Publisher's Synopsis
This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1833 edition. Excerpt: ... A memoir of Zerah Colburn Zerah Colburn PREFACE. A brief one will probably be best. In reference to the diffidence the author has had in presenting this work to the public, the want of talent, and the fear that the events of his life might not be of sufficient interest to warrant a publication, were the principal reasons for his unwillingness. The rough sketch which he drew up, however, was shown to a gentleman whose standing in the literary world gives weight to his opinion, and whose name is withheld only lest his credit should suffer by encouraging so poor a performance; he recommended to the author to proceed. Here it is, then, with all its defects. He has only to ask the continued indulgence of that public who have so long taken an interest in his case: if they will bear with him in this performance, probably he shall never again trespass upon their patience and kindness in the same way. It was at first intended to publish the work by subscription, but the objections entertained by many against subscribing for a book which they had not seen, induced the author to change his plan. The work is now furnished at less than the proposed subscription price. C ONTENTS. CHAPTER I. Page. Introductory Remarks.--Birth and early character of Zerah.-- Display of his talent.--Leaves home with his father; goes to Montpelier, and other places in Vermont; returns home, and starts for Boston.--Offer made in Hanover.--'Squire B.--Arrives in Boston; the Indenture offered and rejected. a CHAPTER II. Zerah proceeds to New York, Philadelphia, and Washington; returns to Norwich, Vermont; starts once more for the South; visits Boston; New Hampshire; goes to New York and Washington.--Richmond Theatre.--Shipwreck.--Mr. Colburn conc
