Entered according to Act of Congress in the year 1847, BY JOHN P. HILL, in the Clerk's office of the District Court of Massachusetts. ABNER FORBES Printer,} 37 36-148 か PREFACE. IN commending the first volume of a new Annual to the good will of the public, the editor deems it necessary to say but a very few words. The book is composed of articles written by those on whom the world has long ago placed its stamp of approval; and not a line has been allowed on its pages which could possibly offend the most scrupulous delicacy. It is difficult for an editor to say a good word in behalf of what he brings into the literary market, without seeming to overstep the bounds of true modesty; but he craves indulgence, for simply saying here, that whoever chooses to examine the contents of "Friendship's Gift," will find no lack of entertainment in the perusal. W. P. |