While it has been, in the main, the purpose of the Editor to include in
the present collection only such poems as commemorate some signal act of
valor historically verified, it has seemed best to widen the scope
sufficiently to admit a few selections that must have been excluded were
the lines rigorously drawn. To appeal to the student of American history
has been the primary aim; yet, inasmuch as the chord played upon--that
of heroism--finds a responsive echo in every heart, it is hoped that the
book may prove of interest to the general public as well. Though there
has been no attempt at an exhaustive selection, a natural desire to
cover as wide a field as possible has led to the admission of some
ballads of lesser literary value, though it is believed that none will
be found that has not sufficient merit to warrant its presence.
The Editor desires to make grateful acknowledgment to Houghton, Mifflin
& Company, Harper & Brothers, Charles Scribner’s Sons, The Funk &
Wagnalls Company, The J. B. Lippincott Company, The Century Company,
Herbert S. Stone & Company, John Lane, The Lothrop Publishing Company,
and the _Youth’s Companion_, for courtesies extended, and also to thank
most heartily the various authors whose work is included, or those
representing them, for their cordial coöperation.
CLINTON, NEW YORK, March, 1900.