Perilous adventures by land and sea

"Preface: There is a charm in "perilous adventures," which few readers can resist; and, accordingly, books containing thrilling narrations of exploits and escapes are generally popular. Most persons peruse these books for amusement; but is it obvious that such works as the one we now present to the public must be full of important instruction. The dangers attending travel in various modes and in various parts of the world; the characteristics of the people and countries observed by the adventurous travellers, and what sufferings men may endure, and what contrive, to surmount the greatest dangers and difficulties, are to be gathered from these pages; and surely such knowledge is worthy of attention. With most young persons books of travel are favourites. The names of Mango Park and others who have encountered terrible difficulties in exploring countries before unknown are familiar as "household words." Even the fictitious attractions of Robinson Crusoe and Gulliver's Voyage to Lilliput do not give them the superiority, in the youthful estimation. The desire to see other lands and other people, besides those among which we are born and reared in common. All, however, have not the means of gratifying themselves in this particular; and to those who are compelled to remain at home, narratives of adventurous travel must be a source of pleasure. To such, especially, our copious collection with its many illustrations may be recommended. [sic]"