It often occurred to me when listening to my friend Mr. Spoor that it would be a matter of regret if no record should be preserved of the events of His missionary career. It, however, never entered into my mind that it would fall to my lot to be the chronicler. But the duty was laid upon me in such a manner by some members of the family, supported by some of my most valued friends, that no choice was left me but to do the best I could.
In this record I have been careful to keep to my facts, avoiding all side-dissertations and descriptions of places and events not actually germane to my purpose. I could easily have made the book double its present size by the usual biographic "padding," — this I have eschewed.
My earnest thanks are due to my friends, Rev. C. C. M'Kechnie, Rev. W. Lister, Rev. W. Fulton, and others, too many to be named here, for help cheerfully rendered. Without this assistance the accomplishment of my task would have been impossible.
It only remains to be noted (and to note it is due to all parties), that this work is published in the interest of the widow and family of my late revered friend.
E. H.
NORTH SHIELDS: May, 1870.