I have been induced to publish the following volumes from a conviction that the documents contained in them would not only illustrate the character of LORD CORNWALLIS, but would also throw much light upon the history of his times. His military and political career extends from 1776 to 1805, and embraces many most important events. He was engaged in the American War from 1776 to 1781, and during the last two years held an independent command in the only quarter where active operations were carried on. He was twice Governor -General of Hindustan.

During his first administration, which lasted from 1786 to 1793, he was engaged for upwards of two years in the Mysore war, and promulgated his revenue, judicial, and police regulations, which, with some modifications, are still in force throughout the Presidency of Bengal. To him was entrusted the duty of effecting that most important but difficult measure — the Union between Great Britain and Ireland ; and a little later he was charged with the task of restoring tranquility to Europe by completing the peace of Amiens.