PREFACE. A PROVERB is defined to be, "a short sentence often repeated, expressing a well-known truth, or common fact, ascertained by experience or observation." Proverbs have their origin and reputation from the sayings of wise men, the customs of countries, and manners of mankind, adapted to common use, as ornaments of speech, rules of instruction, arguments of wisdom, and maxims of truth. The mode of instruction by Proverbs, is of the highest antiquity; sanctioned by the highest possible authority. The most learned among the ancients, studied, and recorded them in lasting monuments of fame, and transmitted them to their successors as the most memorable instructions of human life. Solomon compiled a book on this subject, the design of which is to show, that a proverb is the interpretation of the words of the wise. They are also to be found in almost every part of the sacred writings. Bohn's collection of Proverbs, published in London during the present year, is the most comprehensive and complete volume of the kind yet published in the English language. Much use has been made of this work by the compiler. In the ancient collections, many uncouth and indelicate words appear which would not be tolerated in the present age. Some even, are found, which are immoral in their tendency. Every thing of this kind has been avoided; and the author of this publication, trusts it will be found on the side of the great interests of religion and morality. The great variety, and quick succession of subjects presented in works of this kind is apt to be fatiguing to the mind. The plan of this work, (which in several respects is original,) will, it is hoped, obviate this objection. The numerous cuts interspersed through the book, speaking both to the eye and mind, will, in many instances, be found more effective than words. J. W. B. NEW HAVEN, 1855. CONTENTS PROVERBS ILLUSTRATED BY ENGRAVINGS, &c. Man thinks he's wise-God shows him his folly, 39 The Rat that has but one hole is soon caught, Be sure you're Right, then go ahead, PROVERBIAL PHRASES selected from various lan- PROVERBS BELONGING TO HEALTH, DIET, &c., PROVERBS ABOUT HUSBANDRY, WEATHER, &c., |