Chapter XXXIII: Preface

In treating of some of our methods of Taxation, it has been my object to show that they are unjust, odious and unprofitable, to a degree which could never be experienced under a system of simple, direct taxation. Believing that such a system must be finally and generally adopted, I have endeavoured to do the little in my power towards preparing and stimulating the public mind to make the demand.

If I had consulted my own convenience, and the value of my little books as literary productions, I should have written less rapidly than I have done. My conviction was and is, that the best means of satisfying the interest of my readers on such a subject as I had chosen, was to publish monthly. I am now about to compensate for my much speaking by a long silence. It costs me some pain to say this: but the great privilege of human life,—that of looking forward, is for ever at hand for stimulus and solace; and I already pass over the few years of preparation, and contemplate the time when, better qualified for their service, I may greet my readers again.

H. M.

_July 1st, 1834._

CONTENTS.

CHAP. PAGE
1. The Mysteries of Wisdom 1
2. Maternal Anticipations 15
3. Lessons on the Hills 29
4. Signs in the Sky 42
5. Owen and X. Y. Z. 58
6. Press and Post-Office 73
7. The Policy of M.Ps. 96
8. Family Secrets 117
9. The Mysteries laid open 122

THE
SCHOLARS OF ARNESIDE.