In the progress of our biographical labours, though sedulously anxious to render all possible justice to the professional merit of individuals, it too frequently happens, that through the scantiness of materials, and the difficulty of obtaining correct information, our ardent wishes are defeated. Instead of presenting a finished portrait, with the nice distinctions of light and shade, we are frequently compelled to offer what is little better than a mere outline.

With such an outline of the professional career of that meritorious and respected Officer, Sir John Colpoys, must we now endeavour to content ourselves; assuring our readers, however, that if, at any future period, we should possess the means of correctly filling up so desirable a piece, we shall with pleasure resume the task.