My story will, at least, appear to have that consistency which is seldom attendant but upon truth.
I was born of humble parents, in a remote county of England.

Their occupations were such as usually fall to the lot of peasants, and they had no portion to give me, but an education free from the usual sources of depravity, and the inheritance, long since lost by their unfortunate progeny! of an honest fame.

I was taught the rudiments of no science, except reading, writing, and arithmetic.

But I had an inquisitive mind, and neglected no means of information from conversation or books.

My improvement was greater than my condition in life afforded room to expect.
There are other circumstances deserving to be mentioned as having influenced the history of my future life.