The Reasons for the Autobiography

Having seen and heard several representations in England and Scotland by some gentlemen in America, concerning me, and finding many gross mistakes in their account, I thought it my duty to give a short, plain, and honest account of myself, that those who may hereafter see it may know the truth concerning me, that it is against my mind to give a history of myself and publish it whilst I am still alive, yet to do justice to myself and to those who may desire to know something concerning me, and for the honor of religion, I will venture to give a short narrative of my life.