LIFE OF HARRIET BEECHER STOWE

Compiled From

Her Letters and Journals

BY HER SON

CHARLES EDWARD STOWE


[Illustration: Handwritten Preface

It seems but fitting, that I should preface this story of my life,
with a few words of introduction.

The desire to leave behind me some reflection of my life, has been
cherished by me, for many years past; but failing strength and
increasing infirmities have prevented its accomplishment.

At my suggestion and with what assistance I have been able to render
my son Revd. Charles Edward Stow, has compiled from my letters and
journals, this biography. It is this true story of my own words, and
has therefore all the force of an autobiography.

It is perhaps much more accurate as to detail & impression than is
possible with any autobiography, written later in life.

If these pages, shall lead those who read them to a firmer trust in
God and a deeper sense of this fatherly goodness throughout the days