It has been remarked by Lord Bacon, in one of his happy illustrations, that time is like a river, which, as it flows on, bears on its surface only what is light and trivial, while all that is solid and valuable sinks beneath its waters. The history of St. Patrick is an instance of the truth of this observation; his real character was for ages unknown; his name was associated, in the popular belief, only with puerile fables and ridiculous miracles, and no one thought of doubting that the doctrines which he taught were those of the modern Church of Rome.

Of late years, however, it has been otherwise, for extracts from his writings have been published, and other proofs given, that the popular traditions were unfounded, and he has been shown to have higher claims on our esteem and admiration that was at one time supposed.

The source from which the most important evidence has been derived, is the confession, which has been brought out of its obscurity, and many passages of great interest quoted from it, by various writers. But, as these, however accurate they may be, will not supply the place of the work itself nor afford as satisfactory evidence to the inquirer, it cannot but be useful to render it accessible to the general listener, by means of an English translation; and to enable every one to judge for himself of the purity of the faith originally planted in Ireland.