Along shore with a man-of-war

Introduction

When I first joined the United States Navy, by means of a marriage certificate, I found that a properly equipped sailor carried the Spanish language in his mental kit, so I acquired it and have enjoyed the possession immensely, especially when taking the journey of which this book gives all the details that I thought would please the public.

For two years and a half I sailed up and down the east coast of South America ; seeing the lovely scenery ; meeting the officials, and private families ; talking to and visiting them ; reading the books they loaned me, or I could buy, until I felt quite at home among them and made many friends.

My letters home were so much enjoyed, and so many have praised those of them that were published in the press, that I venture to test the value and sincerity of their words by launching these letters in a volume, trusting they may help to pleasantly wile away some hours for some one.

MARGUERITE DICKINS.