AUTHORS' PREFACE.
In ushering to the world of letters this book of thoughts and feelings, germed in the seclusion of a dreamy youth, the authors, it may be conceived, had not the fear of criticism in their minds, else, perhaps, polish and elaboration might have insured more finished compositions. Many of the poems now collected have before appeared through various literary mediums, and to alter or remodel is a distasteful as well as difficult task. It is easy even now to perceive the crudeness which it will require years of thought and experience to mould into a pure and elevated style; but for this work, it is asked of friends and critics, that, viewing it as the first fruit-offering of young hearts, they "with all its faults will love it still."
