Bound to rise

Preface

"Bound to Rise" probably expresses tHe determination of many boys who will read this story. It is written in part for the encouragement of those who are actuated by this worthy ambition, and, without professing to be the biography of any particular person, v^ill, with its sequel, have some reference to the struggles and experiences of two men who have fought their Vvray from poverty and obscurity to a high place on the roll of distinguished Americans. The young hero is represented, not as an exceptional character, but as a fair example of a sturdy and energetic country boy; and the circum.stances which surround him and the helps of which he avails himself are of a character familiar to most of my readers.

Writing this preface abroad, after having visited, for a second time, some of the leading countries of Europe, I am able to confirm what has so often been asserted, that nowhere here, not even in the Swiss republic, of v/hich I am a temporary resident, are such opportunities afforded to those who wish to rise, as in America. We hear, indeed, occasional instances of prominent men who have risen from the ranks ; but what is rare and occasional in Europe is the rule with us.

Let this thought stimulate the ambition of those boys, who, like Harry Walton, are hampered by poverty and limited advantages, and teach them that an honorable position in life m.ay be attained by those who are willing to work for it.