The Village Blacksmith

It is quite likely that the "Village Blacksmith" will not suit the taste of some of our friends -- he does not suit our own exactly; but he pleases a great many people, as is evident from the fact that a great many editions of his Life have been issued in Great Britain and in the United States.

Perhaps some of the incidents recorded by his biographer will stumble the faith of the reader; but we have been assured by some who had personal acquaintance with Mr. Hick -- among whom was our lamented friend, the Rev. George G. Cookman, who wrote an Introduction to the first American edition of the "Village Blacksmith" -- that the most marvelous statements in the work were corroborated by many credible witnesses. It cannot be questioned that the subject of this memoir was a man of great faith and zeal, and that he was eminently useful in the sphere of his peculiar vocation.

We trust that the re-publication of these "short and simple annals" will meet with the Divine favor, and prove a blessing to thousands of readers.

The Editor

February 29, 1856