I MUST PROCLAIM YOUR ABSENT NAME IS NOT MY BLAME

If on this book’s few pages space Some worthy one of either Race Finds not his name in any place, Think not it is the author’s slight That kept your name from inky write; For he has toiled both day and night In vain research both far and near To get more facts than here appear. Thus blame not him for real neglect ’Cause your own name he did not get: And if a wrong fact herein be It was not writ intentionally. So friend, resume your cheerful moods And smile away those fretful broods For of all names in type here set The writer makes no one his pet, But equally lauds all those who seek To inspire youths and help the weak. The Author.