to Mr. Thackeray, because to him -- if he will accept the tribute
of a total stranger -- I have dedicated this second edition of
"JANE EYRE."

CURRER BELL.

December 21st, 1847.

NOTE TO THE THIRD EDITION

I avail myself of the opportunity which a third edition of "Jane
Eyre" affords me, of again addressing a word to the Public, to
explain that my claim to the title of novelist rests on this one
work alone. If, therefore, the authorship of other works of fiction
has been attributed to me, an honour is awarded where it is not
merited; and consequently, denied where it is justly due.

This explanation will serve to rectify mistakes which may already
have been made, and to prevent future errors.

CURRER BELL.

April 13th, 1848.



CHAPTER I


There was no possibility of taking a walk that day. We had