'The object aimed at in this volume has been to let Allan Cunningham, as much as possible, tell his own Life, by giving selections from his works and correspondence, with a link where necessary for connecting the narrative. This is generally considered the best kind of biography, and a distinguished critic, Dr. Johnson, says, -"Those relations are commonly of most value in which the writer tells his own story." Whether the selections have been well chosen it is not for me to say, but they have been made with the intention of showing not only the literary, poetic, and social character of the man, but also of preserving the remembrance of some Scottish customs and ceremonies which have now passed away. The work has been written con amore, from admiration of "Honest Allan," and his intimate connection with the district of Nithsdale.' -- from the original Preface.

Contributions by: Allan Cunningham