h he accordingly has done; and has, moreover, added to it a
number of notes of his own; and an engraving of the city, as it was at the
time Mr. Knickerbocker writes about.

This, therefore, is a true statement of my reasons for having this work
printed, without waiting for the consent of the author; and I here
declare, that if he ever returns (though I much fear some unhappy accident
has befallen him), I stand ready to account with him like a true and
honest man. Which is all at present----

From the public's humble servant,

SETH HANDASIDE.

INDEPENDENT COLUMBIAN HOTEL, NEW YORK.

* * * * *

The foregoing account of the author was prefixed to the first edition of
this work. Shortly after its publication, a letter was received from him,
by Mr. Handaside, dated at a small Dutch village on the banks of the
Hudson, whither he had traveled for the purpose of inspecting certain
ancient records. As this was one of those few and happy villages, into
which newspapers never find their way, it is not a matter of surprise,
that Mr. Knickerbocker should never have seen the numerous advertisements
that were made concerning him; and that he should learn of the publication
of his history by mere accident.

He expressed much concern at its premature appearance, as thereby he was
prevented from making several important corrections and alterations: as
well as from profiting by many curious hints which he had collected during
his travels along the shores of the Tappan Sea, and his sojourn at
Haverstraw and Esopus.

Finding that there was no longer any immediate necessity for his return to
New York, he extended his journey up to the residence of his relations at
Scaghtikoke. On his way thither he stopped for some days at Albany, for
which city he is known to have entertained a great partiality. He found
it, however, considerably altered, and was much concerned at the inroads
and improvements which the Yankees were making, and the consequent decline
of the good old Dutch manners. Indeed, he was informed that these
intruders were making sad innovations in all parts of the State; where
they had given great trouble and vexation to the regular Dutch settlers,
by the introduction of turnpike-gates and country school-houses. It is
said, also, that Mr. Knickerbocker shook his head sorrowfully at noticing
the gradual decay of the great Vander Heyden palace; but was highly
indignant at finding that the ancient