With a tremor of apprehension, we reflect that Max O'Rell's period of observation among ourselves will presently end, and that when he comes to record the result in his peculiar fashion, we are likely to echo that school-boy's plaint. But at any rate we shall know our own features better after we have contemplated them in his mirror; and, meantime, those of us who have enjoyed his acquaintance are disposed earnestly to hope that a guest whom we have learned to esteem so warmly may not think quite so ill of the American character as the barbaric condition of our laws respecting literary property would warrant. GEORGE CARY EGGLESTON. NEW YORK, February, 1888. INTRODUCTION. _A Word to the Reader and another to the Critic._ To write a book in a foreign tongue is risky, and I had better at once ask for indulgence. The many scenes and reminiscences belong to England, and, if translated into French, the anecdotes and conversations would lose much of whatever flavour and interest there may be in them. This is my reason for not having written this book in French. Let my reason be also my apology. * * * * * If any of my readers should feel inclined to think my review of British school-boys somewhat critical, let them take it for granted that when I was a boy I was everything that was good. * * * * * Now, gentle American Critic, whose magnanimity is proverbial, before thou abusest this little book, reflect how thou wouldst feel if thy Editor were to bid thee write thy criticism in French. MAX O'RELL. _Contents._ PAGE Preface, Introduction, I am Born.--I am Deeply in Love.--I wish to be an Artist, but my Father uses strong Argument against it.--I produce a dramatic Chef-d'oeuvre.--Parisian Managers fail to appreciate it.--I put on a beautiful Uniform.--The Consequence of it.--Two Episodes of the Franco-Prussian War.--The Commune explained by a Communist.--A "glorious" Career cut short.--I take a Resolution and a Ticket for London, 1 II. EXTRACTS FROM THE DIARY OF A FRENCHMAN IN SEARCH OF A SOCIAL POSITION IN ENGLAND. Arrival at Charing Cross.--I have Nothing to declare to the Exciseman but Low Spirits.--Difficulty in finding a comfortable Residence.--Board and Lodging.--A House with Creepers.--Things look Bad.--Things look Worse.--Things look cheerful, 15 III. I make the acquaintance of Public School Boys.--"When I was a little Boy."--An Awful Moment.--A Simple Theory.--I score a Success, 34 IV. The _genus_ Boy.--The only one I object to.--What Boys work for, 38 V.