THOUGHTS ON THE ORIGIN AND DESCENT OF THE GAEL. INTRODUCTION. WHOEVER is desirous of acquiring knowledge of the state and condition of mankind, as they now exist, under various appearances and circumstances, on the face of the earth, may be amply gratified by consulting those extensive sources of information, which the intercourse of modern civilized nations with the inhabitants of this globe, in all its regions, has laid open to the eye of curiosity. The observations and researches of modern travellers, of different talents and descriptions, have increased our intelligence of the nature and properties of our species. They have exhibited to view manners and customs so much diversified, modes of living, habits and rules of conduct, sentiments and opinions, apparently so adverse and inconsistent, as may A |