THE locale of the following story is that gem of the American
Archipelago; the Island of Cuba, whose lone star, now merged in the
sea, is destined yet to sparkle in liberty's hemisphere, and radiate
the light of republicanism. Poetry cannot outdo the fairy-like
loveliness of this tropical clime, and only those who have partaken
of the aromatic sweetness of its fields and shores can fully realize
the delight that may be shared in these low latitudes. A brief
residence upon the island afforded the author the subject-matter for
the following pages, and he has been assiduous in his efforts to
adhere strictly to geographical facts and the truthful belongings of
the island. Trusting that this may prove equally popular with the
author's other numerous tales and novelettes, he has the pleasure of
signing himself,

Very cordially,

THE PUBLIC's HUMBLE SERVANT.

DEDICATED
TO THE READERS OF
GLEASON'S PICTORIAL DRAWING-ROOM COMPANION,
FOR WHICH JOURNAL THESE PAGES WERE ORIGINALLY WRITTEN,
BY THEIR VERY HUMBLE SERVANT,
LIEUTENANT MURRAY.