PREFACE. THE Memcirs of Theobald Wolfe Tone, whne they possess the usual autobiographical interest, advance claims to attention at this moment of a still more important description. Simply regarded as the self-portraiture of an ardent, enthusiastic, and mentally distinguished individual, they would furnish an eligible subject o contemplation to the amateur student of diversified character, for whom this series is chiefly intended, if existing circumstances did not warrant a close consideration of them on the part of the statesman and politician. The individual self-exhibited was no common person or conspirator; his mind was heightened and firm, his capacity respectable, and his energies extraordinary. Yet this man, and many more of kindred qualities, were led into attempts to separate their country from its connexion with Great Britain; and to live and die devoted martyrs to the purpose and principle which ex |