ABSTRACT
Very well then, since you understand the fundamental ideas I wish to inculcate in these conversations, I will at once commence them. But you will understand, also, that I am not about to follow any fixed or pre-arranged plan. I have laid down no exact or definite track along which to travel. I am going to talk straight ahead upon just such subjects as shall occur to me, only keeping in mind that intention of comparison between the present and the past which I deem essential to your proper comprehending of the details you are particularly studying. You may expect me to be very discursive, and to digress in various directions; but all the time I shall be 12endeavouring to concentrate your minds on the past, and while I am showing you both the littlenesses and the greatnesses of our ancestors, you may gain, possibly, some true conceptions of the might and majesty of mankind now.
