PREFACE. xi
thor has been to produce a grammar in which the genius
of the language is especially attended to; to accomplish
which, he has in many instances ventured to arrange his
work upon an original plan: at the same time he freely
acknowledges, that had this Grammar been written for
Europeans only a different plan and style would have
been adopted.
But knowing that most of the Natives, who may use
this work, have acquired their knowledge of the prin-
ciples of language, from English Grammars, and that they
cannot be expected to be so patient of research as the
European, whose mind has been more perfectly trained:
the Author has, so far as the nature of the two languages
will admit, followed the general arrangement of the
more commonly received English Grammars; and to
make the rules appear as obvious as possible; as well
as to save the trouble of frequent reference to other pages,
he has in many instances given a double set of examples,
one in the Etymology, and the other (but much more
copious) in the Syntax. This however, though tending
to mar the perfection of the work will it is hoped, appear
a beauty rather than a defect, in the eyes of him whose
object is to learn and not to cavil.
In the Chapter on Etymology the compound words
have been analized, and the principles pointed out by
which the various combinations are formed.
The Syntax abounds with examples illustrative of the
idiom of the language; and in the Chapter on the Parti-
cles especial care has been taken to exhibit the various
senses in which words belonging to that important part
of speech are used. This it is trusted will prove alike
acceptable to every class of readers: pains having been
