My principal object in publishing this book, is to endeavour to remove some of the prejudices which render so many people afraid either to travel or reside in Ireland—to shew how many and various are the attractions that misunderstood country contains—and to furnish the most decided proofs that a tour in some of its wildest districts may be keenly enjoyed by an Englishwoman, rendered fastidious by ill-health, and frequent visits to the more refined and luxurious countries of the South of Europe.

These rough notes were written during my last residence in Ireland; but some of the observations they contain are the result of my experience in many previous visits to that country.

For some historical and other matters, which I believe are but little known, I am indebted to the kindness of Mr. Crofton Croker.