I NEED hardly express my sorrow that the publication of this letter has been delayed so far beyond the time I had calculated upon. But I hope I may be allowed to say, the delay has been occasioned not so much by idleness as by business; and that, chiefly upon subjects akin to those treated of in the letter itself. Still I cannot but be grieved at the delay, both on general grounds, and because during this time, Mr. Maskell has taken the step which would seem to make the letter wholly useless as regards himself. Still my grief would be of a very different and of a deeper character, did I imagine that what I have written would have influenced him to any other conclusion than that to which he has come. Though I fully believe him to have been honest in his seeking an answer to his difficulties, I have not the presumption to suppose that such answer as I have here attempted, would by him have been deemed sufficient. For others who may read this letter, I would only say in justification of even now publishing it, that certainly the subject has lost none of its interest, nor is the necessity for some reply, that I can see, diminished. Therefore, perhaps, I need take up no more time in apologizing for the publication, even though so late.It may be useful to observe that far the greater part of the manuscript has been written many weeks, though I have not found time earlier to digest it, and correct the proofs, which fact, if borne in mind, may perhaps explain many expressions, not recognizing the altered position in which Mr. Maskell now stands, which certainly I do not think it worth while to correct.

The reader will perceive that I have availed myself largely of portions of Mr. Badeley’s speech before the Committee of Council, as well as of other assistance, wherever I found any thing already collected or condensed, which appeared to me useful in the statement of my argument:—my object being, (as I am certain it will be allowed it ought to be) to set this forth in the most intelligible manner I was able to do, without being careful as to any charge of want of originality or research.

Market Lavington, August 10th, 1850.