PREFACE TO THE FIFTH VOLUME

Summary

The truth of that very trite remark which we have before quoted, “the Preface, though actually preceding the book itself, is almost without exception, the part last written,” is from necessity far more conspicuous in every periodical publication than it is in one of any other description. It serves as a brief concise index to the whole, and certainly saves the impatient reader, who is content with slightly skimming the surface of Literature, no inconsiderable portion of trouble.

All Authors must be supposed to have one of two objects in view whenever they are hardy enough to submit their labours to the fiery ordeal of public criticism: the self-satisfaction of affording either information or amusement; a miscellaneous collection of papers, notwithstanding the subject of them is confined to one particular science or art, stands peculiarly well adapted to afford both, and the general judgment with regard to the propriety or futility of the selection will tend to increase the vanity or mortify the pride of the Editor and his Correspondents.

With respect to the latter, their liberal and ingenious contributions speak fully for themselves. The former bends with submission, and with no inconsiderable degree of anxiety, before that tribunal whose praise forms the pinnacle of literary gratification. Against the choice or selection of the noble and illustrious persons whose memoirs will be found in this volume, it is presumed with confidence, that no objection whatever will even be whispered, and it is with scarcely less presumption, that the truth, as to the profession of studied impartiality and want of flattery, will be readily admitted.