"OF making many books"-The old saw is somewhat rusty. The only apology for this Song Collection
which the Compiler presents is that he has wanted some such book, and, not finding it, has tried to make it.
It claims little of merit in arrangement, Songs and Hymns being distributed throughout its pages almost at
random. In no direction does it present anything very new or very original. It is not "the best," and we
are content that it shall not claim rank as “ rivaling the best." "Worth having " is the generous criticism of
a friend. Let it be simply this—there will be room for it; and our effort shall be to render it still more worthy
a place both at Home and in the School. Carlyle has said, "The meaning of song goes deep," thus expressing,
in terse and striking phrase, a truth felt by most, and one to which the observation of all can bear testimony.
None can tell how far the cradle hymn may go! Childhood songs especially are not readily forgotten, and
alas! for the childhood barren of sweet influences like these, with no treasured wealth of songs and hymns
that may come in after years, like the saving memory of a mother's love, to soften, to cheer, and to bless.
Hundreds of thousands all about us in the schools-from the "little ones" in the alphabet to those older
grown, who are passing through their last years of school-life can be reached and influenced here to their
lasting pleasure and profit.
Special acknowledgments are made to Publishers and others for copyright privileges and personal favors.
The Collection is strong, however, in its proportion of old Songs and Hymns which the world would not wil-
lingly let die; while the large space occupied by reading matter, a distinctive feature, contains much that will
be found both suggestive and interesting. Should the book, as it stands,-which is designed not so much for
the professional musician as for the People at large, in their Homes and Schools,—commend itself to lovers of
music into whose hands it may fall, we ask for it no more satisfactory endorsement. The value of succeeding
numbers will be increased, if those persons who do not find in the Collection certain of their own favorite songs
and hymns will address the Compiler, in care of the Publishers. He will be pleased to have suggestions from
all who enjoy music, and are in sympathy with the work he is doing " for auld lang syne."
Copyright, 1881, by J. P. MCCASKEY.