On its appearance in 'Household Words,' this tale was obliged to

conform to the conditions imposed by the requirements of a weekly

publication, and likewise to confine itself within certain

advertised limits, in order that faith might be kept with the

public. Although these conditions were made as light as they well

could be, the author found it impossible to develope the story in

the manner originally intended, and, more especially, was

compelled to hurry on events with an improbable rapidity towards

the close. In some degree to remedy this obvious defect, various

short passages have been inserted, and several new chapters

added. With this brief explanation, the tale is commended to the

kindness of the reader;