In publishing, under a new form, the “Life of Mr. Dupont,” we are guided by the advice of judicious and estimable persons; at the same time, we correspond to the expressed desire of many friends.

This second edition does not materially differ from the first. It has the advantage of being more within the reach of the community at large, and it will, consequently, do greater honor to the memory of Mr. Dupont, and will render his name more popular. We have retained the characteristics by which he was so well known. The admirers of our holy friend will find him portrayed with his noble and calm physiognomy, the heroic perfection of his virtues, the charming traits of his character, his exuberant piety, even his personal peculiarities. He is always the man of God, the “just” living the “life of faith” and prayer. But he is particularly and above all, the man of reparation, the adorer of the Holy Face. This controlling feature is presented entire, and with the prominence it deserves. The work of reparation, such as the social wounds of our age demand, and such as Mr. Dupont inaugurated in his parlor, is exhibited in its origin, development, and early results, with its expressive emblem, and the efficacious means our Lord Himself deigns to offer: adoration of the Holy Face. From the example of this worthy servant of Christ and the Church, we hope the reader may be induced to follow the providential impulse which is, at the present time, so strongly urging generous souls to works of reparation, and which seems to be the pledge of the Divine mercy, the harbinger of a brighter future.

We dedicate this volume to the friends of Mr. Dupont and to all the servants of the Holy Face. By their aid and under their auspices, may it be circulated, read, and attain the end for which it was written—the glory of God and the salvation of souls. It is particularly addressed to persons living in the world, members of the Christian family, and to the youth of our schools. To both we offer a Saint as a model, and we may justly say:

He is one of you. Behold him! He is clothed as you; he breathes the same air; he lives in the midst of the world like yourselves. He respected and honored the barrier which separates you from the priesthood and the religious state; but he never passed it. He was a student, a husband, and father; he fulfilled, to the last, the common duties of the family and friendship. If, in order to serve God and the poor, he expends his money, his time, his faculties, his whole life with prodigality and love, he does so, not in consequence of a previous promise, nor by being obliged thereto by a particular vow. The only vow which bound him to Jesus Christ and the Church, was that which binds you, the sacred vow of baptism. His character of Christian was (sufficient for him; in it he finds his strength, his consolation, and joy. Read and consider… Do more; study and imitate.