|
 Goode Newes, Introduction | Goode Newes, Chap. 1 | Goode Newes, Chap. 2 |
| Goode Newes, Chap. 3 | Goode Newes, Chap. 4 | Goode Newes, Chap. 5 |
| Goode Newes, Chap. 6 | Goode Newes, Chap. 7 | Goode Newes, Chap. 8 |
To the Reader
Good Reader,
When I first penned this discourse, I intended it chiefly for the satisfaction of my private friends; but since that time have been persuaded to publish the same. And the rather, because of a disorderly colony that are dispersed, and most of them returned, to the great prejudice and damage of him that set them forth; who, as they were a stain to Old England that bread them, in respect of their lives and manners amongst the Indians, so, it is to be feared, will be no less to New England, in their vile and clamorous reports, because she would not foster them in their desired idle courses. I would not be understood to think there were no well deserving persons amongst them; for of mine knowledge it was a grief to some that they were so yoked; whose deserts, as they were then suitable to their honest protestations, so I desire still may be in respect of their just and true Relations.
Peradventure thou wilt rather marvel that I deal so plainly, than any way doubt the truth of this my Relation; yea, it may be, tax me therewith, as seeming rather to discourage men than any way to further so noble an action. If any honest mind be discouraged, I am sorry. Sure I am I have given no just cause; and am so far from being discouraged myself, as I purpose to return forthwith. And for other light and vain persons, if they stumble hereat, I have my desire, accounding it better for them and us that they keep where they are, as being unfit and unable to perform so great a task.
Some faults have escaped because I could not attend on the press, which I pray thee correct, as thou findest, and I shall account it as a favor unto me.
Thine,
E.W.
