In which the author recounts his personal acquaintance with two remarkable ravens, whose peculiar talents and untimely ends furnish a curious prelude to the tale; and ventures to introduce the historical backdrop of the Gordon Riots with a candid reflection on the lessons of intolerance and human folly drawn therefrom. This preface thoughtfully prepares the reader for an impartial narration of turbulent times, grounded in authentic records and the poignant realities of social distress.