ABSTRACT
The nineteenth century has thus far been eminently distinguished for the variety, the abundance, and the quality of its literature. This chapter explains author's humble hope, that views may be presented, which will induce the writers of western fiction to confine their range more within western boundaries. And to feel, that while the body of western literature is fashioned from native materials, its spirit should be an inspiration of western genius. The chapter remarks, that in various original and romantic displays of character, seldom has a land been more fruitful than this western wilderness; and that our annals are remarkably full of incidents and events possessing deep dramatic interest, and oftentimes leading to most momentous results. In this Western land, we long to witness an exercise of Novelist's best powers. Let them kindle patriotism into new life, and warm our bosoms with more fervent gratitude, by stirring exhibitions of our father's bloodshed, toil and struggles.
