It remains to say how far I consider this as a full account of the practice
of the land office. I shall not pretend that some particular subjects
could not have been examined more critically, or that many things may
not have been overlooked. I shall acknowledge that, in the progress of
this compilation, I have frequently written under an impression that there
might hereafter be found occasion to resume the subject, in a supplementary
volume, the principal objects of which would necessarily be to correct
any errors, and supply any omissions, that may be discovered in the present
book; to adduce further examples and authorities; to illustrate particular
principles, and to present any improvements, or changes, that the system
may receive from legislative, or other, authority. I have made no reserve
however for this purpose, but have intended to give a full and perfect
account of every thing that came within my knowledge, and have in
no instance either advanced or suppressed any thing on the consideration
of its effect upon the land office. In particular I persuade myself that it
will appear on the face of this work, that I have not had in view the disturbing
of possessions, by displaying those facilities and contrivances which
some individuals of the community might be inclined to embrace, to the
annoyance and danger of LAND-HOLDERS. It is for the convenience and
benefit of this respectable class of citizens, and not for their detriment,
that these enquiries have been intended. The performance may be feeble,
but the design was fair and has been prosecuted with fidelity and honour.
With these remarks, I submit the result of my labour to the candid judgment
of the public.