfied history will
establish.
  The essays are given to the public in the hope
that they may serve to help awaken inquiry into
the true history of the Southern people and may
aid in dispelling the misapprehension under
which the Old South has lain so long.



vii