Preface to the 1906 English version states: 'This book aims at giving sketches of youthful life in some of the great countries which constitute our world-wide Empire. In every case the sketch is thrown into the form of a story. Nothing makes a deeper impression on the young mind than that which pleases; and the story is more likely to please than the essay. As in every instance those described are our fellow-subjects, it is hoped that some impression will be given of the vast diversity of race and colour, of climate and custom, found beneath the British flag.' One section is about Australia.
