I am not responsible for the interpretations of my readers. It is
only natural that the same work should present a very different
aspect according as it is approached from one side or the other.
There is only one way out of it--that the reader should kindly
interpret according to his own fancies. If he will do this the book
is sure to please him. I have done the best I can for all parties,
and feel justified in appealing to the existence of the widely
conflicting opinions which I have quoted, as a proof that the balance
has been evenly held, and that I was justified in calling the book a
defence--both as against impugners and defenders.

S. BUTLER.
Oct. 8, 1873.




MEMOIR OF THE LATE JOHN PICKARD OWEN



CHAPTER I



The subject of this Memoir, and Author of the work which follows it,
was born in Goodge Street, Tottenham Court Road, London, on the 5th
of February, 1832. He was my elder brother by about eighteen months.
Our father and mother had once been rich, but through a succession of
unavoidable misfortunes they were left with but a very moderate