The character of the aboriginal inhabitants of the western continent is
in many respects remarkable and striking. It possesses great interest
for the student of history as well as the observer of human nature.
Still this character has never been properly exhibited in a connected
view. One is obliged to detect the traits in detached incidents and
scattered descriptions; and thus by a sort of inductive process to
determine the real disposition, powers and capabilities of the North
American Savage. It is for the purpose of bringing the materials of this
inductive process within the compass of a single volume of moderate size
that these “Anecdotes” have been collected. They present the savage in
all his various aspects and relations, in all circumstances of sorrow
and joy, danger, difficulty and triumph. The incidents here narrated,
while they exhibit the most prominent traits of the Indian character,
also bring into view the most striking passages of our national history
in its connection with the aborigines, and thus serve a double purpose
as an exercise in historical as well as philosophical study. Its chief
object is utility. Its particular design is to subserve the great cause
of national education.
NEW YORK, _Oct. 1st, 1860_.